Arthur’s Pass Alpine Journey

Difficulty

Easy

Duration

9h 30m

Group size

1-10 tourists,
over 10 y.o.

Start from Christchurch aboard the world famous TranzAlpine Railway, one of the most scenic train journeys on earth. Watch the Canterbury Plains roll into sight before the tracks wind toward snow-capped peaks and deep alpine gorges. Stop at the Otira Viaduct Lookout to admire a true engineering marvel framed by the dramatic landscape of Arthur’s Pass National Park. From here, continue into the alpine village itself, surrounded by ancient beech forests and soaring peaks.

Then, a short guided walk brings you to the spectacular Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall, where crystal waters plunge 131 meters in a thundering cascade. Visit the Arthur’s Pass Visitor Centre to learn about local flora, fauna, and Māori legends—and keep an eye out for the cheeky kea, New Zealand’s iconic alpine parrot. End your day back on the TranzAlpine, gliding through the Southern Alps once more before returning to Christchurch with memories of a truly unforgettable alpine adventure. Join us for this alpine escape and experience Arthur’s Pass stunning beauty!

Family Tours

Chris L. is the provider of this trip

The provider speaks: English

We are offering a range of experiences from short day hikes to multi-day expedition-style treks across New Zealand, along with skills courses such as navigation, survival, campcraft, and river-crossing. Join our tours!

View Chris`s tours

Tour highlights

Ride Through the Clouds

Glide across the Southern Alps on the world-famous TranzAlpine train, where every turn reveals a postcard view

The Mighty Otira

Stand in awe at the Otira Viaduct, an engineering marvel cutting through wild alpine landscapes

Waterfall Wonder

Hike to Devil’s Punchbowl Falls, where a 131-meter cascade crashes into misty rainbows

Route details

Meet at Christchurch Railway Station
Your adventure begins at Christchurch Railway Station, near the TranzAlpine terminal, where your guide will greet you holding a sign with your booking name.

TranzAlpine Train Journey
Board the famous TranzAlpine train for a spectacular ride to Arthur’s Pass. With its large windows and sleek design, the train offers uninterrupted views of rolling plains, rugged gorges, and snow-dusted peaks—making it one of New Zealand’s most iconic rail experiences.

Otira Viaduct Lookout
Stop at the Otira Viaduct Lookout, where you can admire this impressive feat of engineering set against Arthur’s Pass’ dramatic alpine landscape. The sweeping views of the gorge and surrounding wilderness make this a perfect photo opportunity.

Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall
Take a short scenic walk through native forest to the towering Devil’s Punchbowl Falls, where water plunges 131 meters down a sheer rock face. Feel the mist on your face, listen to the roar of cascading water, and take in the raw beauty of this alpine wonder.

Arthur’s Pass Visitor Centre & Village
Visit the Arthur’s Pass Visitor Centre to learn about the region’s natural and cultural heritage, from unique alpine plants to Māori legends. While exploring the village, keep an eye out for kea—the cheeky alpine parrots that often entertain visitors with their curious antics.

Return Journey
Relax as you re-board the TranzAlpine train for a scenic ride back to Christchurch, carrying unforgettable memories of New Zealand’s alpine heartland.