Safaris Queenstown

For true Lord of the Rings fans, this is the trip where Nomad Safaris really does take you There and Back again. This scenic sightseeing tour includes recognisable filming locations and stunning natural scenery. The Glenorchy Safari of the Scenes takes you from Queenstown to Glenorchy stopping at breath-taking viewpoints. Enjoy dressing up with props from the movies and have a sword fight!

En route from Glenorchy follow the Dart River to the spectacular filming location for Isengard. This location offers stunning views of Mt Earnslaw. Heading to Paradise discover the location for the Forrest of Lothlorien. Leaving Glenorchy and heading towards Queenstown you will stop at 12 Mile Delta to explore the location of the Ithilien Camp.
The Safari of the Scenes – Glenorchy also includes locations from Xmen Origins: Wolverine, and The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian.
Morning or Afternoon tea is included.
We are unable to offer pickups from the Hilton Hotel or Frankton for this tour due to traffic delays, please make your way to our Info & Track shop at 37 Shotover Street, Queenstown.
If your preferred date and time are unavailable, please feel free to contact us.

Important: get in touch if you need to cancel between 7 days and 24 hours prior to your tour: res@nomadsafaris.co.nz



FAQ's
Private Charters
If you’d like a more private trip, you can book a whole vehicle for your group, our maximum group size is 6.
4 Pax max
Choose this option to guarantee everyone a window seat. A maximum of four passengers per vehicle, each guest enjoys their own window seat. This differs from our standard tours, which accommodate up to six passengers per vehicle, and do not guarantee a window seat throughout the experience. Please note, our guides always encourage seat rotation so everyone has the opportunity to enjoy a different window view during the tour.
Will I see sets from Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit?
No. As part of gaining permission to film in the spectacular locations, the producers were required to dismantle all sets (except for Hobbiton in the North Island). Instead we specialise in showing you where specific scenes were filmed. Many of the movie locations are recognisable on our trips and your guide will give you insights into the stories behind them.
How long is the Lord of the Rings Tour?
4 hours. This makes it an ideal half day excursion.
Where do you pick up and drop off?
Your tour guide can pick you up and drop you at any central accommodation or information centres in Queenstown.
Is it possible to do 2 Nomad Safari trips in one day?
Yes, this is totally possible – we can drop you off after your morning trip to have lunch in Queenstown and then collect you at 1.30pm for your afternoon tour.
Is any walking involved on this tour?
Not a lot of walking is required. Clients have the option of staying in or near the vehicle if they wish at any of the stops on any of our tours.
What type of vehicles do you use?
6 seater 4WD Land Rover or Land Cruisers.
Which trip contains the most LOTR scenes?
If your main focus is to see as much LOTR scenes as possible we recommend our Glenorchy Lord of The Rings tour. This trip takes you to Glenorchy on a very scenic drive and takes in the Paradise Valley, where LOTR and other movies were filmed. Our Queenstown Lord of The Rings Tour (Safari of the Scenes) offers a good mixture of LOTR movie locations, stunning scenery and gold panning history.
What are your child rates/ child ages?
We have child rates available for our trips. Infants (0-3 years) travel for free on our tours and children (4-14 years) travel at a discounted price. Our 4WD tours in Queenstown welcome all ages; there’s no minimum age requirement. We can provide child and booster seats upon request at booking.
Important Information: Tour Itinerary Adjustments
Your safety is our top priority. In certain situations, it may be necessary to alter the tour itinerary due to conditions beyond our control, such as high water levels or adverse road conditions. This could mean we are unable to cross rivers or drive certain roads or drive the full length of roads like Skippers Canyon. When booking, please understand that these adjustments may be required.


IMPORTANT Every adventure has risks — from changing weather to rough trails and physical challenges. Before you book, please review our full Weather Cancellation Policy and Disclosure of Risks.


Discover Queenstown with Nomad Safaris. Explore our full range of adventure tours at www.nomadsafaris.co.nz

The perfect tour for those that want the thrills of an off road adventure but also want to discover exciting Lord of the Rings filming locations. The Wakatipu Basin tour takes you to see The Remarkables, which were used as various mountains throughout the trilogy including the Misty Mountains. Travelling part way up Queenstown Hill you get a birds eye view onto Deer Park Heights, which was used for the refugees of Rohan and the Battle of the Wargs scenes.
We then travel to the Kawarau Gorge where the filming took place for the Argonath, or Pillars of the Kings. Leaving the Kawarau Gorge the trip heads to Arrowtown where the loss of The One Ring at Gladden Fields was shot. Near Arrowtown you will experience a true off road adventure. Following a historic gold mining road up the Arrow River you will cross the river many times to get to the Ford of Bruinen. At this point you can indulge in morning or afternoon tea and try your hand at a spot of gold panning.
From Arrowtown you will travel to the entrance of Skippers Canyon where you will be offered spectacular panoramic views of the Wakatipu Basin and into Skippers Canyon to Lighthouse Rock.
If your preferred date and time are unavailable, please feel free to contact us.

