Mt Cook Scenic Day Tour from Queenstown
About this activity
Highlights
- Breathtaking views of Aoraki/Mt Cook
- Scenic drive along Lake Pukaki
- Expert commentary from knowledgeable guide
- Comfortable small group experience
- Convenient pickup and drop-off from Queenstown
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Round-trip transportation from Queenstown
- Guided tour with expert commentary
- Scenic stops at Lake Pukaki and Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
Pass by: 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.
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.
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.
Pass through Lindis Pass, one of only three alpine roads through the otherwise impassable Southern Alps we stop at the famous lookout.
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)!
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.
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.
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.
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!
Sadly the tour must come to an end as we re-enter Queenstown and say our goodbyes.
Meeting point
Start Location
The Station - Home of Adventure in Queenstown, Corner of Shotover & Camp Streets, 25 Shotover Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
Important information
Know before you book
- Tour operates in all weather conditions; cancellations are rare but may occur due to severe weather.
- Children under 5 years old are not permitted on this tour.
- Please inform the operator of any dietary restrictions or special requirements in advance.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear suitable for walking and varying weather conditions.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and memorable moments.
- Check the weather forecast before departure to ensure appropriate attire.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Stroller Accessible
- Easy Public Transport
- Infant Seats Available
Good to know
- 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
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
- 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 Spring 2026 so the track will be inaccessible to the public until then**
- **Please note - for flight options, our airline partner has a fuel surcharge of NZ$20 per person in place until further notice. This is to be paid directly to the airline upon check-in **
Traveler reviews
Great experience
Awesome tour. Our guide Benny was great. We enjoyed ourselves a lot and loved the whole experience. Thanks
Best tour everrr
My partner and I had an amazing time at the Mt Cook tour. The vehicle was comfy and snacks and water. were provided. Our tour Danny was amazing and made our trip very engaging with his commentary. He was very friendly and accommodating. The tour itself was amazing, beautiful nature and yummy salmon. I would recommend this tour to everyone. One thing to note is that if you want to do the Tasman Glacier hike, it is very uphill and requires moderate fitness. However, there are other flatter tracks to do if you can't do this main one.
Best tour everrr
My partner and I had an amazing time at the Mt Cook tour. The vehicle was comfy and snacks and water. were provided. Our tour Danny was amazing and made our trip very engaging with his commentary. He was very friendly and accommodating. The tour itself was amazing, beautiful nature and yummy salmon. I would recommend this tour to everyone. One thing to note is that if you want to do the Tasman Glacier hike, it is very uphill and requires moderate fitness. However, there are other flatter tracks to do if you can't do this main one.
Amazing trip and excellent guide Jas!
Being locals at one stage, this was a trip we probably wouldn’t have done on our own. Booking the tour was a great experience that I would definitely recommend not to just tourists but to locals as well. Very knowledgeable tour guide and very entertaining. Thanks for a fabulous day!
Wonderful tour
Wonderful tour! The weather was perfect and the views and mountains were stunning! Our tour guide was great!