More about: 4 Best Day Trips from Queenstown
Queenstown, located in the south-central region of New Zealand, is one of the most popular cities for tourism in Oceania and offers a lot of local attractions, but it is also an ideal place to tour the surrounding area. In these excursions you can visit the natural parks, lakes, hills and some of the most outstanding New Zealand mountains.
Among the best activities you can do in Queenstown to get to know the nearby areas are visiting Glenorchy and Paradise on half-day tours, taking a tour of the wineries in the region, getting to know Mount Cook, exploring Milford Sound on a light aircraft ride and opting for a cruise to Walter Peak.
1. Half day tour to Glenorchy and Paradise from Queenstown
An exciting half-day excursion to Glenorchy and Paradise from Queenstown is an experience not to be missed if you plan to visit this region of New Zealand. These places, known for their breathtaking scenery and connection to the Lord of the Rings movies, offer an unforgettable adventure in the middle of nature.
Departing from Queenstown, the journey to Glenorchy is in itself a treat for the eyes. As you enter the mountainous landscape, you will appreciate panoramic views of the crystal clear lakes and majestic mountains that surround the region. Each bend in the road reveals a new natural pearl that will amaze adults and children alike, making it one of the best things to do in Queenstown with kids.
In Glenorchy you can immerse yourself in a charming and picturesque village. There you can enjoy some free time to explore its quiet streets, craft stores and cozy cafes. In addition, these excursions usually also allow you to discover the local architecture, which is among the most remarkable in New Zealand.
The excursion may continue to Paradise, a magical and scenic site that could truly be considered a paradise on Earth. This is another iconic Lord of the Rings setting, where you will recognize landscapes that were used as sets in the movies. Strolling through the green meadows, meandering rivers and enchanted forests of this destination is an experience that will spark your imagination and allow you to connect with the magic of the trilogy.
Details of interest
- Price: approximately €99 per person, including round-trip transfers and the assistance of an expert local guide.
- Duration: between 4 and 6 hours.
2. Full day tour to Mount Cook from Queenstown
A full day tour to Mount Cook from Queenstown is a breathtaking experience that allows you to explore one of New Zealand's most iconic natural wonders. Departing from Queenstown, you will embark on a journey through spectacular and picturesque scenery to reach this majestic site, which is the highest mountain in the country.
The tour will take you along scenic roads, crossing valleys, rivers and waterfalls that make up a dreamlike landscape. As you enter the Aoraki National Park, you will marvel at the beauty of the Southern Alps and the serenity of the surrounding glacial lakes, especially if you plan to visit Queenstown in winter.
When you arrive at Mount Cook, you can enjoy a variety of activities to explore and admire its grandeur. There you can hike on well-marked trails that offer panoramic views of the mountain and surrounding glaciers.
During the tour you can also opt for additional activities, such as helicopter rides or boat tours on Lake Tasman, where you can get even closer to the glaciers and appreciate their beauty from different perspectives. These optional activities, which usually cost extra, will add a dose of excitement and adventure to your day.
Details of interest
- Price: approximately 100 euros per person, including round-trip transfers and the assistance of an expert local guide.
- Duration: between 6 and 8 hours.
3. Excursion to Milford Sound with light aircraft tour
The Milford Sound light aircraft tour from Queenstown is an unforgettable experience that will allow you to discover one of the most amazing destinations in New Zealand. Milford Sound is a region known for its breathtaking scenery, majestic fjords, and awe-inspiring waterfalls, and exploring it from the air gives you a unique perspective, especially if you plan to visit Queenstown during the summer.
During the light aircraft flight you can admire panoramic views of the Southern Alps, crystal clear lakes and valleys covered with lush vegetation. As you enter the fjord, you will witness the magnificence of the mountains and the serenity of the waters, which draw a landscape that looks like something out of a fairy tale.
Once in Milford Sound, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a boat ride on the fjord. You will sail among impressive cliffs and contemplate waterfalls that plunge from above, creating a natural spectacle of great beauty. Along the way, you may spot local marine life such as dolphins, seals and penguins.
In addition to the scenic beauty, the Milford Sound tour gives you the chance to experience the tranquility and serenity of this remote location. You will be able to enjoy moments of relaxation, surrounded by the awe-inspiring nature, and connect with the peace that this unique environment offers.
Details of interest
- Price: approximately 337 euros per person. This cost usually includes round-trip transfers, light aircraft flight, fjord cruise and the assistance of an expert local guide.
