Tekapo to Queenstown Via Mt Cook Small Group Tour (One Way)
Tekapo to Queenstown via Mt Cook, this small group, fully-guided tour combines three of the most stunning locations in the South Island with the time and options to enjoy the activities, unlike other tours. Led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.
Highlights:
- Mt Cook & Aoraki National Park
- Lake Tekapo & Lake Pukaki
- Church of the Good Shepard, Lindis Pass and the Southern Alps
- Free time for activities & walks
Itinerary:
1. Tekapo - Your tour starts at Lake Tekapo. This turquoise blue lake is famous world over for its pristine beauty. At the right time of year this stunning lake is boarded by wild flowers which smother the landscape. Take time to unleash your inner photographer.
2. Lake Pukaki - As we pass the striking blue canals of the Mackenzie High Country we descend upon Lake Pukaki and get our first glimpses of Mt Cook towering the landscape at the far end of the lake. We will stop at a view point to get photo's of Mt Cook with the lake and winding roads in the foreground.
3. Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park – While in the national park you have 2.5 hours free time to enjoy free walks/hikes or one of the extra optional activities. Some of our recommendations include: Scenic flights – see the region from the air and land on the Tasmin Glacier or Heli Hikes, The Tasman Lookout Hike or for those fit enough, the Hooker Valley hike – This easy 3 hour hike is considered one of New Zealand’s most beautiful, Whatever you have decided to do, we will pick you up and drop you off where you need to go and make sure you are well looked after.
4. Omarama – While driving through the endless plains of the Mackenzie district we will spot several of the celebrated Merino breed of sheep before passing through at the quaint township of Omarama. Nestled amount the vast planes surrounded by majestic mountains this town is world famous as a top destination for glider flights.
5. Lindis Pass – Climbing in altitude, Lindis Pass has amazing views down through the valley. Being one of only three alpine roads through the otherwise impassable Southern Alps, we stop at the Lindis Pass lookout 971m above sea level for an essential photo.
4. Cromwell – We now follow lake Dunstan passing endless rows of grape vines into the Cromwell basin. This historic gold mining town is now the countries stone fruit capital. From cherry blossoms in the spring to rich autumn colors in the fall and delicious seasonal fruits in between, this region is a sight to behold.
5. Roaring Meg - As we wind through the Kawarau Gorge we will stop at the wild blue river rapids known as the Roaring Meg. We stop here for a brief photo op before following the river toward the Gibston Valley, one of New Zealand's top wine regions.
6. Queenstown - We have arrived at our destination. As we enter this alpine town nestled between Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains we will point out some of the area's highlights before dropping you off at your central accommodation.
Inclusions:
- Small Group
- Fully Guided Tour
- Water available & snacks provided
Optional Extras:
- Hooker Valley Hike (self guided & time permitting)
- Tasman Glacier Lookout Hike
- Scenic flights with Glacier landings
- Heli Hike
While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.
Still have questions? Please visit our FAQs page!