Arthur's Pass National Park with TranzAlpine Train Tour from Christchurch

Highlights

Explore Arthur’s Pass National Park, Cave Stream, and Castle Hill
See more of the South Island and let the pros handle logistics and driving
Includes lunch, two teas, and round-trip transport from Christchurch hotels

Summary

After pickup from your Christchurch hotel, transfer to the train station and board the scenic TranzAlpine train. Your guide provides your train tickets and meets you in Arthur’s Pass after you enjoy the morning train ride on your own. The TranzAlpine trip to Arthur’s Pass offers stunning views of the Canterbury Plains, Waimakariri Gorge, and Southern Alps. Cross tussock fields, tunnels, and viaducts including the Staircase, which spans 240 feet (73 meters). Upon arrival at Arthur's Pass, your guide takes you on a tour of the national park and Otira Gorge by minivan. Make stops for short nature walks and photo ops of Cave Stream and the limestone rock formations of Castle Hill. Your full-day tour includes morning and afternoon tea, and lunch at a local hotel. Return to your Christchurch hotel by minivan, stopping in the sweeping Canterbury Plains to see Waimakariri Gorge.

Tour info

Duration

9 hours

Why take this tour?

Enjoy a full day in the gorgeous landscapes outside of Christchurch. This tour features the scenic TranzAlpine train and a guided tour of Arthur’s Pass National Park. See the Canterbury Plains, Waimakariri Gorge, and the Southern Alps, then explore by minivan from Arthur’s Pass, stopping for rain forest walks and a closer look at Cave Stream, Castle Hill, and Waimak Gorge. This small-group tour includes lunch and two teas.

What’s included?

Lunch at a country hotel
Guided walks of Arthur's Pass National Park
Hotel pickup and drop-off from centrally located Christchurch hotels
Air-conditioned vehicle
Travel by TranzAlpine train
Light refreshments
Local guide
Entry/Admission - TranzAlpine Train
Entry/Admission - Arthur's Pass National Park Visitor Centre
Cruise port pickup is not available
Gratuities

Things to know

Before you book

Duration: 9h
Mobile tickets accepted

Covid Policy

Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Operator Website

Operated by:

Canterbury Trails - Day Tours

About operator:

Canterbury Trails focuses on small group guided tours of the South Island. We offer day tours from Christchuch to Akaroa NZ, Arthur's Pass with TranzAlpine train and Kaikoura Whale Watching. In addition we offer a 9 day Wilderness South Expedition Tour starting in Christchurch and finishing in Queenstown as well as a number of shorter guided trips in the Canterbury Region. We also specialise in putting together tailor made and bespoke tours working with our guests to ensure their interests and 'must see' places are included. See our web site for details.