Half Day Tongariro Alpine Guided Group Walk
4.5

Half Day Tongariro Alpine Guided Group Walk

By Adrift Tongariro
Recommended by 92% of travellers
92% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
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Ages 10-99, max of 60 per group
Duration: 4h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
More


  • Professional and qualified guide/s.
  • All mountain equipment required (including crampons and ice axes during winter).
  • Footwear and clothing to supplement up to a NZD40 free allowance.
  • Live tour commentary provided in English.
  • Transport between the start & end of the tour and the Adrift Tongariro base (National Park Village)
What's not included
  • Beverages, bottled water, or snacks
  • Lunch
  • Gratuities
  • Return accommodation transfers from Whakapapa Villages available at a surcharge


Start:
  • 53 Carroll Street, National Park 3989, New Zealand
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    • Not wheelchair accessible
    If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 54431P2

    • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
    • Not recommended for travellers with back problems
    • Not recommended for pregnant travellers
    • No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
    • Most travellers can participate
    • It is essential all clients phone the Adrift Tongariro base between 10:00am - 5:00pm the day prior to trip date to confirm tour departure time and discuss exact timings. +64 7892 2751. Each participant to fill out a waiver prior to arriving on site. Look out for your link or QR code in your inbox 3 days before your tour date.
    • Minimum 2 people. Individual bookings are welcome, as the tour does generally meet minimum numbers, especially on good weather days. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements.
    • Tour starts and finishes at the Adrift Tongariro Base. Transport between the Adrift Tongariro base (53 Carroll St, National Park Village) and the activity are included in the price.
    • All transfers meet at the Adrift base the morning of the tour where our guides will check everyone in, go over the days trip conditions and assess and provide the required equipment, and additional clothing and boots if needed.
    • Transfers from Whakapapa Village are available on request for an additional charge. All transfers require a minimum of 2 people.
    • A medium level of fitness is required.
    • Gear List: Water, outdoor shoes with grip, long walking pants, 2 x warm tops and a raincoat.
    • Minimum age is 12 years
    • This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
    • This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 60 travellers

    • All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.

