More about: 6 Best Queenstown Tours
If you are planning a trip to New Zealand and want to visit a city that offers mountains, fjords, adventure activities and a good gastronomic level, then you should choose to visit Queenstown, which is one of the most outstanding places in the South Island. There you can not only discover some of the most beautiful New Zealand landscapes, but also do wine tasting and live incredible cultural experiences.
Some of the best things to do in Queenstown during the city's most interesting tours include discovering the settings of the Lord of the Rings trilogy, taking a speedboat ride on the local lakes, participating in a beer tour, visiting The Remarkables mountain by helicopter and discovering the wild trails on an ATV caravan. Are you ready to discover the heart of the country's South Island?
1. Lord of the Rings Tour through the settings of the trilogy
The Lord of the Rings Trilogy Scenery Tour in Queenstown is a unique experience that allows fans to immerse themselves in the fascinating world of Middle-earth. Queenstown and its surroundings have been iconic locations used in the films, making this region a must-see destination for fans of the saga.
During the tour, you can visit the town's iconic sites, such as the main square, Lake Wakatipu and the cobblestone streets of the old town, but you can also include a visit to Glenorchy and Paradise, which served as the backdrop for memorable scenes in the films. You will be able to walk along the same paths that saw the footsteps of Frodo and Sam, and explore the landscapes that marked the story.
In addition, these tours will provide you with detailed information about the production of the films and interesting anecdotes about their making. The expert guides will share stories and fun facts that will make the experience even more enriching and exciting, especially if you plan to visit Queenstown with children, as many of the tours are interactive and include themed performances and costumes.
For passionate fans, Lord of the Rings-themed games are also available, where they can recreate iconic scenes and fully immerse themselves in the magic and adventure of the trilogy.
Details of interest
- Price: approximately 111 euros, including transfers around the tour sites and the assistance of an expert local guide.
- Tour duration: about 4 hours.
2. Quad biking adventure tour through the wild trails of Queenstown.
The quad biking adventure tour through the wild trails of Queenstown is an exciting and adrenaline-filled experience that will allow you to explore the natural beauty of the region in a unique way. Riding a quad bike gives you the freedom to explore these sites and discover remote and picturesque landscapes.
On these tours you will travel through varied terrain, from lush forests to rugged hills and breathtaking canyons. The trails are designed to offer an exciting and challenging experience, allowing you to test your riding skills while enjoying the spectacular scenery around you.
In addition to the thrill of riding a quad bike, you will have the opportunity to admire the scenic beauty of Queenstown. You will appreciate panoramic views of the mountains, lakes and rivers as you enter the untouched wilderness of New Zealand.
During the tour you will be accompanied by expert guides who will provide safety instructions and lead you through the trails. They know the highlights and will be able to share with you interesting information about the flora, fauna and history of one of New Zealand's most remarkable regions.
Details of interest
- Price: approximately 139 euros, including the quad bike and the assistance of an expert local guide.
- Duration of tour: about 1 hour.
3. Winery tour in Queenstown
Discover New Zealand's wine wealth with this winery tour in Queenstown, a perfect experience for those who want to taste quality wines while enjoying breathtaking scenery. Queenstown, located in the Central Otago region, is famous for its vineyards and world-class Pinot Noir production.
During the tour, you will visit several wineries where you can taste a selection of local wines and learn about the production process from experts. In addition, you will tour vineyards with spectacular views of mountains and lakes, making the experience even more special. Each stop will allow you to learn about the history of viticulture in the region and discover the nuances that make these wines unique.
This tour is an ideal opportunity to relax, enjoy the surroundings and meet other wine lovers. In addition, some wineries offer pairings with cheeses and local products, further elevating the gastronomic experience. Whether you are a wine connoisseur or just an amateur, this tour of Queenstown's wineries will be an unforgettable experience.
Details of interest
- Price: approximately 129 € per person, including tastings.
- Duration of tour: about 4 hours.
4. Speedboat tour of the Queenstown lakes
The speedboat tour of the Queenstown lakes is a breathtaking experience. These tours offer a perfect combination of adrenaline, breathtaking scenery and fun on the water.
During the speedboat ride, you will enjoy the speed and excitement as you glide through the crystal clear waters of Queenstown's most prominent lakes, such as Shotover and Kawarau. You will feel the breeze on your face and enjoy the feeling of freedom as you cruise the lakes surrounded by majestic mountains and breathtaking natural scenery in the best weather, especially if you plan to visit Queenstown in the summer.
In addition to the thrill of speed, you will have the opportunity to admire the scenic beauty of the lakes. You will be able to appreciate the different shades of blue of the waters, the lush vegetation that surrounds them and the snow-capped mountain peaks reflected on the surface of the water. Some tours also include a visit to Wakatipu, which is also one of the largest lakes in New Zealand.
Expert guides will provide you with information about the history and geography of the region, and can point out points of interest and highlight interesting aspects of the surrounding scenery.
Details of interest
- Price: approximately 74 euros.
