Take a stunning day trip from Queenstown to Aoraki Mt Cook, New Zealand’s tallest peak. Enjoy breathtaking alpine views, turquoise lakes, and plenty of photo stops along the way.

With a private driver-guide, you’ll travel in comfort and have the flexibility to tailor the day to your pace and interests. Includes pickup and drop-off from your Queenstown hotel or the airport.

Tour highlights

This tour begins with a scenic drive through the spectacular Kawarau Gorge with the Kawarau River and precipitous bluffs creating a dramatic backdrop.

Emerging from the gorge, we'll reach the charming township of Cromwell and make a stop at one of the local fruit stalls to savour the delicious produce of the area.

Continuing along the shores of Lake Dunstan, we'll traverse through the remote and sparsely populated Lindis country, gaining a true sense of the vastness and isolation of the region.

As we journey past Omarama, the first of two large alpine-fed lakes comes into view, their luminous colours adding a spectacular touch to the grandeur of the scenery. 

It is here that the majestic Aoraki Mount Cook, meaning 'Cloud Piercer' in the local Māori language, dominates the skyline. Standing imperiously at an elevation of 3,754 meters (12,316 feet), it proudly holds the title of New Zealand's highest mountain. This remarkable peak showcases its awe-inspiring stature as you approach it through the sprawling grasslands of the historic McKenzie country. Take your time to soak in the panoramic views, capturing the beauty of the peak and its surrounding glaciers.

For those seeking an extra thrill, an optional activity awaits; a scenic flight with Mount Cook Ski Planes. Choose from the Glacier Highlights flight, a 40-minute adventure taking you up the length of the Tasman Glacier with a glacier landing, or the Grand Circle flight, a 55-minute journey around the summit of Mount Cook, offering breathtaking views of the Fox and Franz Joseph glaciers, with a 10-minute glacier landing (subject to weather conditions).

To recharge and indulge, lunch at the iconic Hermitage Hotel in Mount Cook. 

As the day draws to a close, bid farewell to Mt Cook and begin your return journey to Queenstown. Reflect on the unforgettable sights and experiences you've encountered throughout the day, with your guide on hand to answer any questions and share more insights along the way.