Mount Cook Lake Tekapo & Tasman Glacier Private Tour

Christchurch , New Zealand

Mount Cook Lake Tekapo & Tasman Glacier Private Tour

Active

(14 reviews)

13h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy a private day tour to Aoraki/Mount Cook - the tallest mountain in New Zealand. Visit the picturesque town of Lake Tekapo, admire stunning alpine views from Lake Pukaki, and enjoy a delicious lunch at the Hermitage Hotel.

Tours Highlights:
• Enjoy a day trip from Christchurch to discover incredible glaciers, lakes and rivers
• Sample award-winning cheese at a local cheese factory in Geraldine
• Visit the iconic Church of Good Shepherd and Bronze Sheepdog Statue in Lake Tekapo
• Admire Lake Pukaki, the largest lake in Mackenzie region, and stunning alpine scenery
• Savor a delicious lunch with spectacular views at the Hermitage Hotel
• Explore one of the many alpine walks in Mount Cook National Park

Available options

Mt Cook & Tekapo Private Tour

Tour Guide and Transfers Duration: 13 hours Bottled Water Mercedes Benz Minivans Pickup & Drop-off Included Pickup included

What's included

National Park fees

Approximately 2.5 hrs of free time in Mount Cook National park.

Bottled water

Professional guide.

Hotel Pick up and Drop Off.

Private tour (i.e. only for one party)

Transport by air-conditioned late model Mercedes Benz vans.

Detailed itinerary

Pickup from your accommodation or preferred location at 7am.

Stop 2

Visit captivatingly turquoise Lake Tekapo.

Stop 3

Set at the heart of the Canterbury region at the foot of the Southern Alps, Geraldine is the gateway to the lakes in the central Mackenzie Basin and the beginning of the Starlight Highway to Tekapo's world renowned UNESCO Aoraki McKenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.

Geraldine is the perfect place to stop for refreshments and break your journey.

Stop 4

Lake Pukaki is a shimmering blue jewel set into a grand alpine playground - an iconic New Zealand landscape of high mountain peaks, glacier fed alpine lakes and golden tussocks stretched beneath an endless sky.

Sir Peter Jackson chose this part of the Southern Alps - the main divide stretching north-south the length of New Zealand's South Island - as the setting for ‘Lake-town’ in The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug.

Stop 5

Arrive at Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park where you can savor a scrumptious lunch at Hermitage Hotel and explore Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre.

Stop 6

At around 27 km long, the Tasman Glacier is the longest glacier in New Zealand.

This hike require moderate fitness and is approximately a 60 min return hike. There are good views of the Tasman Glacier, Terminal Lake, Icebergs and Aoraki Mt Cook from the lookout and the most popular hike in the national park.

Instead of hike, if you would like to take a secnic flight that can be arranged.

Clients who wish to do different hike or activity transportation for that can be arranged. Please specify at the time of booking.

Stop 7

Situated on the shores of Lake Takapō amongst the natural beauty of the lake and the mountains, the Church of the Good Shepherd was built to the glory of God and as a memorial to the pioneers of the Mackenzie Country.

Drop off at your at your accommodation or preferred location at around 8pm.

What's not included

Lunch (POA)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.

A small amount of walking is involved.

Lunch (POA).

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