- Tour duration: about 2 hours.
5. Helicopter tour to The Remarkables
The thrilling helicopter flight to The Remarkables in Queenstown is an experience that will leave you speechless. This hill is part of an iconic mountain range that rises majestically on the fringes of the city, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
During the helicopter flight you will enjoy an electrifying ride as you soar above the peaks of The Remarkables. From the heights, you will be able to admire the grandeur of the mountains and appreciate the natural beauty of the region, with its valleys, lakes and glaciers, which are often included in the tours of the best excursions from Queenstown.
Once at The Remarkables, you will have the opportunity to disembark and explore this spectacular mountainous area. You will enjoy gentle hikes along marked trails, surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery. Every step will lead you to picturesque sites and panoramic views that will leave you in awe and allow you to take some of the best photographs of your trip.
In addition, the helicopter flight will give you a unique perspective of Queenstown and its surroundings. You will be able to appreciate the beauty of the city, Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding snow-capped mountains from a privileged position, especially if you plan to visit Queenstown in winter.
Details of interest
- Price: approximately 180 euros.
- Tour duration: about 20 minutes flight.
6. Queenstown Beer Tour
The Queenstown beer tour is a must-do experience for lovers of this delicious beverage. The town and surrounding area is known for its vibrant beer scene and offers a wide variety of craft breweries worth exploring.
During the tour you will have the opportunity to visit some of the most famous breweries in the region. A must stop is Altitude Brewing, which offers a wide selection of locally brewed craft beers. There you can sample different styles and learn about the brewing process from expert brewers.
Another notable brewery is Canyon Food & Brew Co. known for its focus on quality beer and the perfect combination of food and drink. There you can enjoy a complete dining experience, pairing craft beer with delicious local dishes.
In addition to breweries, these tours can also include visits to local bars and pubs that offer a wide selection of craft beers. You can enjoy a lively atmosphere and sample different beers from the region while socializing with other lovers of this popular beverage.
Details of interest
- Price: approximately 104 euros. Tours generally include transfers, tastings and the assistance of an expert local guide.
- Duration of tour: between 4 and 5 hours.
How to book a tour in Queenstown?
You can book a tour in Queenstown in advance online or book some of these experiences once you are in town, at a tour provider's office or on a website. However, you should keep in mind that if you plan to visit this destination in the summer or during the high season months, prices may increase or the tours may sell out before they start.
In any case, I advise you to book in advance to freeze the price and avoid dynamic rates. You can also save time by having detailed information in advance to organize an itinerary and get the most out of your visit to Queenstown.
What will I see on this type of tour?
On this type of Queenstown tour you will have the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the region. You will be able to enjoy panoramic views of the mountains, lakes and landscapes that characterize this city. During quad biking or adventure tours, you can also venture into the wilderness and discover remote and picturesque sites that would otherwise be inaccessible.
In addition to the scenic beauty, you can observe the diversity of local flora and fauna. The Queenstown region is home to a rich biodiversity, and as you hike the trails, you can spot native birds, such as the national bird, the kiwi, and enjoy the presence of other native animal and plant species, which are common in New Zealand's national parks.
Tips for a tour in Queenstown
Queenstown offers some of the best attractions in New Zealand, but it is also a place of inhospitable terrain, so the best alternative to know it thoroughly is to have the assistance of a guide. For this reason I advise you to choose guided tours, to let yourself be guided by local experts and to enjoy the natural environment of the region in a relaxed way.
Also, if you plan to visit Queenstown during the high season months, I advise you to book tours in advance, which will save you time and money.
Why is it advisable to take a tour in Queenstown?
Taking a tour in Queenstown is highly recommended due to the countless attractions and exciting experiences this city has to offer. This destination is known as the Adventure Capital of New Zealand, making it an ideal place for lovers of nature, extreme sports and breathtaking scenery.
One of the main reasons to take a tour in the city is the opportunity to explore its natural beauty. Surrounded by mountains, lakes and lush valleys, Queenstown offers spectacular scenery that invites adventure. Whether hiking, kayaking, paragliding or taking a thrilling boat ride, these tours will allow you to enjoy your surroundings, especially during the summer in Queenstown when the mild weather accompanies the experience.
What are the advantages of taking a guided tour vs. visiting Queenstown on my own?
Taking a guided tour in Queenstown will give you an expert perspective. Local guides can enrich your experience by providing fascinating details and recommendations of sites that you might normally overlook on your own.
In addition, guided tours allow you to optimize your time and make the most of your visit. Itineraries are carefully planned, which means you won't have to worry about transportation details, an aspect that can be very cumbersome. The guides will save you time and effort in planning and navigating your pre-planned tour.
Another advantage is the convenience of a guided tour. Tour operators take care of arranging transfers, ensuring that you arrive at destinations safely and smoothly. In addition, tours often include specific activities and attractions, allowing you to enjoy a more complete and effective experience, which is ideal if you are planning a 3-day stay in Queenstown, or even less.