4
Introductory to Moderate

Traveller Rating

 

Activities
  • 5 days self-guided cycle
Accommodation
  • 4 nights comfort accommodation, ensuited where available
Meals
  • 1 Dinner
  • 1 Lunch
  • 4 Breakfasts

Price

5 daysfrom

$1765NZD

Trip Code: TAP

A2O 5 Days Tekapo to Oamaru Trip highlights


  • Cycle the Alps 2 Ocean trail from Tekapo
  • Cycle along the edges of Lakes Ohau, Benmore and Aviemore
  • Explore the Victorian Precinct in Oamaru

This 5-day Alps to Ocean adventure begins from the alternative trail start at Tekapo, offering a slightly shorter but still spectacular version of the full ride, perfect for experienced riders or those seeking a more fast-paced itinerary. With longer daily distances, including a challenging final day into Oamaru, this option suits those with good fitness who want to make the most of their time on the trail.

You’ll stay in Twizel, a town with roots in the Upper Waitaki hydro scheme that now thrives as a hub for outdoor exploration; Omarama, known for its soaring gliders and relaxing private hot tubs; and Kurow, a charming township famous for its vineyards and as the childhood home of All Black great Richie McCaw.

From Tekapo’s hydro canals to Lake Pukaki’s vivid blue waters, the wide-open Mackenzie Basin to the rugged beauty of the Waitaki Valley, this itinerary packs the full A2O experience into five unforgettable days, supported along the way by our friendly team. This experience has flexible start dates to suit your needs.

We'll meet you at our depot at 16 Chain Hills Highway, Omarama, at 8:30am for your pre-ride briefing and bike fitting. If you're travelling by car, you're welcome to leave your vehicle at our base while you're away on the trail. After your briefing, we’ll shuttle you approximately 1 hour to the trail start in Tekapo, where your ride begins. You’ll follow the turquoise canal paths and peaceful gravel roads, enjoying wide open Mackenzie Country landscapes and panoramic views of the Southern Alps as you make your way towards Lake Pukaki. From there, continue across the vast Pukaki Flats to Twizel, your first overnight stop. Accommodation: Twizel. Want to make the most of your time in the high country? Ask us about adding a pre-tour night in the stunning lakeside resort of Tekapo and soaking up the stars at the Dark Sky Reserve.

Meals:  Nil

NB: riding distance today may vary depending on accommodation availability. Today, as you depart Twizel, you’ll follow a picturesque trail alongside the vibrant turquoise canals, before reaching the canal control gates. The ride continues around the southern edge of Lake Ohau, framed by the breathtaking backdrop of the Southern Alps. Along the way, take time to enjoy a relaxed picnic or even a refreshing swim in the lake’s clear waters. Accommodation: Lake Ohau

Meals:  B,D

NB: riding distance today may vary depending on accommodation availability. From Lake Ohau Lodge, begin a steady climb to the highest point on the Alps to Ocean trail, Tarnbrae Saddle, sitting at 900 metres above sea level. The effort is rewarded with sweeping panoramic views back over Lake Ohau and a final, memorable glimpse of Aoraki/Mt Cook. Today’s destination is Omarama, but consider a side trip to the otherworldly Clay Cliffs. This 7km detour (each way) along a gravel road leads to dramatic natural pinnacles and sculpted formations, shaped by wind and water over thousands of years. Just beyond the turnoff, you’ll find Quailburn Farm Store - an ideal refreshment stop with self-serve ice creams and snacks to keep you fuelled for the final stretch. Accommodation: Omarama

Meals:  B,L

Leaving Omarama, the first 5km leads you to the top of the Chain Hills, where breathtaking views await you. Descend to the shimmering edge of Lake Benmore, where you'll find the perfect campsite at Sailors Cutting. From here, the trail meanders along the lake's shoreline, immersing you in a true wilderness experience. As you zigzag over headlands, prepare to be awestruck by the incredible vistas that unfold at every turn. Cross the impressive Benmore hydro dam and continue riding beside Lakes Aviemore and Waitaki on a scenic stretch of sealed road. The final 16km unfolds along a smooth, flowing trail that leads you into the charming township of Kurow, your next well-earned stop. Accommodation: Kurow

Meals:  B

After breakfast, you’ll set off along the trail through Pasquale Vineyard and follow the Waitaki River, with time for a quick stop to view the ancient Maori rock drawings before reaching the historic town of Duntroon. Here, the Vanished World Museum offers insight into the region’s rich geological history, but with a full day of riding ahead, we recommend keeping your visit brief to stay on schedule. From Duntroon, the trail passes through rolling farmland to the striking Elephant Rocks, then continues through a dramatic landscape of limestone escarpments. You’ll need to keep a steady pace as you make your way toward Oamaru, where you’ll ride through the tranquil Oamaru Public Gardens before reaching the official trail end at Oamaru Harbour. We’ll meet you at the A2O photo frame by 2:45pm for bike return and luggage collection, with the shuttle back to Omarama (if booked) departing promptly at 3:00pm.

