Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park Explorer Tour

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is a breathtaking alpine paradise, home to New Zealand’s highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook (3,724m). This rugged landscape features towering mountains, vast glaciers, and stunning alpine lakes, making it a haven for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers. Explore scenic trails, witness the beauty of Tasman Glacier, and marvel at the star-filled night skies in this UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve. A must-visit for adventure and nature enthusiasts!

Location

• South Island, New Zealand
• Approximately 4 hours from Christchurch
• 3 hours from Queenstown
• Within the Southern Alps mountain range
• UNESCO World Heritage area

Natural Highlights

• Aoraki/Mount Cook (3,724m) – New Zealand’s highest mountain
• 19 peaks over 3,000 meters
• Tasman Glacier (New Zealand’s largest glacier)
• Hooker Valley and Mueller Glacier
• Alpine flora and fauna
• Part of the International Dark Sky Reserve

Walking Tracks

• Hooker Valley Track (3 hours return, relatively flat)
• Tasman Glacier View Track (1 hour return)
• Kea Point Track (2 hours return)
• Sealy Tarns Track (3-4 hours return, challenging)
• Mueller Hut Route (8 hours return, alpine expertise required)

Tour Activities

• Guided nature walks with experienced alpine guides
• Glacier lake boat trips on Tasman Lake
• Helicopter flights with glacier landings
• Stargazing tours with professional astronomers
• 4WD adventures to remote viewing locations
• Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre visit

Tour Duration

• Half-day experience: 3-4 hours
• Full-day immersion: 6-8 hours
• Overnight options available at alpine lodges
• Multi-day hiking packages

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (December-February) for longest daylight hours
• Spring (September-November) for alpine flowers
• Winter (June-August) for snow-covered landscapes
• Clear nights year-round for stargazing
• All seasons offer different spectacular experiences

What to Bring

• Sturdy walking shoes/hiking boots
• Layered clothing (weather changes rapidly)
• Rain jacket
• Sun protection (UV intensity is high)
• Camera with spare batteries
• Water and snacks
• Binoculars for wildlife viewing

Facilities

• Mount Cook Village Visitor Centre
• The Hermitage Hotel and restaurants
• Department of Conservation information center
• Public toilets at major track entrances
• Limited mobile coverage in remote areas

Additional Information

• Suitable for various fitness levels (track dependent)
• Weather can change rapidly – be prepared
• Accommodation books out well in advance
• Home to unique alpine birds including kea
• Significant location in New Zealand’s mountaineering history