No trip to the South Island is complete without visiting Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Not only is it one of the most incredible places in Aotearoa, but I genuinely think it’s one of the most beautiful outdoor destinations in the world.

Every year, thousands of travellers, tourists, and locals head into New Zealand’s Southern Alps to admire the country’s tallest mountain and gaze at snowy peaks, glacier-carved valleys and alpine lakes. The scenery here will leave you speechless, and if you love the outdoors, you must visit.

Aoraki isn’t just one of the most incredible parts of the country but an iconic piece of Kiwi history. The park was a playground for legendary Kiwis like Sir Edmund Hillary, who (along with Nepali-Indian mountaineer Tenzing Norgay) was the first to reach the summit of Mount Everest and legendary climber Rob Hall, who summited Everest five times before tragically losing his life on the mountain in 1996.

This region is among the most sought-after wilderness areas in the Southern Hemisphere, packed to bursting point with incredible hiking trails. Even if you’re not a big hiker, I highly recommend walking the Hooker Valley Track (3 hours return and easily one of New Zealand's best day walks) and the Blue Lakes and Tasman Glacier Lookout Track. Both are relatively easy, ridiculously photogenic, and guaranteed to leave you with memories you’ll never forget.

If you’re looking for something more challenging, Sealy Tarns and Mueller Hut Route are my favourite walks in the national park. They’re both challenging trails with some of the best mountain views I’ve ever seen. I've been to the Dolomites and Switzerland, so that's saying something!

If you’d like to splash out on a once-in-a-lifetime experience, take a scenic flight over the Southern Alps to see some of Aotearoa's most beautiful landscapes from the sky.

Where to Stay in Aoraki/Mount Cook

Accommodation is limited, but there are a few options available. Your choice will depend on your budget and what kind of facilities you’re looking for.

If you’re camping/travelling in a campervan:

1. White Horse Hill DOC Campsite – Right at the start of the Hooker Valley Track, which means this is one of the most scenic campsites in the country! However, it's very basic, there are no showers and facilities are limited. But it's only $15 per person, and you'll wake up to jaw-dropping mountain views.

2. Glentanner Holiday Park – My recommendation! Yes, it's 20km from the Hooker Valley Track. But this holiday park has incredible views of the mountains, all the facilities you could ever need, a kitchen, hot showers and lovely staff. There are also dorms. So, it's a great option if you're travelling on a budget but don't have a tent/campervan.

If you’re not camping:

1. Aoraki Court Motel – A budget-friendly option in Mount Cook Village. It’s just a 3-minute walk from the centre and offers stunning mountain views. The rooms are modern and spacious, but they book out fast. Prices start at around $350 NZD per night.

2. Hermitage Hotel – The most famous (and luxurious) accommodation in Mount Cook. The views are unbeatable, the rooms are stunning, and the friendly staff can help arrange tours and activities. Their Alpine Restaurant is legendary. Prices start around $450–$500 NZD per night, and while it’s expensive, it’s worth it for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Book months in advance, as rooms fill up fast!