Christchurch to Franz Josef One Way Day Tour with TranzAlpine

5.0
(32 reviews)
Christchurch, New Zealand

12 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

Travel from Christchurch to Franz Josef on one of New Zealand’s most iconic journeys, combining the legendary TranzAlpine train with a fully guided West Coast road trip. Glide through the Southern Alps by rail before meeting your Cheeky Kiwi guide and heading deep into glacier country. From turquoise gorges and wild black-sand beaches to rainforest-fringed lakes, this day is packed with bucket-list scenery. Small groups, passionate guides, and unforgettable landscapes, this is the West Coast done right.

What's Included

Water available & snacks provided
Guided bus tour: Greymouth to Franz Josef
Tranzalpine Train: Christchurch to Greymouth
Sit down - free choice from a set menu
Luggage allowance - 1 large & 1 small per person
Drop off in Fox Glacier
Restroom on board

Meeting and pickup

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

*If no pickup is selected at time of booking, you will be allocated our default meeting point. You are welcome to update this at any time. If your location isn’t listed, please choose your nearest available option & meet us there.

*Pick-ups can begin up to 60 minutes before the tour departure time, depending on location. To ensure a smooth start, please be ready and waiting outside 5 minute prior to your specific pickup time.

*Pick-up locations are carefully planned for each tour and may vary by day. If your pick-up location changes, kindly inform us in advance.

*Our guides make multiple stops and may arrive within a 10-minute window. We are unable to wait for late guests.

OR
Meeting point
Bus Interchange (Lichfield St)

PICKUP TIME: 7:08am. Please meet your guide at the InterCity Bus Stop on Litchfield Street, outside the bus interchange.

End point
Franz Josef / Waiau

Drop off to central Franz Josef accommodations only

Itinerary

Duration: 12 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    TranzAlpine Train

    Your adventure begins with a transfer to Tower Junction to board the TranzAlpine. Settle in and enjoy panoramic carriages as you journey through river valleys, alpine passes, and the heart of the Southern Alps.

    5 hours Admission ticket included
  • 2
    Greymouth

    Meet your Cheeky Kiwi guide and continue 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.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Cobden Beach

    A quick coastal stop where crashing waves meet the iconic breakwater. A favourite for dramatic ocean photos.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Hokitika

    Soak up the laid-back vibe of Hokitika. Stroll the wild black-sand beach and check out the famous Hokitika sign with the Tasman Sea as your backdrop.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Hokitika Gorge Walk

    Venture inland to the jaw-dropping Hokitika Gorge. Bright turquoise water, swing bridges, and native bush make this a photographer’s dream.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 6
    Lake Ianthe

    A peaceful roadside stop at Lake Ianthe, surrounded by podocarp forest and wetlands rich with birdlife.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 7
    Franz Josef

    Arrive in Franz Josef, where your guide will assist with accommodation drop-off. Your glacier country adventure is just getting started. Drop off to central Franz Josef accommodations only.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Guests can bring 1 large & 1 small piece of luggage each
Supplied by Cheeky Kiwi Travel
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Tags

Nature and Wildlife Tours
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Rail Tours
Excellent Quality
Top Product
Low Supplier Cancellation Rate
Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate
New Product
Curated Catalog

Cancellation Policy

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

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Rating

5.0 Based on 32 32 reviews
5 stars
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