challenging
7 hours (Tongariro Alpine Crossing segment)
Strong cardiovascular endurance and leg strength needed to handle steep ascents, descents, and long hours on foot.
Experience New Zealand’s volcanic heartland with ExperienceKart Limited’s luxurious 3-day tour. Hike the iconic Tongariro Alpine Crossing, visit the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, and cruise Lake Taupō for Māori Rock Carvings.
Ages 15+ • 2 Nights & 3 Days
Experience the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand on a luxurious 3-day tour from Auckland. Discover the enchanting Waitomo Glowworm Caves, hike the iconic Tongariro Alpine Crossing, and cruise Lake Taupō to see stunning Māori Rock Carvings. This adventure blends nature, culture, and relaxation, creating unforgettable memories in a private setting.
Three Days & Two Nights
Embark on a 3-day private luxury tour from Auckland that showcases the powerful beauty of New Zealand’s volcanic heartland. With your personal driver-guide and curated itinerary, explore the legendary Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic volcanic peaks, emerald lakes, and panoramic alpine views on a self-guided walk. This package also includes the magical Waitomo Glowworm Caves and the geothermal highlights of Lake Taupō, where you’ll witness the thunderous Huka Falls and steaming valleys dotted with natural hot springs. A perfect balance of nature, culture, and adventure, all experienced at a relaxed pace.
Day 1: Waitomo Glow Worm & Ruakuri Twin Cave Experience Overnight Stay in Tongariro National Park Village.
Day 2: Tongariro Alpine Crossing Experience. Overnight Stay in Tongariro National Park
Day 3: Lake Taupō Māori Rock Carvings Cruise & Huka Honey Hive & Honey Tasting. Return back to Auckland
Explore the magical Waitomo Glowworm Caves by boat, surrounded by thousands of glowing lights.
Discover dramatic limestone formations and spiral descent inside Ruakuri Cave — NZ’s longest underground walk.
Hike across the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a UNESCO World
Heritage site known for volcanic landscapes and emerald lakes on a self-guided walk.
Witness panoramic views of Red Crater, Soda Springs, and ancient lava flows along the alpine trail.
Learn about local geology, volcanic history, and native flora from your personal guide.
Cruise across Lake Taupō to view the iconic Māori Rock Carvings, accessible only by water.
Enjoy stunning lakeside scenery at New Zealand’s largest freshwater lake.
Get water-level views of the thunderous Huka Falls, one of NZ’s most powerful waterfalls.
Visit Huka Honey Hive and discover the sweet world of New Zealand’s native honey.
Travel in a private luxury vehicle with scenic stops and a flexible, fully guided experience throughout.
Fully guided private return transfers from Auckland.
Pick up and drop off from Auckland.
Refreshments and water onboard.
Complimentary high-speed Internet onboard.
A local English-speaking tour escort throughout the journey.
Luxurious temperature-controlled transportation.
Exclusive immersive activities and interaction with local communities.
Built-in leisure time, to explore destinations as you wish.
Waitomo Glowworm & Ruakuri Caves (guided group tours).
Tongariro Alpine Crossing (self-guided walk with shuttle).
Lake Taupō cruise to Māori Rock Carvings.
Huka Falls visit & honey tasting at Huka Honey Hive.
Café-style lunch in Waitomo.
Packed lunch for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
3 Star Hotel Accommodation on Twin Sharing Basis including Breakfast.
Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for the conditions, walking shoes, sun protection, jacket/warm layer & essential personal items.
Extreme level of fitness is required. This is a self-guided walking & hiking tour and sensible walking; strong & sturdy boots footwear is recommended.
No alpine experience is required, but you must be able to climb and descend stairs and walk on unpaved or uneven terrain.
Bring a camera or a phone with camera capability as these locations are the perfect place to get some great travel photos.
Walking time is about 7 hours including stops and be prepared for a long and challenging day out.
Take plenty of food and drink especially in the summer months.
Tongariro Alpine crossing is subject to unpredictable weather, and conditions can change quickly. It is important that all walkers carry the essentials for their journey across.
Not suitable for children under 12 years, pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, people with heart problems, people with back problems, neurological issues.
No photography is permitted inside the Waitomo caves, and cameras and Go Pros cannot be taken on the tour.
No backpacks or large bags allowed in cave due to delicate formations.
Photography is permitted in Ruakuri Cave so bring your camera to click the best shots.
Tongariro’s alpine climate is unpredictable; bring layers and waterproof gear even if the forecast looks clear.
Expect around 7 hours on the Crossing; pack sufficient food and hydration to maintain energy throughout the hike.
The volcanic terrain is uneven with loose scree; robust hiking boots with good grip are a must.
Photography is prohibited inside Waitomo Glowworm Caves to protect delicate formations and wildlife.
Tongariro National Park was the first national park established in New Zealand, recognized for its cultural and natural significance by Māori iwi and UNESCO.
Visitors are encouraged to stay on marked paths to protect fragile volcanic terrain and respect the sacred Māori sites along the trail.
Protects against rain and wind common on alpine terrain.
Provides ankle support and traction on volcanic rock and scree.
Facilitates temperature regulation as conditions change rapidly.
Useful for early starts or late finishes during short daylight seasons.