Alps 2 Ocean Cycle - Aoraki Mt Cook to Oamaru Journey

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, enjoy a 1.5 hour shuttle ride to the Mt Cook Airfield, where you’ll board a short scenic helicopter transfer, operated by Southern Lakes Helicopters, across the braided Tasman River to the Rotten Tommy landing site. (Optional scenic flight upgrades are available—just ask!) From there, your ride begins along the shores of stunning Lake Pukaki, with incredible views of Aoraki/Mt Cook. You'll then continue across the open plains of the Pukaki Flats, arriving in Twizel for your first overnight stay. Accommodation: Twizel. Want to soak up the alpine magic even earlier? Ask us about spending a pre-tour night under the stars at Aoraki/Mt Cook.

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