You will be picked up from your accommodation, at the meeting point in Christchurch, or from the port in Lyttelton.
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 Springfield, where you’ll stop to see the iconic giant donut, a quirky roadside attraction that’s become a must-see photo opportunity for visitors. After a few fun photos, the journey continues 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.)

After exploring Arthur’s Pass the tour makes a scenic stop at the Castle Hill Boulders, known for their dramatic limestone formations 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.
The day concludes with the journey back to Christchurch, where you’ll arrive with a host of wonderful memories of a day spent exploring some of the South Island’s most iconic natural landscapes.