Glenorchy & Wanaka Day Trip from Queenstown by Private Vehicle

Two regions in one day: Wanaka's lakeside charm, then Glenorchy's mountain views

A private day trip from Queenstown to Glenorchy and Wanaka with a local guide and dedicated vehicle for up to eight passengers. You start in Wanaka's town centre and lakeside stops in the morning, then drive south through the Kawarau Gorge and along Lake Wakatipu to Glenorchy's waterfront, stopping at viewpoints, heritage sites, and photo spots along the way. The itinerary is fully customisable to your pace and interests.

Step-by-step itinerary

Stops and time spent at each

1. Blue Pools Track1h
2. Kawarau Riverpassing by

Private day trip to Wanaka and Glenorchy

• Depart Queenstown town centre
• Stop at Lake Hayes waterfront
• Optional visit to Arrowtown village
• Explore Arrowtown Chinese Settlement
• View from Crown Range Lookout
• Pause at Cardrona Hotel
• Visit Cardrona Bra Fence
• See the famous Wanaka Tree
• Explore Wanaka town centre
• Visit Cromwell Heritage Precinct
• Stop in Cromwell town centre
• Drive through Kawarau Gorge
• Detour to Moke Lake
• Stop at Wilson Bay
• View from Bennetts Bluff
• View Pig and Pigeon Islands
• Arrive at Glenorchy waterfront
• Lunch at Mrs Woolly’s General Store
• Stop at Diamond Lake
• Drive along Paradise Road and visit filming locations

The experience

You leave Queenstown from Athol Street in the town centre and head toward Wanaka, pausing at Lake Hayes to photograph the still water and surrounding hills. Arrowtown comes next: a preserved gold rush village with cobblestone paths and heritage cottages where you can wander at your own pace, browse boutique shops, or grab a local treat. The Arrowtown Chinese Settlement sits quietly nearby, its humble huts telling the story of miners from the gold rush era. From there, the Crown Range Lookout delivers sweeping views across rugged peaks, winding valleys, and tussock landscapes: the highest main road in New Zealand and a genuine highlight of the alpine drive.

The route through to Wanaka includes the historic Cardrona Hotel, one of New Zealand's most photographed landmarks, and the quirky Cardrona Bra Fence, a colourful roadside display that has become a playful must-see. At Wanaka itself, the famous Wanaka Tree rises alone from the crystal-clear lake water, perfect for photos or a peaceful pause. The town centre offers boutique shops, cafés, and art galleries set against the backdrop of Lake Wanaka and surrounding mountains. On the return journey south, you drive through the dramatic Kawarau Gorge, where rugged cliffs rise above the winding river, then pass through Cromwell's heritage precinct and fruit stalls before heading toward Glenorchy.

The final stretch toward Glenorchy is lined with stops tailored to your interests: Moke Lake, a hidden alpine gem with mirror-like reflections; Wilson Bay, a peaceful roadside break on Lake Wakatipu; Bennetts Bluff, delivering a dramatic panorama of the lake and Pigeon Island; and the quiet view of Pig and Pigeon Islands framed by mountains. You finish at Glenorchy's charming waterfront, where the famous red shed stands against Lake Wakatipu and towering peaks: ideal for a stroll along the jetty or photos before lunch at Mrs Woolly's General Store, a local café with homemade treats and hearty meals. Diamond Lake, a tranquil alpine spot near Glenorchy, and Paradise Road (weather permitting) are also available as stops depending on your pace and interests.

What’s included

• Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
• a local guide for the full day.
• WiFi on board.
• government fees and parking fees.
• fuel surcharge.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day7 departure times: the first at 07:00, the last at 10:00

Book up to8h before

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Low physical effortStroller-friendlyInfant seats availablePets welcomePublic transport nearby

Operated by Travelngo

Is this one for you?At 11 hours, this trip fills most of a day and leaves room for an early breakfast or a late dinner back in Queenstown, but not much else. If you want to see both regions without splitting them across two days, the fixed duration is what makes it possible. If you need flexibility to linger at one stop or skip another, the fully customisable itinerary lets you shape the pace and the stops to suit your interests.

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What is the Wanaka Tree, and why is it worth stopping for?

The Wanaka Tree is a lone willow rising from the crystal-clear waters of Lake Wanaka. It's an iconic spot for photos and a peaceful pause to take in the serene beauty of the region.

Can we stop in Arrowtown, and what is there to do?

Yes, Arrowtown is a beautifully preserved gold rush village with cobblestone paths, heritage cottages, boutique shops, and local cafés. You can wander at your own pace, explore the history, shop, or simply enjoy the charming riverside atmosphere.

What viewpoints are included on the drive to Glenorchy?

The route includes Crown Range Lookout (the highest main road in New Zealand), Bennetts Bluff (with views of Lake Wakatipu and Pigeon Island), Wilson Bay on the lake shore, and the view of Pig and Pigeon Islands framed by mountains. Each offers photo opportunities and a chance to stretch your legs.

Is lunch included, and where do we eat?

Lunch is not included, but you stop at Mrs Woolly's General Store in Glenorchy, a charming local café serving homemade treats, hearty meals, and warming coffee. You can order and pay there at your own pace.

How much walking is involved in this trip?

Most stops are short walks or roadside pauses for photos and views. The itinerary is fully customisable to your pace and mobility, with options ranging from quick photo stops to longer walks at places like Lake Hayes, Arrowtown, and Moke Lake.

Can we visit Paradise Road and the Lord of the Rings filming location?

Paradise Road and Lothlorien (the Rings filming location) are available stops, but access beyond the Paradise sign depends on weather and road conditions. Your guide will confirm what is possible on the day and adjust the itinerary accordingly.