Mount Cook / Aoraki Day Private Tour from Queenstown
NZD 460/Person
Minimum Participants: 4 People
Can be Customized on Request
Embark on a spectacular full-day private journey to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park , home to New Zealand’s tallest mountain and some of the most breathtaking alpine scenery in the world. This immersive experience takes you across dramatic mountain passes, turquoise glacial lakes, wide-open highcountry plains, and glacier-formed valleys.
Your knowledgeable driver/guide provides engaging commentary about the region’s geology, landscapes, wildlife, and history, while giving you the flexibility to enjoy the most scenic viewpoints at your own pace. You’ll explore the Tasman Valley, experience panoramic views from the Mueller Lake Lookout , enjoy a relaxing break in Twizel, and visit the postcard-perfect Lake Tekapo and its famous church.
This tour is designed for travellers who want to experience the best of New Zealand’s alpine beauty in comfort and style
Tour Highlights
- Experience Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park and New Zealand’s tallest
- peak
- Walk to glacier viewpoints in the Tasman Valley
- Enjoy panoramic views at the Mueller Lake Lookout
- Visit the iconic Lake Tekapo & Church of the Good Shepherd
- See the world-famous turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki
- Travel through the dramatic alpine landscapes of Lindis Pass
- Enjoy a relaxing café break in Twizel
- Amazing photography opportunities throughout the day
Included and Excluded
- This tour includes a private vehicle with a professional driver/guide for 13
- hours.
- Bottled water is provided throughout the journey.
- A flexible itinerary allowing extra stops or short walks as desired.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off within Queenstown.
- Meals are not included; food can be purchased in Twizel or Mount Cook
- Village.
- Optional activities such as glacier boat tours or salmon purchases are not
- included.
- Personal travel insurance is not included and is recommended.
- Any additional expenses not mentioned under the inclusions list are
- excluded.
Tour Plan
Tour Duration : 12-13 hours
- Start with a comfortable morning departure from Queenstown, travelling through the Kawarau Gorge and sweeping high-country landscapes as your guide shares insights into the region.
1. Queenstown Pickup & Scenic Drive
- Enjoy a scenic stop at the dramatic Lindis Pass, surrounded by rolling golden tussock hills — an iconic South Island landscape and fantastic photo spot..
2. Lindis Pass – Alpine Scenic Stop
- Stop in the relaxing rural town of Twizel for a coffee or tea break (own cost). Explore local cafés and enjoy the peaceful charm of the Mackenzie Basin.
3. Twizel – Morning Tea Break
- Continue deep into the national park, surrounded by towering peaks and glacier-fed rivers. Your guide customises the visit based on your pace and interest.
4. Aoraki / Mount Cook Village
- Tasman Glacier Viewpoint – spectacular views over NZ’s longest glacier
- Blue Lakes Track (optional)
- Enjoy sweeping alpine scenery and moraine valleys shaped by ancientglaciers.
5. Tasman Valley – Glacier Viewpoint Walks
Take a short walk into the Tasman Valley, where you can visit:
6. Mueller Lake Lookout / Hooker Valley Entrance
A short scenic walk takes you to the Mueller Lake Lookout, offering views of glacial lakes, Mount Sefton, and the entrance to the famous Hooker Valley. (Short walk only – not the full Hooker Valley track.)
7. Lake Pukaki – The Turquoise Jewel
On your return journey, stop at the breathtaking Lake Pukaki, known for its vibrant turquoise water created by glacial rock flour
Optional: Taste fresh alpine salmon at a local salmon outlet near the lake (own cost).
8. Lake Tekapo & Church of the Good Shepherd
Continue to the stunning Lake Tekapo, home to:
- The historic Church of the Good Shepherd
- Bright turquoise waters
- Beautiful lakeside views
A wonderful final photo stop before heading home.
9. Scenic Return to Queenstown
Relax on the drive back as your guide returns you through the Mackenzie Basin, arriving in Queenstown in the evening.
