Queenstown, the self-dubbed adventure capital of New Zealand, has a slew of activities, but, above all, it is surrounded by some of the country’s most glorious countryside, so hikers, fishermen, and outdoorsmen and women will be happiest here. Three nights should be the minimum for exploring.
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Perfect forAdventurers | Families | Foodies | Romantics | Ultimate Indulgers
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When to goYear-Round
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Ideal length of stay3-5 Nights
Designing Your Journey
Work with Indagare to design the perfect itinerary for an immersive journey. Our travel experts know the destination inside and out, and they can make recommendations based on your travel needs and preferences.
3 Days: Essential Queenstown
Queenstown, the self-dubbed adventure capital of New Zealand is surrounded by some of the country’s most glorious countryside, so it’s perfect for hikers, fishermen, outdoorsy types. Here is just one example of what our destination experts can create for you.
Day 1: Exploring Town
Get a bird eye’s view of Queenstown by taking the Skyline Gondola up to Bob’s Peak and embark on an invigorating hike to Ben Lomond. Adventure types can also paraglide or bungee jump. Everyone, including kids, will love the Luge runs with scenic views. In the evening, have a lakeside cocktail and dinner at an Indagare-recommended restaurant.
Day 2: Beyond Queenstown
A plugged-in guide will take you into the stunning countryside surrounding Queenstown, including the historic village Arrowtown and Shotover Canyon, where an adrenaline-laced speedboat ride can be organized. After lunch at a local hot spot or a beautiful vineyard, your guide can select a few of the best regional wineries for tastings and tours. En route back to town, stop by Kawarau Bridge, where the commercial bungee jump was invented in 1988.
Day 3: Heli Tour
Take a personalized helicopter tour across the Milford Sound, one of the decided highlights of this area. Private heli tours can also land on top of a glacier for some excellent photo ops. Travelers who don’t love helicopters should consider a day trip to stunning Lake Wanaka, about an hour north of Queenstown, where the hiking is simply spectacular. Celebrate your final evening with a meal at an excellent restaurant that’s off-the-beaten path.
Where To Stay
We only feature hotels that we can vouch for first-hand. At many of them, Indagare members receive special amenities, including upgrades, early check-in, breakfast, spa credits and more. Look for the Indagare Plus logo in the reviews.
Courtesy Minaret Station Alpine LodgeRead MoreMinaret Station Alpine Lodge
Set 3,000 feet up a glacial valley on 65,000 spectacular acres of private farmland, Minaret Station (accessible only by helicopter and featuring just four chalets) allows guests to take advantage of its secluded location and rugged beauty—and to explore by...
Courtesy Robertson LodgesRead MoreMatakauri Lodge
Matakauri Lodge is a stylishly appealing retreat set on a spectacular perch overlooking Lake Wakatipu, within driving distance of Queenstown, the heart of the rugged South Island.
Read MoreEichardt’s Private Hotel
With just five rooms (and four apartments in a building down the street), Eichardt’s has a sleek design scheme, a cozy bar and wonderful lake views.
Read MoreAzur Lodge
Set high in the hillside above Lake Wakatipu, the romantic Azur has just nine private villas. Once guests are checked in, they may find it difficult to leave.
Blanket BayRead MoreBlanket Bay
A 45-minute drive from Queenstown, this lodge sits in a breathtaking spot on the shore of Lake Wakatipu, looking towards the Humboldt Mountains.
