Arthur's Pass: TranzAlpine Train and Castle Hill Day Tour

Top rated
4.8 out of 5 stars
4.8
216 reviews
Activity provider:
NZ South Island Tours & Travel
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Arthur's Pass: TranzAlpine Train and Castle Hill Day Tour
Likely to sell out
Top rated
4.8 out of 5 stars
4.8
216 reviews

Experience one of the most spectacular train journeys in the world from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass. Meet your guide for a full day of exploration through the South Island's remarkable natural landscapes.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 10 hours
Check availability to see starting times
Skip the ticket line
Live tour guide
English
Pickup included
Pickup timing will be confirmed a day prior to the travel date. Pickup and drop-off are offered from selected Central Christchurch Hotels: Christchurch Bus Interchange, Heritage Hotel/Distinction Hotel, Crowne Plaza Hotel, The Mayfair, 155 Victoria Street, and Chateau on the Park.

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

5 out of 5 stars
T
Teodora – Switzerland

The trip was very well organised, prompt pickup and dropoff. The train ride was very pleasant with beautiful sights. The bus trip back was even better as the guide stopped at various lookouts and give good explanations. The weather was good to us and the sunny day made for wonderful pictures and walks!

5 out of 5 stars
K
Karin – Australia

Fantastic Day our guide was wonderful. Thank youo.

Select participants and date

Highlights

  • Embark on the incredible train journey from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass
  • Enjoy a walk with crisp alpine air, unforgettable mountain vistas, and waterfalls
  • Encounter chatty alpine parrots at Otira Viaduct lookout
  • Capture mirror images at Lake Pearson
  • Admire the majestic limestone boulders at Castle Hill

Full description

Experience the South Island's remarkable natural landscapes by taking a journey on a train from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass, which is considered one of the world's greatest train journeys for the scenery it passes.
Enjoy breathtaking views of Canterbury Plains, Southern Alps, ice-fed Waimakariri River, lush beech forests, and stunning landscapes. Explore walking tracks in Arthur's Pass National Park with spectacular mountain views & pristine waterfalls.
Capture mirror images at Lake Pearson & wander through the majestic limestone boulders at Castle Hill. A perfect day trip for nature lovers, hikers, and adventure seekers.

Includes

  • Pickup and drop-off from selected hotels
  • Transportation by air-conditioned minivan or minibus
  • Fully guided tour except for walks
  • TranzAlpine Train tickets
  • Bottled water
  • Lunch

Not suitable for

  • People with mobility impairments

Important information

What to bring

  • Comfortable shoes
  • Headphones
  • Weather-appropriate clothing
  • Charged Smartphone

Know before you go

  • This is a small group day tour
  • This tour is not recommended for people with limited mobility
  • Fully guided tour except the walks in the National Park & Castle Hill.
  • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
  • Some walking is involved so wear comfortable walking shoes
  • Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
  • Lunch is not included
  • Please bring your phone, USB charger & headphones to enjoy the audio commentary on the TranzAlpine Train.
  • Tour may operate in reverse order; where train will be booked from Arthur's Pass to Christchurch, if morning tickets are sold out.
Likely to sell out

From $227 per person

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.8 /5
4.8 out of 5 stars

based on 216 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.9/5
  • Transportation
    4.8/5
  • Value for money
    4.6/5

Customer photos

+57
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5 out of 5 stars
T
Teodora – SwitzerlandJuly 15, 2025 – Verified booking
The trip was very well organised, prompt pickup and dropoff. The train ride was very pleasant with beautiful sights. The bus trip back was even better as the guide stopped at various lookouts and give good explanations. The weather was good to us and the sunny day made for wonderful pictures and walks!
5 out of 5 stars
K
Karin – AustraliaJune 27, 2025 – Verified booking
Fantastic Day our guide was wonderful. Thank youo.
5 out of 5 stars
E
Erin – New ZealandJune 27, 2025 – Verified booking
Everything was great - it was more the weather which no one can change. Anuj was amazing - thumbs up for his excellent customer service!!

Product ID: 304693

Activity provider:
NZ South Island Tours & Travel

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