Queenstown · WALKING TOURS
15 reviewed
This is the shortlist we’d hand a friend: the 15 walking tours worth booking, each with its price, its traveller verdict, and the one thing to know before you commit.
Jet-boat speed on the Matukituki River plus a guided wilderness walk in Mount Aspiring National Park from Wanaka.
“Perfect mix of jet boat and stunning scenery. James was an excellent host. What an amazing way to access otherwise inaccessible places.”
Two hours on Lake Wanaka: catamaran to Stevensons Island, a short uphill nature walk, and tea. Scenic views for photos.
“the boat trip was good & scenery beautiful. think your guide could do with some lessons.... strode off up bthe hill 5 metres ahead of everyone, never looked back to check people were ok very casual in his chat at the top & finally he needs to use deodorant”
Cruise Lake Wanaka to predator-free Mou Waho, plant a native tree, then hike to views plus high tea in alpine country.
“We had the best time seeing Wanaka from the lake and doing a perfect length hike to the top of the island. We learned so much about the plants and animals in the area too! Boat ride might be a little chilly/splashy in the winter :)”
Cruise Lake Wanaka to Mou Waho Island, hike to Arethusa Pool, and see rare predator-free birds on a small-group guided walk.
“A unique experience. Very scenic, mostly nice day (just missed the rain). The hike up the mountain IS strenuous, don't rush, but your heart will be beating faster at the top of the hike.”
Cruise Lake Wanaka to predator-free Mou Waho Island, then hike to a top lake lookout with a guide. Wildlife, views, and great photos.
“Our guide was very informative and a great guy. The overall trip was excellent and well worth it. Beautiful views from the top of the mountain as I said, our guide perfect and explain lots of things.”
Sail from Wānaka to Stevensons Island, hike to the summit for big Southern Alps views, then relax with afternoon tea onboard.
“The captain and first mate were great! Could walk around the boat, buy a drink at the on-boat bar, and enjoy the sites on the ride over. Disembarked and took a short walk up to a view point. Back on the boat for complementary biscuits and tea for the ride back. Would recommend.”
A 1-hour Lake Wanaka cruise to Ruby Island, with a guided easy walk, standout photo spots, and local history you can actually use.
“What a great little trip. Toby was a great commentator and full of historic events on the island. A leisurely stroll even for the elderly.”
A half-day Wanaka adventure combining high-speed jet boating on the Matukituki River with a 50-minute glacier-fed wilderness walk.
“The skill of the tour guide navigating the river.”
Glide across Lake Wanaka by catamaran, step onto Ruby Island, and enjoy an easy walk with great photo viewpoints in about an hour.
“Our Ruby Island cruise was canceled as the Lake was too full with the rain and snow melt. We were vey efficiently transferred to the lake cruise and drinks in the afternoon .it was wet, but the boat handled it well and we had a great familiarisation trip. The crew were excellent and helpful.”
Half-day Routeburn Track guided walk from Queenstown into Mt Aspiring National Park with snacks, water, and included transfers.
“Spent a most enjoyable afternoon with our guide Roger, his knowledge and compaby were first rate. The walk was easily manageable through a very beautiful setting.”
Guided hike to Rob Roy Glacier from Wānaka, with expert local guidance, rainforest-to-alpine scenery, and a gourmet packed lunch.
“I had a lovely day with this tour. The hike was amazing and the views were stunning. Nik was an incredible guide! She was extremely knowledgeable about the different plants and birds we saw throughout the hike. I would recommend this guided hike to anyone!”
Guided Routeburn Track hike from Queenstown with a swing bridge, beech forest, alpine gardens, and picnic lunch. Full or half day.
“Hayden was an awesome guide. We went to the most beautiful places I've ever seen in my life and he treated us with so much kindness and took us to very special places. The group was small and it felt like hiking with friends. The tour went through really beautiful places up the mountain and then out on the plains as well. The lunch was pretty decent picnic, enough and just good for the track. I will definitely do this again when I'm back to Queenstown!”
LUMA Enchanted night walk in Queenstown’s Kiwi Park: light and sound sculptures, sensory touches, and warming treats for $35. Family-friendly.
Experience the Wanaka High Country Walk with 4WD access to private trails, Lake Wanaka views, local guide commentary, and included refreshments.
“Lloyd gave us a wonderful back country hiking experience. Views were incredible from on high! Very interesting commentary.”
Cruise Lake Wanaka to Mou Waho Island, then hike to a glacial lake. Predator-free conservation plus small-group lake views for $83.78.
“Great views of the island lake within a lake at the top, a short hike but does have some tricky ish sections”
