Arthur's Pass Day Tour From Christchurch via Castle Hill (Small Group & Carbon Neutral)

Arguably the most stunning of New Zealand's Southern Alp passes, this tour will see you travel to Arthur's Pass National Park on the Great Alpine Highway. Highlights include an example of great engineering, spectacular waterfalls, famous filming locations, and ever-changing remarkable landscapes.

The day will begin with a collection from your chosen accommodation before we hit the road towards Arthur’s Pass. Our friendly guide will point out those stunning views along the way. While on this tour with us, you will encounter everything from green fields and rugged mountain ranges, to lush forest and ice-fed lakes and rivers!

There are plenty of stops along the route, so we won’t be spending all day in the van...although it is pretty comfy!

We recommend checking out some of the add-ons available on this trip (including jet boating and, or return to Christchurch via the TranzAlpine). There are so many great activities that can be done, and we are more than happy to help you make the most of your time with us.

You will be driven in comfort in our modern Mercedes Sprinter or similar vehicle packed with extras, just to make your journey that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, this journey will come to life in a new way for you.

Memories made, hearts happy and photos a plenty in this tour!

 Highlights:

• Castle Hill
• Scenic lookouts
• Arthur's Pass/Devils Punch Bowl
• Cave stream
• Kea in the wild

Itinerary:

Christchurch - We start by leaving Christchurch and heading north towards our destination. It is here that our knowledgeable driver will point out some of the Garden City’s highlights.

Springfield/Alpine Jets - As we make our way through the Selwyn District, you will be greeted by the gorgeous little western town of Springfield where we make our turn off towards Alpine Jets. Here there are walks, views of the Waimakariri, and sheep cuddles to enjoy. For those looking for more adventure, you can add on a jet boat experience (extra booked and sold separately).

Lake Pearson/Lake Lyndon (10 min) -  Lake Pearson is the largest of three mountain lakes in the area. This picturesque glacial lake is surrounded by the Southern Alps, and is a popular spot for swimmers, fishing and visitors. Lake Lyndon nestles at the base of Porters Pass. This is known as one of the colder lakes, but remains another very popular location for jetboaters, bird watchers and again brave swimmers.

Castle Hill (1 hour) - Once back in the van, we head towards Castle Hill. These weathered limestone rocks sit proudly on the tussocky hills and were once in the ocean! Over time they have eroded away, forming the amazing unique shapes you see today. You might recognize this landscape from movies such as Lord of the Rings and Narnia! Not only that, but while you walk amongst the rocks you might also catch a glimpse of climbers and boulderers! This place is a magnet for those types of hobbies. This is not a guided walk so you will be left to explore this piece of beauty on your own. 

Otira Gorge Lookout (15 min) - Also known as Death's Corner, the Otira Viaduct Lookout is an amazing spot to see the National Park in all its glory. This bridge is the only reason driving through Arthur's Pass is possible! It’s huge at 440 metres long, and is a great spot for a photo of the bridge and the surrounding landscape. A little bonus too, you might see a wee Cheeky Kea! New Zealand's sneaky Alpine Parrot.

Arthur's Pass Village (1 hour) - We depart the lookout and head towards Arthur's Pass village. On the way you will be able to see the beautiful backdrop of the majestic Southern Alps up close. Once we arrive you will have the opportunity to either walk to Devils Punch Bowl or spend time walking around the local shops.

• Devils Punch Bowl - This walking track is approx. 1 hour with a gradual incline (including steps) towards a ferocious 131-meter-tall waterfall. Fitness is low to moderate as you walk through the bush and native beech
  forest. 
• Arthur's Pass village - Grab a bite to eat, a coffee and shop some local goodies! This village is a great way to really get to know the area. 

Please note that depending on time, our driver will let you know how long you have and will assist you on the day in regard to departure time.

Cave Stream (15 min) - This is formed by the cave's stream as it flows through an underground passage for 594 metres. This cave can be accessed by inexperienced cavers and is pretty incredible to look at. 

Porters Pass – With an elevation of 939m, Porters Pass is another mountain pass located deep in the Southern Alps.  Experience breathtaking views of the Canterbury plains as you weave through the third-highest highway in the South Island.

Christchurch – Sadly, we get ready to make our way back to the Garden City, where we will drop you back to the pick up point you started your journey at this morning. All in a day's work aye! Here, we officially say our goodbyes but send you off with some great photos and even better memories! 

As this tour operates in an alpine region, the weather can be unpredictable. In the event of bad weather, this tour will continue on to Greymouth and Lake Brunner.

Inclusions:

• Small Group
• Carbon Neutral
• Lunch 
• Bottled Water 
• Local Kiwi snacks
• Wi-Fi and USB charging 
• Commentary from our expert guide
• 100% Kiwi as experience

Add ons: 

• TranzAlpine Train Journey return to Christchurch (Arthur's Pass to Christchurch, one way)
• Alpine Jet Boat experience

We at Cheeky Kea Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey, and all those little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complimentary refreshments, and many other fun surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember. 

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