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Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Tongariro National Park

4.6
#1 of 187 in Things to do in Manawatu-Wanganui Region
Must see · Hiking Trail · Nature / Park
Get ready for an outdoor adventure among some of New Zealand's best volcanic scenery at Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Linking Mangatepopo and Ketetahi hot springs, this hiking trail leads you past three active volcanoes, colorful mineral-filled lakes, steaming fumaroles, and boiling springs. With a length of 19.4 km (12.1 mi) and frequent rugged terrain, the trek requires a reasonable level of fitness, adequate equipment, and, importantly, sufficient amounts of drinking water. During the summer numerous shuttles operate between the two trailheads and connect them to the nearby towns. In the winter, however, very few shuttles run; avoid long waits or having to walk back to your car by taking one of the guided tours that includes a bus transfer. A visit to Tongariro Alpine Crossing represents just the start of the adventure when you use our Tongariro National Park trip itinerary website to plot your vacation.
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Tours to Tongariro Alpine Crossing

FROM $36 BOOK WITH VIATOR Tongariro Crossing Return Transfer from Turangi
5.0
Duration: 8 hours
Tours from $36 »
FROM $15 BOOK WITH VIATOR Tongariro Self-Guided Audio Tour
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Tours from $15 »

Tongariro Alpine Crossing reviews

Rate this attraction
TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 5.0
2,168 reviews
Google
4.5
TripAdvisor
  • By Ilovetheatre
    What a day, incredible. We did this hike in December 2019 and it is weather dependent. We began in heavy mist but were told it would be clear up top. Don't be fooled, this is a hard day's hike, wear.....  more »
  • By elijahhaisley8901PT
    One of our best hike we've have ever done. Hands down. To me and my wife it is indeed considered one if the finest single day walks in the world. quite challenging of course by any means, and it will....  more »
  • By biddygal
    What a bl**ody fantastic experience. It was well worth the pain and stiffness that followed the coming days. The day we chose was magic and a gift from above. NZ you are the home of homes! Proud to...  more »
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Google
  • By Akash Kubavat
    Very good hike. Hiking stick recommended. First climbing part of steps little though. Upto tip or red crator tougher. Then enjoy till cross the blue lake. Down hill need stronger knee bone. Take extra care for knee jerk. The last bush jungle part seems never ending. Overall good experience. You feel great once reach to ketetahi car park on time.
  • By Alex
    DOC recomends the staring point for Tongariro Alpine Crossing, because it is easier than start from other side, it has toilets & parking (max 4 hrs) facility before or after the hike.
  • By M N Scott
    Closest landscape I’ll get to Mars in New Zealand. Amazing scenery and views throughout the walk. Give it a whole day to take time to capture all the sights. Bring plenty of water and appropriate clothing. There were tourists in jeans and Jandals when we did it and apart from looking like muppets they struggled. Keep an eye on volcanic activity too. Just in case. Only downside for me was the thousands of others doing this the same day. Quota system would be good or alternatively to beat the crowds do a guided tour out of season.
  • By Salma Bakr
    Best hike I’ve ever done! Did the whole crossing once, and halfway then back once.
  • By Andrew Malkhasian
    Was looking forward to this place for a solid 10kms of walking. It has plenty of enough room for the "rescue bus"
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Popular things to do in Tongariro National Park

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Nature in Tongariro National Park

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Trails in Tongariro National Park

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Nearby attractions in Tongariro National Park

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