Tongariro Alpine Crossing Guide: New Zealand's Best Day Hike
We've put together a guide with all the information you need to know about Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a track rated as the best one-day hike in New Zealand. Trek across a volcanic alpine landscape fully prepared - when to go, what to pack, weather, trail description, shuttle bus, and reservations - we've got you covered.
New Zealand is known as one of the most beautiful countries in the world.
And when you come across a one-day hike which is supposed to be the best one in this country, we can assure you that you are going to see something exceptional, and you shouldn't skip it by no means.
New Zealand can boast with countless number of hikes, and although we spent more than a year here (and traveled more than six months), we still have seen and done only a fraction of all treks.
But for sure, Tongariro National Park was among our favorite places we've visited in New Zealand so far.
We completely understand that when arriving for a holiday, people usually want to see the best of the country but don't have time for multi-day treks, when it takes day or two to see the highlights and then to get back.
That's why Tongariro Alpine Crossing enjoys its popularity. In less than eight hours, you can walk through a dramatic and awe-inspiring volcanic scenery.
Add an aura of the star-movie Lord of the Rings and you'll get the world-class walk.
TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK
Although some people say that South Island of New Zealand is more spectacular than the North Island, we cannot agree with this opinion.
Tongariro National Park lies in the middle of North Island and if there's only one reason why not to visit only South Island it is undoubtedly Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
New Zealand's oldest national park lies near the town Taupo.
And it takes less than five hours to get there by rental car from Auckland or less than four hours from the capital Wellington.
WHEN TO GO AND WEATHER
Weather conditions in this area can change quickly. Be prepared for all types of weather from hot sunny day to a cold, rainy and foggy one.
The summer season in New Zealand is from December to March, and during those months the climate should be the most stable, but always check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.
You can complete Tongariro Alpine Crossing in winter as well, but you will need special skills (and if not experienced enough, you should consider hiring a guide).
An ice ax and crampons are a must because the trail can be covered with snow.
To avoid crowds and to have a chance of nice weather, you can try to do the hike in the shoulder season - April, May and October, November.
In case you have time, it is really worth it to wait for the good weather forecast.
We did the trek in November and paused for four days until the forecast looked promising, and it was the best decision we could've made.
DISTANCE AND ELEVATION GAIN AT TONGARIRO ALPINE CROSSING
The length of Tongariro Alpine Crossing is 19.4 km, and it takes anywhere from 5 to 8 hours so be prepared for a full challenging day out.
You will gain 765 meters elevation and lose 1125 meters if you hike from Mangatepopo car park to Ketetahi car park.
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SIDE TRIPS
You can also extend your hike and consider a side trip to Mount Ngauruhoe or Mount Tongariro - each side trip takes an additional 3 hours.
We did a side trip to Mount Ngauruhoe alias Mount Doom. It is a challenging but rewarding climb with beautiful views from the top overlooking the national park's area.
We left our bags behind one big stone off the main trail and carried on only with a waterproof jacket around the waist and one bottle of water.
The hardest part of the side trip is the last scree section.
For every step we made we slid a half step back and also, we had to look above us all the time because of falling rocks.
Don't underestimate this climb as there are many injuries throughout the year.
However, from 2017 rangers discourage people to climb Mount Ngauruhoe, because firstly, it is sacred land for Iwi people and secondly, there were many accidents in the past few years.
All access signs to the peak have been removed.
The climb is not banned though so it is the decision of every traveler.
WHERE TO START
Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a one-way hike you can either start at Mongatepopo road end, or at Ketetahi road end.
The more common way is to walk from Mongatepopo, if doing the trek in reverse from Ketetahi, add an extra hour because it is harder.
Sometimes, people think it is better to do the less common path, but here, we recommend you to go with the flow unless you want to avoid all the time people going from opposite direction.
HOW TO GET TO THE TRAILHEAD
As parking near the access points to this track is limited and also there are parking restrictions in the main season (the maximum is 4 hours).
Basically the only (and the most comfortable and carefree) option to get to the start and from the end of Tongariro Alpine Crossing is to take a shuttle bus.
Department of Conservation runs shuttle service from nearby towns: Whakapapa, Turangi, Ohakune, Taumarunui or Taupo.
You can also arrange a shuttle with one of many private travel agencies.
The cost varies, but the average is NZD 35-45 for a return ticket.
