Christchurch–TranzAlpine Scenic Train–Arthur’s Pass National Park–Castle Hill–Lake Tekapo-Stargazing in Dark Sky Reserve

Christchurch - Begin your journey in style! The adventure kicks off with a convenient hotel or airport pickup in Christchurch.

TranzAlpine Train - Hop on the TranzAlpine Scenic Train for a breathtaking journey through stunning landscapes. Disembark at Arthur’s Pass Railway Station, where you’ll be warmly welcomed and taken to your next destination.

Otira Viaduct Lookout - Relish the stunning views from the Otira Viaduct Lookout, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Arthur’s Pass National Park - Discover the natural beauty of Arthur’s Pass National Park with a leisurely walk along the Devil’s Punchbowl Walking Track or the Arthur’s Pass Walking Track. These trails meander through lush native bush, offering glimpses of stunning waterfalls and providing a peaceful escape into the heart of the park. As you stroll, watch for native birdlife and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Castle Hill - Visit Castle Hill and be amazed by the photogenic landscape of stunning limestone rock formations. This location has served as a backdrop for famous Hollywood movies, showcasing its unique and breathtaking scenery. Capture the beauty of this natural wonder and immerse yourself while taking a short loop walk. Take a break at Lake Lyndon as you drive towards Lake Tekapo.

Tekapo Stargazing - Upon reaching Lake Tekapo, check into your hotel and recharge. In the evening, seize the opportunity to participate in a stargazing activity in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the largest Dark Sky Reserves in the world. Lake Tekapo is renowned for its stunning night skies, free from light pollution, offering a breathtaking view of the stars. This experience is perfect for astronomy enthusiasts and anyone looking to marvel at the beauty of the universe.

Lake Tekapo - Lake Pukaki - Mt Cook (Hooker Valley and/or Tasman Glacier View Track) - Lindis Pass - Queenstown

Lake Tekapo - Start another beautiful day with a pickup from your hotel in Lake Tekapo. Visit the renowned ‘Church of the Good Shepherd’ and take in its picturesque setting against the backdrop of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps. Enjoy a brief, leisurely walk along the shores of Lake Tekapo.

Lake Pukaki - Visit Lake Pukaki, a stunning glacier-fed alpine lake known for its mesmerizing turquoise waters. Marvel at the beauty of this natural wonder as you take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the majestic Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak.

Aoraki/Mt. Cook - The drive towards Mount Cook offers awe-inspiring views. Upon reaching Mount Cook, immerse yourself in the mesmerizing scenery. Opt for the Hooker Valley Track, featuring famous swing bridges, and catch a glimpse of ice at Hooker Lake. Alternatively, choose the Tasman Glacier Walks for a different perspective. Look out for the kea, the world’s only alpine parrot. Before leaving, make a brief stop at the Mount Cook Visitor Centre to learn more about the history and significance of this remarkable place.

Queenstown - Milford Sound Cruise or Doubtful Sound Cruise - Te Anau

Queenstown - Start this unforgettable day with a pickup from your Queenstown hotel. Choose between a full-day tour to Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound, both located in Fiordland National Park, each showcasing the stunning beauty of New Zealand’s fiords in their own distinct way.

Milford Sound - Enjoy the scenic drive towards Milford Sound, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Take advantage of scenic stops and nature walks along the way to capture the beauty of the landscape. Upon reaching Milford Sound, embark on a cruise to experience the stunning beauty of the fiord up close. Marvel at the towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife that call this area home.

Doubtful Sound / Patea - Begin your journey with a peaceful cruise across Lake Manapouri, followed by a scenic coach ride over Wilmot Pass, offering spectacular views of untouched rainforest and alpine scenery. Upon arrival at Doubtful Sound, board a cruise to explore the vast, remote fiord known for its deep stillness and dramatic landscapes. Surrounded by towering peaks, hidden waterfalls, and native wildlife, the experience feels truly immersive and untouched.

Te Anau - Enjoy the drive back to Te Anau and end the day filled with beautiful memories as you check in to your hotel, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Te Anau - Te Anau Glowworm Caves - Queenstown

Te Anau - Be picked up from your hotel in Te Anau. Prepare for the famous Te Anau Glowworm Cave tour. Explore the fully guided underground caves and marvel at the thousands of glowworms illuminating the darkness like a starry sky. These glowworms, known as Arachnocampa luminosa, are unique to New Zealand and are found exclusively in the country’s caves. They create a mesmerizing display as they emit a soft blue-green light, creating a magical atmosphere. The Te Anau Glowworm Caves are a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking a truly enchanting experience.

Queenstown - Sit back and enjoy the scenic drive to Queenstown, taking in the stunning landscapes along the way. Your journey concludes in Queenstown, a vibrant adventure capital where you can begin another exciting adventure. May the memories of these spectacular landscapes and the essence of New Zealand’s natural beauty stay with you always.

• Guide-driver exclusively for your group
• Private transportation
• WiFi on board
• Packaged snacks & chocolates
• Use of charging cables & emergency rain gear
• Packaged water bottles
• Optional: Accommodation for 3 nights in 4 to 5-star handpicked hotels with breakfast
• Optional: Entry tickets for TranzAlpine Train, Stargazing, Glowworm Caves & Milford Sound Cruise
• If any optional activity is canceled by activity provider or unavailable, alternatives provided

• Food & Drinks (except 3 x breakfast with “With Hotels” option)
• Travel Insurance
• Anything not described in the inclusions

Embark on an unforgettable 4-day adventure across New Zealand’s breathtaking South Island, visiting numerous major attractions and soaking in the tranquil beauty of each location. Begin your journey in the lively city of Christchurch and wrap up in the adventure hub of Queenstown.

Hop aboard the renowned TranzAlpine Scenic Train to Arthur’s Pass. Revel in the peaceful beauty of Arthur’s Pass National Park and be amazed by the distinctive rock formations at Castle Hill. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes of Mount Cook and the striking turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki.

Delight in stargazing at the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, renowned as one of the world’s premier locations for night sky observation. Explore the magical Te Anau Glowworm Caves and the shimmering waters of Milford or Doubtful Sound. Throughout the tour, enjoy the insights of an experienced guide-driver and the comfort of a private vehicle dedicated to your group.

• Travelers should have their own comprehensive travel insurance
• Following your booking, the operator will get in touch to confirm your preferences, as applicable
• With the “With Tickets” option, traveler(s) may swap any of the included activities for alternatives of interest such as Skydiving, Horse Trekking, Scenic Flight, Glacier hiking, etc., subject to availability, cost differences, and route or schedule feasibility

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.