Arthurs Pass Private Day Trip from Christchurch with Castle Hill
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Totally Personalized Private Experience!
A day trip to Arthur's National Park offers a variety of green fields to rugged mountain ranges, lush forest, and ice-fed lakes and rivers and an optional guided walk with your guide to explore, biggest waterfall. Travel along the Great Alpine Highway through the ever-changing landscapes.
Explore Lake Lyndon, castle Hill (famous for massive limestone boulders and rocks), Otira Viaduct Lookout (famous piece of infrastructure for scenic view), Arthur’s Pass National Park, Powerfull Devils Punchbowl Waterfall and Cave Stream Scenic Reserve.
Available options
Arthurs Pass Private Day Trip from Christchurch with Castle Hill
Pickup included
What's included
Private Vehicle
Specalized Guide
Bottled water
Professional Driver
Clean and comfortable vehicle
Meet & Greet
Adventures Activity-Hiking/Trekking
Detailed itinerary
1
The Waimakariri is a river in the Canterbury region of New Zealand, located on the South Island. The river itself is a popular spot for outdoor activities, including jet boating, rafting, and fishing.
2
Lake Lyndon is a scenic lake nestled in the foothills of the Southern Alps.Lake Lyndon is surrounded by dramatic alpine landscapes, offering picturesque views of the Southern Alps and the rugged terrain.
3
Stop 3
Castle Hill is known for its dramatic limestone rock formations. It is most famous for its striking limestone karst landscape, which features enormous, weathered limestone boulders and rock formations scattered across the area. These dramatic rocks are the result of millions of years of erosion. Enjoy Rock Climbing and Bouldering, Hiking, Caving & Photography.
4
The Otira Viaduct Lookout is a popular viewpoint located in Arthur's Pass National Park. It is a remarkable engineering feat, designed to cross the steep Otira Gorge. Great spot for scenic photography.
5
Stop 5
Arthur's Pass National Park is one of New Zealand's most stunning national parks famous for its rugged mountains, alpine scenery, diverse wildlife, and fantastic hiking opportunities. The landscape is marked by snow-capped peaks, glacial valleys, and dramatic gorges. New Zealand's best Hiking and trekking located here which offers Short Walks, Day Hikes and Overnight Tramps.
6
The Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall is one of the tallest in the region with a magnificent 131-meter (430-foot) cascade. Track is a short and easy to moderate walk with series of stairs.
7
This is a natural cave system that runs beneath the Southern Alps. The stream flows through the cave, and visitors have the opportunity to walk through the cave as the stream runs beside and beneath you. The cave is about 362 meters (1,188 feet) long where you can walk through.
8
We're finishing off this fantastic day with your drop off in Christchurch.
Now it’s time to relax and unwind. Thank you for joining us — and until next time, kia ora and safe travels!
What's not included
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Guide guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.0
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.7
13 reviews
5★
12
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Both sides travelling time approximately 4 hours
Meeting point
Outside Christchurch Central Library opposite Cathedral Church Christchurch
About Christchurch
Christchurch is known for its English heritage, vibrant arts scene, and extensive parks and gardens. The city is a gateway to the stunning landscapes of the South Island, including the Southern Alps and Kaikoura's coastal wonders.
Top Attractions
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
A beautiful 30-hectare garden located in the city center, featuring a diverse range of plants, a duck pond, and a conservatory.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free (conservatory entry is NZD 10 for adults, NZD 5 for children)
Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu
The largest public art gallery in New Zealand, showcasing a diverse collection of New Zealand and international art.
Museum
1-2 hours
Free (some special exhibitions may have an entry fee)
Quake City
An interactive museum dedicated to the 2010 and 2011 Canterbury earthquakes, providing a unique insight into the events and their impact on the city.
Historical
1 hour
NZD 25 for adults, NZD 10 for children (under 13 free)
Lyttelton
A charming port town with a rich history, known for its vibrant arts scene, historic buildings, and beautiful coastal views.
Historical
Half day
Free to explore, some attractions may have entry fees
Akaroa
A picturesque French-inspired settlement located on the Banks Peninsula, known for its beautiful harbor, wildlife, and historic charm.
Nature
Full day
Free to explore, some attractions and tours may have entry fees
Must-Try Local Dishes
Whitebait Fritters
A traditional New Zealand dish made from tiny whitebait fish mixed with egg and flour, then fried in a patty form.
Snack
Contains fish and eggs, not suitable for vegetarians or those with fish allergies
Hokey Pokey Ice Cream
A popular New Zealand ice cream flavor made with vanilla ice cream and crunchy honeycomb pieces.
Dessert
Contains dairy, not suitable for vegans or those with dairy allergies
Lamb Rack
A tender and flavorful cut of lamb, often served with seasonal vegetables and a rich sauce.
Dinner
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Popular Activities
Hiking
Mountain biking
Skiing
Whale watching
Dolphin encounters
Hot springs
Spa treatments
Beach relaxation
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and plenty of outdoor activities. The city hosts various festivals and events during this time.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Māori, New Zealand Sign Language
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12 (New Zealand Standard Time) or GMT+13 (New Zealand Daylight Time during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Christchurch is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should be aware of the ongoing earthquake recovery and redevelopment, which may present some challenges and hazards.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis and tour operators
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash
Getting there
By air
- Christchurch International Airport • 12 km (7.5 miles) from city center
By bus
Christchurch Central Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Metro bus network is the primary mode of public transport in Christchurch. Buses are frequent and cover most areas of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Free Ride
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Central City
Riccarton
Sumner
Lyttelton
Day trips
Arthur's Pass National Park
130 km (81 miles) from Christchurch • Full day
A stunning national park in the Southern Alps, offering a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and wildlife spotting.
Kaikoura
180 km (112 miles) from Christchurch • Full day
A coastal town known for its stunning scenery, wildlife, and outdoor activities, including whale watching, dolphin encounters, and hiking.
Hanmer Springs
130 km (81 miles) from Christchurch • Full day
A popular hot spring and spa town, offering a range of relaxation and outdoor activities, including hot pools, hiking, and mountain biking.
Festivals
Christchurch Arts Festival • Every two years in August
Christchurch International Jazz Festival • Annually in November
Lyttelton Arts Festival • Annually in November
Pro tips
- Visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens for a peaceful and relaxing experience, especially during spring and summer
- Explore the city's vibrant arts and culture scene by visiting the Christchurch Art Gallery, Ōtautahi Creative Spaces, and other local galleries and studios
- Take a day trip to Arthur's Pass National Park, Kaikoura, or Hanmer Springs for a taste of the stunning landscapes and outdoor activities available in the surrounding region
- Try local foods and dishes, such as whitebait fritters, hokey pokey ice cream, and lamb rack, as well as the city's thriving coffee culture
- Be aware of the ongoing earthquake recovery and redevelopment, and follow local safety guidelines and warnings
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
