Queenstown , New Zealand

Mount Cook Day Tour from Queenstown

Active

(64 reviews)

12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Venture out on a one-way sightseeing tour from Queenstown to Christchurch via Mt Cook and experience the splendor of the New Zealand Southern Alps. Enjoy spectacular sights of the glacier-fed Lake Tekapo, the farmland of Canterbury Plains and New Zealand's tallest mountain Aoraki (Mt Cook), situated in a national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your Mount Cook day tour concludes in the largest city in South Island New Zealand, Christchurch.

Available options

Queenstown to Mount Cook

Tour will finish at Mt Cook: This tour is 4hour and 45minutes in duration

Queenstown to Christchurch

Tour Duration: This tour is 12 hours in duration

What's included

WiFi on board

Driver/guide

Air-conditioned vehicle

Restroom on board

Live commentary on board

Detailed itinerary

Tour Begins from here

Rest break

Stop 3

o The majestic setting of the Church of the Good Shepherd attracts visitors from all over the world. We encourage you to take a few quiet minutes to enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the lake and mountains; in our opinion it is God's greatest cathedral.

Stop 4

o We are now entering the Mt Cook National Park, one of 14 National Parks in New Zealand. The area of the park is 70,696 hectares and has the highest mountains and largest glaciers in New Zealand it was established as a National Park in 1953. The Maori name for Mt Cook is Aoraki which means ‘Sky Piercer’. It is a rugged land of ice and rock with 19 mountain peaks over 3,000 metres including Mt Cook which is 3,753 metres the highest mountain in New Zealand, however, Mt Cook used to be 3,763 metres.

o Geraldine is a popular little town for arts and crafts and market days and has a reputation as a home for gifted artists and talented people such as Austen Deans and John Badcock who have their studios in the township. There are edible creations as well such as the local Geraldine cheese maker, chocolatier and the internationally recognised Barkers fruit products all have outlets in the town. We stop at the Kiwi Country Visitor centre for morning and afternoon tea breaks along with a comfort stop

Stop 6 Pass by

Lake Pukaki is the largest of three roughly parallel alpine lakes running north-south along the northern edge of the Mackenzie Basin on New Zealand's South Island. The others are Lakes Tekapo and Ohau.

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.8

48 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 3.8

16 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

All tours are operated by luxury 5 star coaches, equipped with air conditioning, rest-room facilities and reclining seats

Meeting point

Bus stop Athol St in middle of the carpark (all-day parking is NOT available here)
Please arrive 15minutes prior to departure time.

Important notes

• Before you Go – If you have any questions or comments prior to your departure please call us on 0800 744 487 free phone in New Zealand or + 64 9 583 5790. We are open between 0630 – 18000

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

About Queenstown

Queenstown, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Remarkables mountain range, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and adrenaline-pumping activities. This vibrant town offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and luxury, making it a top destination for travelers seeking both excitement and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Queenstown Garden

Queenstown Garden is a beautiful public garden located in the heart of the city. It offers stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Skyline Queenstown

Skyline Queenstown offers a range of activities, including the Skyline Gondola, Luge rides, and a restaurant with panoramic views of the city and lake.

Adventure 2-3 hours Moderate to Expensive

Arrowtown Chinese Settlement

Arrowtown Chinese Settlement is a historic site that showcases the lives of Chinese miners during the Otago Gold Rush in the 1860s.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Lamb

New Zealand lamb is renowned for its tender texture and rich flavor. It's often served with seasonal vegetables and local wines.

Main Course Contains meat

Green-Lipped Mussels

Green-lipped mussels are a delicacy in New Zealand, known for their unique flavor and texture. They're often served steamed with garlic, wine, and herbs.

Appetizer Contains shellfish

Pavlova

Pavlova is a popular dessert in New Zealand, made with a crisp meringue shell, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.

Dessert Contains eggs and dairy

Popular Activities

Bungee jumping Skydiving Jet boating Hiking Mountain biking Spa treatments Wine tasting Scenic cruises

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long daylight hours, and a wide range of outdoor activities. It's ideal for hiking, water sports, and exploring the great outdoors.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Māori
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Queenstown is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Exercise caution when engaging in adventure activities and be aware of the weather conditions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash

Getting there

By air

Queenstown Airport • 5 km from city center

By bus

Queenstown Bus Interchange

Getting around

Public transport

Orion buses provide reliable and affordable transportation throughout Queenstown and to nearby attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Central Queenstown Frankton Arrowtown

Day trips

Milford Sound

120 km from Queenstown • Full day

Milford Sound is a stunning fjord known for its dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife. A day trip to Milford Sound includes a scenic drive and a boat cruise through the fjord.

Glenorchy

45 km from Queenstown • Half day to Full day

Glenorchy is a charming village nestled at the head of Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. It's a great base for hiking, horse riding, and other outdoor activities.

Wanaka

65 km from Queenstown • Full day

Wanaka is a picturesque town known for its stunning lake and mountain views, as well as its vibrant arts and culture scene. It's a great destination for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Festivals

Queenstown Winter Festival • June Gibbston Valley Winter Festival • July Arrowtown Autumn Festival • April

Pro tips

Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Book accommodations, tours, and transportation in advance, especially during peak season.
Dress in layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Try local specialties like lamb, green-lipped mussels, and pavlova.
Explore beyond the city center and visit nearby attractions like Arrowtown and Glenorchy.