- Duration: about 5 hours.
4. Cruise excursion to Walter Peak from Queenstown
The Walter Peak cruise from Queenstown is an enchanting experience that allows you to explore the beauty of Lake Wakatipu, one of New Zealand's largest lakes, and enjoy an adventure in an idyllic setting. Walter Peak, located on the east shore of the lake, is a popular destination and features a historic farm that offers a unique combination of breathtaking scenery and interactive activities.
During the cruise, you will marvel at the panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains as you make your way to Walter Peak. The tranquility of the water and the majesty of the landscape will transport you to a state of relaxation and awe.
Once at Walter Peak you will have the opportunity to visit the historic farm and enjoy rural activities, such as feeding sheep and watching a shearing demonstration. You can also meet other farm animals, such as alpacas and pigs, and learn about rural life in New Zealand.
In addition, you can enjoy a delicious meal at the farm's restaurant, which serves dishes made from local, high quality produce. The meal is complemented by panoramic views of the lake and mountains, making the experience even more special.
Details of interest
- Price: approximately 84 euros per person. This cost usually includes round-trip transfers, the cruise ride and the assistance of an expert local guide.
- Duration: about 4 hours.
How to book a tour from Queenstown?
You can either book a tour from Queenstown in advance online or opt to book the experience once you are in town, although you should be aware that if you plan to visit the town during the summer or during peak season months the sites may sell out or increase in price as rates are dynamic.
If you choose to book in advance you can save time and money, as you will freeze the price and get a place on these tours and then organize an itinerary that will allow you to get the most out of your visit. This will be ideal if you are planning a short stay in the city, which requires you to see Queenstown in 3 days or even less.
What will I see on these tours?
On this type of tour from Queenstown you will be able to enjoy a wide variety of attractions and breathtaking scenery. You will be able to see some of the most iconic destinations in the region, such as the beautiful alpine lakes, like Wakatipu Lake, Lake Tekapo or Lake Wanaka, with their crystal clear waters and surrounded by majestic mountains.
You will also have the opportunity to explore the national parks and nature reserves, where you can admire the lush vegetation, meandering rivers and spectacular waterfalls. In addition, you can visit iconic places such as Mount Cook, Milford Sound Fjord or Glacier National Park, where you can marvel at impressive ice formations and otherworldly glacial landscapes.
Tips for an excursion from Queenstown
If you plan to make an excursion to the area around the city, you should keep in mind that these places are full of glaciers, mountains and lakes, so if you visit Queenstown in winter you could witness adverse weather, in some cases with sub-zero temperatures. This is why it is ideal that you carry the necessary clothing and warm clothing to enhance the experience of your visit.
In addition, if you are planning a visit during the summer or during the high season months, I advise you to book tours in advance to avoid losing your place on these tours or having them increase in price due to last minute bookings.
Why is it advisable to take a tour from Queenstown?
Taking a tour from Queenstown is highly recommended because of the wide variety of activities and breathtaking scenery you can experience around the city. Queenstown is known as The Adventure Capital, so it offers a wealth of exciting opportunities, from extreme sports to outdoor activities in dreamy natural settings.
This region of New Zealand is also famous for its mountainous landscapes, crystal clear lakes and national parks, making it an ideal destination for those looking to connect with nature. In addition, the numerous excursions available will allow you to explore these landscapes at their best, whether through hiking, boat trips, scenic flights or tours in specialized vehicles.
In addition to its natural beauty, Queenstown also offers a wide range of cultural and gastronomic activities. From visiting wineries and farms to exploring the local art scene, you'll find something for everyone. The combination of adventure, scenic beauty and cultural options make Queenstown an unparalleled destination for an unforgettable excursion.
What are the advantages of taking a tour vs. visiting the sites around Queenstown on my own?
Taking a guided tour has several advantages over visiting the sites near Queenstown on your own. Guided tours usually offer a more complete and enriching perspective of the places visited. Expert guides know the destinations thoroughly and can provide relevant historical, cultural and geographical information, allowing you to access a deeper understanding of the sites you are exploring.
In addition, guided tours of Queenstown often include comfortable and convenient transportation, which eases the logistics of getting from one location to another. This eliminates the need to worry about transportation planning and allows visitors to relax and fully enjoy the experience.
However, if you prefer greater flexibility and freedom to explore at your own pace, visiting sites near Queenstown on your own may be a viable option. This allows you to customize your itinerary and spend more time at the places that interest you most, although it will likely take more time and energy away from other tours.