Magpie
5.0(62 reviews)

Franz Josef to Queenstown Scenic Tour

FromNZ$290
12 hours
Fox Glacier, New Zealand

About this activity

Experience a scenic journey from Franz Josef to Queenstown, including visits to Lake Matheson, Haast Pass, and Wanaka's natural beauty.

Highlights

  • Guided tour from Franz Josef to Queenstown
  • Visit to Lake Matheson
  • Scenic drive through Haast Pass
  • Explore Ship Creek and Haast
  • Discover Wanaka's natural beauty

Full description

Join a guided tour from Franz Josef to Queenstown, showcasing New Zealand's stunning landscapes. Visit Lake Matheson, renowned for its mirror-like reflections, and traverse the picturesque Haast Pass. Explore Ship Creek and Haast, and discover Wanaka's natural beauty. This 12-hour excursion offers a comprehensive experience of the South Island's highlights, perfect for travelers seeking adventure and breathtaking views.

Included / Excluded

  • Guided tour from Franz Josef to Queenstown
  • Visit to Lake Matheson
  • Scenic drive through Haast Pass
  • Meals and beverages

Itinerary

1

This spot is every photographers dream. On a calm day you can capture Mt Cook reflected elegantly across this picturesque lake. This easy bushwalk will reward you with breathtaking views across the southern alps.

Duration: 1 hourAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2

Pass by: At this location you will see where the thick native rainforest meets a seemingly endless open ocean of the Tasman Sea. This beautiful beach really is the best of the west.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3

As we make our way south along the boarder where ancient rainforest meets the ocean we will make a stop at Ship Creek. Dig your toes in the sand and feel the crash of the relenting waves of the Tasman Sea. Explore the dunes via an easy 1km walking track.

Duration: 30 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4

This easy 5 minute walk will reward you with the spectacular view of Thunder Creek Falls. This 28 meter waterfall is the remanence of a once great glacier that pours from a hanging valley into the Haast River below.

Duration: 20 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5

Located in Mt Aspiring National Park is the aptly named Blue Pools. This easy 3km round trip is well worth the effort to see the breathtaking blue waters of the Makarora River.

Duration: 1 hourAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6

As we leave the national park behind make sure to keep your eyes open as we make our way westwards and past stunning Lake Hawea. We will stop for a quick photo at a lookout point between Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea.

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
7

Stretch your legs take a walk down to the lakeside for that iconic photo of the Wanaka Tree. Soak in the beauty of this expansive lake backdropped by Mt Aspiring and the Southern Alps. This is truly a photo opportunity that you do not want to miss!

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
8

Pass by: From Wanaka we head over the Crown Range Road that connects Queenstown and Wanaka. We do a quick stop here to see the Cardrona Hotel, one of New Zealand's oldest and most iconic hotels. Its rustic charm, spectacular mountain setting and rich history make it a must see while in Central Otago.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Important information

Know before you book

  • Tour operates in English; ensure you understand the language.
  • Confirm the pickup location and time in advance.
  • Be aware that the tour duration is approximately 12 hours.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking.
  • Bring a camera to capture the scenic landscapes.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Good to know

  • Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. You can hire seats ($20NZD per seat) or you can provide your own
  • Guests can bring 1 large & 1 small piece of luggage each

Traveler reviews

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62 reviews
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Fantastic!!!

Loved this small group tour with Jess - our driver and guide. She was amazing! Knowledgeable and kind. We stopped at some many highlights along the way. Such a lovely way to get from A To B!

JacalinkaApr 27, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Good trip

Very good and efficient trip!! Good Guide!!

I6072POericagMar 27, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Great trip with outstanding driver

Fabulous no worry way of getting from Franz Joseph to Queenstown. Our driver was the lovely Lynette. She was very informative, we saw so much and would be happy to do again.

Addie_CMar 22, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Franz Joseph to Queenstown

One of the best tour experiences I’ve ever had. Shura was friendly, engaging, knowledgeable and dedicated to ensuring each member of our group had a great experience. It was a wonderful day!

Brian FMar 21, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Franz Josef to Queenstown

Booked this as I could not get a seat on the intercity. Really glad I did. This is a great trip down the west coast with lots of stops to check out the amazing scenery along the way. Lynette and Joe were great knowledgeable guides, sharing lots of info along the way. A really great way to get from A to B, where you get to see a lot of the amazing scenery along this stretch.

Nicola_PMar 1, 2026VIATOR

Additional information

Food options include; Vegan, Gluten Free and Dairy free options. Children safety/booster seats are available to hire for NZ$20 per seat
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