Sight

Tasman Lake

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Tasman Lake is a rapidly expanding glacial lake formed by the retreat of the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand's longest glacier. Located within Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, the lake is famous for its floating icebergs that calve from the glacier's terminal face. Visitors can take guided boat tours that navigate among the ice sculptures, offering close-up views of the glacier and the surrounding mountains. The lake's milky turquoise color comes from glacial flour suspended in the water. A short walk from the car park leads to a viewpoint overlooking the lake and glacier.

Don't miss

Take a boat tour to see icebergs up close and hear them crack and melt.
Walk the Tasman Glacier View track for panoramic views of the lake and glacier.
Photograph the ever-changing iceberg shapes and colors.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Tasman Lake

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 inAfter Dark Tasmanian Devil Feeding Tour at Cradle Mountain4.9★ · 286 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$30 per personSee dates →

Best full dayTasman Island Cruises and Port Arthur Historic Site Day Tour from Hobart4.8★ · 489 travelers~11 hoursFree cancellationFrom$243 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.

Sight

Blue Lake (Canterbury)

A small, intensely turquoise lake fed by glacial melt, accessible via a short walk near the Tasman Glacier.

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.