From National Park or Whakapapa Village:

This 19km trek in Tongariro National Park is New Zealand's best day one day walk. The track leads up to the saddle between Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Tongariro and then diverts over Mt Tongariro. Mt Tongariro is not a single volcano, but a complex of craters that have been active at different periods. The landscape on Tongariro is peppered with the different coloured and shaped craters, scoured volcanic rocks, active geothermal areas, mountain springs, and brightly coloured emerald lakes. In summer this track can be crowded and where possible, we take our clients away from the crowds, while making sure that the popular sights are still experienced.

Tour Grading:

A reasonable level of fitness and agility is required for this guided walk. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a strenuous hike of 7-8 hours, with a climb and descent of around 1000 metres through an alpine environment.  Walkers need to carry a daypack containing drinking water, raincoat and warm clothing. Track surfaces vary from well-formed paths to rough terrain of rocks and loose scree.

Inclusions

• Price includes guide/s
• Trekking and Wet Weather Equipment Hire
• packed lunch, snacks
• return transport for Whakapapa or National Park.

General Terms and Conditions

All trips are a minimum of 2 people or the equivalent fee. Single customers will be accepted upon availability with a surcharge. If possible and agreeable, single customers will be placed into a group, with no surcharge.

Bookings

All guided walk bookings require a deposit of 20% at the time of booking, with the balance due 30 days before the walk commences.

Cancellation

Cancellation Fees are charged on the following basis per person:

• Outside 30 days from walk departure date = 0%
• Between 29-5 days before walk departure date = 20%
• Within 4 days of walk departure date = 100%

Due to the exposed alpine environment the Tongariro Crossing Guided Walk is weather dependent.  In the event of cancellation due to poor weather a full refund will be given. If you start the track and the guide has to change the route, or turn back, due to adverse conditions, there is no refund.

1 Day Tongariro Alpine Crossing Itinerary

Approx 8am pick-up from your Whakapapa or National Park accommodation. 20 minute drive to the start of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

Famously known as the world's best walk, the Crossing is a challenging 7-8 hour hike through a rugged and exposed alpine environment. The track runs through the Mangatepopo Valley (900m) to the saddle between Tongariro and Ngauruhoe Mountains. Two steep climbs lead to Red Crater (1886m), then a scree slope drops down to the vivid Emerald Lakes. After passing the Green and Blue lakes the track then sidles around the northern slope of Mount Tongariro, before the long descent of switch-backs and many steps to the end (600m). Your transport awaits you at the end of the track, with a well-deserved snack and cool drink.

Approx 4pm return to your National Park or Whakapapa Village accommodation. Walking Legends' professional, all-inclusive service make this the easiest, most convenient and rewarding way to experience this life-altering hike. Caring and friendly guides will ensure you walk at a relaxed pace, so you can relish the jaw-dropping views, spectacular geology & frequent refreshment breaks. Your guide carry's a first aid kit, communications, safety equipment and extra refreshments so you don't have to.

Total walking time is 7-8 hours

Please call our office the evening before your walk...

Due to the exposed alpine environment and erratic weather systems, the Tongariro Crossing is often too hazardous to walk; therefore it is essential you contact the office between 2 and 6pm the evening before your walk to confirm if the trip is going ahead. If we deem the conditions are unsafe to undertake the Tongariro Crossing, you will be offered an alternative guided walk.

You will need: Good hiking shoes and clothing; warm jersey; sunhat & sunscreen; at least 2 litres drinking water; camera.

Our guides are very experienced at guiding people of all ages and fitness levels, and are patient, caring and attentive to our walker's needs. We have a low guide to client ratio (1:8) and small groups, so you receive our legendary personalised service. Please consult with us first before booking for children under 10 years of age.