New Zealand is home to 24 peaks over 3000m tall – your destination for the day, Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, boasts 19 of them. Home to its namesake (known to Māori as “the Cloud Piercer”, standing at 3724 metres tall), the National Park offers some of the best hiking trails in New Zealand and a rich mountaineering history. These stunning mountains were the training ground of Sir Edmund Hillary before becoming the first to successfully summit Mount Everest with Tenzing Norgay in 1953. Today they’ll be our playground, to take at whatever pace suits you.
Get up close to the icebergs on a glacier boat tour, or even splurge on a heli-hike. Check out the many hiking tracks and trails, or simply explore the village. Whatever you decide, it’s an incredible place to spend the day.
After a full day of activities, we’ll meet up and return to our accommodation for a tasty meal and a chance to trade stories from the day as well as gaze up at the impressive night sky in this internationally recognised Dark Sky Reserve.
Morning Activity - Hooker Valley Track & Kea Point
This is one of the South Island’s most popular glacier country trails. The Hooker Valley Track offers spectacular alpine scenery and sweeping views of New Zealand's highest peak. For those with an interest in New Zealand flora, the Hooker Valley is one of the best places to see Mount Cook lilies in season.
Afternoon Activity - Hike to Red Tarns
Offering phenomenal views of Aoraki/Mt Cook and the surrounding mountains the Red Tarns Track is one of Aoraki/Mt Cook's hidden gems. On a calm day, you'll enjoy incredible mirror-like reflections of Aoraki/Mt Cook that will leave a lasting memory of this magical spot.
Anytime - Explore Mount Cook Village
Today is a great opportunity to explore on your own. Visit the museum and planetarium at the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre. Take some short walks around the area or just soak in the views with a coffee and good book. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
*Please advise us at the time of booking if interested in the option add-ons, Glacier Heli-Hiking (NZD$945), Glacier Lake Boat Tour (NZD$209)