3 day itinerary for Lake Tekapo

Itinerary

Lake Tekapo is such a stunning destination, and three days there will give you a wonderful taste of its beauty and activities. Let’s dive into an ideal itinerary!

## Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Lake

Morning:

• Arrival at Lake Tekapo: Settle into your accommodation. There are some lovely options ranging from cozy motels to luxurious lodges.
• Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café like the Lake Tekapo Village Café. Their coffee and baked goods are a great way to fuel up!

Midday:

• Lake Tekapo Walk: After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll along the shores of Lake Tekapo. The turquoise waters are mesmerizing, and the backdrop of the Southern Alps is simply breathtaking. Don’t forget to snap some photos!
• Church of the Good Shepherd: Visit this iconic church, which is a must-see. The views from here are stunning, and it’s a great spot for some picturesque photos.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Grab a bite at Mackenzie Café or pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake.
• Tekapo Springs: Spend your afternoon relaxing at Tekapo Springs. You can soak in the hot pools, enjoy a massage, or even try out the ice skating rink if you’re visiting in winter!

Evening:

• Dinner: Treat yourself to dinner at The Greedy Cow, known for its delicious burgers and local fare.
• Stargazing: Lake Tekapo is part of a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, so after dinner, head out for some stargazing. You can join a guided tour or simply find a quiet spot to marvel at the night sky.

## Day 2: Adventure and Scenic Views

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a filling breakfast at your accommodation or a local café.
• Scenic Flight: Book a scenic flight over the Southern Alps. The views of the mountains, glaciers, and lakes from above are absolutely unforgettable!

Midday:

• Lunch: After your flight, enjoy lunch at Kohan Restaurant, where you can savor some delicious Japanese cuisine with a view of the lake.
• Visit the Mount John Observatory: Head up to Mount John for panoramic views of the area. You can either hike up or drive. The café at the top is a great spot for a coffee break!

Afternoon:

• Hiking: If you’re up for it, take one of the hiking trails around the area. The Mount John Summit Track is a popular choice and offers stunning views.
• Explore the Local Area: Consider visiting the nearby Tekapo Springs for some more relaxation or even a bit of adventure with their tubing or mountain biking options.

Evening:

• Dinner: Enjoy a lovely dinner at The Astro Café on Mount John, where you can dine with a view.
• Evening Stargazing: If you didn’t get enough the night before, tonight is another chance! You could also consider joining a stargazing tour for a more in-depth experience.

## Day 3: Day Trips and Relaxation

Morning:

• Breakfast: Have a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation or a local café.
• ## Day Trip to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park: Take a day trip to Aoraki/Mount Cook, which is about an hour’s drive from Lake Tekapo. The scenery along the way is stunning!

Midday:

• Explore Aoraki/Mount Cook: Once you arrive, you can hike one of the many trails, such as the Hooker Valley Track, which offers incredible views of the mountain and glacier.
• Lunch: Pack a picnic or grab a bite at the Hermitage Hotel.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre: Learn about the history of the area and the famous climber. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
• Return to Lake Tekapo: Head back to Lake Tekapo in the late afternoon.

Evening:

• Dinner: For your last night, enjoy a special dinner at The Mackenzie. Their menu features local ingredients and is a perfect way to end your trip.
• Final Stargazing: If you have the energy, take one last look at the stars. It’s a magical way to wrap up your time in this beautiful area.

And there you have it! A delightful three-day itinerary in Lake Tekapo filled with adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery. Enjoy your trip! 🌌🏞️