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Alps to Ocean Swift Self-Guided Cycle Tour

Oct-May

South Island

Cycle Journeys

from

NZ$1665

per person

Mountain biker rides through golden tussock in high country terrain near Omarama.

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Map of the Alps 2 Ocean A20 Swift Cycle Trail showing a fast-paced route from Aoraki/Mount Cook to Oamaru

Experiences

Cycle Trails

Family-friendly Tours

Multi-Day Short Tours

South Island

Start: Twizel

Finish: Oamaru

Locations: 3 See all

Duration: 6 days

Distance: 321 kms

Difficulty: 3

Details

Ride Past Glacial Lakes, Golden Plains & Quiet Country Trails

This five-day self-guided cycling adventure showcases the stunning landscapes of the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail. The journey begins at Aoraki/Mt Cook or Lake Takapō/Tekapo, leading through golden tussock lands, glacial lakes, and the Waitaki Valley before reaching the Pacific Ocean. With luggage transfers and accommodation arranged, the focus remains on enjoying the ride through ever-changing scenery.

Designed for experienced cyclists, the route covers 70-80km per day across backcountry roads, historic sites, and lakeside trails. The flexibility of a self-paced ride allows time to take in the surroundings, with detailed maps and support included. An e-bike upgrade is available, and those starting from Aoraki/Mt Cook will take a short helicopter flight over the Tasman River to begin their journey.

Twizel town centre with autumn colours and vintage tractor

Visitors feeding fish at a high country salmon farm near Twizel

Cyclists riding alongside the turquoise Tekapo Canal on a sunny day with mountain views in the background.

Cyclists riding along a gravel track beside Lake Ohau with hills and clouds overhead.

A group of cyclists, including children, riding next to the shoreline of Lake Ohau.

Autumn colours reflecting on Pumpkin Point at Lake Benmore, New Zealand

Two cyclists riding past a calm lake near Kurow on the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail.

Cyclists high-fiving at the end of the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail in Oamaru, New Zealand.

Family having a picnic and kayaking at Lake Ruataniwha near Twizel

Cyclist performing a wheelie on a gravel trail above Lake Pukaki.

INCLUSIONS

Standard bike hire for 5 days - including helmet and rear rack bag. Upgrades are available.
Shuttle from Twizel to your Alps 2 Ocean Trail Start
Luggage Transfers each day (Max 15KG per bag)
5 nights accommodation (Standard & Superior options available)
2 Dinners & 3 Breakfasts
Trip itinerary, directions and trail map info
Helicopter flight over the Tasman River is included with the Aoraki/Mt Cook start

Cycling Experience & Distance – Designed for experienced cyclists, covering 70-80km per day.
Optional E-Bike Upgrade – Available for an additional fee for those who prefer extra support on the trail.
Operating Season – Tours run from October to mid-May.
Accommodation Options – Twin-share rooms by default, with single supplement rates available upon request. Superior accommodation upgrades offer added comfort where available.
Peak Season Pricing – Additional charges may apply due to high demand and limited accommodation availability.
Helicopter Contingency – If the Aoraki/Mt Cook helicopter flight is cancelled, alternative transport will be arranged.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Twizel

Make your way to Twizel from Christchurch or Queenstown, allowing ample time for travel. This small yet lively township is the perfect place to unwind before your cycling adventure begins. Stroll through the local shops, enjoy a meal at a cosy café, or take a short walk to the nearby lakes and canals. Rest up for the night and get ready to hit the trail in the morning.

Day 2: Aoraki/Mt Cook or Takapō/Tekapo to Twizel

Start the day with a shuttle ride to your chosen trailhead at either Aoraki/Mt Cook or Takapō/Tekapo. From there, cycle through the breathtaking Mackenzie Country, passing golden tussock fields and shimmering lakes.

Choose between a 54km ride from Takapō/Tekapo or a more challenging 77km route from Aoraki/Mt Cook. Both options offer stunning scenery and a rewarding ride back to Twizel, where you’ll spend the night.

