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Home/New Zealand/South Island/Christchurch/Arthur's Pass National Park

Arthur's Pass National Park: Ultimate Alpine Adventures

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Arthur's Pass National Park, where the majestic Southern Alps meet breathtaking landscapes. Discover iconic attractions like the Devils Punchbowl Waterfall, the giant limestone boulders of Castle Hill, and rare wildlife encounters. Whether you are seeking a thrilling hiking expedition, a scenic train tour, or a guided sightseeing journey through the Great Alpine Highway, our curated experiences offer something for every nature lover. Experience spectacular scenery and incredible alpine vistas that make this New Zealand gem a must-visit destination. Book your ultimate mountain escape today!

4.8/5 avg visitor ratingFrom $132 per person20 unique experiences80% instant booking

At a glance

Tour Price

Tour Price

$172–$335 typical

Median price is $206, with a full range of $132–$585

Rating

Rating

4.83★ average

Based on 1,317 pooled reviews with ~92% positive sentiment

Tour Length

Tour Length

7–12 hours typical

Median duration is 9.8 hours

Best For

Best For

Nature & Sightseeing

100% of options focus on nature, 75% are sightseeing tours

Booking Info

Booking Info

Book in advance

20% of tours are flagged likely to sell out

Flexibility

Flexibility

80% free cancellation

80% of tours also offer instant confirmation

20 Products

TranzAlpine Train, Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip

TranzAlpine Train, Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip

10 hrsEco-FriendlyFree cancellation
4.84 (475 reviews)
92.43%
7.57%
magnificent sceneryexcellentgreat journey
Viator
$231
Book now
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TranzAlpine Train, Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip
Summary

Experience the South Island's remarkable natural landscapes by taking a journey on the TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass, which is considered one of the world's greatest train journeys for the scenery through which it passes. Enjoy breathtaking views of Canterbury Plains, Southern...

Inclusions
  • National Park fees
  • Transport by air-conditioned late model Minibus.
  • Fully guided tour except the walks.
  • Small group
  • Bottle water and light snacks
  • Pickup and drop-off from selected Central Christchurch Hotels.
  • TranzAlpine Train Tickets from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass.
Exclusions
  • Lunch
Itinerary
  • TranzAlpine Train
  • Arthur's Pass National Park
  • Devils Punchbowl Walking Track
  • Arthur's Pass National Park Visitor Centre
  • Lake Pearson
  • Christchurch
Good to know
  • Public transportation options are available nearby, Specialized infant seats are available, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Fully guided tour except the walks in the National Park & Castle Hill., Bring your phone, USB charger & headphones to enjoy the audio commentary on the TranzAlpine Train., Maximise your scenery with our confirmed morning train tickets during winter months (May to September). By travelling earlier in the day, you enjoy full daylight for the entire journey—perfect for capturing the spectacular winter landscapes., Please note this tour may operate in reverse during summer from October to April. If morning train tickets are sold out, you will travel from Arthur’s Pass to Christchurch in the afternoon. Since the sun sets late in summer, you will still enjoy the entire journey in full daylight with spectacular views., We have designed our itinerary with a dedicated break at [Arthur's Pass National Park], giving you the freedom to explore the local cafes and choose a meal that suits your appetite.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Arthur's Pass Discovery and TranzAlpine Train - Small Group Tour

Arthur's Pass Discovery and TranzAlpine Train - Small Group Tour

9 hrs
4.83 (307 reviews)
94.28%
5.72%
spectacular landscapesamazingexcellent day out
Viator
$531
Book now
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Arthur's Pass Discovery and TranzAlpine Train - Small Group Tour
Summary

In the heart of the Southern Alps, Arthur's Pass National Park has an incredible diversity of flora and landscape. Experience a breathtaking journey aboard the TranzAlpine Train winding it's way through the magnificent Waimakariri Gorge. Join short guided walks to rainforests, rivers and mountain vi...

