Private Tama Lakes Guided Hike
A rewarding day hike through alpine terrain with stunning views of the Lower and Upper Tama Lakes, Taranaki Falls, and the volcanic peaks of Mt Ruapehu and Mt Ngauruhoe. A fantastic alternative to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing for those seeking a slightly shorter, less challenging, but equally scenic adventure.
Run exclusively for you and your family or friends, private tours are more flexible and can accommodate different fitness levels and avoid weather-exposed sections or crowded areas.
The 17 km return Tama Lakes Track forms part of the Tongariro Northern Circuit Great Walk, set in the heart of Tongariro National Park — a UNESCO Dual World Heritage site recognised for its outstanding natural beauty and cultural significance. Beginning as an extension of the Taranaki Falls Walk, the track leads to a viewpoint overlooking the striking Lower Tama Lake, which sits within explosion craters on the Tama Saddle between Ruapehu and Ngāuruhoe. Option to continue a further 200 metres up to the Upper Tama Lake viewpoint for breathtaking vistas across the volcanic plateau. Formed by explosive eruptions around 10,000 years ago, the Tama Lakes fill a cluster of ancient craters. The surrounding cliffs reveal some of the oldest lava flows in the park — dating back up to 275,000 years.
Tama Lakes
PRIVATE
Guided Hike
Surcharge applies for extra people
Winter equipment included
Crampons, ice axe and helmet if needed
All additional boot and clothing hire included
Hire the best with Adrift—our premium LOWA Tibet boots are unmatched for alpine performance. Paired with Grivel G10 crampons, they offer the ultimate in comfort, support, and safety.
Transport
Between the start and end of the walk and the Adrift Tongariro base included
Private accommodation transfers an optional extra
Taupo CBD, Turangi, Whakapapa Village
Lunch an optional extra
Interested in a group tour?
Find out more
Trip Status
Customers must check Trip Status updates in our website chatbot after 9:00 am the day before their tour.
Need help? Phone: +64 7 892 2751 or WhatsApp: +64 274 462 364 (10:00 am – 5:00 pm).
Single bookings: please reconfirm 3 days prior.
Risk Disclosure
It is essential for each participant to fill out a risk disclosure prior to arriving on site. Look out for your unique link or QR code in your inbox 3 days before your tour date.
What to expect on the day
Call the day before to reconfirm your tour and start time. Private trips have the luxury to be flexible with start times if pre arranged with Adrift Tongariro. Those that have booked private transfers will be picked up from your accommodation and driven to the Adrift Tongariro base. Clients who have self-driven can park their vehicle outside the Adrift Tongariro base safely, at no cost for the day.
Your private guide will be waiting to greet you. No need to wait in line, your private guide will organise any additional clothing and boots you may need. Your trip will then be tailored to you to accommodate different fitness levels and walking pace along with your customised pick up at the end of the day to return to the Adrift Tongariro base in National Park Village or your accommodation.
Adrift Tongariro Base
53 Carroll Street
National Park 3948
Track information
Total distance: 17.6km return via same track (10.9 miles)
Walking time: Average 5 – 6 hours, maximum 10 hours
Track conditions: Well formed and well maintained.
Start the hike from Whakapapa Village on the Taranaki Falls Walking Track. After reaching Taranaki Falls, the trail continues across rolling tussock country and alpine herb fields on a well-formed, clearly marked path. Further along, it branches left towards Tama Lakes, where you’ll find a viewpoint overlooking the Lower Tama Lake (1,240 m). From here, the track climbs steeply to a viewpoint above the Upper Tama Lake (1,440 m).
Optional Side Trip – Upper Tama Lake Viewpoint
Distance: 2.8 km return (1.8 miles)
Time: Approx. 1 hour
Track: The optional climb to the Upper Lake lookout is steeper and less defined, with loose sand and rock underfoot. Suitable for reasonably fit, confident hikers.
Sacred Mountains
The alpine lakes and peaks of the mountains are sacred to the local Māori tribe Ngāti Hikairo ki Tongariro. Respectfully, they ask that peaks are not climbed and waterways are not to be touched. Additionally we like to show our respect by ensuring we leave no trace, and even helping the environment by retrieving wrappers from those who have gone before us.
More Guided Tours from Adrift
Private Tongariro
Alpine Crossing
Guided Hike
New Zealand’s best one-day walk, located in the Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO Dual World Heritage site. Walk between Mt. Ngauruhoe and Mt. Tongariro, past craters and the Blue and Emerald Lakes.
Private Mt Ruapehu
Summit Plateau
Guided Hike
Worthy of a place on anyone’s bucket list. The volcanic crater of Mt Ruapehu and its milky blue waters are an impressive sight, a hike to remember. Run exclusively for you and your family or friends.
Private 1 Day
Whanganui River
Guided Canoe
Paddle one of New Zealand’s Great Walks by canoe. Experience the NZ wilderness as you paddle through a mix of farmland and native bush, wondering if you have taken a step back in time.