Mt Cook Day Tour from Wānaka

12 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

At 3724 metres, Aoraki Mt Cook is New Zealand’s highest peak. However, as a sacred ancestor for local Ngā Tahu iwi, Aoraki is more than just a mountain.

Escaping Wānaka, we route via the tussocked valleys of the Lindis Pass on our way to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. With additional sweeping views Haupapa (Tasman Glacier) - our country’s longest glacier - Lake Pukaki, and Omarama’s famous Clay Cliffs, this tour combines several of New Zealand’s most coveted destinations into one action-packed day. You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that little bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, this journey is one you will never forget!

What's Included

WiFi on board
Snacks
Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Please ensure that you are ready at least five to ten minutes before your scheduled pick up time. We do not wait for late passengers. Lateness/no shows are non-refundable.

Itinerary

Duration: 12 hours (approximately)
  • Wanaka (Pass by)

    Home of #ThatWānakaTree - it is in this alpine village where that we pick you up for your tour with us to Mt Cook.

    Admission ticket free
  • Omarama (Pass by)

    After our morning ventures, we make a stop in Ōmārama. Translating to ‘the place of light’ in te reo Māori, the town is an important hub of the broader Waitaki district. This region, and the nearby Ahuriri Valley was even used as the setting for Disney’s live action re-make of Mulan.

    Admission ticket free
  • 1
    Twizel

    We make a brief stop at Twizel to take in the sight of Lake Ruataniwha. Famous for its blue water and rowing regattas, this man-made lake is indicative of the area's hydro-electricity projects and is supported by the Ben Ohau and Pukaki canal networks. The area is also popular in the summer for water skiing, fishing, and other recreational activities.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Lake Pukaki

    Our final stop before arriving in Aoraki Mt Cook National Park is Lake Pukaki. With its shifting colours ranging from ice to deep blue depending on the weather, this glacier-fed lake stands out from other alpine lakes in the region. On clear days, enjoy uninterrupted views of Aoraki rising from the lake’s edge.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Aoraki Mount Cook National Park (Te Wahipounamu)

    Welcome to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park! Once you arrive, you have the option to embark on the Tasman Glacier Viewpoint Track or explore Mt Cook Village, taking in sights such as the Visitor Centre and Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre. Alternatively, if you’d prefer an aerial view, we can arrange a scenic flight for you and your group (booked and sold separately). Tasman Glacier Viewpoint Track - Leading through old terminal moraines of the Haupapa, this track offers incredible views of the glacier, surrounding river and Tasman Lake. *Please note that due to potential delays from other customers or road conditions, the allocated time in Aoraki Mt Cook National Park to explore may be less than advertised. This may mean that you might be unable to fully complete walks etc. Your friendly guide will be able to assist you on the day with the best options available. At 2:15pm, please follow their instructions as they will provide the collection time to start the return journey to Wānaka.

    2 hours Admission ticket free
  • 4

    Departing Mt Cook National Park, we return down State Highway 80 to Ōmārama; this time stopping for a quick photo opportunity at the town’s famous clay cliffs. These unique structures are the product of repeated ancient glacial flows, which over time, have built up to the craggy pinnacles you see today. Please note that this stop is omitted on bad weather days where it is deemed unsafe and if the tour is delayed.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Lindis Pass

    Returning back through the Lindis Pass, we stop at a scenic lookout. The breathtaking tussocked valleys are a sight to behold year round, warranting a photo stop. With many stations in the area running Merino sheep, keep your eyes peeled as it is not uncommon to see these on route.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • Wanaka (Pass by)

    As we make our way back to Wānaka, sit back and relax after a wonderful day exploring Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. With your camera roll full, this day will definitely be something to brag about!

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Cheeky Kea Tours

Tags

Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Adventure Tours

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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