Arthur's Pass Scenic Day Tour from Christchurch

South Island

Canterbury Trails

from

NZ$720

per adult

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Scenic highway through Arthur’s Pass crossing the Bealey River with snowy mountains in the background

Experiences

Family-friendly Tours

Day Tours

Small Group Tours

Shore Excursions

South Island

Start: Christchurch

Duration: 1 day

Travel Time: 8 hours

Details

Arthur’s Pass Landscapes, Local Stories and Alpine Views

The journey begins with a scenic drive across the Canterbury Plains into the Southern Alps, where snow-capped peaks and wide open valleys define the landscape. Travel in a luxury vehicle with a local guide who shares insights into the region’s geology, native wildlife, and rich cultural history. Along the way, enjoy stops for morning tea and photo opportunities, with time to absorb the vast alpine setting.

At Arthur’s Pass, your guide leads short, tailored walks through ancient beech forests and along clear mountain streams, revealing hidden viewpoints and lesser-known tracks. A café lunch in the alpine village provides time to refuel and take in the surroundings. The return trip via Porter’s Pass rounds out the day with more dramatic scenery and relaxed commentary from your guide.

Guided bush walk through native forest in Arthur’s Pass National Park

Visitors admiring the Waimakariri River from a scenic lookout in Arthur’s Pass

Gollum-like character in a mossy forest in Arthur’s Pass National Park

Two people viewing the Devils Punchbowl Falls in Arthur’s Pass National Park

Person walking a forest track surrounded by native trees in Arthur’s Pass

Tour guide sharing insights during a nature walk in Arthur’s Pass National Park

Lake Pearson reflecting surrounding mountains on a clear day in Canterbury, New Zealand

Scenic view of Lake Pearson with mountain reflections near Arthur’s Pass, Canterbury

Group of visitors standing at the Arthur’s Pass National Park sign with mountain backdrop

Tour vans parked with sunlit mountains in the background at Arthur’s Pass scenic stop

Open road leading toward the snow-capped Southern Alps in Canterbury, New Zealand

Colourful kea bird mid-flight in the alpine region of Arthur’s Pass

Forest walk in Arthur’s Pass with tour guide and elderly visitor on gravel track

Kea parrots interacting near a lookout sign in Arthur’s Pass National Park

Tour Details:

Departs: Christchurch at 8:30am
Arrives: Christchurch at about 5:00-5:30pm

Inclusions

Hotel pick up
Maximum of 8 guests per trip
Travel by luxury vehicle
Picnic style morning or afternoon tea (if weather permits).
Your guide will select appropriate walks for both fitness levels and weather conditions.
Cafe lunch in Arthurs Pass.
Fully escorted tour with local knowledgeable guide.
Hotel Drop off

Age Information

Adults: 13 years and over
Children: 2-12 years

Cancellations & Refunds

8 days or more before departure: Full refund**
Between 7 days and 48 hours: 50% refund**
Within 48 hours: No refund

Note: **Refunds exclude credit card 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.

Itinerary

8:30 AM – Start your day with a courtesy pickup from your Christchurch accommodation. Settle into a luxury vehicle and enjoy the scenic drive through the Canterbury Plains as your guide shares fascinating stories about the region’s history and natural beauty.

10:30 AM – Stop at picturesque viewpoints along the way. Take photos of the rugged Southern Alps, verdant valleys, and sweeping plains. Upon reaching Arthur’s Pass village, soak in the striking alpine vistas before exploring the wonders of the national park.

11:00 AM – Explore the pristine wilderness on a series of short, guided walks tailored to your group’s interests and fitness levels. Stroll through ancient beech forests, enjoy the serenity of crystal-clear rivers, and marvel at panoramic views from stunning lookout points.

12:30 PM – Refuel with a delightful lunch at a charming café nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Arthur’s Pass. Your guide will entertain you with captivating stories about the area’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

2:00 PM – Start your leisurely return. Pass through the sub-alpine beauty of Porter’s Pass and the serene Canterbury Plains. Your guide will provide ample opportunities to pause and capture the charm of this breathtaking landscape

5:00-5:30 PM – Arrive back at your Christchurch accommodation, concluding your memorable journey to Arthur’s Pass with unforgettable moments and stunning photos.