Mount Cook Holidays

Things to do in and around Mount Cook

Mount Cook offers a splendid retreat for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring accessible hiking trails and various activities perfect for couples. Visitors can explore the recreational areas and take in breathtaking scenery while engaging in adventures unique to New Zealand. The local activity centre provides additional options for those seeking guided experiences and insights into the area’s natural beauty.

Shopping

In Mount Cook, local shops offer unique souvenirs like handmade crafts and outdoor gear. If you're up for a drive, visit Twizel’s shopping centre, featuring a variety of stores for gifts and groceries, or head to the nearby Lake Tekapo Village for more boutique options.

Recreation

At Waiho Hot Tubs, located 24.1km from Mount Cook, indulge in soothing body treatments surrounded by serene landscapes. Feel the warmth of the natural hot tubs as you unwind, embracing the tranquil atmosphere that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation in this picturesque setting.

Adventure

The Hooker Valley Track offers an exhilarating hiking experience amidst breathtaking alpine scenery, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the Governors Bush Walk Trailhead for a thrilling adventure in lush surroundings. For a unique perspective, enjoy a scenic flight with Air Safaris to witness stunning landscapes from above.

Nightlife

Mount Cook offers a serene nightlife, perfect for stargazing. After a day of exploring, relax at the Hermitage Hotel's bar, which boasts stunning views of the mountains. Alternatively, enjoy a quiet evening at the nearby café, where you can savour local wines and delicious desserts.

Find the best attractions in Mount Cook

Mount Cook is ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including national parks, magnificent glaciers, and the informative visitor centre. These points of interest provide a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all travellers.

• Mount Cook National Park: Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mount Cook National Park, where towering peaks and stunning landscapes await. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, this park offers a variety of adventure activities, including hiking and climbing, amidst its spectacular scenery.
• Aoraki / Mount Cook Visitor Center: The Aoraki / Mount Cook Visitor Center is a family-friendly hub that provides valuable insights into the area's natural wonders. With interactive displays and knowledgeable staff, it's the perfect starting point for outdoor adventures in the region.
• Tasman Glacier: Marvel at the striking views of Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s largest glacier. This stunning natural wonder offers picturesque scenery, making it a prime spot for photography and appreciating the majestic alpine environment.

Best time to go to Mount Cook

The best time to visit Mount Cook can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Mount Cook falls in February, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature in Mount Cook falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with frequent rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
February	46.2°F (7.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
March	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
April	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	32.4°F (0.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
June	27.1°F (-2.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
July	25.0°F (-3.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	26.4°F (-3.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
September	28.9°F (-1.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	32.5°F (0.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Average
December	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Slightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Mount Cook

To save money on your trip to Mount Cook, visit during the off-peak months of May to June or August when prices are lower. Enjoy free activities like Mount Cook National Park and Tasman Lake. For transport, walking is the most economical option. Book your accommodation about a month in advance for the best rates, and consider Saturday stays for savings. Use Expedia’s search tools to find the best deals and combine bookings for additional discounts. Look out for last-minute deals to maximise your budget.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Mount Cook are May to June and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Mount Cook about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Mount Cook is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Mount Cook is Wednesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking for Mount Cook with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.