3 Days, Glaciers & TranzAlpine: Christchurch to Queenstown

5.0
(1 reviews)
Christchurch, New Zealand

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3 days (approximately)
Offered in: English

This immersive three-day journey combines one of the world's greatest scenic rail routes with the raw beauty of New Zealand's West Coast. Travelers glide through the majestic Southern Alps before diving deep into glacier country to experience rare wildlife and lush rainforests firsthand. A guided eco-tour brings the icy landscapes to life, while the final drive down to the adventure capital caps off a stress-free route through the South Island's most dramatic scenery.

This is an Independent coach tour, where you travel on a combination of touring coaches with commentary. You will be with different people on each part of the tour and different drivers. You have free time to explore on your own and are free to choose where and when to eat, meals are not included unless specified.

What's Included

TranzAlpine Train from Christchurch to Greymouth
All coach tour transport as specified in this tour package
Lunch (Optional[2])
Lunch
Two nights accommodation in Franz Josef
Franz Josef Half Day Nature Tour
Gratuities
Pre and post tour accommodation
Meals unless specified
Travel insurance. We recommend travel insurance for all tours

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
TranzAlpine: Scenic Train Christchurch - Greymouth

Board the TranzAlpine train and start your journey to Greymouth

End point

The tour will drop you off in central Queenstown

Itinerary

Duration: 3 days (approximately)
    Day 1

    Christchurch to Franz Josef via the TranzAlpine Scenic Train

    3 stops
  • 1
    TranzAlpine: Scenic Train Christchurch - Greymouth

    Considered one of the world's great train journeys, the TranzAlpine Scenic Train travels between Christchurch and Greymouth, from one coast of New Zealand to the other. From your carriage you'll see the fields of the Canterbury Plains and farmland, followed by the spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River. Your train then climbs into the Southern Alps before descending through the lush beech rain forest to the West Coast town of Greymouth.

    5 hours • Admission ticket included
  • 2
    Greymouth

    Meet your Cheeky Kiwi guide and head deep into glacier country, continuing west by road. Greymouth is the Coast’s main hub and your gateway to wild beaches, rainforest and glaciers, where you'll stop for lunch. Note: As the train is operated by a third party, delays of up to 30 minutes are possible.

    3 hours • Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Franz Josef Glacier

    Travel through Hokitika and experience the laid-back atmosphere that's sure to evoke a sense of nostalgia. Take a stroll along Hokitika’s wild beach, where black sand meets the rugged coastline. Our guides give you time to explore this “cool little town” and get a taste of what it has to offer. Venture inland to the jaw-dropping Hokitika Gorge, where bright turquoise waters, swing bridges and native bush make for a photographer’s dream. Enjoy a peaceful roadside stop at Lake Ianthe, surrounded by podocarp forest and wetlands rich with birdlife. Arrive in Franz Josef, where your guide will assist with your accommodation drop-off. Your glacier country adventure is just getting started.

    2 hours • Admission ticket free
    • Day 2

    Explore Franz Josef Glacier

    1 stop
  • 4
    Franz Josef

    Unveil the hidden wonders of the Franz Josef Glacier Valley on this immersive, eco-conscious walking journey. Perfect for nature enthusiasts of all ages, this tour leads you through ancient podocarp rainforests and along pristine glacial rivers to witness the raw power of the ice from spectacular viewpoints. With a small group guarantee and expert local guides, you’ll discover secret waterfalls, learn the fascinating stories of West Coast glaciology, and enjoy a relaxing break with hot drinks and cookies amidst the Southern Alps.

    4 hours • Admission ticket free
    • Day 3

    Franz Josef Glacier to Queenstown via Wānaka

    2 stops
  • 5
    Wanaka

    Begin your adventure in Franz Josef and journey south to Queenstown on a fully guided tour. Capture stunning reflections of Aoraki-Mt Cook at Lake Matheson, enjoy the dramatic contrast of rainforest and ocean at Bruce Bay, and feel the Tasman Sea's waves at Ship Creek. Marvel at the 28-meter Thunder Creek Falls and see the picturesque Lake Hāwea and Lake Wānaka.

    8 hours • Admission ticket free
  • 6
    Queenstown

    Pass through the Crown Range to arrive in Tāhuna-Queenstown.

    2 hours • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Discover New Zealand

Tags

Nature and Wildlife Tours
Multi-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Rail Tours
Small Group

Cancellation Policy

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

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Rating

5.0 Based on 1 1 review
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