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3 Day Tour to Mt Cook, Milford & Arthur's Pass from Christchurch
3 Day Tour to Mt Cook, Milford & Arthur's Pass from Christchurch
3 Day Tour to Mt Cook, Milford & Arthur's Pass from Christchurch
4 Day Tour to Milford Sound, Mount Cook & More from Christchurch
3 Day Tour to Mt Cook, Milford & Arthur's Pass from Christchurch

4 Day Tour to Milford Sound, Mount Cook & More from Christchurch

By Waimate Journeys
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Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 4-day journey through New Zealand's stunning South Island, exploring many of its major attractions and experiencing the serene beauty of each destination. Start your tour in the vibrant city of Christchurch and conclude in the adventure capital Queenstown.

Take a ride on the iconic TranzAlpine Scenic Train to Arthur's Pass. Experience the serene beauty of Arthur's Pass National Park and marvel at the unique rock formations at Castle Hill. Immerse yourself in the majestic scenery of Mount Cook and the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki.

Enjoy stargazing at the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the best places in the world for night sky viewing. Discover the enchanting Te Anau Glowworm Caves and the sparkling waters of Milford Sound. Throughout the tour, benefit from the expertise of a knowledgeable guide-driver and enjoy a private vehicle exclusively for your group.

Activity location

  • Christchurch
    • Christchurch, New Zealand

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • Christchurch
    • Christchurch, New Zealand

Check availability


Sorry this activity isn't available on Mon, 25 Nov
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What's included, what's not

  • What's includedWhat's includedOptional: Accommodation for 3 nights in 3.5 to 4.5-star handpicked hotels with breakfast
  • What's includedWhat's includedGuide-driver exclusively for your group
  • What's includedWhat's includedPrivate transport
  • What's includedWhat's includedWiFi on board
  • What's includedWhat's includedIf any optional activity is cancelled by activity provider or unavailable, alternatives provided
  • What's includedWhat's includedPackaged snacks & chocolates
  • What's includedWhat's includedUse of charging cables & emergency rain gear
  • What's includedWhat's includedOptional: Entry tickets for TranzAlpine Train, Stargazing, Glowworm Caves & Milford Sound Cruise
  • What's includedWhat's includedPackaged water bottles
  • What's excludedWhat's excludedFood & Drinks (except 3 x breakfast with "With Hotels & Entry Tickets" option)
  • What's excludedWhat's excludedTravel Insurance
  • What's excludedWhat's excludedAnything not described in the inclusions

Know before you book

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transport options are available nearby
  • Specialised infant seats are available
  • Not recommended for pregnant travellers
  • Not recommended for travellers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Travellers should have their own comprehensive travel insurance

