2 Day West Coast Glaciers and TranzAlpine Train: Christchurch to Queenstown

If you’re dreaming of sweeping landscapes, icy giants, and rugged coastlines, this 2-day tour from Christchurch to Queenstown offers a real taste of New Zealand’s iconic South Island. With a combination of scenic train rides, glacier views, and lakeside towns, it’s a journey packed with picture-perfect moments and authentic experiences.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the world-renowned TranzAlpine train takes you across the Southern Alps, offering some of the most breathtaking train vistas in the world. Second, the overnight stay in Franz Josef allows ample time to explore at your own pace, whether that’s taking short walks to view the glacier or browsing local shops. Lastly, the drive through rugged landscapes to Queenstown is packed with stunning lakes and mountains that look like they’ve been plucked straight from a postcard.

A potential consideration? The price point may seem steep for some travelers, but when you consider the included transportation, accommodation, and access to prime scenery, many find it provides good value. This tour caters best to adventurous travelers who crave diverse modes of transport and aren’t shy about spending a couple of days exploring the wild beauty of New Zealand’s West Coast.

This experience suits those wanting a seamless, well-organized way to tick off some of the South Island’s most famous sights—ideal for first-timers or those with limited time who want a comprehensive snapshot of this incredible region.

Key Points

• Scenic train journey on the TranzAlpine provides breathtaking views of the Southern Alps.
• Overnight in Franz Josef offers flexibility for exploration or relaxation.
• Diverse landscapes including coastlines, rainforests, and lakes.
• Authentic local towns like Hokitika, Ross, and Hari Hari enrich the experience.
• Balanced mix of transport modes—coach and train—making the trip dynamic.
• Ideal for adventure-seekers looking to cover a lot of ground efficiently.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Christchurch to Franz Josef via Greymouth

The journey kicks off in Christchurch, with the highlight being the world-famous TranzAlpine train. This seven-hour round trip is often described as a “highlight reel of the South Island” because of its incredible scenery. We loved the way the train slowly climbs from the Canterbury Plains into the Southern Alps. From your window, you’ll see lush farmland, then dramatic gorges carved out by the Waimakariri River, and finally, dense beech forests as the train descends into Greymouth.

Travelers like Catherine, who reviewed the tour, appreciate the semi-private transfer from Greymouth to Franz Josef, which allows for a more personalized experience. The drive down the coast passes through historic Ross and Hari Hari—small towns with stories of gold rushes and early aviation milestones. The scenic route is a highlight, revealing how rugged and remote the West Coast truly is.

Once in Franz Josef, you’ll be met by a representative from Glacier Shuttles and Charters for a short tour to view the glacier. This viewing platform walk offers a quick, satisfying glimpse of the ice mass—though, for winter travelers, time might be limited due to daylight hours. Even a brief look at the glacier’s shimmering blue ice is enough to leave a lasting impression.

Day 2: From Franz Josef to Queenstown via Haast Pass

The second day starts with a transfer through the Haast Pass, a route renowned for its dramatic scenery—sheer cliffs, waterfalls, and dense forests. As you cross from the West to the East Coast, you’ll get a real sense of the island’s rugged terrain and varying ecosystems.

On the other side, your approach to Queenstown is marked by magnificent lake views. The lakes—Wanaka, Hawea, and Dunstan—are known for their vibrant, almost otherworldly blue waters, and you’ll have plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the scenery. Many reviews mention how this section feels like a visual feast, with every turn revealing another lake or mountain range.

Arriving in Queenstown, you’ll understand why it’s dubbed the adventure capital of New Zealand. The picturesque town sits beside Lake Wakatipu, framed by mountain ranges. It’s the perfect ending point for your trip, whether you’re planning to stay longer or head onward to explore more.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers excellent value for the experiences packed into just two days. Your coach and train transport are covered, including the legendary TranzAlpine journey and the shuttle to Franz Josef Glacier. One night’s accommodation in Franz Josef is included, giving you a comfortable base to explore and relax.

