Full-Day Guided Sightseeing Tour of Mount Cook from Queenstown

4.8
(203 reviews)

12 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

In the heart of the South Island, New Zealand boasts its tallest peak, Aoraki Mount Cook, also known as the "Cloud Piercer." Nestled among the Southern Alps, above a small alpine town that is home to our longest glacier and many famous hiking tracks.

Embark on a one-day small-group tour to Mount Cook. Departing from Queenstown, you'll experience the unique alpine landscapes of the Southern Alps as you journey into Mackenzie Country and Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. Enjoy free time in Mt Cook Village, where you can choose to explore the incredible scenery, on a local short hike, scenic flight, or leisurely afternoon spent in the village.

What's Included

WiFi on board
Entertaining and informative commentary from your guide
Convenient pick up and drop off locations around Queenstown
Entrance into the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre
Approx. 3.5 hours free time in Mt Cook
Lunch and snacks are not included, however there opportunities to purchase throughout the day
Activities are an additional cost

Meeting and pickup

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

Please note that your selected pickup location may not be exact; we will pick up either at or near your requested location. After you book, our team will contact you to provide your exact pickup location details. If you are unsure of the best pickup point, please inform the activity provider of your accommodation, and we will advise the most suitable pickup location. The 0730 AM departure time applies to the central Queenstown pick-up, however, times can vary between 7 AM and 8 AM, depending on your location. Please take note of the time our team reconfirms with you and be at the pickup location 10 minutes prior to your departure time. Our guide will wait up to 5 minutes after your departure time. Any late arrivals who miss the tour will not be entitled to a refund.

Itinerary

Duration: 12 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    After departing Queenstown, our first iconic stop is Cromwell, 'Fruit Bowl of the South', and its large fruit sculptures. Cromwell is the hub of Central Otago, the famous wine region for Pinot Noir.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2

    On the drive to Mount Cook, we will travel through the dramatic Lindis Pass. Marvel at the spectacular high country landscape as we pass through from Central Otago into the Mackenzie Basin.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3

    We make a brief stop at the quaint village of Omarama where you have the opportunity to get a snack or food to take away for lunch in Mt Cook. From here we’ll make our way past the Twizel canals, heading towards the bright blue waters of Lake Pukaki.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4

    Before entering Mount Cook Village, we will take stop alongside the shores of Lake Pukaki, the largest lake in the area, proudly showing off New Zealand’s tallest peak, Aoraki/ Mount Cook.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5

    Welcome to Mount Cook Village. Here you will have some free time to enjoy this dramatic location. Choose to take a walk to Lake Mueller for a close-up view of Mt Sefton’s glaciers, hike along the Hooker Valley Track or take the chance to experience one of the incredible activities Mt Cook has to offer.

    3 hours Admission ticket free
  • 6

    We then start the journey back to Queenstown. After a busy day taking in the sights, take the chance to relax and enjoy the incredible scenery. We will give you the chance to stretch your legs throughout the journey, returning back to Queenstown at approx 7:30 pm.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Mount Cook is an alpine environment and it is important to bring warm clothes, a rain jacket and comfortable shoes for walking.
  • The Hooker Valley Trek is a DOC (Department of Conservation) hiking trail, and we recommend only those with medium fitness complete the entire trail (weather pending). We have a strict departure time from Mt Cook Village and all hikers must return by that time.
Supplied by Altitude Tours

Tags

Day Trips
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Best Conversion
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

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

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Rating

4.8 Based on 203 203 reviews
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