How difficult are the walks during the tour?

The walks are mostly easy to moderate, suitable for those with reasonable mobility and fitness.

Can I book the helicopter flight during the tour?

Yes, the helicopter flight is an optional add-on subject to weather and requires advance booking.

Are meals included in the tour package?

Meals, including lunch and dinner on day 1 and breakfast on day 2, are included if you select the Premium option.

What kind of wildlife might I see on the tour?

Common sightings include New Zealand’s alpine birds such as kea, and occasionally introduced species like chamois.

Is this tour family-friendly?

The itinerary is suitable for groups including children, but some walks and helicopter flights have age or health restrictions.

What happens if the weather is poor?

Koru Scenic Tours offers flexible arrangements; activities may be adjusted or rescheduled for safety and comfort.

Aoraki Mt Cook Plus Tour with Koru Scenic Tours

Adventure Brief

Discover the towering peaks and turquoise lakes of New Zealand’s Aoraki Mt Cook National Park on a two-day guided journey with Koru Scenic Tours. Experience alpine vistas, glacial landscapes, and charming towns en route.

2 days total; multiple short walks daily

moderate

From NZ$3,156.52

Venture into New Zealand’s South Island where the dramatic peaks of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park rise sharply against alpine skies. Koru Scenic Tours’ Aoraki Mt Cook Plus trip offers a two-day journey from Christchurch, threading an immersive route through the Mackenzie Basin’s stark landscapes toward the country’s highest peak, Aoraki (Mt Cook).

The adventure begins with a scenic drive south from Christchurch, passing through the rural towns of Geraldine and Fairlie, each pause punctuated by opportunity to soak in the region’s unique character. Dog Kennel Corner presents the first striking vantage point of the Southern Alps, setting the tone for the awe-inspiring vistas ahead.

In Lake Tekapo, vivid turquoise waters stretch beneath pastel skies, with reflections of the Church of the Good Shepherd mirrored perfectly on calm days. Nearby Lake Alexandrina offers a quieter, lesser-known natural gem. The journey continues to Lake Pukaki, where the intense blue lake contrasts with the rugged white-tipped mountain peaks, a scene captured beautifully from Pete’s Lookout.

Arriving at the Aoraki Mt Cook village by afternoon, you’ll settle into comfortable accommodations before setting out on easy trails that reveal panoramic views over glacial valleys and snow-dusted ridges. Sunset and possibly astrophotography sessions offer a celestial spectacle in this remote dark-sky reserve.

Day two might include an optional helicopter flight over the Tasman Glacier, allowed by weather conditions, or further exploration before returning via Twizel and Omarama. The return route offers further lakeside reflections, hydro dam views, and tranquil afternoon stops, rounding out a distinctly enriching alpine itinerary.

Koru Scenic Tours combines expert guiding, comfortable transportation, and meals to create a seamless, deeply informative experience. This tour stands out in New Zealand travel for its balance of natural wonder, cultural insight, and well-paced adventure—making the high country accessible for a wide range of travelers. For those drawn to alpine grandeur, this carefully curated itinerary delivers an unforgettable encounter with the South Island’s most iconic mountain scenery.