How many days do you need at Lake Tekapo?
Jessica McNamara
| Last Updated: August 2023 - Day 1 Itinerary: Exploring the Natural Beauty of Lake Tekapo
- Day 1: Morning Itinerary for Lake Tekapo
- Day 1: Afternoon Itinerary for Lake Tekapo
- Day 1: Evening Itinerary for Lake Tekapo
- Day 2 Itinerary: Adventure Activities at Lake Tekapo
- Day 2: Morning Itinerary for Lake Tekapo
- Day 2: Afternoon Itinerary for Lake Tekapo
- Day 2: Evening Itinerary for Lake Tekapo
- Day 3 Itinerary: Relaxation and Wellness at Lake Tekapo
- Day 3: Morning Itinerary for Lake Tekapo
- Day 3: Afternoon Itinerary for Lake Tekapo
- Day 3: Evening Itinerary for Lake Tekapo
- Day 4 Itinerary: Day Trips from Lake Tekapo
- Day 4: Morning Itinerary for Lake Tekapo
- Day 4: Afternoon Itinerary for Lake Tekapo
- Day 4: Evening Itinerary for Lake Tekapo
If you’re thinking about taking a trip to Lake Tekapo, you’re probably wondering how many days you should set aside to get the most out of your trip.
To get the most out of your trip to Lake Tekapo, you will need at least four days to enjoy Lake Tekapo’s various activities. However, keep in mind that the number of days you spend at Lake Tekapo may be more than this depending on your interests.
To give you an idea of what to do on your trip to Lake Tekapo, we drew from our experiences on previous trips to the lake to create a sample itinerary for you. With this, you can uncover all the hidden gems Lake Tekapo offers.
Day 1 Itinerary: Exploring the Natural Beauty of Lake Tekapo
Day 1: Morning Itinerary for Lake Tekapo
| Website: The Church of the Good Shepherd Address: Pioneer Drive, Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM |
While we usually pack a light breakfast to enjoy at the lake on our trips, there are quite a few cafes in town if you would rather grab something to eat before.
When at the lake, take a leisurely walk along the shores, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and the beautiful morning views.
Depending on how long you plan to stay at the lake, we suggest squeezing in time to visit the Church of the Good Shepherd too before all the crowds come. It is a small stone chapel that stands as a testament to the pioneers of this region.
Day 1: Afternoon Itinerary for Lake Tekapo
| Website: Tekapo Springs Address: 300 Lakeside Drive, Lake Tekapo 7945, New Zealand Hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 8 PM Phone: +64 3 680 6550 |
After lunch, take a scenic hike up Mt. John. It’s a moderately challenging trek, but we’ve found the panoramic views of the lake and the Mackenzie Basin from the summit are absolutely worth it.
On the way back down, stop at Tekapo Springs for the rest of the afternoon. We find it a relaxing way to unwind after hiking, and the pool views are simply amazing.
Plus, the pools are heated to different temperatures, so you can find the one that’s right for you.
Day 1: Evening Itinerary for Lake Tekapo
| Website: TLV Restaurant & Bar Address: 7 Motuariki Lane, Lake Tekapo, 7999 Behind Outside Sports Shop Phone: +64 3 680 6308 Hours: Monday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 8:30 PM |
Enjoy dinner at TLV Restaurant & Bar on their patio overlooking the lake. If you want something different than seafood here, we suggest trying their Venison Steak.
Day 2 Itinerary: Adventure Activities at Lake Tekapo
Day 2: Morning Itinerary for Lake Tekapo
| Website: Skydive Mt Cook Address: 2 Swallow Drive Pukaki Airport Pukaki, Twizel 7999, New Zealand Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 6 PM Phone: +64 3 976 0516 |
Early risers, catch the stunning sunrise over Lake Tekapo! The magnificent hues of pink and purple reflecting on the crystal-clear water are a sight you won’t want to miss.
After grabbing a quick breakfast, we recommend starting your morning with the ultimate thrill—skydiving with Skydive Mt Cook. Leap from a plane at 15,000 feet for a 60-second freefall at 200 km/h!
While skydiving can be nerve-wracking, the unparalleled views of Lake Tekapo, golden tussock lands and the Southern Alps make the experience worth it. Plus, it’s something you can use ever after as a conversation starter!
