Mt Cook & Glacier Explorer Small Group Tour from Queenstown

Mt Cook & Glacier Explorer Small Group Tour from Queenstown
Alkaen NZD 480,00 NZD
  • Kesto: 13 Tunnit (noin)
  • Paikka: Queenstown
  • Tuotekoodi: MTCGET
Embark on an unforgettable adventure from Queenstown to the awe-inspiring Mt Cook, the tallest peak in New Zealand, with Cheeky Kiwi Travel. This small group tour is designed for those who want a more personalized and intimate experience while soaking in the breathtaking beauty of the Southern Alps. You'll explore the pristine wilderness, marvel at ancient glaciers, and enjoy the stunning scenery that makes this part of New Zealand so special. Please note: Not suitable for infants under 4yrs.


The highlight of your tour is the Glacier Explorer experience, where you’ll board a custom-designed boat to get up close and personal with the majestic Tasman Glacier. Cruise across the glacial lake, surrounded by towering icebergs and the dramatic backdrop of the Southern Alps. Your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights into the glacier’s history and the unique environment of the area


Highlights:

  • Small Group Experience: Enjoy a more intimate and personalized tour with a maximum of 16 guests, ensuring you get the most out of your experience.
  • Expert Guides: Our friendly and knowledgeable guides are passionate about the region and will share fascinating stories and insights along the way.
  • Glacier Explorer: Get up close to the Tasman Glacier on a unique boat tour, offering a rare opportunity to witness this natural wonder in all its glory.
  • Stunning Scenery: From the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki to the rugged beauty of Lindis Pass, every moment of this tour is a feast for the eyes.
  • Comfort and Convenience: Travel in comfort with our modern, air-conditioned vehicles and enjoy the convenience of hotel pickups and drop-offs.
Itinerary:

1.      Queenstown - Your tour starts in the stunning city of Queenstown. As we drive out of the city your guide will not only set the scene for your adventurous day but also point out and guide you past some of the areas top highlights.

2.      Kawarau Suspension Bridge – Departing Queenstown we then make our way through the stunning Kawarau Gorge passing stunning views, the Kawarau Suspension Bridge and the famous Roaring Meg Lookout. Time and light permitting we will stop for that first great shot of the tour.

3.      Cromwell – Exiting the Kawarau Gorge we enter the fruit and wine growing region of Cromwell. Passing huge fields of vines, we cross Lake Dunstan and follow this beautiful lake towards Lindis Pass.

4.      Lindis Pass – Climbing in altitude, Lindis Pass has amazing views down through the valleys. Being one of only three alpine roads through the otherwise impassable Southern Alps, we stop at the famous lookout at the top of the pass for an essential photo.  

5.      Omarama – While driving through the endless plains of the Mackenzie district we will spot several of the famous Merino breed of sheep before stopping at the quaint township of Omarama. While in Omarama we have time for a break or even to try the best creamy chicken pie in NZ (in our opinion)!

6.      Lake Pukaki – Turning west we begin to enter the Aoraki National Park and Lake Pukaki begins to emerge in front of us. Lake Pukaki is one of the bluest lakes you will ever see and is stunningly framed by the backdrop of Aoraki/Mt Cook and the Southern Alps. We stop for some amazing photos and to just marvel at the sight that we are beholding. It’s not hard to see why many Lord of the Rings scene were filmed nearby and we will point them out for you.

7.      Mt Cook Information Centre – Arriving at Mt Cook Village, weather depending, we should get some amazing shots of the mountain itself.  At 3724m, Aoraki/Mt Cook is New Zealand’s highest peak, however, the mountain can be viewed without any acclimatisation whatsoever from the village which is just 750m above sea level.

8.      Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park – Unlike many tours, this one includes the Glacier Explorer, offering a truly unique and immersive 2.5 hour experience that few travelers get to enjoy.

9.      High Country Salmon - Farewelling Aoraki/Mt Cook Village and making our way back to Queenstown we stop in at High Country Salmon, a local salmon farm, where you can feed the fish and taste some of the freshest salmon in New Zealand.

10.  Jacksons Orchard – During summer months when the sun is still up as we get close to Queenstown we often stop at Jacksons Orchard to try or buy some delicious local fruit or real fruit ice cream.

11.  Queenstown – Sadly the tour must come to an end as we re-enter Queenstown and say our goodbyes.


What is Supplied:

  • Fully Guided Tour
  • Water available & snacks provided
  • Return transport
  • Life jackets
  • Experienced guides
  • An unforgettable experience

What to Bring:

  • An extra warm layer of clothing
  • Camera
  • Reusable water bottle 
  • Sunblock & sunglasses
  • Wet weather gear
  • Suitable walking shoes - guests must be fit and able to walk the 1.5km to / from the lake edge in 25 mins.
In an effort to reduce our waste & look after our planet, we ask that guests please bring a reusable water bottle. We will have water available to refill.