Mount Cook Holidays

Things to do in and around Mount Cook

Mount Cook offers an array of outdoor adventures perfect for couples and nature enthusiasts alike. Explore stunning hiking trails and breathtaking mountain walks that showcase the region's magnificent scenery. With excellent trail access, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the landscape, making it an ideal destination for unforgettable outdoor experiences and romantic getaways.

Shopping

In Mount Cook, you can find local gift shops offering unique souvenirs, including Māori crafts and outdoor gear. If you're up for a drive, visit Twizel’s shops, about 30 minutes away, where you’ll find more variety, including boutique stores and local artisan products.

Recreation

Experience the soothing warmth of Waiho Hot Tubs, located 24.1km from Mount Cook, where you can unwind in private hot tubs surrounded by stunning alpine scenery. Embrace relaxation and rejuvenation in this serene setting, perfect for a blissful escape from everyday life.

Adventure

The Hooker Valley Track offers an exhilarating hike with stunning alpine scenery, perfect for adventure seekers. For a more tranquil experience, explore the Governors Bush Walk Trailhead, surrounded by lush greenery. Don’t miss the breathtaking views from an Air Safaris scenic flight, located 11.3km from Mount Cook.

Nightlife

In Mount Cook, the nightlife is tranquil yet captivating. The Hermitage Hotel features a cosy bar with stunning mountain views, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure. Nearby, the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre offers engaging displays and occasional evening events, enriching your experience under the starry sky.

Find the best attractions in Mount Cook

Mount Cook offers a stunning backdrop for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts, featuring attractions such as Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, breathtaking glaciers, and the informative visitor centre. Explore the charm of Mount Cook Village and immerse yourself in the natural beauty surrounding Aoraki Mt Cook. Whether you seek scenic vistas or thrilling activities, this region promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller.

• Mount Cook National Park: Experience the breathtaking adventure and stunning scenery in this national park, home to New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook. Enjoy hiking trails that lead you through alpine landscapes, diverse wildlife, and incredible views, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Aoraki / Mount Cook Visitor Center: This visitor centre offers a fantastic family-friendly experience with interactive displays and information about the park's natural wonders. Join guided tours or learn about the region's unique ecology while soaking in the outdoor vibes.
• Tasman Glacier: Marvel at the stunning vistas of Tasman Glacier, a majestic ice formation that provides an otherworldly landscape. Enjoy picturesque views and opportunities for photography, making it a must-visit for those seeking scenic beauty.

Best time to go to Mount Cook

The best time to visit Mount Cook is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. February is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with frequent rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
February	46.2°F (7.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
March	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
April	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	32.4°F (0.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
June	27.1°F (-2.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
July	25.0°F (-3.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	26.4°F (-3.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
September	28.9°F (-1.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	32.5°F (0.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Average
December	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Slightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Mount Cook

Mount Cook is a budget-friendly destination with free entry to attractions like Mount Cook National Park and Tasman Lake. To save on travel, consider visiting during the off-peak months of May and August to September, when accommodation prices drop. Book your stay about a month in advance for the best rates, and check Expedia for last-minute deals. Saturdays typically offer the lowest hotel rates, while Wednesdays are pricier. Use Expedia’s filters for eco-friendly options and package deals to combine flights and lodging for extra savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Mount Cook are May and August to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Mount Cook is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Mount Cook is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Mount Cook is Wednesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Make the most of Expedia’s search tool to narrow down your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Mount Cook accommodation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.