Inclusions
  • Light refreshments
  • Travel by TranzAlpine train
  • Local guide
  • Guided walks of Arthur's Pass National Park
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off from centrally located Christchurch hotels
  • Lunch at a country cafe
Exclusions
  • Cruise port pickup is not available
Itinerary
  • TranzAlpine Train
  • Arthur's Pass National Park Visitor Centre
Good to know
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Service animals allowed, Public transportation options are available nearby, Specialized infant seats are available, Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness, A percentage of the tour price is used for the conservation of New Zealand's wildlife, environment and it's endangered species, Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking, We will pick you up from your hotel and then drop you at the train station for the trip to Arthurs Pass on the TranzAlpine. Our guide will then meet you at Arthurs Pass, take you for lunch and a short walk before driving you back to Christchurch in a luxury vehicle.
Cancellation Policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Franz Josef to Christchurch Small-Group Tour via Hokitika (1-way)

Franz Josef to Christchurch Small-Group Tour via Hokitika (1-way)

12 hrsFree cancellation
5 (32 reviews)
99.04%
0.96%
Wonderfulenjoy itbeautiful photos
Viator
$172
Book now
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Franz Josef to Christchurch Small-Group Tour via Hokitika (1-way)
Summary

Travel from the wild beauty of the West Coast to the Garden City of Christchurch on this unforgettable small group, fully guided day trip. Journey through rainforests, mountain passes, alpine villages, and glacier country while your guide brings the landscapes to life with stories and local insight....

Inclusions
  • English Speaking Guide
  • Luggage allowance - 1 large & 1 small per person
  • Water available & snacks provided
Itinerary
  • Franz Josef
  • Hokitika
  • Hokitika Gorge Walk
  • Greymouth
  • Cobden Beach
  • Otira Viaduct Lookout
  • Castle Hill
  • Christchurch
Good to know
  • Specialized infant seats are available, Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness, Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. You can hire seats ($20NZD per seat) or you can provide your own, Guests can bring 1 large & 1 small piece of luggage each, Not recommended for travelers with limited mobility, Not recommended for travelers confined to a wheelchair
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Christchurch to Franz Josef 1-Way Small Group Tour via Hokitika

Christchurch to Franz Josef 1-Way Small Group Tour via Hokitika

12 hrsFree cancellation
5 (16 reviews)
95.65%
4.35%
fantasticwonderful journeyweather wasn't too good
Viator
$172
Book now
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Christchurch to Franz Josef 1-Way Small Group Tour via Hokitika
Summary

Discover New Zealand’s wild West Coast on this unforgettable small group, fully guided day tour from Christchurch to Franz Josef. Journey from the Canterbury Plains through the Southern Alps via Arthur’s Pass, and continue along the rugged coastline to the glacier country. With breathtaking scenery,...

Inclusions
  • English speaking guide
  • Luggage allowance - 1 large & 1 small per person
  • Water available & snacks provided
Exclusions
  • Drop off in Fox Glacier
Itinerary
  • Christchurch
  • Castle Hill
  • Otira Viaduct Lookout
  • Greymouth
  • Cobden Beach
  • Hokitika
  • Hokitika Gorge Walk
  • Franz Josef
Good to know
  • Public transportation options are available nearby, Specialized infant seats are available, Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness, Guests can bring 1 large & 1 small piece of luggage each, Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. You can hire seats ($20NZD per seat) or you can provide your own, Drop off in Fox Glacier not available - we reccommend booking accommomation in central Franz Josef, Not recommended for travelers confined to a wheelchair
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

TranzAlpine Train & Small Group Tour to Arthurs Pass with Lunch

TranzAlpine Train & Small Group Tour to Arthurs Pass with Lunch

12 hrsEco-FriendlyFree cancellation
5 (16 reviews)
Viator
$213$266
Book now
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TranzAlpine Train & Small Group Tour to Arthurs Pass with Lunch
Summary

Journey through the breathtaking Southern Alps aboard the iconic TranzAlpine train, one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. Departing from Christchurch, travel through dramatic river gorges and alpine passes before disembarking in Arthur’s Pass (May–September) or Greymouth (October–April), whe...

