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

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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

WiFi on board

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

Bottle water and light snacks

Pickup and drop-off from selected Central Christchurch Hotels.

Lunch

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup points

Select a pickup point

What To Expect

1

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
2

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

370 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

318
44
6
1
1
  • Great way to experience Christchurch!

    Janet V,

    Oct 8, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    Excellent scenery and grateful for the experience to hike and explore the scapes between tye stops. Met some great people along the way.

  • A great day trip out of the city

    Patricia R,

    Oct 6, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    We had a fantastic day out. The tour started on the Trans Alpine which was amazing. At Arthur’s Pass our tour guide Anuj collected us and we started the tour component. Anuj was great and very knowledgeable about the area. There are some physical walks so this is something to keep in mind when booking the tour. We had a few people on our tour who had mobility restrictions and he was able to provide some suggestions on how they could still get the most of the day. I found it a really enjoyable day and is great for people who want to get out of Christchurch but don’t want to hire a car.

  • This was an incredible...

    Rachael L,

    Sep 30, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    This was an incredible all day trip. It started with a scenic ride through the Southern Alps on the Tranzalpine train. We were in awe of the views from the train. Once there we enjoyed seeing Arthur's Pass and the hike up to Devil's Punchbowl. Our wonderful tour guide made many more stops along the way where we sawspectacular views. This trip is a must if you visit Christchurch. Highly recommend!!

  • Awesome adventure on the TranzAlpine train tour through Artures Pass in Southern Alps of NZ.

    Richard P,

    Sep 30, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    Awesome Adventure on the Trazsalpine train through the Canterbury Valley to Arthur's Pass. Amazing rugged scenery and a great Tour guide Anju 'AJ'.

  • It was an amazing...

    Valerie T,

    Sep 30, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    It was an amazing experience. Our driver was very good. Loved the snacks along the way too. We even had ponchos given to us due to the rain falling.

From NZ$410.00

4.83
370 reviews