Tongariro Alpine Crossing - Sunrise

With the Milky Way at your fingertips and shooting stars streaming in the clarity that only the pre-dawn can achieve, come and see the sunrise at Red Crater and enjoy breakfast alfresco.

The route is from Mangatepopo to Red Crater to the Mt. Tongariro Summit and returning to Mangatepopo. The route is simular to the daytime one but with one obvious exception ... NO CROWDS!

Adrift supplies your sunrise breakfast, any clothing or footwear you may require, head-torches, and your Adrift guide to make sure everyone is safe, on-track for the sunrise and having a great adventure.

Sunrise trips depart from our National Park Village Base at 3 Waimarino-Tokaanu Rd. If possible, we would prefer to meet clients the day prior between 3pm-6pm to check clothing requirements etc. This will make for a quick morning departure. Departure times will be advised inaccordance with the changing sunrise times. Depending on the time of the year, departure times will vary between 1.30am-3.00am. The trip takes about 8 hours (walking time including breaks = 7 hours). 

 

"The pre-dawn hike was amazing and Stewart is a great guide. It was tough waking up that early, but we really enjoyed the experience and seeing the stars and sunrise was worth the effort. It was one of those 'once-in-a-lifetime' moments and we would do it again if we ever return to NZ. Thanks again for recommending this trip". Ken & Mary Kolb.

 

Gear List :

Sturdy tramping boots, warm socks, thermal longs, walking trousers (no jeans pls), waterproof over-trousers, three warm top layers (wool, thermal, fleece, soft shell etc. are good), waterproof jacket, warm gloves, warm hat, sunglasses, a backpack and head-torch.

We are able to provide these items if you do not have them. We will also provide a small but high energy breakfast. Guides will carry first aid, safety and communication equipment.

You will also need to bring; sunscreen, water, blister protection, camera and personal medications. I always think taking a sleeping bag to snuggle into to watch the the sunrise in is a great idea.

 

FAQ : I would like to do the sunrise tour but am afraid we may miss out on some views

Answer: Absolutely no! We walk up the mountain in the dark which is actually a good thing as the sight of a 2 hour climb is mentally harder than actually doing it, doing this in the dark eliminates seeing the hill ahead. We time the walk so that we reach the top with about 20 minutes before sunrise. This time of day is stunning with the darkness turning into blue and pink then the brilliant yellow sunrise. When on top we get to see all those views that we would have been looking at during the climb, not missing out on anything. - Stewart Barclay