Mount Cook, Lake Pukaki and Southern Alps Tour
- Visit the iconic Mt Cook Village in a day from Queenstown
- Stop at iconic South Island locations such as Cromwell, Lindis Pass, Omarama, and Lake Pukaki
- Enjoy free time to enjoy a local walk or activity in Mt Cook Village
- Travel in style in premium Mercedes vehicles
- Have the benefit of an expert guide, hosting you in a premium small group vehicle
- Learn about the local history with complimentary access to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre
What to expect
Join Altitude Tours and embark on a one-day small-group tour to Mount Cook. Departing from Queenstown, you'll experience the unique alpine landscapes of the Southern Alps as you journey into Mackenzie Country and Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Departing from Queenstown at 7.30am, travel in comfort and style in a Mercedes van fully equipped with panoramic windows for superior sightseeing. Stop enroute at locations such as Cromwell, The LIndis, Omarama, Lake Pukaki and, if time allows, the Twizel Salmon Farm.
We enter Mt Cook Village at approx. 12pm and enjoy free time to explore the local surroundings. Enjoy a hike on a local trail, or join one of the local activities (additional cost). All guests travelling with Altitude receive free access to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre.







































Reviews
We had an outstanding experience on this tour! We were worried about time constraints for completing the Hooker Valley Trail but we finished it with 25 minutes to spare. The view was so stunning we even got engaged at the end! Special shoutout to Ana for being a wonderful guide! She was a wealth of knowledge and also very kind hearted! Highly recommend
Take a minivan to and from Mount Cook. On the way to Mount Cook, we stopped briefly at Lake (Rutaniwa?) and Lake Pukaki near Twizel. Rutani? If you get off at around here, they sell the famous salmon. Be sure to try it!!! I didn't buy it this time, but I got a piece from the person sitting next to me and I regret not buying it. It's soft and chewy. . There isn't enough time for tracking. I chose one of the three trekking routes and called the guide at the parking lot and he would pick me up (please use voice roaming...) Anyway, I had a good time. The weather was warm, but it was very windy and rain was pouring down. It would be a good idea to wear waterproof, windproof, lightweight padding and a hat. The trekking itself is easy. (I went wearing layers, but it was very hot and cumbersome.)
This was an amazing experience. Andy was a great guide and tour operator - he shared a lot of historical facts about New Zealand and Mt Cook (Aoraki). He gave us recommendations on which walking trails to do, had a nice time management - it was a long ride but was very comfortable and insightful. The views of Lake Pukaki and Aoraki and around is stunning, it is all worth the day trip.
While going from Queenstown to Mount Cook, they stop at various photo points. I only stop by the salmon shop in Twizel, and I don't go to the alpha fish in front of Tekapo. It's a free trip from the parking lot in front of Hooker Valley. Come back by 3:15. If it doesn't come, go catch it~~ The sunlight is so strong that it makes my eyes water. Sunglasses and sunscreen are essential. It's hot when you go, but it's chilly when you return. The driver has a good sense, so if you're thinking of going to Tekapo, tell him in advance to get off at Twizel. Get off at Twizel around 4 o'clock. There is an interbus from Twizel to Tekapo, so you can get there comfortably.
On the way to Mount Cook, you will stop at several spots for taking photos. We went to a salmon farm, but we didn't eat ice cream (it seems that everyone went to different places). Before entering Mount Cook, you will be reminded of the town at the end where you can buy food and water. It is safer to bring your own. Stay at Mount Cook for 3 hours. In addition to hiking, you can also choose to take a helicopter or jet boat ride at different points nearby, and the tour guide will pick you up in batches.
Beth, the driver and tour guide, was very kind and friendly. She gave detailed introductions along the way and also allowed everyone to take breaks and use the restroom. The 16-seater Mercedes-Benz was also very comfortable. The Mount Cook Trail is ten kilometers round trip and takes about three hours to hike. The scenery is beautiful and the trail is gentle. The only pity was that other passengers in the same car did not come back on time, which caused a delay in the return trip. The ice cream shop was closed, but I still pressed the line to buy alpine salmon. It was delicious and I would buy it if I had the chance.
This tour was my absolute favorite! The views are truly to die for. The team from Altitude Tours was amazing—our guides were incredibly friendly, fun, and accommodating. I believe one was Kevin (a Chinese guide) and the other was a young American guide. I highly recommend this tour company—this was already my second experience with them, and I would definitely book with them again in the future. I’d even repeat the Mt. Cook tour without hesitation.
The weather was bad, so the activity was canceled. It's a shame, but I hope to have another chance to go next time. It would be great to take a helicopter ride to see the scenery on a nice day. I saw some from the plane when I arrived, and it looked quite beautiful.
A group of 16 people, 10 people departing. The tour guide was friendly and provided a lot of information. The three-hour activity includes hiking/boat ride/helicopter (at your own expense) options. Hiking is recommended, the scenery is beautiful. The first stage of the mountain road is relatively flat and suitable for novice hikers.
It was an amazing trip! The scenic view of Mt. Cook is really breathtaking! Our tour guide/driver (Beth) has been very helpful, ensuring that we enjoy every step of the itinerary from picking us up until we go back to Queenstown. Would really love to come back soon!😊
Good to know
- Thinking to do a Scenic Flight or Glacier Explorers - we recommend booking in advance before the day to avoid missing out!
- Mt Cook Village is an alpine environment, and those intending to get outdoors should come prepared with warm layers, a waterproof jacket and sensible walking shoes (preferably waterproof) regardless of season.
- The Hooker Valley Trek is a DOC (Department of Conservation) hiking trail, and we recommend only those with medium fitness complete the entire trail (weather pending). We have a strict departure time from Mt Cook Village and all hikers must return by that time.
Contact us
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