The Tama Lakes Track in the heart of Ruapehu and UNESCO Dual World Heritage site Tongariro National Park, has some of the most beautiful and unique views of Mount Ruapehu and Mount Ngauruhoe in the Ruapehu area. It takes around 5-6 hours return to complete this 17.6km hike with an elevation gain of 541 metres. The Tama Lakes track begins on the Taranaki Falls Walking Track, 100 m below the Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre on Ngauruhoe Place. Once reaching Taranaki Falls lookout, carry on to the Tama Lakes Track.

The ascent to the Upper Tama Lake is a steady climb but absolutely worth the extra effort to get there. From the saddle there are incredible views of Mount Ngauruhoe with the Upper Tama Lake in the foreground along with the volcanic rock landscape.

From almost the same location as the Mount Ngauruhoe image, the view the opposite way over Mount Ruapehu and the Lower Tama Lake is beautiful and in my opinion the best view of Ruapehu in Tongariro National Park!

Being up there at sunset with the golden light hitting Mount Ruapehu and the surrounding landscape is truly magical and an experience to put on your NZ adventure. Take your wide angle and zoom lens for this one.