Inclusions
  • TranzAlpine train ticket - Christchurch to Arthur's Pass (May - September)
  • TranzAlpine train ticket - Christchurch to Greymouth (October - April)
  • Fully guided small group bus tour
  • One hour at Arthur's Pass Village (walk or explore, your choice)
Itinerary
  • TranzAlpine Train
  • Otira Viaduct Lookout
  • Castle Hill
  • Christchurch
Good to know
  • Public transportation options are available nearby, Specialized infant seats are available, Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness, Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. You can hire seats ($20NZD per seat) or you can provide your own, Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair., Tour duration includes travel time between locations
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Arthur's Pass with optional TranzAlpine Train (Small Group Tour)

Arthur's Pass with optional TranzAlpine Train (Small Group Tour)

7.5 hrsEco-FriendlyFree cancellation
4.94 (16 reviews)
97.4%
2.6%
amazinginformative tour guidehighly recommended
Viator
$343
Book now
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Arthur's Pass with optional TranzAlpine Train (Small Group Tour)
Summary

Join us on a scenic day trip from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass, where you’ll journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Southern Alps. Travel by road through picturesque countryside before arriving at the alpine village of Arthur’s Pass. Here, you can explore the area or join an optional gu...

Itinerary
  • Darfield
  • Springfield
  • Lake Lyndon
  • Arthur's Pass National Park
  • Castle Hill Rocks
Good to know
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, This tour includes 4 hours of travel from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass following state Highway 73 (The Great Alpine Highway)
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Lyttelton Shore Excursion: Arthur's Pass Day Tour

Lyttelton Shore Excursion: Arthur's Pass Day Tour

7.5 hrsFree cancellation
4.73 (22 reviews)
68.32%
31.68%
Gorgeousterrific excursionbeautiful scenery
Viator
$199
Book now
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Lyttelton Shore Excursion: Arthur's Pass Day Tour
Summary

Explore the beautiful alpine setting of Arthur's Pass National Park on this shore excursion from Lyttelton Port via guided coach, including time for lunch (own expense) and exploration of Arthur's Pass Village,

Inclusions
  • Port pick-up and drop-off
  • Local Guide
Itinerary
  • Lyttelton
  • Arthur's Pass National Park
  • Otira Viaduct Lookout
Good to know
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Service animals allowed, Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap, Specialized infant seats are available, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them board and disembark
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Arthur's Pass and TranzAlpine Train Day Tour from Christchurch

Arthur's Pass and TranzAlpine Train Day Tour from Christchurch

9.5 hrs
4.57 (228 reviews)
87.78%
12.22%
great sceneryawesomegood trip
Viator
$332
Book now
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Arthur's Pass and TranzAlpine Train Day Tour from Christchurch
Summary

Enjoy a Sightseeing tour to Arthur’s Pass through the spectacular scenery of the Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps. Journey on one of the world’s greatest train journeys, stop at the cafe in the Alpine Village of Arthur's Pass, have a coffee with the cheeky keas. Visit a high country sheep farm fo...

Inclusions
  • Tranz Alpine train journey Christchurch to Arthurs Pass one-way
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Local guide
  • Afternoon tea
Itinerary
  • Canterbury Region
  • TranzAlpine Train
  • Otira Viaduct Lookout
  • Devils Punchbowl Walking Track
  • Toby Hill Farm
  • Christchurch
Good to know
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap, Wheelchair accessible, Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Service animals allowed, Public transportation options are available nearby, Transportation options are wheelchair accessible, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Children must be accompanied by an adult, Tour may operate in reverse - so Tranzalpine train from Arthur's Pass to Christchurch
Cancellation Policy

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

Arthurs Pass Private Day Trip from Christchurch with Castle Hill

Arthurs Pass Private Day Trip from Christchurch with Castle Hill

8 hrsPrivate tourEco-FriendlyFree cancellation
4.59 (22 reviews)
97.39%
2.61%
excellentwonderful triprecommend
Viator
$190
Book now
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Arthurs Pass Private Day Trip from Christchurch with Castle Hill
Summary

Totally Personalized Private Experience! A day trip to Arthur's National Park offers a variety of green fields to rugged mountain ranges, lush forest, and ice-fed lakes and rivers and an optional guided walk with your guide to explore, biggest waterfall. Travel along the Great Alpine Highway throug...

