Mount Cook Holidays

Things to do in and around Mount Cook

Mount Cook, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offers breathtaking scenery and thrilling adventures. Visitors can explore renowned hiking trails, partake in various outdoor activities, and experience exceptional stargazing opportunities. With its stunning landscapes, Mount Cook is perfect for those seeking New Zealand adventures in a recreational setting, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Shopping

In Mount Cook village, you’ll find small gift shops offering local crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to Twizel’s shops for more variety, including outdoor gear and local produce, or visit the nearby town of Fairlie for charming boutiques and artisan goods.

Recreation

At Waiho Hot Tubs, located 24.1km from Mount Cook, immerse yourself in rejuvenating body treatments amidst serene surroundings. Enjoy the soothing warmth of the hot tubs while taking in the stunning vistas, creating the perfect atmosphere for relaxation and wellness.

Adventure

The Hooker Valley Track offers a stunning hiking experience with breathtaking views of the majestic mountains and glaciers. Alternatively, the Governors Bush Walk Trailhead invites you to explore lush forests and enjoy outdoor adventure. For a unique perspective, take a scenic flight with Air Safaris to witness the stunning landscapes from above.

Nightlife

Experience the stunning night sky at Mount Cook, ideal for stargazing. Visit the Mount Cook Alpine Village for a cosy dinner at The Old Mountaineer Restaurant, followed by a nightcap at the nearby Hermitage Hotel's bar, where you can unwind with a fine selection of local wines.

Find the best attractions in Mount Cook

Mount Cook, renowned for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures, offers a wealth of attractions such as the Mount Cook National Park, glaciers, and the visitor centre. Ideal for nature enthusiasts, the area is perfect for exploring Aoraki Mount Cook's stunning landscapes and engaging in various activities that highlight its adventurous spirit. Whether you're hiking or simply soaking in the views, Mount Cook promises an unforgettable experience.

• Mount Cook National Park: Experience breathtaking landscapes and diverse outdoor adventures in this stunning national park. Enjoy hiking trails that reveal spectacular views of glaciers and mountains, as well as opportunities for stargazing in one of the world’s darkest skies.
• Aoraki / Mount Cook: The highest peak in New Zealand, Aoraki / Mount Cook offers thrilling adventures like mountaineering and skiing. The awe-inspiring scenery captivates visitors, making it a perfect spot for photography and immersing in nature’s grandeur.
• Aoraki / Mount Cook Visitor Center: This informative centre is ideal for families, offering educational exhibits about the park’s ecology and history. It serves as a gateway to outdoor activities, ensuring you’re well-equipped for your adventures.

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	Average
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	Slightly Low
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 during your visit to Mount Cook, take advantage of the free attractions such as Mount Cook National Park, Tasman Lake, and Big Sky. Consider visiting in May or August to September for lower accommodation prices, and book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates. Saturdays tend to be the cheapest days to stay, while Wednesdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly options and consider combining your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings through package deals.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Mount Cook are May and August to September, 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: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, chosen location, and additional preferences. You can arrange the results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to identify the most affordable hotels right away. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodations that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can make significant savings by combining your hotel reservation at Mount Cook with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.