Tongariro Alpine Experience
The best features of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing are available in the trip we call the Tongariro Alpine Experience. Join us for a climb to the spectacular Red Crater of Mt Tongariro, and enjoy the chance to take in the majesty of this active volcanic massif. The views that spread far beyond the National Park will leave you breathless. Part of this walk is also available as a half day option.
A fully catered, quality guided walking experience up on to the awesome Mt Tongariro, this package includes transport from Turangi, National Park and Whakapapa Villages, a fantastic lunch, and, of course, all the benefits of being accompanied by one of our friendly, knowledgeable guides.
Learn of past eruptions, its significance to the local Maori, and the history of the first National Park in New Zealand.
This one day, 16km challenging alpine trek encounters a varied range of landforms and views, with areas of geological importance, and of great cultural significance, as it heads up and on to Mt Tongariro.
The trek begins at 1100m by heading into the Mangatepopo Valley, with its eroded volcanic terrain, evidence of the glacier that once carved it out, and more recently, lava flows from Mount Ngauruhoe.
This gradual climb takes about one to one and a half hours, before reaching the foot of new (2008) deviation. This climb takes around an hour, and is the greatest single gain of altitude for the day, but the views over the valley make it all worthwhile. The new track makes the climb truly manageable.
The walk through the very flat South Crater is easier and leads to the last climb for the day. The track leading up to the Summit Ridge is in a more natural state, and takes between half and three quarters of an hour. The prize is reaching Red Crater (1886m). The volcanic activity is so real that not only can you see it, but you can feel it and smell it too!
Below, the spectacular Central Crater sprawls out below, adorned with its three stunning Emerald Lakes. This may tempt walkers to head down the steep descent to the breathtaking Emerald Lakes. This exhilarating descent is optional, and those who choose it will need to head back up the same track to Red Crater. The views north to Lake Taupo never cease to impress.
We return to the Mangatepopo Valley via the same track we came up on, giving us the opportunity to see things from a different perspective, and we save ourselves from the very tiring descent on the northern side of the mountain.
New Zealand’s changeable climate is part of what makes our landscape so unique and spectacular, so we need to be prepared for this. The weather can change several times in a day, and it can snow in the Tongariro National Park at any time of year, so walkers need to dress appropriately and carry clothing suitable for all conditions.
Prices
| Trip size: 2 or more people | Trip Size: 1 Person | |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | $180.00 per person | $275.00 per person |
| Winter | $210.00 per person | $380.00 per person |
