What to do in Tekapo

Activities, attractions and tours

Even though it was a bit cloudy it was quite impressive to see the sunset light effects on the changing landscape from the Astro Cafe in the Mt John Observatory.
Even though it was a bit cloudy it was quite impressive to see the sunset light effects on the changing landscape from the Astro Cafe in the Mt John Observatory.
Sunset stone skipping #springfun
Just after you've passed through Tekapo, or just before you get to Tekapo depending on what way you're driving, you'll have the opportunity to turn down a road that leads you here. This is the view from the Astro Cafe set at the top of Mount John with stunning views of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps. It does cost $8 to drive up to the observatory, but when you're presented with views like this, then it becomes a bit of a no brainer.
Part of the South Island Hydro Electricity scheme these canals are a great place to fish for salmon and trout. It runs between Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki and if you can't catch a fish you can go to the local fish farm and buy one.

Tekapo Attractions

Let Expedia help you experience the best that Tekapo has to offer! If you’re looking for fun itinerary ideas, we can provide you with a list of the top sightseeing attractions, as well as helping you to find unmissable activities. Whether you’re travelling with your family, planning a romantic trip with your loved one, or visiting on business, we’ll make it easy to plan an unforgettable holiday that checks all the boxes.

Activities and Tours

Tekapo is crammed with must-see places to visit and things to do. We can help you decide where to stay, and make it a breeze to explore the surrounding areas with our guides on where to go, what to see and when to see it. No matter how long your stay, it’s easy to find places of interest in Tekapo to make sure that you enjoy your experience to the fullest and don’t miss a thing. Leave the local knowledge to us and leave the hassle behind.

If you’re planning a visit, why not check out our handy guides to places of interest in the area? You can browse lists of things to do, learn about the most popular attractions, and get help with planning the details of your trip. Expedia makes it easy for you to check out all the top sights.

Tekapo Attractions

Expedia has something for everyone, so whether you’re planning to get active on a summer holiday, put a spring in your step with a romantic rendezvous, or pamper yourself with a leisurely winter trip, you’ll find plenty of attractions to keep you entertained. In addition to scheduling local tours, booking reservations and scoring advance event tickets, Expedia makes it easy to book your flight, hotel and rental car in advance, all on one consolidated travel itinerary, making for hassle-free travel and freeing you up to explore the sights of Tekapo.

Looking for things to do can be time consuming, but we can take the hassle out of planning your holiday. Whether you’re looking to get active in the great outdoors, sample the cuisine or catch up with the vibrant local culture, our guides to Tekapo attractions ensure that you’ll have a successful trip, whatever the season.

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Most fun & popular experiences in Tekapo

Tours & day trips

See all 49 activities
Mount Cook Day Tour from Queenstown

Mount Cook Day Tour from Queenstown

Activity duration is 12 hours
7.8 out of 10 with 43 reviews
Free cancellation available
The previous price was CA $165 and current price is CA $148 per adult
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Adventure & outdoor

See all 7 activities
Minecraft Lake Tekapo New Zealand Tour

Minecraft Lake Tekapo New Zealand Tour

Activity duration is 3 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is CA $287 per adult
Minecraft Lake Tekapo New Zealand TourOpens in new tab

History & culture

See all 5 activities
Silver River Stargazing Experience in Lake Tekapo

Silver River Stargazing Experience in Lake Tekapo

Activity duration is 1 hour and 15 minutes
9.2 out of 10 with 22 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is CA $81 per adult
Silver River Stargazing Experience in Lake TekapoOpens in new tab

Private & custom tours

See all 3 activities
World in a day

World in a day

Activity duration is 5 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is CA $4,870 per adult*
World in a dayOpens in new tab

Recommended things to do in Tekapo

Number of things to do
53
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Lake Tekapo: Single Day Pass for Hot Pools: CA $33
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Tekapo

Discover the most popular places to visit in Tekapo

Mount John Observatory featuring a river or creek, tranquil scenes and landscape views

Mount John Observatory

Take an evening tour to see the wonders of the night sky or visit during the day to enjoy the stunning views of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding mountains.

Mount John Observatory
Roundhill Ski Area featuring snow and mountains

Roundhill Ski Area

Spend the day discovering this ski field above Lake Tekapo, which provides beginner-friendly runs alongside the steepest vertical drop in the country.

Roundhill Ski Area

Mount John Lookout

You can learn about the history of Tekapo with a trip to Mount John Lookout. Stroll along the lakeside in this quaint area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.

Mount John Lookout

Lake Tekapō Regional Park

Explore the great outdoors at Lake Tekapō Regional Park, a lovely green space in Tekapo.

Lake Tekapō Regional Park

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Tekapo

Adobe

Mount Cook

Lake Tekapo which includes mountains, a lake or waterhole and wild flowers

Lake Tekapo

Lake Pukaki which includes snow, mountains and a lake or waterhole

Pukaki

Frequently asked questions

Is Tekapo worth visiting?
Tekapo has a unique mix of culture, local charm and attractions. Whether you're into history, the outdoors or regional cuisine, there's plenty you'll find here.
How do I spend a day in Tekapo?
Mount John Observatory is a great place to begin your getaway adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and retail options in Tekapo while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Tekapo?
Plan a day at Mount John Observatory and discover why it's rated as the top tourist attraction near Tekapo.
Is three days enough to stay in Tekapo?
Three days in Tekapo is enough time to discover the nearby sights. Many travellers love Mount John Observatory and Lake Tekapō Regional Park, so why not check them out while you're in the area?
What are some activities to do in Tekapo with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with young explorers or playful teenagers, an itinerary filled with fun activities makes a big difference. Check out our ideas for what to do in Tekapo with kids.

What to do in Tekapo for adults?
Adults of all ages will find lots of things to do in Tekapo. Whether you're into local cuisine, outdoor pursuits or just love discovering new places, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Tekapo?
You won't have to go out of your way to find free things to do in Tekapo. Just ask a local tour guide and they'll have suggestions for places and activities you can experience with no costs involved. One free option for your itinerary is Lake Tekapō Regional Park.