Day 3: Twizel to Lake Ohau

Ride along the peaceful canal roads from Twizel to the shores of Lake Ōhau. Follow the dedicated lakeside cycle trail, soaking in the stunning alpine views. End the day with a relaxing stay at Lake Ōhau.

Distance: 38 kms

Day 4: Lake Ōhau to Ōtematata

Begin the day with a climb to the Tarnbrae highpoint, where sweeping views of Lake Ōhau and the Mackenzie plains await. From there, descend through the Quailburn, a scenic section of the trail filled with rolling hills and backcountry charm.

If time allows, take a 7km detour to the striking Clay Cliffs before continuing along the quiet roads around Lake Benmore. After an exhilarating ride of 80-85km, unwind for the night in the lakeside town of Ōtematata.

Distance: 80 kms

Day 5: Ōtematata to Duntroon

Follow the scenic backcountry roads alongside Lake Aviemore, soaking in the peaceful surroundings. The trail then leads through Kurow, where you can take a break at a local vineyard or café before continuing along the Waitaki River.

After 23km, stop to admire ancient Māori rock art before riding through wetlands on the final stretch to Duntroon. Accommodation options vary between staying in town or a rural retreat nearby, offering a restful night before the last leg of the journey.

Distance: 72 kms

Day 6: Duntroon to Ōamaru

The final stretch of the trail winds through rolling farmlands, past the fascinating Elephant Rock formations and the historic Rakis Railway Tunnel. As you approach Ōamaru, the landscape shifts from countryside to coast, where the journey ends at Friendly Bay on the Pacific Ocean.

Celebrate your achievement with a well-earned drink at Scott’s Brewery or take time to explore Ōamaru’s charming Victorian precinct. Choose to wrap up your adventure here or extend your stay with an extra night in this unique seaside town.

Distance: 54 kms

Frequently asked questions

Yes, but only in rural areas without food options. These nights include dinner, breakfast, and a packed lunch. Other nights are self-catered.

InterCity buses run to Christchurch (9:30am, 3:25pm) and Dunedin (12:05pm). You can also book local car hire—one-way fees may apply.

Fly into Christchurch or Queenstown, then take an InterCity bus:

Christchurch: 8:30am → Twizel 1:30pm
Queenstown: 8:05am → Twizel 11:15am

Most travellers arrive the night before. If you’re driving, park at our Twizel depot and take our return shuttle from Oamaru (2:45pm).

NZ weather is unpredictable—pack for all conditions. If the trail becomes unsafe, we may offer shuttle support (additional fees apply).

In emergencies, call 111. For other assistance, contact your depot team (details provided at check-in).

Most of the trail has reception, but expect blackspots in remote areas. International visitors should consider a local NZ SIM to avoid roaming costs.

Your bag must weigh 15kg max. We’ll label and log your luggage and deliver it daily—usually ahead of your arrival. Extra bags or heavier gear may incur additional charges.

We recommend someone in your group knows how to fix a flat. If your hire bike becomes unrideable, we’ll get a replacement to you. Damage or misuse may incur repair costs.

Bringing your own bike? Make sure it’s serviced and pack spares specific to your setup.

Departure Dates

Daily departures from October to May only. Subject to availability.

Pricing

Oct 25 - May 26 Cost per person (Twin-share)	Standard	Superior
From Mt Cook (Inc. helicopter over Tasman River)	from NZ$1,885	from NZ$2,179
From Tekapo	from NZ$1,665	from NZ$1,956
E-bike Upgrade	NZ$320 per person

Note: All pricing is based on twin share rooms and are subject to change during the peak season (Nov, Feb-Mar). Single supplement will apply to solo travellers. Please enquire upon booking.

Due to increasing popularity, and limited accommodation during the height of the season, our peak season dates are subject to change as the season draws nearer and accomodation availability becomes more limited outside of these periods.

Superior Accommodation Upgrade: The Alps 2 Ocean trail is in a remote area with limited accommodation options. The Superior Upgrade provides higher-quality lodgings where available.

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