Meals:  B


Inclusions

  • Standard bike hire for 5 days, including helmet, repair kit, odometer and carrier bag or panniers
  • 4 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 1 dinner
  • 4 nights comfortable accommodation on a twin share basis, ensuited where available
  • Daily luggage transfers (one bag 15kg max)
  • Transport from Omarama to Tekapo
  • Pre departure information kit to help you plan and prepare
  • Cycle breakdown and rider support service

  • International or domestic flights and taxes
  • Arrival and departure transfers
  • Unscheduled transfers required during the trip
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
  • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
  • All beverages (except with breakfast)
  • Excess luggage
  • Water bottle (help us save the environment and bring your own bike drink bottle)
  • Optional activities
  • Personal expenses (eg. phone calls, internet, laundry, shopping etc)
  • Travel insurance
  • Visa (if required)

Bike information


Trail Surface


Accommodation


Suggested extensions


Grading

Introductory to Moderate  
4

The Alps to Ocean Discovery is graded introductory to moderate. You will need a reasonable level of fitness with an average daily distance of 60km and the longest day up to 81km. We suggest 90 minutes of cycling three to five times a week for the three months leading up to your trip. Some of the sections are on seal or hard packed gravel and are relatively easy to ride. Other sections are on looser gravel which can be rough and uneven in places. The moderate sections over the Tarnbrae Saddle and from Sailors Cutting to the Benmore Dam include narrower tracks with some switchbacks and exposure in places. There are also plenty of hills so cycling up hills and on gravel and rougher terrain before your tour will enable you to really enjoy the fantastic riding and diverse scenery.


Departure dates

Departs daily year round

Want to organise a customised tour?

School groups, friends, family trips, corporate events and even making the trail accessible for everyone. Learn how you can organise a Customised Tour with Trail Journeys.

Priceper person from

$1765NZD

Options & Supplements*
  • Pre-Tour Night/Extension in Tekapo - Superior Room, based on twin share inc breakfastNZD$525
  • eBike Upgrade (subject to availability) - FromNZD$325
  • Post-Tour Night/Extension in Oamaru - Premium Studio, based on twin share inc breakfastNZD$235
  • Post-Tour Night/Extension in Oamaru - Single supplement for Premium Studio, inc breakfastNZD$430
  • Car Relocation - Omarama to Oamaru (price per car)NZD$350
  • Entry to Omarama Hot Tubs (price for 2 people)NZD$120
  • Entry to Blue Penguin Colony Oamaru - Premium Evening ViewingNZD$60
  • Pre-Tour Night/Extension in Omarama - Studio, based on twin share inc breakfastNZD$235
  • Pre-Tour Night/Extension in Omarama - Single supplement in Studio, inc breakfastNZD$430
  • Pre-Tour Night/Extension in Tekapo - Single supplement in Superior Room, inc breakfastNZD$895
*Prices listed are per person and also from

A2O 5 Days Tekapo to Oamaru Trip reviews


Why travel with us

First On The Trail

Trail Journeys is the largest and longest serving bike hire business on the Otago Central Rail Trail. We have helped more cyclists explore our region since the trail opened in 2000 than any other company.

EXPERT LOCAL ADVICE

Our team is passionate about the Central Otago Region and their extensive knowledge and experience means you get the very best advice - every time. We will help you tailor the right cycling itinerary for your needs.

Quality services

Expect first-class and flexible support both on and off the trail. With regular bag, passenger and bike transport services, expert cycle mechanics and experienced consultants, enjoy a stress free cycling trip with Trail Journeys.

Join Newsletter
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ADS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Adventures South"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Adventure South</div>
Adventure South NZ is unrivalled in their geographic coverage, originality and overall quality of adventures holidays in New Zealand. Choose from walking, cycling, winter or multi-activity holidays, on either the North or South Island.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/AWH.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Walking Holidays"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Walking Holidays</div>
Australian Walking Holidays specialises in small group guided walking adventures. Since 1982 we have been guiding small groups of travellers on Australia's finest walks across our tropical, coastal or red centre landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GCT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Canadian Trails"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Canadian Trails</div>
Great Canadian Trails specialises in active holidays in Canada. With both guided and supported self-guided options available, our unique itineraries draw upon some of Canada's most inspiring parks, trails and landscapes from coast to coast.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/HUM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Humac Challenge"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Huma Charity Challenge</div>
Huma enables those with adventurous spirits to challenge themselves and make a difference for a cause close to their heart. Travel, fundraise and meet life-long friends on one of Huma's meaningful and unique challenges around the world.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TAS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Tasmania Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Tasmanian Expeditions</div>
Tasmanian Expeditions is the most experienced operator of treks and adventure travel holidays in Tasmania. We own and operate the most comprehensive range of adventure holidays available across Tasmania's varied landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/UTX-new.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Utracks"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>UTracks</div>
UTracks are the active European holiday specialists. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2-star or 4-star, small groups or self guided, land, river or sea – UTracks can help you to explore Europe exactly the way you want.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WYA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions Schools"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions Schools</div>
World Expeditions Schools is our specialist division dedicated to organising tailor made overseas school group adventures. Specialists in Service Learning projects, choose from more destinations than any other school group provider.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/YOM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Yomads"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Yomads</div>
Yomads offers adventures for the 20s and 30s on six continents. Designed as a way to bring young and likeminded travellers together, Yomads caters to those interested in lightly structured and active trips that allow freedom to roam and explore.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ACT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Cycle Tours"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Cycle Tours</div>
Australian Cycle Tours specialises in high quality self guided and guided cycling experiences in a selection of the most beautiful regions in Australia.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WEX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions</div>
The pioneers of original, worldwide adventure travel holidays since 1975
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TJX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Trail Journeys"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Trail Journeys</div>
Self-guided cycling experts on New Zealand's Otago Rail Trail and more
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/BMAC.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Blue Mountains Adventure Company"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Blue Mountains Adventure Company</div>
The original Blue Mountains canyoning, hiking, climbing and abseiling experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GWNZ.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Walks of New Zealand"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Walks of New Zealand</div>
Explore New Zealand's most spectacular wilderness regions with the self-guided hiking experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/NAA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="North America Active"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>North America Active</div>
USA Canada hiking & cycling tour specialists, choose from self-guided or guided trips