Tongariro Hiking Tour

We’ll collect you from Rotorua City or the airport at 9.00am, or central Taupō at 10.00am, before heading south through the geothermal wonders of the North Island. Our journey takes us around Lake Taupō, the island’s largest lake, and up onto the impressive Central Plateau. If you’d rather meet us in Tongariro National Park, just ask for driving directions.

To begin our adventure, we’ll set out on a refreshing hike around the stunning Lake Rotopounamu (Greenstone Lake), tucked into the side of beautiful Mt. Pihanga. This mountain is central to a Māori legend that explains the formation of this special region. Starting with a gentle incline from the carpark, we’ll reach the lakeshore, where the trail evens out for a scenic walk around the water. We’ll enjoy a peaceful picnic lunch on Five Minute Beach, surrounded by native forest. Walking Legends proudly supports Project Tongariro, sponsoring hectare #189 as part of efforts to restore native birdlife to the area. Take time to savour the abundant birdlife, a testament to ongoing conservation efforts.

Next, we’ll continue with an easy 20-minute walk to Tawhai Falls, also known as ‘Gollum’s Pool’. Lord of the Rings fans will recognise this 13-metre waterfall as the spot where Faramir and his archers watch Gollum fish.

After settling into our cosy lodgings, we’ll enjoy a delicious 2-course Kiwi meal and a cold drink, raising a toast to the start of our Tongariro adventure. As the sun sets over the dramatic volcanic skyline, relax with a soak in the hot tub, sip an after-dinner drink at the bar, or simply unwind and prepare for the excitement of tomorrow’s journey!

Today, we’ll take on one of the world’s most renowned hikes—the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This unforgettable trail takes us through an incredible range of surreal landscapes, from rugged lava fields and emerald crater lakes to steaming vents, alpine meadows, and a high mountain pass, all surrounded by awe-inspiring peaks. The panoramic views of Mt Ngauruhoe, Mt Ruapehu, and the Central Plateau are absolutely breath-taking, making every step well worth the effort!

Lonely Planet describes walking among the Tongariro volcanoes as “a life-changing experience not to be missed,” and your guides will enrich the journey with fascinating stories, local legends, and insights into the area’s extraordinary geological history.

This hike requires good weather and a reasonable level of fitness, so if conditions aren’t ideal today, we’ll aim to tackle it on another day during the trip.

After our return, we’ll soothe any sore muscles in the outdoor spa pool, then gather in the cosy lounge for pre-dinner drinks and nibbles. This evening, we’ll head out to a lively local restaurant and bar to enjoy a laid-back meal with the locals.

Today, we’ll explore the rich rail history of New Zealand on the Old Coach Road trail, which circles the southern side of Mt Ruapehu. From 1906 to 1908, this historic road was used to transport passengers and goods by horse and coach between two railheads on the main trunk line, and it’s filled with fascinating stories from the early days of New Zealand’s pioneering industry.

Along the trail, you’ll encounter heritage features such as a cobbled road, towering steel viaducts, a curved tunnel, the remnants of an old railway bridge, and former campsites. This 15km walk, taking around five hours, winds through beautiful native forest with expansive views across the region.

If the group agrees and conditions are favourable, we’ll also venture higher up Mt Ruapehu to explore its dramatic, rocky landscapes. Standing at 2,797 metres, the North Island’s highest peak offers incredible views across the National Park.

This evening, we’ll gather for a celebratory dinner and toast to our achievements over the past few days!

After a hearty final breakfast, we’ll pack up and bid farewell to the National Park and its majestic mountains. If your legs are still feeling fresh, we’ll kick off the day with one of the many nearby short walks. Our knowledgeable local guides love choosing a special trail from their personal favourites, making this last day truly unique for everyone.

Our final adventure will be a 2-hour loop walk to the stunning Taranaki Falls, part of the Tongariro Northern Circuit Great Walk. These 20-metre falls plunge over an ancient andesite lava flow, which erupted from Mt Ruapehu 15,000 years ago, into a rocky pool below. Along the way, you’ll pass through beautiful beech forests, alpine meadows dotted with red tussock, umbrella ferns, and mountain toatoa. It’s the perfect opportunity to soak in the final sweeping views of the Tongariro volcanic landscape.

We’ll ensure you’re back in Taupo by 3–4pm or Rotorua by 5–6pm, ready for your onward journey.