Embark on a breathtaking day trip from Queenstown to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. This small group tour combines scenic alpine drives with a rewarding hike through the stunning Hooker Valley, offering glacier views, swing bridges, and some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes.
Summary Description
Highlights
- Enjoy a scenic drive through Kawarau Gorge, Lindis Pass, and Lake Pukaki
- Explore Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park in a small, personalized group
- Hike the iconic Hooker Valley Track with glacier views and swing bridges
- Marvel at Mount Cook, New Zealand’s tallest mountain
- Relax with plenty of photo stops and commentary from a knowledgeable guide
Description
Escape the ordinary and venture into the heart of New Zealand’s Southern Alps with this full-day small group tour to Aoraki/Mount Cook, the country’s highest peak. Departing from Queenstown, you’ll travel through dramatic scenery including the Kawarau Gorge, Lindis Pass, and the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki — with plenty of photo stops along the way.
 Once in Mount Cook National Park, your guide will lead you on the Hooker Valley Track, one of New Zealand’s most iconic alpine walks. This moderate 3-hour return hike winds through alpine meadows, over swing bridges, and past glacial streams — ending with jaw-dropping views of Hooker Lake and the floating icebergs beneath Mount Cook itself.
 With a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transport, and a small group setting, this tour offers a personalized and unforgettable way to experience the grandeur of New Zealand’s alpine wilderness — no strenuous trekking experience required, just a love of nature and a sense of adventure.
Included / Excluded
- Return transport from Queenstown in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
- Experienced local guide
- Guided walk on the Hooker Valley Track
- Light refreshments and bottled water
- Multiple scenic stops along the journey (e.g., Lake Pukaki, Lindis Pass)
- Meals (please bring your own or purchase en route)
- Travel insurance
- Hiking gear (wear your own suitable shoes and clothing)
Start / End Locations
Start Location: Kawarau Gorge, Kawarau Gorge, Otago Region 9384, New Zealand
Important Information
Know Before You Book
- Minimum age typically 8 years (check with the provider)
- Tour duration is approximately 12–13 hours round trip
- Weather may affect visibility of Mount Cook and glacier views
- Group size is kept small for a personalized experience
- Hotel pickup in Queenstown is usually included or available as an add-on
- Moderate fitness required; Hooker Valley Track is approx. 10km return (3 hours)
- Tour operates in most weather conditions – bring layers and waterproof gear
- Be prepared for changing alpine conditions
- Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring sunscreen, hat, and a refillable water bottle
- There are toilet stops along the route, but limited facilities during the hike
Cancellation
Cancellation Cutoff: 24 hours
Cancellation Notes: Up to 24 hours before the beginning of the activity: full refund Less than 24 hours before the beginning of the activity or no-show: no refund
Options and Pricing
| Queenstown to Mount Cook Small Group Hike | RETAIL PRICE |
|---|---|
| Adult (18 - 64 years) | N/A |
