Queenstown is renowned for its stunning scenery, thrilling adventures, and world-class wine. But if you’re not an early riser or trying to pack in as much as possible during your stay, afternoon activities can sometimes be hard to find! That’s why we’ve created a full afternoon schedule of guest favourites to help you make the most of your afternoons in Queenstown.
Mondays & Tuesdays: Best of Queenstown Sightseeing Tour
Includes iconic spots, wine tasting, cheese boards, and a boat ride.
Departs: 2 PM | Duration: 4 hours
Let the locals show you around. Our Best of Queenstown Tour is a crowd favourite! This beautifully curated half-day adventure packs in the top sights and experiences Queenstown has to offer. Whether you’re new to the area and want to get your bearings or don’t have a car and want to explore the top attractions, this fully guided tour has it all.
- Panoramic Viewpoints: Start with a trip to a stunning lookout for breathtaking views of Queenstown.
- Arrowtown Visit: Travel through Arthur’s Point to the historic town of Arrowtown. Enjoy free time to explore, try gold panning, check out the shops, or grab a pint at a local pub.
- Gibbston & AJ Hackett Bungy: Stop by the iconic first-ever commercial bungy bridge—take the plunge if you’re brave enough! (Bungy jumping is an additional cost and must be booked in advance.)
- Wine Tasting & Cheeseboards: Head to The Church a historic cellar door in Gibbston representing Mount Edward Winery for a wine tasting paired with a delicious cheeseboard.
Lake Wakatipu Boat Ride: End your day with a leisurely boat trip on Lake Wakatipu, soaking in the beauty of the surrounding mountains, before being returned to Queenstown’s town centre.
Wednesday – Sunday: Glenorchy & Paradise Explorer Tour
An award-winning half-day scenic tour discovering the top of the lake.
Departs: 2 PM | Duration: 4 hours
Experience one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking drives to the quaint town of Glenorchy, located at the top of Lake Wakatipu. This tour takes you through some of the country’s most spectacular landscapes, including iconic film locations from The Lord of the Rings, X-men, The Water Horse, Narnia and more – read more here.
- Scenic Stops Along the Way: As you journey towards Glenorchy, stop at Bennetts Bluff for incredible panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains—a perfect spot for photos.
- Glenorchy’s Iconic Red Shed & Wharf: Upon arriving in Glenorchy, you’ll visit the famous red shed and wharf, where you can snap some pictures of this picturesque location. It’s a postcard-worthy spot!
- Exploring Paradise: Continue toward Paradise, an aptly named rural area known for its stunning landscapes. Along the way, enjoy a classic Kiwi-style afternoon tea with baked goods and refreshments, served by the scenic Rees River or in the enchanting beech forests of Paradise (or Lothlórien for LOTR fans!).
- LOTR Fun: Dress up in The Lord of the Rings costumes and pose for photos against the epic backdrops featured in the films.
- Paradise Farm: Once you arrive in Paradise, take in the sweeping rural farmland surrounded by towering mountains and lush greenery. It’s a place truly worthy of its name!
This half-day tour offers a relaxing and scenic escape, perfect for exploring New Zealand’s most beautiful and iconic locations without rushing. After your adventure, you’ll return to Queenstown in time for your dinner plans and with memories to last a lifetime!
Everyday: Twilight Craft Beer & Wine Tour
A Fun & Lively Afternoon Tour
Departs: 3 PM | Duration: 4 hours
Looking for the perfect way to wrap up your day and start your evening in Queenstown? Our Twilight Beer & Wine Tour offers a fun and vibrant experience, visiting three top locations across Queenstown and the Gibbston area. Whether you prefer wine or craft beer, this tour has something for everyone, making it ideal for couples, groups of friends, or solo travellers!
- Wine or Beer Tastings at Each Stop: The choice is yours at each of the three stops—enjoy a wine tasting or indulge in a beer paddle featuring local craft brews. It’s the perfect mix, so everyone gets their preference!
- Central Queenstown Pick-Up: The tour kicks off with a 3 PM departure, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the afternoon without rushing through your day’s plans.
- Fully Guided Experience: Our knowledgeable guide will lead you through some of the best spots, sharing insights into the region’s wine and beer-making.
- Tasting Included at Every Stop: All tastings are included, so you can relax and savour the local flavours. From crisp wines to hoppy craft beers, each stop offers something unique.
Altitude Tours offers a range of multi-award-winning, top-rated afternoon activities designed to help you make the most of your time in Queenstown. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking scenery or world-class wine and beer adventures, our tours have something for everyone.
With summer bookings filling up fast, don’t miss out on your chance to experience the best of Queenstown—book your afternoon adventure today!
