Travelling from Queenstown to Mt Cook one way is more than just a transfer; it is a guided scenic adventure. The route takes you through Kawarau Gorge, Cromwell, and Lindis Pass, with stops for photos and local stories from your guide. Each stop reveals more of New Zealand’s dramatic landscapes, making the journey as memorable as the destination.
Along the way, you can taste fresh local produce at Omarama and sample salmon at High Country Salmon. As you approach Lake Pukaki, the turquoise waters frame the towering Aoraki/Mt Cook and the Southern Alps, offering picture-perfect views. Your journey concludes at Mt Cook Village, where you can freely explore the trails and wonders of Aoraki National Park.
Mt Cook & Aoraki National Park
Lake Pukaki
Kawarau Gorge, Lindis Pass, the Southern Alps and High Country Salmon
Small Group
Fully Guided Tour
Water available & snacks provided
Adult: 15 years +
Children: 4-14 years
Infants: Under 4 years
Outside 24 hours before travel: Full refund**
Within 24 hours before travel: No refund
*Note: Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount. Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*
Itinerary
1.Queenstown, Your tour begins in the beautiful city of Queenstown. As we leave the city, your guide will set the scene for your exciting day and point out some of the top sights along the way.
2. Kawarau Suspension Bridge, Leaving Queenstown, we travel through the stunning Kawarau Gorge, taking in the views, the Kawarau Suspension Bridge, and the famous Roaring Meg Lookout. Time permitting, we’ll stop for a great photo opportunity.
3. Cromwell, After exiting the Kawarau Gorge, we enter the fruit and wine-growing region of Cromwell. We’ll drive past large vineyards, cross Lake Dunstan, and follow the lake towards Lindis Pass.
4. Lindis Pass, As we climb in altitude, Lindis Pass offers amazing views down through the valleys. Being one of only three alpine roads through the Southern Alps, we’ll stop at the famous lookout at the top of the pass for a must-have photo.
5. Omarama, While driving through the wide plains of the Mackenzie district, we’ll spot several of the famous Merino sheep before stopping in the charming town of Omarama. Here, we have time for a break or to try what we think is the best creamy chicken pie in New Zealand!
6. Lake Pukaki, Turning west, we enter Aoraki National Park and Lake Pukaki appears in front of us. Lake Pukaki is one of the bluest lakes you’ll ever see, set against the backdrop of Aoraki/Mt Cook and the Southern Alps. We’ll stop for amazing photos and to enjoy the view. You’ll see why many Lord of the Rings scenes were filmed nearby, and we’ll point them out to you.
7. Mt Cook Information Centre, Arriving at Mt Cook Village, weather permitting, we should get some fantastic shots of the mountain itself. At 3,724 metres, Aoraki/Mt Cook is New Zealand’s highest peak. Even though the village is just 750 metres above sea level, the mountain is visible without any acclimatisation. Your guided transfer ends here, but your adventure to explore Mt Cook is only just beginning.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you’re welcome to bring luggage! Each guest can bring one large suitcase and one carry-on bag on all tours.
If you need to bring extra luggage, no worries—it’s just $40 per additional item. Just make sure to arrange this with us ahead of your tour day.
Please note we can’t accommodate oversized items like bikes, surfboards, or pets.
Transfers and Shuttles
Family-friendly Tours
Small Group Tours
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