    If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 54431P2

    From
    $324.00
    per adult
    Select date and travellers

    Similar experiences

    Itinerary
    • 53 Carroll Street, National Park 3989, New Zealand
    • 1
      Our base
      Pass by
      Mount Ngauruhoe
    About the operator
    Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
    • Adrift Tongariro
      737
      New Zealand
      Joined in June 2012
    • timsK1930YX
      0 contributions
      4.0 of 5 bubbles
      Well organised and experienced guide but let down by the slow pace
      This was a well organised walk with an experienced guide. The weather played a big part in ensuring a great day but I can imagine if the weather was different then the loss of the views of the spectacular scenery would have changed the experience negatively. It is an all day hike and in a group the speed is set by the slowest person which if you are fit is rather frustrating. Our hike took nearly 9 hours when we could have walked it in 7 I think. The lunch provided was good and substantial and the other hikers were friendly and chatty but if you are under a time pressure to return to your accommodation then bear this in mind. We were also staying in Turangi which is a 45 minute drive from Adrifts meeting point.
      Written 15 February 2025
    • JaneS490
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Great experience, caring professional guides.
      Great experience with helpful professional guiding. Lots of information on volcanoes and the landscape. I was unwell part way through, most likely altitude sickness, the guide was caring and thoughtful, and with the addition of salts to my water and the drop in altitude, I was able to fully recover and finish. Many thanks.
      Written 14 February 2025
    • bronwynt127
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      A stunning walk
      This walk was stunning. The scenery was other worldly with dormant volcanoes, a crater, rocks venting gases and amazing emerald lakes. Our guides were excellent giving tips for walking different sections, ensuring regular stops and were attentive to each walker’s capabilities. Would highly recommend.
      Written 9 February 2025
    • timfG3415RL
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Incredible!
      This was an amazing day. We got to the office at 8am and they wanted to be sure we had the right clothes, suncream, etc and enough water. We had ordered lunch, which was very good. The walk started promptly at 9 after the minibus transfer, and it was immediately obvious we had excellent guides, led by the incredible Kenny. The trek is hard and not for the light hearted, but the views, the spectacle, and the overall experience are something we will never forget.
      Written 4 February 2025
    • 94stephanef
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Must do ion NZ !!!
      Best hike in NZ with 2 amazing guides. The diversity of the scenery is out of this world. Highly recommended (although the last 6kms were tough) !!!!
      Written 4 February 2025
    • B6958HUstevec
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Spectacular scenery and excellent guides
      Quite spectacular scenery - and we were lucky to have fantastic weather. Kayla and her colleague were excellent guides - just the right amount of pushing/encouragement to get an unfit 70 year old through to the end.
      Written 4 February 2025
    • susanegill
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Tongariro Crossing
      Brilliant experience. It's tough, it's long, it's exhausting, but it's absolutely fantastic! Our guide Kenny was very knowledgeable and experienced. He made sure we were safe. He made sure we were all capable, and he made sure we all enjoyed and understood the experience. We were so lucky with the weather. The views were absolutely amazing. Would highly recommend
      Written 3 February 2025
    • Karen L
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Great hike on the Tongariro Crossing
      Fantastic experience and a definite must do for anyone that likes walking. It’s tough at times, but very doable. 7.5 hours and 19.4km…… Toilets all along the walk. Loved the red crater and the lakes. Fantastic views. The guides were very experienced and gave good advice. Very personable and helpful. Lunch is provided as a picnic. Take lots of water and layers to put on and take off. Very well organised and Adrift do have some spare items of clothing and shoes if yours aren’t appropriate for the hike.
      Written 2 February 2025
    • Brownshona
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Excellent
      Excellent guides who looked after everyone in the group. Good packed lunch too! A challenging but great day out. Amazing views and memories.
      Written 2 February 2025
    • SimonC2855
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Tongariro Crossing
      What an amazing trek! Extremely dramatic scenery, and stunning views. The guides were amazing; very professional, very knowledgeable and very safety conscious but all done in an amiable way. Kenny and Ty were brilliant at immersing the group in Māori culture and traditions, which was a great added bonus and beautiful. I loved every second of the trek!
