TranzAlpine Train,Arthur's Pass & Castle Hill Tour

Experience the South Island's remarkable natural landscapes by taking a journey on the TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass, which is considered one of the world's greatest train journeys for the scenery through which it passes. Enjoy breathtaking views of Canterbury Plains, Southern Alps, ice-fed Waimakariri River, lush beech forests and stunning landscapes. Explore walking tracks in Arthur's Pass National Park with spectacular mountain views & pristine waterfalls. Capture mirror images at Lake Pearson & wander through the majestic limestone boulders at Castle Hill. A perfect day trip for nature lovers, hikers & adventure seekers.

TOURS HIGHLIGHTS:

Scenic journey on TranzAlpine Train from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass.
Explore one of the many walks with crisp alpine air, unforgettable mountain vistas & waterfalls.
Encounter with the inquisitie Kea (alpine parrot) at Otira Viaduct lookout.
Capture mirror images at Lake Pearson.
Admire the majestic limestone boulders at Castle Hill Conservation Area.

WHAT TO BRING:

Comfortable shoes
Weather-appropriate clothing
Please bring your phone, USB charger & headphones to enjoy the audio commentary on the TranzAlpine Train

THIS IS A SMALL GROUP TOUR

Arthur's Pass Day Tour – approx. 10 hours (Tour Start Time: 7.00am)

From: Adults $380 to $410 (14 to 99 Years)

From: Child $350 to $375 (2 to 13 years)

To book this tour use the below Book Now or Enquire Now button.

Pickup timing will be confirmed a day prior to travel date. Pickup/ drop-off is offered from selected Central Christchurch Hotels listed below:

1. Christchurch Bus Interchange
2. Heritage/ Distinction/ Novotel Central Christchurch/Hotel 115/Quest Cathedral Junction
3. Crowne Plaza
4. The Mayfair, 155 Victoria Street
5. Chateau on the Park

TOUR DESCRIPTION:

Experience vast wilderness, breathtaking landscapes, spectacular waterfalls, mirror lakes & alpine walks through native beech forests on a Small Group Day Trip from Christchurch.

After pick-up from your hotel, your guide will drop you at the train station in Christchurch for one of the greatest train journey's in the world. Travel on the TranzAlpine train & admire the stunning scenery through panoramic windows & open air viewing decks. Disembark the train at Arthur's Pass National Park where you will meet your guide again.

Enjoy 1 hour free time to enjoy lunch at a local cafe & explore the village of Arthur's Pass. Your guide will then recommend you some popular walks in the National Park with incredible views. Then drive down to Otira Viaduct which provide impressive views of red flowering rata in summer months & grab the opportunity to spot the inquisitive Kea (alpine parrot) well known for its cheeky nature.

On your return journey, travel by road in a luxurious minivan with a few scenic stops on the way. Take a break & capture stunning mirror images at Lake Person. Then wander through majestic presence of limestone rock formations at Castle Hill Conservation Area. Stretch your legs one last time at Lake Lyndon that regularly freezes in winter months. Return back & drop-off to your location in Christchurch.

Price includes:

TranzAlpine Train tickets from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass.
Professional Guide & Commentary.
Pickup/ Drop-off from selected Central Christchurch Hotels.
Transport in an air-conditioned minivan or minibus.
Fully guided tour except the walks in the National Park & Castle Hill.

Your Full Day Arthur’s Pass Day Tour Includes:

Tranz Alpine Train

Scenic journey on TranzAlpine Train from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass.

Castle Hill Conservation Area

Wander through majestic presence of limestone rock formations. This area was once under a large, shallow inland sea that began to infill some 30 million years ago. Pressure over time caused extensive uplift, folding & faulting. The rocks are spectacular limestone worn by water with dozens of paths through them.

Millennium Walk

Millennium Walk is an easy 10 minutes return walk. Small trout are often seen in the Avalanche Creek from the historic bridge. Follow the path up to a viewing platform overlooking the Avalanche Creek Waterfall, which is lit at night.

Devils Punchbowl Walking Track

The Devils Punchbowl is a moderate 1-hour return-walking track that involves a series of steps that will take you to the base lookout with unforgettable views of the 131-metre falls. Feel the powerful force and sound of fresh mountain water falling with the most splendid views.

Otira Viaduct Lookout

The 440-metres Otira Viaduct was completed in 1999, replacing a narrow, winding, dangerous section of road that was prone to avalanches, slips & closures. The view from the lookout is very impressive with red-flowering rata all over in the summer months & snow capped mountains during winters. You will have the opportunity to spot the endearing Kea (alpine parrot) well known for its cheeky nature.