Now that we have four Alps to Ocean itineraries we thought we'd better clear things up and let you know some of the main considerations to think about when deciding which trip to book. Find out what's different about each of our Alps to Ocean itineraries below.

 

1. Alps to Ocean Classic

Start: Christchurch | Finish: Christchurch | Duration: 6 Days | Trip grading: Introductory to Moderate

Weaving through some of the most diverse and unique landscapes in NZ, there's no questioning why our 6 day Alps to Ocean Cycle has been our most popular trip for 3 years running.

• Perhaps the most important thing to consider is how far you are comfortable riding. This trip is graded introductory to moderate and has an average cycling distance of 40km per day. The longest day is 80km from Twizel to Omarama although it can be shortened to 60km. You'll cycle every day on this 6 day trip.
   
• We start the trail from Tekapo Village, allowing us to shorten the first days ride from 80km down to 30km, while still cycling what is arguably the most scenic spot along the trail along the edge of Lake Pukaki looking back to Aoraki/Mt Cook.
   
• Starting and ending in Christchurch makes getting here easy. Domestic and international flights fly regularly into Christchurch airport.
   
• We drive to Aoraki/Mt Cook Village on day 2 thanks to our support vehicle where you'll have the chance to swap your bike for walking shoes and explore the Hooker Valley or Tasman Glacier.
   
• Stay in comfortable and hand-picked accommodation including the elegant Waitaki Braids Lodge and the charming Burnside Homestead.

  View the full trip itinerary as well as dates and pricing here.

2. Alps to Ocean End To End

Start: Queenstown | Finish: Christchurch | Duration: 7 Days | Trip grading: Moderate

We understand some people want to complete the full trail and enjoy a bit of a challenge, so we designed the Alps to Ocean End to End.

• Although this is a 7 day trip, you'll only be cycling for 5 days which is why we've graded this trip moderate. The average cycling distance is 65km per day with two 80km days meaning you need to be comfortable riding on gravel surfaces for 6-8 hours per day.
   
• This itinerary covers the full 310km trail from the official trail start at Aoraki/Mt Cook Village, and includes a breathtaking heli-flight over the Tasman River with views of the snow capped Southern Alps to join up with the trail on the other side.
   
• The Queenstown start means you have time to extend your stay and explore the adventure capital of NZ before your trip. See our guide to spending 24 hours in Queenstown here.
   
• On day one we have time to explore the walking trails of Aoraki/Mt Cook Village at your leisure, before staying the night in the village itself.
   
• Enjoy our handpicked and comfortable accommodation including at the working high-country Braemar Station that overlooks Lake Pukaki towards Aoraki/Mt Cook. Then enjoy views of the mighty Waitaki River from a private luxurious lotus belle ‘tent’ which is equipped with everything you need to feel at home at Valley Views Glamping

View the full trip itinerary as well as dates and pricing here.

3. Best of the Alps to Ocean

Start: Christchurch | Finish: Christchurch | Duration: 3 Days | Trip grading: Introductory to Moderate

If you're short for time, our 3 day Best of the Alps to Ocean is a great option.

• Don't worry, this itinerary doesn't try to cram the whole trail into 3 days. We start the trail from Tekapo, and cycle the best sections including Lake Pukaki, Ohau, Benmore and Aviemore as well as Waitaki Farmland.
   
• There are two 45km days and one 80km day, so you'll need to be comfortable riding these distances.
   
• Starting and ending in Christchurch makes getting here easy. Domestic and international flights fly regularly into Christchurch airport.
   
• Stay in comfortable and hand-picked accommodation - Lake Ohau Lodge and Waitaki Braids Lodge.

  View the full trip itinerary as well as dates and pricing here.

4. E-Bike Alps to Ocean

Start: Christchurch | Finish: Christchurch | Duration: 6 Days | Trip grading: Introductory to Moderate

Our 6 day E-Bike Alps to Ocean is essentially the same as our Alps to Ocean Classic, but for e-bikers only (e-bikes are available on our other tours too).

• You'll meet like-minded e-bikers and not have to worry about separating from the group.
   
• E-bike hire is included in the price of this tour.
   
• As a point of difference, we spend the last night in Oamaru at 'Poshtel' and drive back to where we ended our ride the previous day.
   
• Starting and ending in Christchurch makes getting here easy. Domestic and international flights fly regularly into Christchurch airport.

• View the full trip itinerary as well as dates and pricing here.

Watch our full Alps to Ocean video

All of our Alps to Ocean itineraries are fully supported and include accommodation, a support vehicle, experienced guides & most meals. E-bikes are available for hire on both itineraries.