4
Introductory to Moderate

Traveller Rating

 

Activities
  • 8 days self-guided cycle
Accommodation
  • 7 nights comfort accommodation, ensuited where available
Meals
  • 6 Dinners
  • 6 Lunches
  • 7 Breakfasts

Price

8 daysfrom

$3660NZD

Trip Code: TAG

The A2O Wayfarer Trip highlights


  • Cycle the full length of the Alps 2 Ocean trail from end to end
  • Enjoy a breathtaking heli-flight over the Tasman River from Aoraki Mt Cook Village
  • Scenic walk to view the Tasman Glacier
  • Unwind at remote Braemar Station, glass of wine in hand, while gazing out at the Southern Alps
  • Visit to the Clay Cliffs to see the dramatic natural pinnacles and sculpted formations
  • Cycle along the shores of stunning Lakes Ohau, Benmore and Aviemore
  • Savour a delicious lunch platter at River-T Winery
  • Explore the interesting Victorian Precinct in Oamaru

Introducing The Wayfarer – a fully inclusive, Alps to Ocean experience with 7 nights on the trail, designed for comfort, discovery, and unforgettable scenery. This carefully paced itinerary allows ample time to soak in the diverse landscapes of the Mackenzie Basin and Waitaki District, from the towering peaks of Aoraki/Mt Cook to the coastal charm of Oamaru.

Your journey includes a night in a Premium Room at the iconic Hermitage Hotel, a guided walk to the Tasman Glacier, a scenic helicopter transfer across the Tasman River, a night at the secluded Braemar Station and a van excursion to the dramatic Clay Cliffs. Along the way, all meals are provided (except dinner on your final night in Oamaru), and your tour finishes with a celebratory drink at Scotts Brewery.

With professional, friendly support throughout and flexible departure dates, this is the ultimate way to experience the full Alps to Ocean trail in style and comfort.

We'll meet you at our depot at 16 Chain Hills Highway, Omarama, at 7:30am for a pre-ride briefing and bike fitting. If you're arriving by car, you're welcome to leave your vehicle at our base while you're away on the trail. From Omarama, sit back and enjoy a scenic 1.5 hour shuttle ride to Mt Cook Village, where you'll spend the night in a premium room at the iconic Hermitage Hotel. On arrival, we'll take you on a short walk to the Tasman Glacier moraine wall, where a steady climb rewards you with sweeping views of the vast glacier and lake. Afterwards, we’ll drop you at your hotel, and you’ll have free time to explore the village and its surrounds, whether on foot or by bike. Walk to Kea Point or tackle the Sealy Tarns track for stunning panoramic views of Aoraki/Mt Cook. In the evening, unwind over dinner with a view of New Zealand’s highest peaks. Accommodation: Mt Cook Village.

Meals:  D

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before riding 2km to the trailhead at White Horse Hill Campground. From there, enjoy an 8km downhill ride to the Mt Cook Airfield, where you’ll check in at 10:30am for your 11:00am helicopter transfer with Southern Lakes Helicopters. This short scenic flight takes you across the braided Tasman River to the Rotten Tommy landing area, optional extended scenic flights are available if you'd like to take in even more of the dramatic landscape. Back on the ground, continue your ride along the stunning shoreline of Lake Pukaki to Braemar Station, where you'll spend the night surrounded by high-country serenity. Accommodation: Braemar Station

Meals:  B,L,D

Today’s ride takes you further along the shores of Lake Pukaki, with its striking alpine views and vivid blue waters. From there, you’ll cross the wide-open Pukaki Flats to reach the township of Twizel. The journey continues along a scenic trail beside the region’s iconic turquoise canals, leading you to the southern edge of Lake Ohau, another highlight of the day’s ride. Accommodation: Lake Ohau

Meals:  B,L,D

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. From the summit, descend through a striking landscape of tussock-covered high country before arriving into Omarama, your destination for the day. Take time to relax and enjoy the peaceful surrounds of this small high-country town, known for its big skies and clear air. In the late afternoon we'll take you by vehicle to visit the otherworldly Clay Cliffs, dramatic natural pinnacles and sculpted formations, shaped by wind and water over thousands of years. Accommodation: Omarama

Meals:  B,L,D

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,L,D

After a hearty breakfast, set off through Pasquale Vineyard and along the banks of the mighty Waitaki River. Be sure to stop and admire the ancient Maori rock drawings, powerful remnants of the region’s cultural heritage, before continuing on to the historic town of Duntroon. In Duntroon, a visit to the Vanished World Museum is highly recommended. It offers fascinating geological insights that set the stage perfectly for the next part of your ride through this unique and ancient limestone landscape. Accommodation: Duntroon

Meals:  B,L,D

Your final day on the Alps to Ocean trail begins with a ride through rolling farmland, leading you to the unique limestone formations of Elephant Rock, an iconic geological feature and a great spot for a short break and photos. From here, the trail winds through more farmland and past dramatic limestone escarpments as you continue toward the coast. Approaching Oamaru, you’ll ride through the beautifully maintained Oamaru Public Gardens, one of the oldest in the country, before reaching the trail’s official end at the Oamaru Harbour. We’ll meet you at the A2O photo frame at 2:45pm for bike return and bag collection. Don’t forget to capture a celebratory photo marking the completion of your 300km journey! To toast your achievement, enjoy a well-earned drink on us at Scotts Brewery, just a short stroll from the trail end. Accommodation: Oamaru

Meals:  B,L

There’s no riding scheduled today, giving you time to relax and explore the charming town of Oamaru at your own pace. Wander through the Victorian Precinct, visit the Steampunk HQ museum, or enjoy a coffee by the harbour before continuing your onward travel or making your way home.

Meals:  B


Inclusions

  • Standard bike hire for 8 days, including helmet, repair kit and carrier bag or panniers
  • 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 6 dinners
  • 7 nights comfort accommodation, on a twin share basis, ensuited where available
  • Heli-flight across the Tasman River with bikes to the official start point
  • Scenic walk to view the Tasman Glacier
  • Daily luggage transfers (one bag 15kg max)
  • Transport from Omarama to Aoraki / Mt Cook and from Omarama to visit the Clay Cliffs
  • 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 (other than 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 is graded introductory to moderate. You will need a reasonable level of fitness with an average daily distance of 50km and the longest day up to 75km. 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

$3660NZD

Options & Supplements*
  • eBike Upgrade (subject to availability) - FromNZD$520
  • 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
*Prices listed are per person and also from

The A2O Wayfarer 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.

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