Experience one of the most spectacular train journeys in the world from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass. Meet your guide for a full day of exploration through the South Island's remarkable natural landscapes.
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
- COVID-19 precautions
- Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
- Small group
- Limited to 15 participants
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Duration 10 hours
- Starting time 7:30 AM
- Skip the ticket line
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- English
- Pickup included
- Pickup from your preferred location in Christchurch
Experience
Highlights
- Embark on the incredible train journey from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass
- Enjoy a walk with crisp alpine air, unforgettable mountain vistas, and waterfalls
- Encounter chatty alpine parrots at Otira Viaduct lookout
- Capture mirror images at Lake Pearson
- Admire the majestic limestone boulders at Castle Hill
Full description
Get picked up from your hotel in Christchurch and dropped off at the train station to embark on a stunning ride to Arthur's Pass aboard the TranzAlpine train. Admire the incredible natural scenery from panoramic windows and open air viewing decks before hopping off to meet your guide again.
Enjoy lunch at a local cafe and explore the village of Arthur's Pass. Take advantage of your guide's recommendations for some popular walks in the National Park with incredible views. Then drive down to Otira Viaduct which provides impressive views of red flowering rata in summer months. Keep your eyes peeled for the inquisitive Kea (alpine parrot) well known for its cheeky nature.
On your return journey, travel by road in a luxurious minivan, making a few scenic stops on the way. Take a coffee break and capture stunning mirror images at Lake Pearson. Then wander through the towering limestone rock formations at Castle Hill Conservation Area that make it one of the best bouldering locations in the world. Stretch your legs one last time at Lake Lyndon, which regularly freezes in the winter months. Return back to Christchurch and get dropped off at your accommodation.
Includes
- TranzAlpine Train tickets from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass
- Professional guide
- Hotel pickup and drop off
- Minivan transport (late model Mercedes Benz)
- Light refreshments
- Hotspot WiFi
- Snacks
- Bottled water
- Lunch
Not suitable for
- People with mobility impairments
COVID-19 precautions
Safety measures in place
- All required protective equipment is provided
- All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
- Customers must keep distance in vehicles
- The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Important information
What to bring
- Comfortable shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing
Know before you go
- This is a small group day tour (up to 11 people)
- This tour is not recommended for people with limited mobility
- Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- Some walking is involved so wear comfortable walking shoes
- Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
