Tongariro Alpine Crossing Self-Guided Hike

The iconic Tongariro crater rims on the Tongariro Crossing | Natalie Tambolash

The Mars like landscape of the Tongariro Crossing | Timo Volz

Tongariro Crossing, North Island NZ, one of the best one day walks in the world | Judy Quintal

Stunning views across the Tongariro Lakes | Natalie Tambolash

The iconic Tongariro crater rims on the Tongariro Crossing | Natalie Tambolash

The Mars like landscape of the Tongariro Crossing | Timo Volz

Tongariro Crossing, North Island NZ, one of the best one day walks in the world | Judy Quintal

Stunning views across the Tongariro Lakes | Natalie Tambolash

Moderate to Challenging

Activities

Self Guided Walk

Accommodation

2 nights Alpine Lodge

Meals

1 Lunch
2 Breakfasts

Price

3 daysfrom

$680NZD

View Inclusions

Overview
Itinerary
Map
Inclusions
Bike Information
Accommodation
Trail Surface
Suggested extensions
Related articles
Grading
Departure dates
Essential information
FAQs
Videos
Trip reviews
Why walk with us
Similar trips

Trip Code: GNP

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Trip highlights

Visit the Central Volcanic Plateau, with stunning views to Mount Tongariro, Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe
Traverse the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, and experience New Zealand's most popular Great Walk
Rest, dine and stay in an authentic Alpine Lodge
Soak away achy tired muscles in the Lodge Hot tubs

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing, an unforgettable 19km journey through the Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO Dual World Heritage Park recognized for it's spiritual and cultural significance and home to three active volcanic mountains; Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu.

After a morning transfer to Mangatepopo Carpark, begin the gradual climb between Mount Tongariro and Ngauruhoe, with a challenging ascent to the Red crater, the highest point of the trail at 1886m. Take in the magnificent views while you pause to catch your breath (on a clear day, you can see as far as Mount Taranaki).

After a short descent arrive at the majestic Emerald lakes. The turquoise colour that gives them their name is caused by minerals leaching from the surrounding thermal environment. Once you are rested, continue on the last section of the downhill journey via a sacred lake (Blue lake), to Ketetahi Carpark from where you are returned to your accommodation. This incredible walk includes challenging climbs and unpredictable weather, though it cannot be surpassed for dramatic, awe-inspiring natural scenery.

Itinerary

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Day 1
Arrive National Park

On arrival at National Park, check in to your trip accommodation any time after 2pm. Admire the close up views of Mount Ruapehu, Ngaruahoe and Tongariro as you relax and enjoy the preparations for tomorrows adventure.

Meals: Nil

Day 2
Walk The Tongariro Alpine Crossing (19km, 6-8 hrs)

After breakfast the journey beings with a shuttle from your trip accommodation to the Mangatepopo Valley. Commence your walk with a gradual ascent between Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe. Progress through a challenging climb to the South and then the Red crater, the highest point of the trail at 1886m. Take in the magnificent views while you pause to catch your breath. On a clear day, you can see as far as Mount Taranaki. After a short descent arrive at the majestic Emerald lakes, the highlight of today's walk. The brilliant colour that gives them their name is caused by minerals leaching from the surrounding thermal environment. With opportunities for stunning photos, this is the ideal place to stop for lunch. Continue on via a sacred lake (Blue lake), to the downhill section of the track. This can involve uneven terrain and loose scree, take care with your footing. Please respect the custom of Ngati Tuwharetoa and do not climb the peaks of Mounts Ngauruhoe and Tongariro. Ngati Tuwharetoa are the iwi who made the gift of these sacred peaks to Aotearoa New Zealand, and uphold these measures of guardianship and conservation. Also, the lakes on this walk are sacred; touching the water and swimming are not permitted. Arriving at Ketetahi Carpark, you are returned to your accommodation late afternoon. Enjoy the convenience of the onsite Hot tubs to soak tired muscles, enjoy a refreshment in the bar, and dine in the Lodge restaurant while reflecting on your Tongariro experience. A packed lunch is included for today's hike. NOTE: Please respect the custom of Ngati Tuwharetoa and do not climb the peaks of Mounts Ngauruhoe and Tongariro. Ngati Tuwharetoa are the Iwi who made the gift of these sacred peaks to Aotearoa New Zealand, and uphold these measures of guardianship and conservation. Also, the lakes on this walk are sacred; touching the water and swimming are not permitted.

