Pre-Sunset Tongariro Guided Walk

North Island

Adrift Tongariro

from

NZ$195

per person

Book Now

Taranaki Falls cascading over a lava cliff surrounded by winter alpine vegetation in Tongariro National Park

Experiences

Hiking & Walking

Family-friendly Tours

Half-Day Tours

North Island

Start: Waimarino (National Park)

Location: Waimarino

Duration: 1 day

Travel Time: 2 hours

Distance: 6 kms

Difficulty: 2

Minimum Age: 12

Details

Discover Tongariro’s Pre-Sunset Beauty

This two-hour guided walk takes you deep into Tongariro National Park, where the ever-changing alpine landscapes glow in the soft light of evening. The track to Taranaki Falls offers an easy loop through tussock, shrublands, and beech forest, leading to one of the park’s most iconic sights. Along the way, your guide shares fascinating insights into geology, volcanology, and the cultural history of this UNESCO World Heritage area.

At the halfway point, enjoy a refreshment while admiring Taranaki Falls, where water cascades 20 metres over a lava flow formed by an eruption 15,000 years ago. The return journey climbs through tussock and manuka, crossing eroded gullies and old lava flows before arriving back at the trailhead. Timed perfectly, the golden hour paints the surrounding peaks in warm light, creating a magical alpine atmosphere.

Snow-covered peaks in Tongariro National Park at sunset in winter

Mount Ngauruhoe glowing at sunset in Tongariro National Park, bathed in golden light

Smiling couple posing by the roaring cascade of Taranaki Falls in Tongariro

Couple standing on a bridge over an alpine stream with Mount Ruapehu in the distance

Tour group gathered on a bridge with Mount Ruapehu in the distance on the Taranaki Falls Track

Couple admiring Taranaki Falls from the lower track in Tongariro National Park

Icy mountain stream flowing beneath a snow-covered Mount Ruapehu in Tongariro National Park

Large tour group posing at the base of Taranaki Falls in Tongariro National Park

Group of walkers posing on the Taranaki Falls Track with Mount Ruapehu in the background

A Relaxed Evening Adventure

This guided walk is designed to suit a wide range of travellers, whether you are short on time or simply looking for a memorable evening activity. The well-formed track is easy to follow, with a mix of boardwalks, stairs, dirt, and gravel surfaces, making it accessible without requiring technical hiking skills.

Finishing just before sunset, this experience allows you to linger and watch the fading light transform Tongariro’s mountains into a breathtaking spectacle. With its mix of natural beauty, cultural respect, and expert guidance, the Pre-Sunset Tongariro Guided Walk offers a perfect balance of learning, relaxation, and unforgettable scenery.

INCLUSIONS

Guide(s)
NZ$60 allowance for hiring clothing and footwear.
A cold drink.

GEAR LIST

1.5-2 litres of water
Personal medications like asthma inhalers or blister protection
Sturdy outdoor shoes with good grip
Trousers suitable for walking
2 warm layers on top (wool, merino, thermals, fleece, soft shell, etc., are recommended)
Waterproof raincoat

GEAR HIRE

Personal equipment, footwear, and clothing for hire if you need anything you don't have.

TOUR TIMINGS

November – February
Meet at Whakapapa Information Centre: 6:00pm
Return: 8:30pm

March / October
Meet at Whakapapa Information Centre: 4:30pm
Return: 7:00pm

April – September
Meet at Whakapapa Information Centre: 2:30pm
Return: 5:00pm

RECONFIRMATION

All customers are required to reconfirm between 10:00am – 5:00pm the day prior to trip date. Single bookings 3 days prior to establish if minimum numbers have been met.

AGE INFORMATION

Children: 11 years & under must receive approval before joining the tour

CANCELLATION FEES & REFUNDS:

14 days or more before travel: Full refund**
Within 14 days: No Refund
Postponements within 14 days: Reschedule allowed within 12 months, subject to availability & approval. No refunds if subsequently cancelled.
Insufficient group size: Options to pay extra, reschedule within a year, or get a refund**
Weather-related cancellations: Safe alternative provided, or option to reschedule within a year, or receive a refund**

Note: **Refund excludes credit card, payment or booking fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*