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.

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

Options

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

Pickup included

Reviews

4.83

339 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

291

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.
Enjoy the Transalpine...
Lucy N,
Apr 29, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Enjoy the Transalpine Train ride and the scenery! The tour with Anuj was even better, he is very knowledgeable, we learn a lot from him. The two hikes were also great! My husband left his hat on the bus, they delivered it back to us the next day, appreciate it very much!
Absolutely wonderful day and experience!!!!
Chirag B,
Apr 28, 2025
- Viator
5.00
This was easily one of the best things we did while in our vacation for New Zealand from Christ Church. Anuj our driver was absolutely fantastic in giving us so much information and being very helpful and courteous and looking after the entire group throughout the whole day The train ride up was fantastic I mean the views that you get during this train ride were amazing. I would also encourage people to go to the open car that you can see unobstructed views of the landscape. The food car was also awesome cuz it allowed you to get caught and cold beverages and hot and cold sandwiches so that was also a nice touch The afternoon hiking from Arthur's Pass to Castle Hill rocks to the largest waterfall and everything was absolutely an amazing experience The pictures and the vistas and just amazing NOTE: one word of caution to everyone when you get to the Devil's Punchbowl Waterfall Your driver may say that it is medium to moderate effort. I want to warn people that if you are not in good healthy aerobic condition that the number of steps that you will have to climb over the entire length of the trail is incredibly demanding and taxing I don't care who you are. Is it worth it at the end absolutely The payoff and the waterfall is phenomenal but do not underestimate the amount of exertion effort on these stairs 🙂
Loved the TranzAlpine tour!
Shane B,
Apr 27, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Train was great, although a little grubby. Bus driver was fantastic, knowledgeable and nothing was too much trouble.