Overview Itinerary

Mt Cook & Ultimate Alpine Experience

South Island

Cheeky Kiwi Travel

from

US$472

per adult

Group of happy passengers posing in front of ski plane after landing on snow near Mount Cook

Experiences

Helicopter Scenic Flights

Scenic Plane Flights

Family-friendly Tours

Small Group Tours

Day Tours

South Island

Start: Queenstown

Duration: 1 day

Travel Time: 12 hours

Scenic Journey to Mt Cook

The adventure begins in Queenstown, where the route winds through Kawarau Gorge, Cromwell, and Lindis Pass. Along the way, you’ll pass striking alpine landscapes and shimmering lakes before reaching the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki. The breathtaking scenery provides the perfect lead-up to the awe-inspiring Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park.

Upon arrival at Mt Cook, the highlight awaits with the Ultimate Alpine Experience. This extraordinary adventure combines a helicopter and ski plane flight with a landing on the Tasman Glacier. The opportunity to stand on ancient ice, surrounded by dramatic peaks, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Group of friends at a lookout point in Lindis Pass with golden hills in the background

Scenic road leading directly towards Mount Cook on a clear day in the South Island

Bright purple and pink lupins in full bloom by the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo

Snow-covered Mount Cook rising behind Lake Pukaki with autumn colours in the foreground

Frozen wheel sculpture in Omarama, Otago

Sir Edmund Hillary statue with Aoraki Mount Cook in background

Guests dining outdoors at the Hermitage Hotel with stunning views of Mount Cook

Small scenic aircraft flying above the snow-covered Southern Alps near Mount Cook

Helicopter and light aircraft on a snow-covered landing site near Mount Cook in the Southern Alps

Helicopter flying above snow-capped peaks in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park

Hooker River flowing over boulders with Mount Cook in the background on a summer day

Group of travellers standing on snow after scenic glacier landing near Mount Cook

Omarama township sign and sheep statue with mountains in the background

White alpine daisies blooming in Mount Cook National Park

Tray of fresh salmon sashimi served at a salmon farm in Twizel, New Zealand

Memorable Stops and Return to Queenstown

After the alpine adventure, you’ll have free time to explore Mt Cook National Park at your leisure. Whether you choose to enjoy a scenic walk or simply soak in the views, the natural beauty of the area leaves a lasting impression. This pause in the journey allows you to connect deeply with the alpine environment.

On the return journey, the tour includes a visit to High Country Salmon, where you can sample fresh salmon. During summer, the trip also features a stop at Jacksons Orchard for seasonal fruit or ice cream. The day concludes with a relaxing drive back to Queenstown, filled with unforgettable memories of New Zealand’s alpine wonders.

Inclusions

Small Group
Fully Guided Bus Tour
Ultimate Alpine Experience Scenic Flights & Glacier Landing
Water available & snacks provided

Age Information

Adult: 15 years +
Children: 4-14 years
Infants: Under 4 years

Cancellations & Refunds

Outside 24 hours before travel: Full refund**
Within 24 hours before travel: No refund

Note: **Refund excludes credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*

Itinerary

Queenstown – Your adventure begins in the beautiful city of Queenstown. As we leave the city, your guide will introduce the highlights of the day and provide insights into the region’s top attractions.
Kawarau Suspension Bridge – We pass through the stunning Kawarau Gorge, taking in the sights of the Kawarau Suspension Bridge and Roaring Meg Lookout. If time allows, we’ll stop for your first photo opportunity of the day.
Cromwell – After exiting the gorge, we arrive in the fruit and wine-growing region of Cromwell. Following the scenic shores of Lake Dunstan, we continue our journey towards Lindis Pass.
Lindis Pass – As we climb through the breathtaking Lindis Pass, we’ll stop at the famous lookout to take in panoramic views of the valleys below – a perfect photo stop.
Omarama – Travelling through the vast plains of the Mackenzie District, we may spot some of the famous Merino sheep before reaching the quaint township of Omarama. Here, we’ll take a break, and you can try what we think is New Zealand’s best creamy chicken pie.
Lake Pukaki – Turning towards Aoraki National Park, we arrive at the stunning Lake Pukaki, known for its vivid blue waters framed by the Southern Alps and Aoraki/Mt Cook. We’ll pause here to take some spectacular photos and admire the breathtaking scenery.
Ultimate Alpine Experience – Prepare for an unforgettable adventure with the Ultimate Alpine Experience. You'll fly in both a ski plane and a helicopter, landing on the Tasman Glacier for a truly breathtaking alpine experience.
Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park – After your flight, enjoy some free time to explore the national park. You can choose from various walks or hikes, such as the Kea Point Track, or visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre. We’ll pick you up from your chosen activity to continue the journey.
High Country Salmon – On the return journey to Queenstown, we’ll stop at High Country Salmon, where you can feed the fish and sample some of New Zealand’s freshest salmon.
Jacksons Orchard – As we near Queenstown, we often stop at Jacksons Orchard during the summer months to try or purchase fresh local fruit or real fruit ice cream.
Queenstown – The tour concludes as we re-enter Queenstown, where we’ll say our farewells after an amazing day of adventure and exploration.