If you’re drawn to dramatic alpine landscapes, towering glaciers, and some of New Zealand’s most rewarding hiking trails, Aoraki Mount Cook National Park should be at the top of your travel list. Home to the country’s highest peak, Aoraki (Mount Cook), the park combines natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural significance in one unforgettable destination. Whether you’re joining a guided tour or travelling in a private motorhome, this guide will help you plan and enjoy your visit to the fullest.
Sights to See at Aoraki Mount Cook National Park
1. Hooker Valley Track
One of the most popular walks in the park, the Hooker Valley Track offers breathtaking views of Mount Cook, glacier lakes, and swinging suspension bridges. This easy 10-km return walk takes around 3 hours and is suitable for all fitness levels, a must-do on your Mount Cook tour.
2. Tasman Glacier and Blue Lakes
The Tasman Glacier is the largest glacier in New Zealand, stretching over 23 km long. You can take a short walk to the Tasman Glacier Viewpoint or opt for a guided boat tour across the terminal lake to see the glacier up close. Nearby, the Blue Lakes offer another picturesque stop, where the reflection of Mount Cook on a clear day is simply stunning.
3. Mueller Hut
For those looking for a more challenging hike, the Mueller Hut Route is a rewarding climb offering panoramic views of Aoraki Mount Cook and the surrounding glaciers. The trek takes around 4-6 hours one way, so it’s best suited for experienced hikers. Staying overnight in the hut is an unforgettable experience for those wanting to wake up to spectacular alpine views.
4. Kea Point Track
A shorter alternative to the Hooker Valley Track, the Kea Point Track is a 2.8 km return walk leading to a viewpoint overlooking the Mueller Glacier and Mount Cook. It’s a great option if you’re short on time but still want to experience the park’s beauty.
5. The Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre
Located at the Hermitage Hotel, this museum and planetarium is dedicated to the legendary mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary, who trained in the park before summiting Mount Everest. The centre offers fascinating exhibits about the history of climbing in the region and Mount Cook’s unique alpine environment.
Planning Your Tour
1. Best Time to Visit
Mount Cook National Park is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences:
- Summer (December–February): Ideal for hiking, with warmer temperatures and long daylight hours.
- Autumn (March–May): Fewer crowds, stunning autumn colours, and still great hiking conditions.
- Winter (June–August): Snow-covered peaks make for spectacular scenery, and it’s the best time for mountaineering or scenic flights.
- Spring (September–November): A great mix of snow-capped mountains and blooming wildflowers.
2. How to Get There
Mount Cook National Park is located in the South Island, about 3.5 hours from Queenstown, 4 hours from Christchurch, and 2 hours from Lake Tekapo.
Kia Ora Campers can deliver your campervan to Queenstown, Christchurch, or another location to make it easy for you.
3. Where to Stay
If you’re exploring Mount Cook via campervan, there are great places to stay nearby:
- White Horse Hill Campground: The closest campsite to the park’s main trails, with stunning mountain views.
- Glentanner Park Centre: A short drive from the park, offering powered and non-powered campervan sites.
- Lake Pukaki Reserve: A scenic freedom camping spot with breathtaking views of Mount Cook.
Explore Mount Cook with Kia Ora Campers
Ready to experience the beauty of Mount Cook? Kia Ora Campers offers fully equipped campervans for hire to suit your travel style, from 2-berth options to luxurious 4-berth models. Book your campervan today and get ready to experience the beauty of Mount Cook!