Where to stay during your visit to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

Nestled in the heart of New Zealand's South Island, sits Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. Towering peaks, glacial lakes, dark skies and alpine valleys paint a picture of unparalleled beauty, attracting visitors from around the globe. The National Park offers unmatched opportunities for exploration and adventures.

Before you arrive there is one thing you need to remember, Aoraki/Mount Cook is a remote location with limited accommodation so doing your research and booking before you arrive is crucial to ensuring you make the most of your time in this piece of paradise. From iconic hotels to cosy alpine huts, there are an array of options to suit every traveller’s needs and budgets.

The Hermitage Hotel

Situated in the heart of Aoraki/Mount Cook Alpine Village, the Hermitage Hotel is an iconic landmark in the region, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers, including mighty Aoraki. The only hotel in the village, the Hermitage offers varying room types and with its north facing location, most come with a stunning view of Aoraki. There are multiple dining options to choose from; the Sir Edmund Hillary Café is the perfect place to grab a snack between adventures, Alpine Restaurant provides guest with extensive buffets at breakfast and dinner, and the Panorama Room provides an intimate à la carte dining experience.

The hotel also offers a range of activities and experiences. Discover New Zealand’s largest glacier on a trip with Glacier Explorers, explore the world’s largest Gold Tier Dark Sky Reserve with Big Sky Stargazing, journey through the cosmos at the indoor Planetarium show or learn about the history of the region at the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre.

The Hermitage Hotel is the perfect place to relax between adventures in the National Park.

Mount Cook Lodge

For travellers seeking more affordable yet comfortable accommodation, the Mount Cook Lodge, located just 800 metres from the Hermitage is the perfect option. Refurbished at the end of 2019, all 59 rooms sleep up to two people and come with an ensuite and balcony. Located in the lower Aoraki/Mount Cook village the Mount Cook Lodge rooms have views towards the Tasman Valley or rear hillside. Conveniently located onsite is the Chamois Bar & Grill. The only pub in the National Park, the Chamois serves up delicious kiwi classics and pub favourites. Enjoy relaxed dining here with a cosy bar area, pool table and dart board. The Mount Cook Lodge will provide you with cosy contemporary comfort during your stay in Aoraki.

Mount Cook Motels

Located adjacent to the Mount Cook Lodge are the Mount Cook Motels. Perfect for families or small groups of friends, these ground floor units can cater up to 5 people. If you like to cook for yourself while you travel these are the perfect option as all units include a fully equiped kitchenette. If cooking is not your thing don’t stress, the Chamois Bar and Grill is located 100 metres away and the Hermitage 800 metres. The motels are a great base if you plan on spending most of your time outside exploring the trails on offer.

White Horse Hill Campground

For those craving a truly immersive outdoor experience, White Horse Hill Campground provides a rustic camping experience amidst the stunning alpine landscape. Operated by the Department of Conservation, this campground offers basic facilities including toilets, water taps, a shelter for cooking and picnic tables, allowing visitors to connect with nature while still enjoying essential comforts. Set against the backdrop of towering peaks and glacier-fed rivers, camping at White Horse Hill offers easy access to hiking trails, star-gazing opportunities, and the chance to witness the park's wildlife in their natural habitat. Advanced booking is recommended, especially during the peak summer season.

Mueller Hut

Perched high above the valley floor, the Mueller Hut offers adventurous travellers the opportunity to spend a night at over 1,800 metres among the stunning alpine landscape. Accessible via a challenging hike, the hut provides basic bunk-style accommodation and stunning panoramic views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the surrounding peaks. While facilities are limited, waking up to the sunrise lighting up the snow-capped mountains is a truly unique experience.

Whether you're seeking premium accommodation with unrivalled views or a budget-friendly camp for outdoor adventures, Aoraki Mount Cook offers a diverse range of options to suit every traveller’s needs. From an iconic hotel to a rustic campground and a remote mountain hut, the accommodation choices in this stunning region cater to a wide range of preferences and budgets. No matter what you choose, a stay in Aoraki/Mount Cook will create memories to last a lifetime.