Tongariro Northern Circuit
Walk through three resting volcanoes in a day
Length of the full northern circuit: 43km, 3-4 days; looped track
Length of day walk: ~19km, 7-8 hours; one-way (but we recommend staying overnight at an alpine lodge before and after your trek for a more restful and well-paced experience)
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Track conditions: Steep and undulating
Ideal times to hike the track: October - April
Check ‘hiking around an active volcano’ from your adventure list when you complete this thrilling and noteworthy trek, which circles the cone of Mount Ngauruhoe. The dramatic circuit encompasses the iconic and world-famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand’s oldest national park and a dual World Heritage site.
If you’re short on time, a day hike on this trail will give you a taste of the surreal landscape of NZ’s most active (but currently resting) volcano.
Highlights of this Great Walk include trekking on sublime volcanic lands, crossing glacial valleys and weaving through twisted lava formations, before taking in the striking and scenic contrast of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
Experience the Tongariro National Park on these trips