      Written 31 January 2025
    • HeroProtagonist1980
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Wonderful hiking experience
      Amazing time with Adrift Tongariro. Made the mistake of not bringing a lunch (don't do that) and one the guides was kind enough to share ample food to sustain me during the hike. Highly recommend hiking poles for the hike down the mountain to put less stress on your knees.
      Written 30 January 2025
    • aesica
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      A walk in the Park😉
      What a fantastic hike! We were looked after very well by Stu & Kenny. It was very clear that safety was at the top of their list but they certainly went out of their way to make the whole experience interesting & fun. Not saying it wasn’t easy, but the pace was perfect as we made our way over the different terrain. At the lakes the views were stunning although the wind was ferocious so a hooded jacket was a must despite the beautiful sunny blue sky day. The lunch we purchased was more than adequate & Kenny found the perfect wind free spot for an exceptional picnic location. A great long day covering around 24k. There is also plenty of street parking space outside their office. Would recommend these guys👍🏻
      Written 28 January 2025
    • Julie T
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Fantastic hike
      Was a fantastic day, very challenging for a couple of 60+ year olds but we were brilliantly led by Cassie going at a sensible pace with regular stops who knew the walk well. The views were breathtaking!!! Thanks to Robbie too for checking our kit and driving us to the start and collecting us at the end with her very cute dogs!! Thank you both. Andy and Julie
      Written 23 January 2025
    • E2670DVjoa
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Great experience
      As a (slightly) older, solo, female traveller, safety is paramount in every activity I undertake. As this was my first attempt at the Tongariro Crossing, I decided to join a group rather than going it alone. I am so glad I did. The team at Adrift (Stu- kit boy and chauffeur, and Ant- tour guide extraordinaire and Lord of the Rings expert) were brilliant from start to finish. Before the trip we were advised of what to wear and what to bring, told to confirm the day before ( for numbers and weather conditions) and asked about any health or fitness issues. On arrival at Adrift we were warmly welcomed, individually checked for appropriate gear and lent those items they felt we needed for the conditions. As it was, none of us needed to use what we borrowed, as the weather was better than expected. Better to be safe than sorry, though. Our group was small, four overseas visitors and myself, all a similar age and fitness level. This made for a lovely chill group, 'old and stubborn' which meant we were unlikely to turn back at any point! Ant set a steady pace, not too fast but certainly not too slow, which made the uphill sections manageable. We stopped regularly for photographs, interesting bits of information, breath catching or toilet breaks ( don't forget to bring toilet paper in your pack, although Ant brought some along if you forget). We tended to keep together as a group, in spite of many others taking the same path, and I noticed Ant checking on the 'tail end charlies '( usually me) regularly. The most challenging part for me, as I had anticipated, was the scree on the downhill just after the summit. We stopped for lunch just after the crest, in a wonderfully sheltered and warm spot, which allowed us to watch how others handled the terrain. This was reassuring, as was the encouragement and instruction Ant gave, steering us to the sandier path and suggesting a sliding approach. Once down the scree, we could enjoy the Emerald lakes and the descent. With work being done on the track, there were places where it was treacherous underfoot but again there was no rush and regular check ins. We completed the walk in almost exactly eight hours, a testament to the guide and the group and the van was waiting to take us back to base. All in all, this was an excellent way to experience the Crossing with good company, good banter, good attention to safety and ultimately a huge sense of achievement. I highly recommend this crew; I'd happily do this hike again
      Written 13 January 2025
    • Andrew_from_Kingham
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      New Zealand’s Best Day Walk
      The “best day walk in New Zealand” lived up to its reputation. We walked the pass in perfect weather and were well looked after by Adrift. This is a big walk; the ascent requires stamina and the descent good knees! The path is at times demanding but the rewards worth the effort. The Adrift team are competent and caring. They are attentive to the challenges and look after the walkers. Take their advice about kit seriously they know what they are doing.
      Written 8 January 2025
    See all 737 reviews
    These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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    4.5
    4.5 of 5 bubbles13 reviews
    Excellent
    11
    Very good
    1
    Average
    0
    Poor
    0
    Terrible
    1

