Glenorchy & Paradise Half-Day Scenic Tour
Active
4h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Sitting on the northern shores of Lake Whakatipu is the small picturesque village of Glenorchy, the famous Paradise Valley, and world-famous Middle Earth magic.
Join this sightseeing tour for a magical half-day journey to Glenorchy and Paradise. This small settlement is full of character and charm and is home to some of the most famous and scenic sights found in the region.
Tuck into a classic Kiwi morning/afternoon tea and be entertained by the local stories and film history from your expert local guide. Let us take you on a mystical journey to Paradise and experience more.
Available options
2:00pm Afternoon
Afternoon Tour
9:00 Morning
Morning Tour
What's included
Costumes onboard for a unique photo opportunity
WiFi on board
Morning/Afternoon Tea
Professional guide & live commentary onboard
Maori storytelling and history
On board Kiwi music (download our Spotify playlist!)
Famous movie locations
Complimentary central Queenstown transfers
Detailed itinerary
1
Begin your day meeting your friendly guide in the Queenstown Town Centre. Starting with a spectacular scenic drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy along the lake edge, with scenic photo spots and entertaining stories from your local guide about Lake Whakatipu and its legends.
2
As we travel along this incredible drive, we will stop and take in the amazing views from Bennett's Bluff. From here you can catch your first glimpse of Glenorchy and the Mount Aspiring National Park sitting beyond it.
3
Glenorchy township is home to approx. 400 permanent residents and the gateway to Paradise Valley and the Mt Aspiring National Park. Once we arrive in this quaint country town, you will have the chance to explore the picturesque lakefront including the iconic red boat shed.
4
From Glenorchy we join a dirt track, a one-way road into the National Park. The Glenorchy-Paradise Road travels past rich farmland, through native beech forests and across river beds. Not many live up in this direction, with its most famous residents being the mystical characters from LOTR and other movies, TV series, and commercials.
5
Your guide will show you famous filming sites, with even the chance to dress up as your favorite Middle Earth character for a fun photo opportunity.
While exploring the area, In true Kiwi South Island hospitality, we will prepare a morning/afternoon tea at a picturesque location, complete with cheese rolls, ginger cake, L&P, and Whittaker's chocolate.
6
After Paradise we will return back through Glenorchy, where we will have a brief stop, before allowing you to sit back and relax and enjoy the sights then being dropped back in the Queenstown Town Centre.
What's not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
90 reviews
5★
71
4★
14
3★
4
2★
1
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
290 reviews
5★
271
4★
15
3★
3
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
The pick up will be from the bus stop by the bench seats outside Marmolada Cafe on Camp Street.
About Queenstown
Queenstown, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Remarkables mountain range, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and adrenaline-pumping activities. This vibrant town offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and luxury, making it a top destination for travelers seeking both excitement and natural beauty.
Top Attractions
Queenstown Garden
Queenstown Garden is a beautiful public garden located in the heart of the city. It offers stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Skyline Queenstown
Skyline Queenstown offers a range of activities, including the Skyline Gondola, Luge rides, and a restaurant with panoramic views of the city and lake.
Adventure
2-3 hours
Moderate to Expensive
Arrowtown Chinese Settlement
Arrowtown Chinese Settlement is a historic site that showcases the lives of Chinese miners during the Otago Gold Rush in the 1860s.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Lamb
New Zealand lamb is renowned for its tender texture and rich flavor. It's often served with seasonal vegetables and local wines.
Main Course
Contains meat
Green-Lipped Mussels
Green-lipped mussels are a delicacy in New Zealand, known for their unique flavor and texture. They're often served steamed with garlic, wine, and herbs.
Appetizer
Contains shellfish
Pavlova
Pavlova is a popular dessert in New Zealand, made with a crisp meringue shell, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.
Dessert
Contains eggs and dairy
Popular Activities
Bungee jumping
Skydiving
Jet boating
Hiking
Mountain biking
Spa treatments
Wine tasting
Scenic cruises
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long daylight hours, and a wide range of outdoor activities. It's ideal for hiking, water sports, and exploring the great outdoors.
20°C to 30°C
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Māori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Queenstown is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Exercise caution when engaging in adventure activities and be aware of the weather conditions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash
Getting there
By air
- Queenstown Airport • 5 km from city center
By bus
Queenstown Bus Interchange
Getting around
Public transport
Orion buses provide reliable and affordable transportation throughout Queenstown and to nearby attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Central Queenstown
Frankton
Arrowtown
Day trips
Milford Sound
120 km from Queenstown • Full day
Milford Sound is a stunning fjord known for its dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife. A day trip to Milford Sound includes a scenic drive and a boat cruise through the fjord.
Glenorchy
45 km from Queenstown • Half day to Full day
Glenorchy is a charming village nestled at the head of Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. It's a great base for hiking, horse riding, and other outdoor activities.
Wanaka
65 km from Queenstown • Full day
Wanaka is a picturesque town known for its stunning lake and mountain views, as well as its vibrant arts and culture scene. It's a great destination for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Festivals
Queenstown Winter Festival • June
Gibbston Valley Winter Festival • July
Arrowtown Autumn Festival • April
Pro tips
- Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- Book accommodations, tours, and transportation in advance, especially during peak season.
- Dress in layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
- Try local specialties like lamb, green-lipped mussels, and pavlova.
- Explore beyond the city center and visit nearby attractions like Arrowtown and Glenorchy.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