Activity itinerary

Day 1: Christchurch - TranzAlpine Train - Otira Viaduct Lookout - Arthur's Pass National Park - Castle Hill - Lake Tekapo
  • 7 stops
  • Meals: Not included
  • Accommodation: Optional ("With Hotels & Entry Tickets" Option): 3.5 to 4.5-star hotel with breakfast based on availability & season.
Christchurch
  • 15m
Start your tour in delightful style! Your adventure begins with a convenient hotel/airport pickup in Christchurch.
TranzAlpine Train
  • 2h
  • Admission ticket included
Board the TranzAlpine Scenic Train for a breathtaking ride through stunning landscapes. Disembark at Arthur’s Pass Railway Station, where you will be greeted again and taken to your next destination.
Otira Viaduct Lookout
  • 15m
Enjoy the stunning views from the Otira Viaduct Lookout, which offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Arthur's Pass National Park
  • 2h
Explore the natural beauty of Arthur’s Pass National Park with a leisurely walk along the Devil’s Punchbowl Walking Track or the Arthur’s Pass Walking Track. These tracks wind through lush native bush, offering glimpses of stunning waterfalls and providing a peaceful escape into the heart of the park. As you stroll, keep an eye out for native birdlife and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Castle Hill
  • 1h
Visit Castle Hill and marvel at the photogenic landscape of stunning limestone rock formations. This location has served as a backdrop for famous Hollywood films, showcasing its unique and breathtaking scenery. Capture the beauty of this natural wonder and immerse yourself while taking a short loop walk.
Lake Lyndon
  • 15m
Take a break at Lake Lyndon as we drive towards Lake Tekapo. This picturesque lake offers a serene setting to stretch your legs and take in the surrounding natural beauty. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore, or simply relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere before continuing drive to Lake Tekapo.
Tekapo Stargazing
  • 1h 15m
  • Admission ticket included
Upon reaching Lake Tekapo, check into your hotel and recharge. In the evening, take advantage of the opportunity to participate in a stargazing activity in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the largest Dark Sky Reserves in the world. Lake Tekapo is renowned for its stunning night skies, free from light pollution, offering a breathtaking view of the stars. This experience is perfect for astronomy enthusiasts and anyone looking to marvel at the beauty of the universe.
Day 2: Lake Tekapo - Lake Pukaki - Mt Cook (Hooker Valley and/or Tasman Glacier View Track) - Lindis Pass - Queenstown
  • 4 stops
  • Meals: Not included
  • Accommodation: Optional ("With Hotels & Entry Tickets" Option): 3.5 to 4.5-star hotel with breakfast based on availability & season.
Lake Tekapo
  • 30m
Start another beautiful day with a pickup from your hotel in Lake Tekapo. Visit the renowned ‘Church of the Good Shepherd’ and take in its picturesque setting against the backdrop of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps. Enjoy a brief, leisurely walk along the shores of Lake Tekapo.
Lake Pukaki
  • 30m
Visit Lake Pukaki, a stunning glacier-fed alpine lake known for its mesmerising turquoise waters. Marvel at the beauty of this natural wonder as you take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the majestic Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak.
Aoraki/Mt. Cook
  • 4h
The drive towards Mount Cook offers awe-inspiring views. Upon reaching Mount Cook, immerse yourself in the mesmerising scenery. Opt for the Hooker Valley Track, featuring famous swing bridges, and catch a glimpse of ice at Hooker Lake. Alternatively, choose the Tasman Glacier Walks for a different perspective. Look out for the kea, the world's only alpine parrot. Before leaving, make a brief stop at the Mount Cook Visitor Centre to learn more about the history and significance of this remarkable place.
Lindis Pass Summit Scenic Lookout
  • 15m
Pass through Lindis Pass on your way to Queenstown. Stop at Lindis Pass Summit Lookout to enjoy endless vistas of mountains. Upon arrival in Queenstown, check in to your accommodation.
Day 3: Queenstown – Milford Sound – Te Anau Glowworm Caves – Te Anau
  • 2 stops
  • Meals: Not included
  • Accommodation: Optional ("With Hotels & Entry Tickets" Option): 3.5 to 4.5-star hotel with breakfast based on availability & season.
Milford Sound
  • 4h
Start this unforgettable day with a pickup from your hotel. Enjoy the scenic drive towards Milford Sound, where you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Take advantage of scenic photo stops like Eglinton Flats, Mirror Lakes, Hollyford Valley Lookout, Falls Creek, Monkey Creek along the way to capture the beauty of the landscape. Upon reaching Milford Sound, embark on a cruise to experience the stunning beauty of the fiord up close. Marvel at the towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife that call this area home. After the cruise, make your way back to Te Anau, enjoying the scenic drive through the rugged landscapes of Fiordland National Park.
Te Anau Glowworm Caves
  • 2h 15m
  • Admission ticket included
After returning to Te Anau, refresh and prepare for the famous Te Anau Glowworm Cave tour. Explore the fully guided underground caves and marvel at the thousands of glowworms illuminating the darkness like a starry sky. These glowworms, known as Arachnocampa luminosa, are unique to New Zealand and are found exclusively in the country's caves. They create a mesmerising display as they emit a soft blue-green light, creating a magical atmosphere. The Te Anau Glowworm Caves are a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking a truly enchanting experience. Finish this day full of beautiful memories as you are dropped to your hotel.
Day 4: Te Anau - Queenstown
  • 2 stops
  • Meals: Not included
  • Accommodation: Not included
Te Anau
  • 2h 30m
Be picked up from your hotel in Te Anau. Sit back and enjoy the scenic drive to Queenstown, taking in the stunning landscapes along the way.
Queenstown
  • 2h 30m
Your journey concludes in Queenstown, a vibrant adventure capital where you can begin another exciting adventure. May the memories of these spectacular landscapes and the essence of New Zealand's natural beauty stay with you always.

Location

Activity location

  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIESChristchurch
    • Christchurch, New Zealand

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • PEOPLEPEOPLEChristchurch
    • Christchurch, New Zealand

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