You don’t need any multi-day hiking experience to do this trip, but you will need a good level of walking fitness and the ability to carry a backpack of approx 10kgs. If you’re a reasonably active person and have a sense of adventure you’ll love it! You’ll need to carry a backpack containing your lunch, sleeping bag, a change of clothes and personal items – the guides take care of the food and cooking equipment. You are encouraged to walk at your own pace, and to rest and enjoy the many spectacular lookouts as much as possible.
We begin this walk by doing the highlights section of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, including ‘Devil’s Staircase,’ a steep ascent up and over the Mangatepopo Saddle. It’s a heart-pumping climb! If you’re able to work in some stair-climbing into your pre-departure training program, you wouldn’t regret it and it would certainly help reassure yourself that your fitness level is adequate. If you have any further queries on fitness level, please get in touch with our team for more information.