Discover untamed wilderness and extraordinary wildlife in New Zealand's natural paradise
From ancient beech forests to pristine alpine lakes, Queenstown and the Southern Lakes region offer an unparalleled connection with nature. Here in our mountain paradise, every adventure brings you closer to Aotearoa's most fascinating creatures and spectacular landscapes.
Meet curious kiwi and prehistoric tuatara (living relics from the age of dinosaurs) in our protected wildlife sanctuaries. Paddle the crystal-clear waters of Lake Whakatipu or join expert local guides who'll share the secrets of our unique flora and fauna on immersive bush walks through Queenstown's ancient forests.
Minutes from our bustling town centre, scenic walking tracks weave through stunning alpine terrain and peaceful beech forests. For those seeking grand wilderness adventures, the majestic landscapes of Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks are just a short journey away.
The Queenstown Trail network offers 130km of easy to intermediate gradient trails following pristine rivers, lakes and mountain ranges as well as passing by iconic Queenstown experiences such as bungy jumping, jet boating and wine tasting.
Nature Walks
For those wanting to get even closer to nature, there are various multi-day walks easily accessible from Queenstown which explore native forests, alpine areas and even glaciers. Fully guided trips and hire equipment are available to suit every traveller's needs. Maps and trail information are on hand at information centres and Department of Conservation (DOC) offices.
National parks
The Fiordland National Park is one of the world’s largest areas of protected land at over 1.2 million hectares, and is a designated World Heritage Area Te Wahipounamu. Milford Sound is the most famous and accessible of the fiords in the parklands and the road is a spectacular alpine journey. Dolphins and a wealth of other marine life often reward a visit to the more remote Doubtful Sound. The fiords are just a small part of this vast area waiting to be explored.
A range of activities provides the opportunity to discover every aspect of this unique environment, from kayak and cruise options, scenic flights, diving or visiting the unique “Discovery Centre” underwater observatory.
Overnight water journeys
You can’t get much closer to nature than by spending a night amongst it, your only mode of transport your own two arms and a kayak or a raft.
By day set off on a multi-day pack-rafting trip into Queenstown’s backcountry, or glide over the eerily dark waters of Fiordland on a kayaking adventure with an experienced guide who will help you make camp each night.
Combine a sense of adventure and some rewarding physical exertion to create some amazing memories of your time in Queenstown’s natural surrounds.
And remember to leave only footprints, and take only photos.
There is no finer feeling than strapping up your hiking boots, escaping from your daily life and enjoying the beautiful scenery we have on our doorstep here in Queenstown.
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