Top 10 Best Things to Do in Lake Tekapo
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Top 10 Best Things to Do in Lake Tekapo

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Trip.Best is a collection of travel rankings that takes into account the travel choices and genuine preferences of hundres of millions of Trip.com users. It is updated monthly based on real data.
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  • The Church of the Good Shepherdtop_1
    4.8/5
    󰺂7.5
    Lake Tekapo453m from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoThe Church of the Good Shepherd, More Than Just a Starry Church
    Highlights:
    󱓊Lake views & sheepdog statue
    󱓊Lake view at Cook Mountain
    󱨠Saved by 187 users󱨠147 positive reviews
  • Lake Tekapotop_2
    4.7/5
    󰺂7.3
    Tekapo11.2 km from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoA dreamy summer trip to Lake Tekapo | Nov 2025-Feb 2026
    trip best small logoNo. 1 of Night Attractions in Lake Tekapo
    Highlights:
    Expert guides lead you to explore the night sky's mysteries
    󰋄International Dark Sky Reserve: A Premier Stargazing Haven
    󱨠Saved by 150 users󱨠105 positive reviews
  • Aoraki/Mount Cook National Parktop_3
    4.5/5
    󰺂7.0
    Gammack48.7 km from downtown
    Highlights:
    󰀆Hooker Valley Trail: Glacier & Mountain Views
    󱓊22 peaks over 10,000 feet
  • Tekapo Springs
    4
    4.5/5
    󰺂6.5
    Lake Tekapo1.7 km from downtown
    trip best small logoAchieved a 2-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    󱓊Soak & enjoy Lake Tekapo
    󰋄Hot springs & Lake Tekapo views
    󱨠43% positive reviews
  • Dark Sky Project
    5
    4.7/5
    󰺂4.6
    Lake Tekapo151m from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 2 of Night Attractions in Lake Tekapo
    Highlights:
    󱓊Stargazing: snowy mountains & lake
    Top 3 Lake Tekapo attractions

Best things to do in Lake Tekapo (2025)

Looking for the ultimate experiences in Lake Tekapo? From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Lake Tekapo offers an exceptional collection of activities and attractions that cater to every type of traveler.

Whether you’re here for sightseeing, adventure, or cultural exploration, these top-rated activities promise unforgettable memories.

Top-rated things to do in Lake Tekapo

If you want to make the most of your trip, these activities deliver the full Lake Tekapo experience. Expect popular attractions, unique local experiences, and must-see spots that capture the essence of the city.

The Church of the Good Shepherd

• Lake Tekapo | 453m from downtown

• : Lake views & sheepdog statue,Lake view at Cook Mountain

Lake Tekapo

• Tekapo | 11.2 km from downtown

• : Expert guides lead you to explore the night sky's mysteries,International Dark Sky Reserve: A Premier Stargazing Haven

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

• Gammack | 48.7 km from downtown

• : Hooker Valley Trail: Glacier & Mountain Views,22 peaks over 10,000 feet

Things to do for unique experiences

These activities provide memorable experiences beyond the ordinary. Enjoy cultural tours, adventure sports, guided excursions, and immersive local experiences designed for all interests.

Things to do near Lake Tekapo

If you want to explore attractions just outside Lake Tekapo, there are plenty of activities that combine scenic surroundings with convenient access to the city, perfect for day trips or short excursions.

Each of these activities offers a unique escape within 1–3 hours of Lake Tekapo, ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with local experiences.

What makes things to do in Lake Tekapo special

• Iconic landmarks: Visit must-see sights that define the city.
• Local experiences: Engage in culture, crafts, and unique activities.
• Accessible adventures: Easily reachable attractions for all travelers.
• Diverse options: From relaxing experiences to adventurous outings.

Tips for booking things to do in Lake Tekapo

1. Plan ahead for popular attractions to avoid long queues.
2. Book early for guided tours or seasonal events.
3. Compare prices and packages on Trip.com for exclusive deals and bundled experiences.
4. Consider weekday visits for a quieter and more personalized experience.

Experience the best things to do in Lake Tekapo

Ready to explore the best of Lake Tekapo? Discover Trip.Best's curated list of things to do and experience adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories.

Book your perfect activities on Trip.com today, where excitement and discovery awaits.

What Best Things to Do are there in Lake Tekapo?
These are all Best Things to Do in Lake Tekapo:The Church of the Good Shepherd, Lake Tekapo, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, Tekapo Springs, Dark Sky Project
What are some highly-rated Best Things to Do in Lake Tekapo?
Some highly-rated Best Things to Do in Lake Tekapo include:The Church of the Good Shepherd:4.8, Lake Tekapo:4.7, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park:4.5, Tekapo Springs:4.5, Dark Sky Project:4.7
At what locations in Lake Tekapo can Best Things to Do in Lake Tekapo be found?
The Best Things to Do in Lake Tekapo are mainly located in:The Church of the Good Shepherd:Lake Tekapo, Lake Tekapo:Tekapo, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park:Gammack, Tekapo Springs:Lake Tekapo, Dark Sky Project:Lake Tekapo
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