Mt Cook Small Group Scenic Day Tour from Queenstown
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Mt Cook Small Group Scenic Day Tour from Queenstown

Active
(397 reviews)
13h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Get ready for an adventure or a relaxing day in the mountains! Explore Mt Cook on a fully guided, small-group tour from Queenstown, with free time to hike, fly, or simply unwind.

Highlights:
• Mt Cook & Aoraki National Park
• Lake Pukaki
• Kawarau Gorge, Lindis Pass, the Southern Alps
• High Country Salmon (time dependent)
• Free time for activities & walks

Enjoy approximately three hours of free time at Mt Cook to make your day as adventurous or relaxed as you choose: hike alpine trails, soar above glaciers on a scenic flight, or unwind at the Hermitage Hotel with a hot chocolate, soaking in the views.

Make memories that last a lifetime.

***PLEASE NOTE: The Hooker Valley Track is currently closed beyond Müller Lookout (located between the first and second swing bridges) while the Department of Conservation replaces one of the bridges. This scenic section still offers stunning views and a rewarding hiking experience. The full track is expected to reopen in Autumn 2026.***

Available options

Mt Cook Adventure - Tour Only

Pickup included

Mt Cook Tour & Helihiking

Helihiking: An adventure hiking on the white ice of the Tasman Glacier! Land at 1,200 metres above sea level and hike for 2 hours.<br/>Pickup included

Tour & Ultimate Alpine Exp.

The Ultimate Alpine Experience: Fly in a skiplane and a helicopter on the same day with a glacier landing in between, for the ultimate alpine experience!<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Water available & snacks provided
Small Group and Fully Guided Tour

Detailed itinerary

1

Your tour starts in the stunning city of Queenstown. As we drive out of the city your guide will not only set the scene for your adventurous day but also point out and guide you past some of the areas top highlights.

2
Stop 2 Pass by

Departing Queenstown we then make our way through the stunning Kawarau Gorge passing stunning views, the Kawarau Suspension Bridge and the famous Roaring Meg Lookout. Time and light permitting we will stop for that first great shot of the tour.

3

Exiting the Kawarau Gorge we enter the fruit and wine growing region of Cromwell. Passing huge fields of vines, we cross Lake Dunstan and follow this beautiful lake towards Lindis Pass.

4

Pass through Lindis Pass, one of only three alpine roads through the otherwise impassable Southern Alps we stop at the famous lookout.

5

While driving through the endless plains of the Mackenzie district we will spot several of the famous Merino breed of sheep before stopping at the quaint township of Omarama. While in Omarama we have time for a break or even to try the best creamy chicken pie in NZ (in our opinion)!

6
Stop 6

Turning west we begin to enter the Aoraki National Park and Lake Pukaki begins to emerge in front of us. Lake Pukaki is one of the bluest lakes you will ever see and is stunningly framed by the backdrop of Aoraki/Mt Cook and the Southern Alps. We stop for some amazing photos and to just marvel at the sight that we are beholding. It’s not hard to see why many Lord of the Rings scene were filmed nearby and we will point them out for you.

7

While in the national park you have 2.5 - 3 hours free time to enjoy free walks/hikes or one of the extra optional activities. Some of our recommendations include:
- Local hikes - walk Tasman Glacier View Walk, or Kea Point Track for breathtaking scenery and photo opportunities.
– Scenic flights – see the region from the air and land on the Tasman Glacier. Which ever activity from these you decide to do we will pick you up and drop you off where you need to go and make sure you are well looked after.

8

Farewelling Aoraki/Mt Cook Village and making our way back to Queenstown we stop in at High Country Salmon, a local salmon farm, where you can feed the fish and taste some of the freshest salmon in New Zealand.

9

As we get close to Queenstown we often stop at Jacksons Orchard to try or buy some fabulous and delicious local fruit, fruit ice-cream and pies, or you can just stretch your legs!

10

Sadly the tour must come to an end as we re-enter Queenstown and say our goodbyes.

What's not included

Gratuities
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Lunch - opportunities to purchase along the way.
Guided Hikes - these is to be self guided
**Hooker Valley Track is currently CLOSED. Expected to re open in Autumn 2026**

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9
105 reviews
5★
93
4★
11
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 4.9
292 reviews
5★
272
4★
11
3★
5
2★
1
1★
3

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
A moderate amount of walking is involved.
Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. If you don't have a car seat one can be provided (with 24 hours’ notice) for NZ$20 per seat
**Please note: the Hooker Valley Track is currently CLOSED while the Department of Conservation works on replacing one of the swing bridges. This is expected to be complete in Autumn 2026 so the track will be inaccessible to the public until then**

Meeting point

PICKUP TIME 6:30 AM. If your accommodation is yet to be confirmed, we ask that you select this location for now. You can update this later!

Important notes

• Pick-ups start 20 mins before the tour time. Please check your pickup time to ensure you do not miss your pickup. We are unable to wait for late guests. No refunds given for no show passengers.

• You will be picked up in a minibus with Cheeky Kiwi Travel signwriting on it.

About Aoraki Mount Cook

Aoraki Mount Cook, also known as Mount Cook, is New Zealand's highest peak and a major tourist attraction. The area offers breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a variety of outdoor activities. It's a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Top Attractions

Aoraki Mount Cook

Aoraki Mount Cook is the highest peak in New Zealand and a major climbing destination. The mountain offers stunning views and challenging climbs for experienced mountaineers.

Nature Half-day to full day Free to view, climbing permits required

Hooker Valley Track

A popular hiking trail leading to the Hooker Valley and the Mueller Glacier. The track offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.

Hiking 3-4 hours Free

Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre

A museum dedicated to the life and achievements of Sir Edmund Hillary, featuring exhibits on mountaineering and the history of the Southern Alps.

Museum 1-2 hours NZD 25-30

Must-Try Local Dishes

Lamb Rack

New Zealand is famous for its lamb, and a rack of lamb is a must-try dish, often served with seasonal vegetables and sauces.

Dinner Contains meat, can be prepared to dietary specifications.

Hokey Pokey Ice Cream

A popular New Zealand ice cream flavor made with vanilla ice cream and honeycomb pieces.

Dessert Contains dairy and sugar.

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountaineering Helicopter tours Scenic drives Picnicking by the lake Visiting the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre Lake Pukaki visits Skiing and snowboarding

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the best time to visit for hiking, camping, and enjoying the warm weather. The days are longer, and the weather is generally more stable.

15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) 59°F to 77°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

The area is generally safe, but outdoor activities come with inherent risks. Always follow safety guidelines and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Important Precautions:
  • • Always inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time.
  • • Carry sufficient water and snacks on hikes.
  • • Check weather forecasts before heading out.

Getting there

By air
  • Christchurch International Airport • 300 km (186 miles)
By bus

Christchurch, Queenstown

Getting around

Public transport

Buses connect Mount Cook Village to nearby towns and cities but are not frequent. Schedules should be checked in advance.

Taxis

Available • Apps: None available

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Mount Cook Village

Day trips

Lake Pukaki
30 km (18.6 miles) • Half day

Lake Pukaki is a stunning glacial lake with turquoise waters and views of Aoraki Mount Cook. It's a great spot for photography and picnics.

Festivals

No major festivals • N/A

Pro tips

  • Arrive early in the day to secure parking and accommodation.
  • Pack layers as the weather can change rapidly.
  • Check the weather forecast before heading out on hikes.
  • Book guided tours in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Carry a map and compass, as cell service can be spotty in the mountains.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 15-99
1
Childs
Age 4-14
0
Infants
Age 0-3
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
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Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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