You will be picked up from your accommodation or at the meeting point in Christchurch.
Your day begins with a scenic drive from Christchurch, heading west towards the Southern Alps. The first stop of the journey is Darfield, a charming town famous for its delightful bakery. From Darfield, you’ll head to Lake Lyndon, a serene spot nestled in the mountains, where you’ll pause for a peaceful morning tea surrounded by tranquil alpine scenery.
Next, the road takes you over Porters Pass, a beautiful mountain pass offering panoramic views of the surrounding ranges. The journey then leads you to the village of Arthur’s Pass, where you’ll have several options for exploration. You can enjoy short forest walks through nearby tracks, taking in the native alpine forest and possibly spotting some local wildlife. For those seeking a more rewarding adventure, an optional guided walk to the stunning Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall is available. The walk takes you to a breathtaking site where the waterfall cascades dramatically down the cliffs, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the valley.

Optional Upgrade: TranzAlpine Scenic Train:
Start your adventure in style by upgrading to a one-way journey on the world-renowned TranzAlpine Train. Travel from Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass by rail, soaking in spectacular mountain and valley views before joining the rest of the tour. (This replaces the road journey to Arthur’s Pass; all other inclusions remain the same.) *This is subject to availability on your travel dates.

After exploring Arthur’s Pass, the tour continues to the tranquil shores of Moana Rua (Lake Pearson) for a relaxed lunch stop beside the lake. The journey then travels to Kura Tawhiti (Castle Hill), an area known for its limestone boulders that rise from the ground, creating a surreal and dramatic landscape. You’ll have the chance to take a short walk and explore the area or simply admire the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
As the day draws to a close, begin the journey back to Christchurch, stopping briefly in Springfield for a comfort break and photo opportunity before crossing the Canterbury Plains once more. Arrive back in Christchurch with lasting memories of a day spent discovering some of the South Island’s most spectacular natural landscapes.