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
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
Fino Hotel & Suites
87 Kilmore Street Christchurch New Zealand
Chateau on the Park - Christchurch, a DoubleTree by Hilton
189 Dean Avenue, Riccarton Christchurch New Zealand
Adina Heritage Christchurch
28 - 30 Cathedral Square, Christchurch New Zealand
Crowne Plaza Christchurch By IHG
764 Colombo Street, Armagh St. Christchurch New Zealand
Hotel Montreal
363 Montreal Street Christchurch New Zealand
The Mayfair
155 Victoria Street Christchurch New Zealand
Distinction Christchurch Hotel
14 Cathedral Square Christchurch New Zealand
Quest on Kilmore
93 Kilmore Street Christchurch New Zealand
Wyndham Garden Christchurch City
64 Kilmore Street Christchurch New Zealand
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
394 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Fantastic Day Trip!
Jenny F,
Nov 20, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00It is totally worth the day trip. A very beautiful and interesting place to visit. The incredible history behind Arthurs Pass was great to see first-hand by train and road, as well as waterfalls, man-made via ducts, amazing road structures & huge natural sacred limestone rock formations. AJ our coach driver was excellent and very informative of the whole area, from current NZ exports, sizes of population in varying areas to the history of Arthurs Pass.
Thanks for to take care...
HongH L,
Nov 17, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Thanks for to take care of us ion the return trip. The tour guide was very helpful, very clear explanation make it like I was going back to the school year of history study, thanks so much.
Nice day and interesting sites.
Lucy S,
Nov 15, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Very nice day. Our guide was very pleasant and he was very informative about alternatives to the 400 stair climb. We loved the chapel and had a nice lunch. The guide was also good about giving us times to return to the bus and pointing out interesting things. The train ride was easy and nice views and on time.
Incredible Day!!! To Arthur’s Pass
Kerry J,
Nov 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00My husband and I had the most amazing day. Thank you to our tour guide/driver. He was incredible. Very informative, such a lovely guy. The snacks were very yummy and appreciated! Arthur’s Pass was well worth the visit. I would highly recommend this tour to all. Thank you!
Tour guide was knowledgeable and caring
Ellen S,
Nov 12, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This was a great day out and our tour guide couldn’t have been more thoughtful and accommodating. The train ride is lovely but I enjoyed the bus back just as much. The stops along the way with loads of information regarding what to expect and how long it would take to do each walk was greatly appreciated. The walk to devil’s punchbowl was challenging but we were given lots of time to make the trek and the same is true at Castle hill, plenty of time to enjoy the walk. The water and snacks were delightful and the whole day was incredibly relaxing.
Train going and minibus returning from Arthur’s Pass filled with wonderful vistas and stops on return that were must see
Stephen C,
Nov 8, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00We were able to see much of Canterbury plains and the Southern Alps in a comfortable train coach, and many of the highlights of same on return in minibus
The experience was...
Trevor H,
Nov 8, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00The experience was fantastic, the train ride was a relaxing experience. The return trip was a great experience with a knowledgeable and thoughtful driver. The drivers and knowledge of the area including land systems and agriculture was very insightful. I would recommend this trip to everyone.
Trans Alpine rail trip
RICKI P,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00I thoroughly enjoyed the day Very friendly guide polite and very considerate Scenery was spectacular No complaints
Arthur's Pass
Christopher Y,
Nov 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00A really lovey day. Pick up on time in a clean and comfortable people carrier/ mini van and returned us back to Christchurch at expected time. The guide was excellent with really good knowledge and provided us with timely information. Water and snacks were freely available The itinerary was as stated with ample time for the planned walks. The guide/driver was polite and respectful at all times and ensured everyone was comfortable.
Amazing trip, magnificent...
Natalia C,
Nov 2, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Amazing trip, magnificent views, must-to-do experience. The drive was very friendly and helpful. So much fun!
From NZ$410.00
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