Embark on a small-group hiking tour from Queenstown to Mt Cook and Hooker Valley. Experience spectacular destinations, secret stops, wildlife viewings, and more with Cheeky Kiwi Travel.
Embark on a small-group hiking tour from Queenstown to Mt Cook and Hooker Valley. Experience spectacular destinations, secret stops, wildlife viewings, and more with Cheeky Kiwi Travel.
- Queenstown - The tour begins in the breathtaking city of Queenstown. As the journey commences, the guide will not only set the tone for an exciting day but also highlight and navigate through some of the area’s most notable attractions.
- Kawarau Suspension Bridge - Leaving Queenstown, the route takes us through the magnificent Kawarau Gorge,…
- Queenstown - The tour begins in the breathtaking city of Queenstown. As the journey commences, the guide will not only set the tone for an exciting day but also highlight and navigate through some of the area’s most notable attractions.
- Kawarau Suspension Bridge - Leaving Queenstown, the route takes us through the magnificent Kawarau Gorge, showcasing stunning vistas, the Kawarau Suspension Bridge, and the renowned Roaring Meg Lookout. If time and lighting allow, there will be a stop for the first memorable photo of the tour.
- Cromwell - Upon exiting the Kawarau Gorge, the tour enters Cromwell, a region known for its fruit and wine production. Passing vast vineyards, the journey crosses Lake Dunstan and follows the scenic lake towards Lindis Pass.
- Lindis Pass - As the altitude increases, Lindis Pass offers breathtaking views of the valleys below. Being one of only three alpine roads through the otherwise impassable Southern Alps, a stop at the famous lookout at the top of the pass is a must for a photo opportunity.
- Omarama - Traveling through the expansive plains of the Mackenzie district, several of the famous Merino sheep can be spotted before arriving at the charming township of Omarama. Here, there is time for a break or to enjoy what is considered the best creamy chicken pie in New Zealand!
- Lake Pukaki - Heading west, the tour enters Aoraki National Park, with Lake Pukaki emerging ahead. Known for its striking blue color, the lake is beautifully framed by Aoraki/Mt Cook and the Southern Alps. This is a perfect spot for photos and to appreciate the stunning scenery. It’s easy to see why many scenes from Lord of the Rings were filmed nearby, and these will be pointed out.
- Aoraki Mount Cook National Park (Te Wahipounamu) - Within the national park, there will be stops to explore some incredible sites and capture those bucket list photos before proceeding to the departure point for the hike.
- Blue Lakes and Tasman Glacier walks - Tasman Glacier Viewpoint – From the car park, the walk passes the Blue Lakes shelter and continues past the Blue Lakes to a viewpoint on the moraine wall. This offers excellent views of the lower Tasman Glacier and lake, icebergs, and the mountains at the valley’s head. A side trip to the Blue Lakes provides good swimming opportunities in summer. At approximately 22 km long, the Haupapa/Tasman Glacier is the longest glacier in Aotearoa New Zealand. Unfortunately, glaciers worldwide are retreating, with the Tasman receding over 100 m annually.
- High Country Salmon - Bidding farewell to Aoraki/Mt Cook Village and returning to Queenstown, a stop is made at High Country Salmon, a local salmon farm, where visitors can feed the fish and sample some of the freshest salmon in New Zealand.
- Jackson Orchards - During the summer months, when daylight lingers, a stop is often made at Jacksons Orchard near Queenstown to taste or purchase delicious local fruit or real fruit ice cream.
- Queenstown - Regrettably, the tour concludes as the journey returns to Queenstown, where farewells are exchanged.

- Small Group & Fully Guided Tour
- Scenic stops
- Water available & snacks provided
- Small Group & Fully Guided Tour
- Scenic stops
- Water available & snacks provided
- Gratuities
- Lunch - opportunities to purchase along the way.
- Walks are self guided
- Gratuities
- Lunch - opportunities to purchase along the way.
- Walks are self guided
Although the destinations on the itinerary are truly breathtaking, Cheeky Kiwi Travel believes that what truly distinguishes their tours are the small group sizes, knowledgeable guides, the journey itself, and the attention to detail. With secret stops, wildlife sightings, custom-designed vehicles, complimentary refreshments, and many other delightful…
Although the destinations on the itinerary are truly breathtaking, Cheeky Kiwi Travel believes that what truly distinguishes their tours are the small group sizes, knowledgeable guides, the journey itself, and the attention to detail. With secret stops, wildlife sightings, custom-designed vehicles, complimentary refreshments, and many other delightful surprises, their tours promise an unforgettable experience.
The Mt Cook & Tasman Glacier Viewpoint Tour is a fully-guided day trip for small groups, combining all the major highlights of the area with a walk to the Tasman Glacier Viewpoint.
Please be aware: the Hooker Valley Track is currently CLOSED as the Department of Conservation is working on replacing one of the swing bridges. This is anticipated to be completed by Autumn 2026, so the track will remain inaccessible to the public until then.
- A large amount of walking is involved.
- Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
- Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. If you don’t have a car seat one can be provided (with 24 hours’ notice).
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.