Arthur's Pass Day Tour From Christchurch With TranzAlpine Experience

A National Park deep in the Southern Alps, Arthur’s Pass offers incredible scenery along the famous Great Alpine Highway. Prepare for a day filled with breathtaking landscapes, spectacular waterfalls, and iconic filming locations. Your tour will highlight incredible feats of engineering, natural wonders, and unforgettable vistas.

Tour Highlights:

• Castle Hill
• Alpine Jet Boats
• Arthur’s Pass & Devils Punch Bowl
• TranzAlpine Scenic Train Ride
• Kea sightings in the wild

Itinerary:

Christchurch – Our day begins as we leave the Garden City and head north. Along the way, your guide will share fascinating insights into the local history and points of interest in Christchurch.

Springfield & Alpine Jet Boats (45 mins) – We stop in the charming town of Springfield, where you'll get a chance to experience the rush of Alpine Jet Boating on the Waimakariri River (at an additional cost) . For those not opting for the jet boat adventure, enjoy a relaxing walk or cuddle some sheep!

Castle Hill (1 hour) – These unique limestone rocks were once beneath the sea and have eroded over time to create stunning formations. You may recognize this landscape from Lord of the Rings and Narnia! It’s a popular spot for climbers, and you'll have time to explore at your own pace.

Otira Gorge Lookout (15 mins) – This lookout is known for its incredible views of the national park. The Otira Viaduct is a marvel of engineering and the key reason for the pass’s accessibility. Keep an eye out for the cheeky Kea parrot that often visits!

Arthur’s Pass Village (1 hour) – At the village, you can take a walk to Devils Punch Bowl Waterfall or explore the local shops . 

• Devils Punch Bowl: A scenic walk (approx. 1 hour) through native forest takes you to the towering 131-meter waterfall. The walk is moderate, with some uphill sections.

TranzAlpine Scenic Train Ride – After Arthur's Pass, we’ll drop you off at the TranzAlpine Train Station for a journey through the majestic Southern Alps. The open-carriage train ride offers stunning panoramic views of the Canterbury Plains as you head back towards Christchurch.

Christchurch – The tour concludes with your return to Christchurch. As your train arrives, we’ll be there to take you back to your accommodation, completing your scenic adventure with fantastic memories.

Inclusions:

• Small Group Experience
• Carbon Neutral Tour
• Pre Packed lunch from Alpine Jets 
• Bottled Water
• Local Kiwi Snacks
• Wi-Fi & USB Charging
• Commentary from Experienced Guides
• 100% Kiwi Experience

Add-Ons:

• Alpine Jet Boat Experience
• Helicopter Ride (One-way or Round Trip)

Please Note: As this tour takes place in an alpine region, weather can be unpredictable.

IMPORTANT: Please note that TranzAlpine bookings are managed by Great Journeys New Zealand, who cannot be held responsible for any missed connections due to delayed train arrivals. If you have onward travel plans (such as flights), please be aware that the service may experience delays of 30 minutes or more. We recommend allowing extra time to ensure you have ample time for any connections.

At Cheeky Kea Travel, we pride ourselves on offering more than just a tour. Our small groups, knowledgeable guides, and comfortable vehicles ensure a personalized experience. Secret stops, wildlife sightings, and fun surprises make every journey memorable.

See More, Do More, Spend Less

**Please note that due to the timing of this tour, it is not suitable as a shore excursion.