Day 2: Afternoon Itinerary for Lake Tekapo
| Website: Tekapo Adventures Address: 8 Rapuwai Lane Tekapo Springs Info Centre / Next To Godley Hotel Village Center, Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 7:30 PM Phone: +64 20 4156 4900 Website: Mackenzie Alpine Horse Trekking Address: 108 Godley Peaks Road, Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand Phone: +64 800 628 269 |
After the adrenaline rush of the morning, it’s time to get closer to the water. Hire a kayak or paddleboard from Tekapo Adventures and explore the lake at your own pace. Don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on one of the secluded beaches along the shore.
Post lunch, enjoy a scenic horse trek with Mackenzie Alpine Horse Trekking. They have various trails that take you through the beautiful landscapes of Lake Tekapo, including pine forests, tussock lands and mountain streams.
Day 2: Evening Itinerary for Lake Tekapo
| Website: BeSpoke Bike Tours NZ Address: 8 Simpson Lane, Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand Hours: • Sunday to Tuesday – Closed • Wednesday to Saturday – 10 AM to 4 PM Phone: +64 21 151 3742 |
As the day draws to a close, head back to the lakeshore for a leisurely bike ride. Grab a bike from BeSpoke Bike Tours and ride along the lakefront trail, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and the evening light on the lake.
Day 3 Itinerary: Relaxation and Wellness at Lake Tekapo
Day 3: Morning Itinerary for Lake Tekapo
Begin your day with a tranquil sunrise yoga session by the lake. The peaceful surroundings make it the perfect morning meditation and stretching setting.
After your morning yoga, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Doughboys Noodle Cafe and have some of their bacon and egg butties. But if you’re looking for something more vegan-friendly, check out the breakfast menu at Jack Rabbit.
Following breakfast, head to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park for a gentle morning hike. Many hike the Hooker Valley Track because of the jaw-dropping views of icebergs, mountains, and alpine streams.
Day 3: Afternoon Itinerary for Lake Tekapo
| Website: Kohan Japanese Restaurant Address: 6 Rapuwai Lane, Lake Tekapo 7945, New Zealand Hours: • Thursday – Closed • Monday to Wednesday & Friday to Sunday – 11:30 AM to 2 PM & 5:30 PM to 8 PM Phone: +64 3 680 6688 |
Seafood lovers, return to Lake Tekapo for lunch at Kohan Japanese Restaurant for sushi and sashimi made from fresh local fish. If you’re not a fan of seafood, they have delicious teriyaki chicken bento boxes.
After lunch, return to Tekapo Springs and treat yourself to a rejuvenating session with their day spa. (Make sure you book this in advance!)
Choose from various treatments like massages, facials, or body wraps. Our go-to is their Moana Revive Package which has a facial and a massage.
Day 3: Evening Itinerary for Lake Tekapo
| Website: Mackenzies Cafe Bar & Restaurant Address: State Highway 8, Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand Hours: Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 8 PM Phone: +64 3 680 6886 |
Spend the evening exploring the local shops and boutiques in town. Look out for unique souvenirs, handmade crafts, local produce, and anything that catches your eye to take back home with you.
Then, for an Instagram-worthy dinner, head to Mackenzies Cafe Bar & Restaurant. The chefs cook your meal right in front of you on hot stones!
Day 4 Itinerary: Day Trips from Lake Tekapo
Day 4: Morning Itinerary for Lake Tekapo
| Website: The Greedy Cow Cafe Address: 16 Rapuwai Lane, Lake Tekapo 7945, New Zealand Hours: Monday to Sunday 7:30 AM to 4 PM Phone: +64 274 344 44 |
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast at The Greedy Cow Cafe. Their coffee and teas are strong, and the pastries are delicious!
Afterwards embark on a journey to Mount Cook and the Tasman Glacier! We suggest either joining a guided tour or going hiking like we did.
Day 4: Afternoon Itinerary for Lake Tekapo
Pack a picnic lunch, and make your way over to Lupin Field! The lupins are in full bloom from late November to early January, so this is the best time to visit.
Day 4: Evening Itinerary for Lake Tekapo
| Website: Dark Sky Diner Address: 1 Motuariki Lane, Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand Hours: • Tuesday and Wednesday – Closed • Monday, Thursday to Sunday – 3 PM to 8:30 PM Phone: +64 3 974 0378 |
Spend the evening exploring the shores of Lake Pukaki. If you’re up for it, you can rent a bike and ride along the lakefront trail and as the sun sets, make your way back to Lake Tekapo.
For dinner, we suggest dining at Dark Sky Diner for some sizzling fajitas. Then, wrap up your day with stargazing at the famed Dark Sky Project.
Take one of the guided tours, where you can learn about the southern hemisphere’s constellations and get a closer look at the stars through their powerful telescopes.