The guided views of the glacier and the scenic drive up the coast are thoughtful inclusions, especially since they allow you to sit back and take in the natural wonder without the stress of planning. Plus, the tour features a brief commentary on the transport, which adds context and helps you appreciate the scenery more fully.

However, meals are not included, so you’ll want to budget for food in Franz Josef and Queenstown. Also, pre- and post-tour accommodations are your responsibility, so plan accordingly if you’re arriving early or staying later.

Transportation

The highlight here is definitely the TranzAlpine train, often regarded as one of the world’s great train journeys. The train’s panoramic windows allow for unobstructed views, and the experience is smooth and comfortable. The coach transfers are designed for ease, with small group sizes (up to 50 travelers), which helps keep the journey intimate.

Accommodation

The one-night stay in Franz Josef is a significant plus, providing time to enjoy the town or relax after a day of sightseeing. Reviewers appreciated the flexibility to explore local shops or simply unwind in the evening.

Extras and Considerations

You might find the price of around $1,521.66 per person steep, but it includes transportation, the overnight stay, and access to stunning scenery. For many, this is a worthwhile investment in a compact, well-organized adventure that covers key highlights.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the stunning views. Reviewers like Catherine called it a “highlight reel of the South Island,” emphasizing how unforgettable the scenery was. The views from the TranzAlpine train, in particular, are often cited as breathtaking and worth the price alone.

Travelers also mention the helpfulness of the tour operator. Marissa, a guide mentioned in reviews, was commended for her flexibility and effort to accommodate scheduling needs, making the experience more enjoyable.

The small group nature is a bonus for many, allowing for more personalized attention and relaxed pacing. The drivers and guides are generally praised for their friendliness and informative commentary, which enhances your understanding of the landscapes.

Why This Tour Works

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of the South Island’s top sights without the hassle of planning every detail. The combination of a scenic train, a manageable drive along the coast, and an overnight stay makes it accessible yet packed with memorable moments.

It’s ideal for adventurers, nature lovers, and first-time visitors eager to see glaciers, lakes, and mountain vistas in a relatively short time. The included transport, comfortable accommodation, and the opportunity to explore at your own pace in Franz Josef make it a practical choice for those wanting a balance of guided convenience and free time.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour offers incredible value for those looking to tick off some of New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonders in just two days. The seamless combination of train journeys, scenic drives, and glacier views provides a well-rounded experience. If you love landscapes that leave you breathless and prefer a structured itinerary to maximize your time, this trip can be a fantastic choice.

It’s especially suited for travelers with a moderate budget who want to enjoy a variety of transport modes and scenery without the complexity of planning every detail themselves. The overnight in Franz Josef is a perfect way to unwind and explore at your own pace, making this tour a good fit for those who enjoy a bit of flexibility alongside guided highlights.

While it may not cater to travelers seeking intensive glacier adventures or multiple stops, it perfectly balances sightseeing with comfort and practicality. For first-timers to New Zealand or those eager to see the South Island’s highlights efficiently, this tour delivers on its promise of stunning views and memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be accessible. However, the short walks and scenic viewing platforms are suitable for most fitness levels.

How long is the train journey?
The TranzAlpine train ride from Christchurch to Greymouth lasts about five hours, providing ample time for sightseeing and relaxing.

Does the tour include meals?
Meals are not included unless specified, so you’ll want to plan to eat in Franz Josef and Queenstown.

What is the accommodation like in Franz Josef?
The tour includes one night’s stay in Franz Josef, offering a comfortable base for exploring or relaxing after your scenic day.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour offers a set itinerary with some free time in Franz Josef, but additional customization would require arranging separate plans.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 60 days ahead, reflecting its popularity.

What do travelers say about the guides and drivers?
Reviewers consistently appreciate the friendliness and helpfulness of the drivers and guides, with some highlighting their personal approach and informative commentary.

This two-day journey from Christchurch to Queenstown offers a well-balanced mix of iconic scenery, relaxing travel, and authentic local experiences. Whether you’re an avid photographer, nature lover, or simply after a taste of New Zealand’s wild beauty, this trip is a solid way to make the most of your time on the South Island.