    Jane D
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Feb 2024 • Couples
    Our trip with Adrift Tongariro was well organised and from the talk and weather report beforehand, always had safety in mind. We had glorious blue skies for the half day but the full day people had to consider high winds coming in later during the afternoon. Although starting together the full day people had to move on ahead at a particular point and we, doing half day, could take the pace at a slower rate which suited our group. Corbyn was great at knowing when we needed to take the uphill more slowly and tactful at moving us along on the flatter boardwalks or after a break!
    The scenery was amazing and thoroughly enjoyed the walk even though we could not make it to the better known landmarks of the full walk.
    Written 1 February 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Carolyn T
    Larne, UK188 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Excellent and prompt customer service from Robyn. Online the walk appeared full but with the recent cyclone impacting the North Island I emailed to enquire if a spot was available the following morning and immediately had a response.

    You set off with the full day crossing before they break off to tackle the 19.4k at pace. This walk is tailored to your pace but is still 5k over slight inclines typical of a hike. Its definitely doable provided you do these at home. The scenery is amazing to enjoy and you can see how quickly the weather changes.

    They will ensure you have appropriate clothing and footwear and lend you items as needed. You take a transfer to the start where you also get picked up from again.

    I did this with a lovely bunch of people and the guides were friendly and always attentive to the group whilst giving background and insight.
    Written 18 February 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    NorthStar53640356807
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Oct 2024 • Family
    Our guided trip with Adrift Tongairiro was one of a lifetime experience! We could only make it up to the Soda springs as it started snowing. Stu and Kayla were great. We thoroughly enjoyed the walk with amazing views and took lots of pictures!!
    Written 11 October 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thank you for taking the time to share your positive experience! We’re so glad to hear you enjoyed your half day tour with us.
    Written 13 October 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    GrandTour20897323420
    1 contribution
    1.0 of 5 bubbles
    Sept 2023 • Couples
    Listen to the other reviewers calling this a scam. They don’t even bother to tell you they are cancelling, we had to call. And when we did, they refused a refund. You cannot charge for services not rendered. They clearly word their booking policy to make it seem like if the customer cancels, no refund — but it is VERY much not clear that they can just cancel on you and keep your money. It was very telling that when I asked whether they have this situation frequently, she said yes. We will be considering dispute tribunal to resolve if not resolved individually. Their employee accused me of trying to steal from them and when I posited that they in fact were intentionally deceitful, she began yelling and abruptly hung up on me. I found her comments very hurtful but did not discontinue the conversation because I was sure we could resolve it with reason. They were unwilling. To be clear, they are withholding approx $700 NZD from us without providing ANY services whatsoever.
    Written 17 September 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Rebecca C
    Phoenix, AZ7 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    While traveling through New Zealand for our honeymoon, my husband and I were so eager to do the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. While we usually prefer to do hikes on our own, we are so glad that we chose to do this one as a guided tour. Our two guides, Robert and Kenny, did a great job pacing the group for the different skill levels and had so much knowledge on the cultural history and geology of the area. Robert entertained us throughout the whole hike explaining the uniqueness of New Zealand’s topography including areas we mentioned we were going next. They gave great safety advice for the more difficult areas and even had cool refreshments waiting at the end for us! 100% recommend using Adrift for this trek.
    Written 24 January 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thank you for the great review! We are glad to have guided you on your honeymoon.
    Written 6 February 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Moira S
    11 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Oct 2024 • Couples
    Can't thank this team enough! Pre-trip Robyn quelled any concerns i had about the safety set up. On the day our guides Ant and Gregor were spot on. Really friendly but in command of the group.

    I struggled as anticipated. Ant and Gregor had a descreet chat and the group was offerred an alternative route for anyone interested in a slightly less challenging experience.

    Honestly i loved it! Achieved way more than i had anticipsted and had the most enjoyable day on the mountain chatting with Ant and my partner. The fog even partially cleared and we had some fantastic views of the valley
    Written 9 November 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear that you had such a great experience with us. Your kind words mean a lot to our team, and we're delighted that we were able to make your visit special. We truly appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you back again soon for another fantastic experience!
    Written 19 November 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    John W
    Melbourne, Australia397 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Feb 2019 • Solo
    The title says it all but on this walk this is basically just what you do. Maybe not just where the movie was filmed but it gives you a great idea of the area in which Lord of the Rings was filmed. I had several reason for only wanting to do the half day walk and the main 2 were that I was a bit pushed for time on this trip and secondly I did not want to be in pain ( completing the whole walk ) for a couple of days. This 10k walk - 5 in and 5 out is a good walk and we had great Guides and great people to walk with.

    The half day walk does not compare with the whole crossing nor is it as physically demanding. But it pressed for time them do it.
    Written 4 April 2019
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Naomi
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Aug 2021 • Friends
    The snowy views were amazing! And I would highly recommend the guided tour for any beginner with adrift you will have great yarns with hero and stew
    Written 13 August 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    RebecR
    Whitianga, Waikato, New Zealand27 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Two of us had a lovely walk over the Tongariro Crossing, guided by Hiro. He knew lots about the area and shared his enjoyment of hiking with us.
    Written 29 December 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Findgns
    Auckland, New Zealand3 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Dec 2020 • Couples
    Stu took such good care of my parents who were in their late 70s. They had a wonderful time and were in safe hands. Soda springs was the perfect walk for them.
    Written 21 December 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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    *Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

    Half Day Tongariro Alpine Guided Group Walk provided by Adrift Tongariro

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