Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, located in the Canterbury region of New Zealand, is a true paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. With its breathtaking landscapes, rugged mountains, and pristine alpine beauty, this national park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of what New Zealand has to offer.
The centerpiece of the park is, of course, Aoraki / Mount Cook itself. Standing at an impressive height of 3,724 meters (12,218 feet), it is the highest peak in New Zealand and a sight to behold. The mountain is surrounded by a stunning alpine landscape, with glaciers, lakes, and rivers that reflect the majestic beauty of the surrounding peaks.
One of the most popular activities in the park is hiking. With a range of trails catering to all levels of fitness and experience, visitors can explore the park's diverse ecosystems and witness its unique flora and fauna up close. The Hooker Valley Track is a favorite among visitors, offering stunning views of the Southern Alps, as well as the opportunity to see the Mueller Glacier and the iconic Hooker Lake.
For the more adventurous, mountaineering and climbing are also popular activities in the park. Experienced climbers can challenge themselves with ascents of Aoraki / Mount Cook itself or other nearby peaks, while those looking for a less strenuous adventure can try their hand at ice climbing on the park's many glaciers.
In addition to its natural beauty, Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park also offers a range of facilities and amenities for visitors. There are several accommodation options available, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites, ensuring that there is something to suit every traveler's needs. The park also has a visitor center, where visitors can learn more about the park's history, geology, and wildlife.
Canterbury
Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park Attractions - What to See and Explore
Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Aoraki / Mount Cook, Mount Ollivier, Southern Alps, Blue Lake. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Church of the Good Shepherd (Lake Tekapo), Lake Matheson (Fox Glacier), West Coast Wildlife Centre (Franz Josef).
Best Time To Visit Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park
Learn when is the best time to travel to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Kea
The kea is a species of large parrot in the family Nestoridae found in the forested and alpine regions of the South Island of New Zealand.
Birds
New Zealand kaka
The New Zealand kaka is a large species of parrot of the family Nestoridae found in native forests of New Zealand. Two subspecies are recognised. It is endangered and has disappeared from...
Birds
Himalayan tahr
The Himalayan tahr is a large even-toed ungulate native to the Himalayas in southern Tibet, northern India and Nepal. It is listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List, as the population...
Mammals
Red Deer, Elk, Hangul, Maral, Wapiti
The red deer is one of the largest deer species. The red deer inhabits most of Europe, the Caucasus Mountains region, Asia Minor, Iran, parts of western Asia, and central Asia.
Mammals
Great spotted kiwi
The great spotted kiwi, great grey kiwi or roroa is a species of kiwi endemic to the South Island of New Zealand. The great spotted kiwi, as a member of the ratites, is flightless. It is...
Birds
Canterbury