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South Island

Start: Tekapo
Finish: Queenstown
Location: Lake Tekapo
Travel Time: 10 hours

The Tekapo to Queenstown via Mt Cook Tour is a full-day one-way small-group journey from Lake Tekapo to Queenstown, travelling through some of the South Island’s best-known landscapes. Departing Tekapo at 10:00am, the tour includes Lake Pukaki, 2–2.5 hours in Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, Ōmārama Clay Cliffs, Lindis Pass, Wānaka, Cardrona and the Crown Range before finishing in Queenstown. Lunch, bottled water, Kiwi snacks, Wi-Fi, USB charging and guided commentary are included.

Exploring Aoraki/Mt Cook on Your Small Group Journey

Travelling from Lake Tekapo to Queenstown via Mt Cook offers an unforgettable mix of alpine beauty and vibrant South Island charm. The route showcases turquoise waters, snow-capped peaks and vast high-country landscapes. With expert guides, travellers gain deeper insights into the region’s rich history and natural wonders.

Along the way, highlights include the shimmering waters of Lake Pukaki, with Aoraki/Mt Cook towering in the distance. Optional stops at Tasman Glacier or the Hooker Valley Track allow for breathtaking walks and photo opportunities. The journey ends in lively Queenstown, where adventure, food and culture complete the experience.

What are the highlights of this Tekapo to Queenstown tour?

  • Stop at Lake Pukaki for views towards Aoraki/Mt Cook
  • Spend 2–2.5 hours in Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park
  • Visit the Ōmārama Clay Cliffs when conditions allow
  • Travel through Wānaka, Cardrona and the Crown Range
  • Finish with drop-off in Queenstown

The tour includes:

  • Small-group transport from Lake Tekapo to Queenstown
  • Guided commentary throughout the journey
  • Lake Pukaki stop
  • Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park visit
  • Free time for optional walks in Mt Cook
  • Ōmārama Clay Cliffs stop, weather and timing permitting
  • Lindis Pass lookout
  • Lunch, Bottled water, Kiwi snacks
  • Free Wi-Fi, USB charging

Optional scenic flights at Aoraki/Mt Cook are not included and must be booked separately.

A salmon stop may also be added if time allows, but it should not be presented as a guaranteed inclusion.

This is a one-way sightseeing tour, so bring your luggage with you for the journey to Queenstown.

You normally have 2–2.5 hours in Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, but the exact amount of free time can be reduced by road conditions, delays or the pace of the group.

The Tasman Glacier Viewpoint Track is one of the main walking options, but you should only attempt walks that fit comfortably within the time available. Your guide will advise what is realistic on the day.

The Ōmārama Clay Cliffs stop is weather and timing dependent and may be omitted if conditions are unsafe or the tour is delayed.

Scenic flights at Mt Cook can be arranged separately, subject to availability and weather.

Additional comfort stops are taken during the day as required.

  • Adults: 15 years and over
  • Children: 4-14 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.

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