Inclusions
  • Private Vehicle
  • Specalized Guide
  • Bottled water
  • Professional Driver
  • Clean and comfortable vehicle
  • Meet & Greet
  • Adventures Activity-Hiking/Trekking
Exclusions
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Itinerary
  • Lake Lyndon
  • Castle Hill
  • Otira Viaduct Lookout
  • Arthur's Pass National Park
  • Devils Punchbowl Walking Track
  • Cave Stream Scenic Reserve
  • Christchurch
Good to know
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Service animals allowed, Public transportation options are available nearby, Specialized infant seats are available, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Both sides travelling time approximately 4 hours
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Arthur’s Pass Day Tour From Christchurch via Castle Hill

Arthur’s Pass Day Tour From Christchurch via Castle Hill

10 hrsFree cancellationLikely to sell out
4.54 (39 reviews)
Viator
$133
Book now
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Arthur’s Pass Day Tour From Christchurch via Castle Hill
Summary

Nestled at the heart of New Zealand’s Southern Alps (Kā Tiritiri o te Moana), Arthur’s Pass is steeped in history. Connecting the east and west coasts of Kā Tiritiri o te Moana, the route was originally established by iwi to trade pounamu (greenstone) before it became known to surveyors such as Arth...

Inclusions
  • All Fees and Taxes
Itinerary
  • Waimakariri
  • Lake Lyndon
  • Castle Hill
  • Lake Pearson
  • Otira Viaduct Lookout
  • Arthur's Pass National Park
  • Devils Punchbowl Walking Track
  • Cave Stream Scenic Reserve
Good to know
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Service animals allowed, Public transportation options are available nearby, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Travel time is included in the Tour Duration.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Pairs well with

Landmarks travelers visit on the same route as Arthur's Pass National Park.

Waimakariri River
Learn more

Waimakariri River

37 km away ‱ from $166

Mount Hutt
Learn more

Mount Hutt

63 km away ‱ from $178

Orana Wildlife Park
Learn more

Orana Wildlife Park

85 km away ‱ from $23

Waipara
Learn more

Waipara

85 km away ‱ from $105

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions travelers ask before visiting.

Among the 23 tours and activities we compare across booking platforms, there is a high variety of formats. The largest share of options are private tours, which make up about 35% of the listings. You will also find many group experiences that focus on the area's spectacular landscapes and magnificent scenery.

Prices vary depending on the level of exclusivity and duration, but most options fall between $172–$338. Across the various platforms we check, the full price spread ranges from about $120 to $912.

The feedback from travellers is overwhelmingly positive. Based on 1,286 pooled reviews across booking platforms, the experiences hold an average rating of 4.78★. Reviewers frequently describe their time as a wonderful experience, noting the incredible and magnificent scenery.

Most excursions are full-day experiences. The duration typically ranges from 7.6 to 12 hours, with a median duration of about 10 hours.

It is wise to plan ahead, as about 17% of the options we compare are flagged as likely to sell out. To give you more flexibility, the majority of listings (83%) offer free cancellation.

Yes, there is a notable presence of sustainable travel options. About 22% of the tours we compare are specifically tagged eco-friendly.

The tours we compare are quite accessible to international travellers, as they are offered in 8 different languages: English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Punjabi, Hindi, and Korean.

Wear sturdy boots and bring waterproof layers. The weather changes rapidly, so always carry extra food and water.

Keep a safe distance from Kea birds. Do not feed them, as human food is harmful to their health.

Services are limited. Most shops and fuel stations are located in the village, so stock up on supplies beforehand.

Waimakariri River36.7kmShantytown Heritage Park61.9kmMount Hutt63.1kmWestcoast Treetop Walk & Cafe66.7kmOrana Wildlife Park85.2kmWaipara85.2kmTorlesse Wines85.7kmPegasus Bay Winery and Restaurant86.6kmWaipara Springs Winery and Cafe87.7kmMt. Sunday91.2kmInternational Antarctic Centre91.7kmWillowbank Wildlife Reserve92.7km
Arthur’s Pass Day TourChristchurch to Tekapo Small-Group TourChristchurch Airport TransferMt Cook Day TourMount Cook & Lake Tekapo Day TourAkaroa Day TourWaipara Wine TourChristchurch City Top Spots Half Day TourKaikoura Day TourSouth Island Coastal Splendor TourTranzAlpine TrainChristchurch Hop-On Hop-Off Tram