Book your shuttle ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Without exaggerating, be prepared to see one of the most stunning sceneries in your life when hiking Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
The hike climbs up through volcanic terrain with old lava fields, and the dramatic landscape is emphasized by towering volcanoes and colorful lakes.
In case you want to enjoy trekking in Tongariro National Park longer, you can opt for three-day hike Tongariro Northern Circuit.
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
THE TONGARIRO ALPINE CROSSING DESCRIPTION
The well-marked trail gradually climbs from Mangatepopo Car Park through grassland - this is a harsh environment for plants.
The gravel trail takes you to a junction where is Mangatepopo Hut, a hut where travelers doing the whole loop can spend a night.
From now, carry on on boardwalks and wooden steps.
The trail now climbs up a bit steeper as you are getting out of Mangatepopo Valley. The views of Mount Ngauruhoe are incredible in this section.
The section between Soda Springs and South Crater is known as Devil's Staircase because you will gain 200 meters in elevation.
Staircase ends at Mangatepopo Saddle where is a junction and you can decide whether you want to take a side trip to Mount Ngauruhoe.
Follow the pole markers to South Crater, and gradually you will get to Red Crater, the highest point on this trail in 1886 meters.
The eye-catching red color of this crater is from the high-temperature oxidation of iron in the rock.
Now you will descend rapidly past the well-known Emerald Lakes (this would be the hardest section if walking the opposite direction).
The lakes were formed in old craters because they lie in a volcanic area. Water in lakes comes from melted snow, and dissolved minerals give to lakes the incredible greenish color.
Right behind the last lake is a junction where Tongariro Northern Circuit separates from Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
Stay to the left and take another quick climb to the Blue Lake.
The rest of the trail to the Ketetahi Car Park is downhill again through grasslands and tussock-covered slopes, very similar to the beginning of the trail.
The last section walks through a dense forest, a landscape completely different from what you could have seen along the trail.
Descend via wooden steps down to the car park and enjoy the well-deserved rest.
VOLCANIC ACTIVITY
There are three active volcanoes along the trail, and eruptions are possible anytime without warning.
Know the risk and always check the latest volcanic activity information before you go.
TONGARIRO TOURS
Tongariro Alpine Crossing Guided Trek | Trek the classic Tongariro Alpine Crossing on a full-day guided hike that explores a spectacular volcanic landscape.
WHAT TO PACK
You should always carry plenty of water as water along the trail is not suitable for drinking. We recommend having at least 2 liters per person.
Do not forget sunscreen as the sun can be harsh.
Pack a windproof jacket, waterproof jacket, trousers, shorts, sturdy hiking shoes, warm hat and sun hat, sunglasses, gloves, headtorch, phone and wear warm layer clothing so you can always undress.
We've heard that now drivers in the shuttle buses must check if you are well-equipped for the hike, so do not underestimate it as weather can change within a second.
Hiking Boots for Him & for Her | Don't forget to break them in before you go hiking.
Sunscreen | You will spend all day on a direct sun without any place to hide. SPF 50+ should be strong enough.
Rain Poncho | As I've mentioned above, there are almost no trees along the trail and when it starts to rain, you will be exposed. Pack a rain poncho and stay dry.
Headtorch | In case something goes wrong, headtorch can be a lifesaver.
GPS Watch | For everyone whoe loves to keep their outdoor activities recorded.
We've also created an in-depth Ultimate New Zealand Packing List where you can find more information and useful tips.
WHERE TO STAY
Tongariro Alpine Crossing is most likely on every traveler's itinerary, and it is hard to say from where you will travel to the national park.
You can either drive directly from Auckland or Wellington after your plane lands, you can sleep at the shore or Lake Taupo, or stay in the heart of Tongariro National Park without the necessity to get up too early.
We've handpicked a hotel in every location to make your decision easier.
Auckland | Star Park Serviced Apartments - Excellent location, great views, fitness center, and fully-equipped kitchen are the main features of this hotel.
Wellington | U Residence Hotel - The hotel in Wellington's downtown has a helpful staff, kitchenette, and modern apartments with balconies close to Te Papa Museum.
Taupo | The Reef Resort - This lovely property offers a heated outdoor pool and hot tub. You can choose a room with lake, mountain or pool view.
Tongariro National Park | Tongariro Suites - Stay in the heart of the national park and enjoy exceptionally clean rooms, delicious breakfast and the shared lounge area with the warming fireplace which you will for sure find cozy after all day hiking.
Alternatively, search for your accommodation via Hostelworld.
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