Meals: B,L

Day 3
Depart National Park

After breakfast this morning, arrangements conclude upon check out.

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.

Inclusions

What's included

2 nights Alpine Lodge style hotel (twin share) with private bathroom
2 breakfasts, 1 packed lunch
Complimentary coffee and tea in room
Return road transfers from accommodation to trailheads
PLB - Personal Locator Beacon (must be returned as per instructions at the conclusion of the trip otherwise extra charges will apply)
App with map and route notes
Car park during your stay
Use of Lodge hot tubs
Free WiFi (at the lodge)

What's not included

Travel to National Park on Day 1 and onwards from National Park on Day 3
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks - available for purchase at the lodge
Optional activities, extras, upgrades
Items of a personal nature (eg. laundry, shopping, internet)
Daypack and water bottle
Travel insurance
Visa (if required)

Trail Surface

Alpine Track

These types of track are usually well formed, with easy to follow, clear signposting. Expect compacted earth, or rocky gravel for the majority of these walks. Track surfaces can include uneven terrain in places, which can be slippery at altitude. There are also rock and wooden steps, boardwalks, and wooden bridges, loose scoria and volcanic rock surfaces. They are generally wide enough for two people to pass side by side.

Accommodation

Alpine Lodge

All hotel rooms with ensuite bathroom, all linen included. Tea and coffee making facilities and television in room. Mobile phone reception, wifi and laundry facilities are available. The property is close to the centre of the village and is within walking distance of cafes, restaurants and bars. Hotel facilities include a Bar and Restaurant, drying room, car park and Guest Hot Tubs which are complimentary to use.

Grading

Moderate to Challenging
6

Our moderate to challenging hikes are designed for experienced adventurers who are seeking a challenge. It is important for anyone undertaking a moderate to challenging adventure, to be aware of the physical and mental demands involved. An above average level of fitness is required as the day can involve up to 8 hours of strenuous exercise in a remote and rugged landscape. High Altitudes on higher passes and crossings are to be expected. Hikers can expect to carry a day pack weighing under 10 kg. Terrain will often be rugged and uneven, and may venture off the beaten track. Weather conditions are Alpine and can be unpredictable. You will need to be prepared, and comfortable hiking in averse weather conditions. We recommend 45 minutes of aerobic type exercise, three to four times a week, to prepare. This can include swimming, jogging, hard walking or cycling - good cardiovascular exercise. Hill or stair walking with a loaded pack is also highly recommended at least once a week in variable weather conditions.

Departure dates

Daily from 16 October to 30 April

Notes

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing passes through volcanic hazard zones – even when the track is open, volcanic risk is present. Volcanic monitoring systems monitor activity and mitigate volcanic risk, but won't ensure your personal safety. If you are uncomfortable with this risk, please choose a different track.

The track passes through an alpine environment with changeable weather conditions at all times of year. It is common to experience very cold temperatures, strong wind, heavy rainfall and poor visibility in summer – especially at high altitude. Snow can fall at any time of year and is still possible in October at the beginning of the Great Walk season.

Note:

Single travellers cannot share accommodation with others, and a Solo Traveller Surcharge applies

Want to organise a customised tour?

School groups, friends, family trips, corporate events and even making the trail accessible for everyone. Learn how you can organise a Customised Tour with Great Walks of New Zealand.

Priceper person from

$680NZD

Options & Supplements*

Single SupplementNZD$80
Solo Traveller SurchargeNZD$130

*Prices listed are per person and also from

Essential Information

Ready to book? Make sure you download and read the detailed Tongariro Alpine Crossing Self-Guided Hike trip notes which contains all the essential information you need to know before booking. Once you’ve booked, we will supply you with a Pre-Departure document which contains a detailed gear list and other important information to help you prepare for your adventure ahead.

Videos

Tongariro Alpine Crossing | Tramping (Hiking) Video Series | New Zealand

Trip reviews

Why walk with us

Self-Guided Experts

Our itineraries have been carefully designed and researched with you in mind. The logistics are handled for you allowing you the freedom to walk New Zealand at a level of your choosing and in your own stride.

Kaitiakitanga

A core Maori value exercising guardianship in relation to nature, flora and fauna and its people, ensuring that sustainability and environment are valued, respected and protected for future generations to enjoy.

Supporting Local

As a small business ourselves, we love supporting and sharing New Zealand with other small and likeminded businesses and communities to showcase for you, what our land and people have to offer.

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