Sight

Blue Lake (Canterbury)

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Blue Lake is a small, vividly turquoise body of water located near the terminal face of the Tasman Glacier in Mount Cook National Park. Its striking color comes from fine glacial rock flour suspended in the meltwater, which scatters sunlight. The lake is reached by a short, easy walking track from the Tasman Glacier car park, making it a popular stop for visitors. Unlike larger glacial lakes, Blue Lake offers a serene, intimate setting with reflections of the surrounding moraine walls. It is a prime example of how glacial activity shapes the landscape, and its clarity and color change with the seasons.

Don't miss

Marvel at the intense turquoise color created by glacial rock flour
Walk the short, flat track from the Tasman Glacier viewpoint
Observe icebergs calved from the glacier floating in the nearby Tasman Lake

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Blue Lake (Canterbury)

You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.

Cheapest way inBlue Lagoon Snorkeling - Lunch - Kantolampo - Tibumana Waterfall4.9★ · 566 travelers~10 hoursFree cancellationFrom$44 per personSee dates →

Best full day#1 Blue Mountains Small Group All Inclusive with Local Guide4.9★ · 9,272 travelers~10 hoursFree cancellationFrom$177 per personSee dates →

Private & flexibleMount Cook & Lake Tekapo Day Trip from Christchurch5★ · 17 travelers10–13 hoursFree cancellationFrom$197 per personSee dates →

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More attractions in Mount Cook Village

Park & nature

Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

New Zealand's premier alpine park, home to the country's highest peak, Aoraki / Mount Cook, and part of a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Landmark

Hermitage Hotel, Mount Cook Village

A historic alpine hotel in Mount Cook Village offering accommodation, dining, and unparalleled views of Aoraki/Mount Cook.

Outdoor & fun

Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail

A world-class cycle route from Mount Cook to Oamaru, traversing diverse landscapes from alpine lakes to coastal plains.

Planning your trip to Mount Cook Village? See where to eat, more attractions, or build a Mount Cook Village itinerary.