TranzAlpine Train, Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip
Overview
Available languages
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
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
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.
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.
Options
TranzAlpine Train, Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip
Pickup included
Reviews
348 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great Day! Spectacular Scenery
Jeffrey F,
Aug 2, 2025
- Viator
5.00Great day - VERY well looked after throughout the day with lots of communication and information. Well worth it and of course the scenery is just spectacular! Highly recommended.
Lovely Train Ride
Lynn J,
Jul 29, 2025
- Viator
4.00The train ride is lovely, despite the poor weather we experienced. There are ample opportunities to enjoy the spectacular scenery.
The trip was really nice,...
Amel M,
Jul 28, 2025
- Viator
3.00The trip was really nice, great landscapes and the tour guide was kind but the trip was not worth the exorbitant price we paid, plus the lunch was not included for the price.
Tranz Alpine to Arthur's Pass
Nicola B,
Jul 5, 2025
- Viator
5.00This was the best of both worlds - experiencing the trip to Arthur's Pass by rail and then seeing it by road. Our travel guide was brilliant - he was so knowledgeable about the area and really took the time to explain everything to us. We were provided with water and snacks along the way and he made sure that everyone was having a fantastic experience. The Tranz Alpine part of the journey was quite magical - the scenery was breathtaking and the train was warm and comfortable. The mini bus from Arthur's Pass was pleasant to travel in and it was great to be able to stop at so many areas and explore. Highlights were the walk to the Devil's Punchbowl Falls and Castle Hill. You could choose to participate as much as you wanted to in each stop - this trip caters to all ages, abilities and fitness levels. We thoroughly enjoyed our day on this tour and would happily recommend it to any tourist - local or international.
Beautiful Views and great information
Karin G,
Jun 19, 2025
- Viator
5.00The 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.
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Operated by NZSI Tours & Travel