Duration: 4 Days
Price: from NZ$1075
Departure From: Wellington or Auckland
Departure Date: Flexible Dates
Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible
Tour Operator: LOCO Journeys
Physical Grading: 3
ENQUIRE NOWThe Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of New Zealand’s “Great Walks” and we’re teaming it up with the iconic Northern Explorer rail journey to give you a memorable short break.
The Tongariro Crossing is a journey across a remarkable volcanic environment situated in the Tongariro National Park. The 19km trek leads up to the saddle between Ngauruhoe and Mt Tongariro across a landscape of different coloured and shaped craters created during different times in history, past volcanic rocks, mountain springs and emerald coloured lakes. Take in the vast array of colours and textures created from mineral deposits released from within the Earth’s Crust. On your guided walk you will experience all the popular sights while steering away from any crowds.
This 4 day short break also allows enough free time to explore the Tongariro National Park. It also allows you to have a day up your sleeve in case of adverse weather conditions. There are an abundance of shorter walks that you can complete within an hour, or consider these longer walks instead of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing:
2.5 hours return to the creamy-white terraces found among moutain beech forest
This is the first section of the crossing and a good alternative to the day-long hike. 3 hours return.
A two hour return trek. The spectacular falls tumble 20 metres over the edge of a 15,000 year old lava flow.
We can also help organise a private shuttle tour of the area, or you might prefer to use your free time to rest after your Tongariro Crossing adventure, maybe book in a High Tea at the famous Chateau Tongariro!
If the Tongariro Alpine Crossing seems a little daunting we can swap it out with a half day walk or a private guided walk. LOCO Journeys can tailor-make your holiday – just let us know!
LOCO Journeys can tailor-make this tour to a journey that delivers you to your desired destinations, your time, budget and the train timetable.
Fully Flexible Tour
The Northern Explorer offers two distinct service levels to their train journey. Both classes are worthy of what you pay, and both a thoroughly enjoyable way to make the most of your rail experience.
In Scenic Class you’ll experience spacious reclined seats with generous amounts of legroom and comfort, panoramic windows, glass shelves and skylights. And to heighten your comfort, state-of-the-art airbag suspension has been used to guarantee a smooth ride across our rugged New Zealand terrain.
While onboard, you might like a stroll to the Northern Explorer Scenic Cafe carriage where you’ll find a great selection of hot and cold snacks, drinks and ice creams. Indulge in a freshly brewed specialty tea or barista coffee married with a sumptuous cake? Or perhaps toast your special journey with a bottle of bubbles or craft beer?
The Open-air Viewing Carriage is also great place to get some fresh air and enjoy the great outdoors while on the move. Capture the magical views on camera and let your short break begin!
Inside the refined Scenic Plus Class carriages, it’s more than just a journey. You’ll be treated to fresh food, captivating commentary, great hosting and spectacular views, all delivered to your seat while you ease back and enjoy the journey. There really is no better way to discover New Zealand.
At the heart of the Scenic Plus experience is the refined Scenic Plus Class carriage, with huge panoramic windows, glass shelves and skylights, bathing you in those gorgeous coastal and mountain landscapes.
With freshly prepared food inspired by the fields that glide past your window and regional wines to match, you’ll be immersed in the flavours of our land. As you admire the views and savour the flavours, our Scenic Plus hosts will recount the stories and histories of the passing landscapes and landmarks.
When you step off your great rail journeys, you will have experienced some of the best New Zealand has to offer. Maybe Scenic Plus is a worthy treat after a long walk!
In the winter months, from May to October, snow and ice covers much of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing track. If you are experienced in hiking with crampons and ice axe and in alpine terrain, you can trek the Tongariro Alpine Crossing during these months. Without alpine experience, a guided trip is essential.
The Skotel Alpine Resort is a terrific mountain lodge nestled into the hillside on the edge of Whakapapa Village in the heart of the Tongariro National Park. The interior panel-wood finishing gives a warm alpine lodge feel far removed away from hectic city life.
After your Tongariro Crossing, you’ll enjoy returning to the Skotel and being able to relax in front of the fire or rest your weary feet in the spa.
The Skotel offers beautiful views, including sunrises and sunsets and on a clear night, the starlit night sky.
For a detailed itinerary, accommodation, the Northern Explorer timetable, departure days, and Northern Explorer fare conditions, please see below.
For more information about this tour, price queries and updates on specials, please Enquire Now.