TranzAlpine Train, Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip

Overview

Available languages

English

10 hours

Mobile ticket

Experience the South Island's remarkable natural landscapes by taking a journey on the TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass, which is considered one of the world's greatest train journeys for the scenery through which 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 & adventure seekers.

Additional Info

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A small amount of walking is involved.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

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.

Fully guided tour except the walks in the National Park & Castle Hill.

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.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Bottled water

National Park fees

Transport by air-conditioned late model Minibus.

Fully guided tour except the walks.

TranzAlpine Train from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass.

Small group

Pickup and drop-off from selected Central Christchurch Hotels.

Lunch

What To Expect

Christchurch Cathedral

After pick-up from your hotel at 7.30am, your guide will drop you to the train station in Christchurch for one of the greatest train journey's in the world. Travel on the TranzAlpine train & admire the stunning scenery through panoramic windows & open air viewing decks. Disembark the train at Arthur's Pass National Park where you will meet your guide again.

•Admission Not Applicable

Otira Viaduct Lookout

Then drive down to Otira Viaduct which provide impressive views of red flowering rata in summer months & grab the opportunity to spot the inquisitive Kea (alpine parrot) well known for its cheeky nature.

30 minutes•Admission Not Applicable

Options

TranzAlpine Train, Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip

Pickup included

Reviews

4.83

344 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

296

Beautiful Views and great information
Karin G,
Jun 19, 2025
- Viator
5.00
The guide picks you up at selected meeting place then takes you to the train station. He heads off to drive to Arthur's Pass while you ride the train. It was a very nice ride with beautiful views! There is an app for the trainline to listen to information about the places you see along the way. It is a slow drive with the ability to go into an open cart to get better pictures. The guide met us in Arthur's Pass after we departed the train. He drove us to a few more places along the way with time to explore in each area and gave us a lot of information about each place. We went during the beginning of winter and so I can imagine the scenry would look 10x better in spring or summer. It was a very nice way to spend the day.
Must-Do Day Trip! Unbelievable!
Zareen H,
May 23, 2025
- Viator
5.00
The entire journey from start to finish was awesome. Our guide Anuj was Top-notch and was very informative while also giving us more than enough time in each spot to look around and take photos. As for the spots we were taken to, it was UNBELIEVABLE. No matter what season, you must take this day trip!
The guide was very...
WaiPik M,
May 15, 2025
- Viator
5.00
The guide was very professional, gave us clear information and instructions during the trip, and was quite funny. The view of this trip is gorgeous.
Excellent day of relaxing...
Gilles G,
May 1, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Excellent day of relaxing on the train, then hiking on trails. Scenery was well worth it even on a rainy day. Highly recommended.
Awesome tour
Melisa B,
Apr 30, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Great way to get the most out of your trip to Arthur’s Pass by train one way and a mini bus on the way back stopping at all the different tourist sites. Punch bowl was worth the walk. Many other sites to stop and take photos. Great driver and terrific guide.