Important: get in touch if you need to cancel between 7 days and 24 hours prior to your tour: res@nomadsafaris.co.nz



FAQ's
Private Charters
If you’d like a more private trip, you can book a whole vehicle for your group, our maximum group size is 6.
4 Pax max
Choose this option to guarantee everyone a window seat. A maximum of four passengers per vehicle, each guest enjoys their own window seat. This differs from our standard tours, which accommodate up to six passengers per vehicle, and do not guarantee a window seat throughout the experience. Please note, our guides always encourage seat rotation so everyone has the opportunity to enjoy a different window view during the tour.
Will I see sets from Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit?
No. As part of gaining permission to film in the spectacular locations, the producers were required to dismantle all sets (except for Hobbiton in the North Island). Instead we specialise in showing you where specific scenes were filmed. Many of the movie locations are recognisable on our trips and your guide will give you insights into the stories behind them.
How long is the Lord of the Rings Tour?
4 hours. This makes it an ideal half day excursion.
Where do you pick up and drop off?
Your tour guide can pick you up and drop you at any central accommodation or information centres in Queenstown.
Is it possible to do 2 Nomad Safari trips in one day?
Yes, this is totally possible – we can drop you off after your morning trip to have lunch in Queenstown and then collect you at 1.30pm for your afternoon tour.
Is any walking involved on this tour?
Not a lot of walking is required. Clients have the option of staying in or near the vehicle if they wish at any of the stops on any of our tours.
What type of vehicles do you use?
6 seater 4WD Land Rover or Land Cruisers.
Which trip contains the most LOTR scenes?
If your main focus is to see as much LOTR scenes as possible we recommend our Glenorchy Lord of The Rings tour. This trip takes you to Glenorchy on a very scenic drive and takes in the Paradise Valley, where LOTR and other movies were filmed. Our Queenstown Lord of The Rings Tour (Safari of the Scenes) offers a good mixture of LOTR movie locations, stunning scenery and gold panning history.
What are your child rates/ child ages?
We have child rates available for our trips. Infants (0-3 years) travel for free on our tours and children (4-14 years) travel at a discounted price. Our 4WD tours in Queenstown welcome all ages; there’s no minimum age requirement. We can provide child and booster seats upon request at booking.
Important Information: Tour Itinerary Adjustments
Your safety is our top priority. In certain situations, it may be necessary to alter the tour itinerary due to conditions beyond our control, such as high water levels or adverse road conditions. This could mean we are unable to cross rivers or drive certain roads or drive the full length of roads like Skippers Canyon.
When booking, please understand that these adjustments may be required.


IMPORTANT Every adventure has risks — from changing weather to rough trails and physical challenges. Before you book, please review our full Weather Cancellation Policy and Disclosure of Risks.


Discover Queenstown with Nomad Safaris. Explore our full range of adventure tours at www.nomadsafaris.co.nz

Duration: 4 hours return from Queenstown
Riding: Approx. 2–2.25 hours on the quad bike
Departs: 8:15am & 1:30pm
Price: $345 per rider
Minimum Age: 16 years

Experience an unforgettable Queenstown Quad Bike adventure on the spectacular Queenstown Hill Station. Just a short transfer from central Queenstown, you'll leave the town behind and head into an exclusive mountain location with incredible panoramic views across Queenstown and the surrounding region.

Before hitting the trails, your experienced guide will provide a comprehensive safety briefing and quad bike training session, giving you time to become comfortable and confident operating your bike. Our guides cater for a range of experience levels, including first-time riders, and will assess each rider before heading out onto the trails.

Once training is complete, it's time for the adventure to begin. Ride a fully automatic 400cc 4WD quad bike across an extensive network of off-road trails, climbing from the valley floor towards the summit of Queenstown Hill. With more than 20km of trails ranging from beginner terrain to more technical riding, your guide can tailor the experience to suit the ability of the group.

With approximately 2–2.25 hours on your quad bike, there is plenty of time to enjoy the terrain, spectacular scenery and some serious off-road fun.

Highlights

• Ride your own 400cc 4WD quad bike
• Enjoy approximately 2–2.25 hours of quad biking
• Experience exclusive off-road trails on Queenstown Hill Station
• Take in spectacular panoramic views over Queenstown and the surrounding mountains
• Full safety briefing and quad bike training before departure
• Trails tailored to the ability and experience of the group
• All-weather waterproof clothing and safety equipment provided
• Professional, experienced local guide
• Light refreshments included

What We Provide

We'll provide everything you need for your quad biking adventure, including:

• 400cc automatic 4WD quad bike
• Helmet, gloves and goggles
• Waterproof jacket and pants
• Gumboots
• Professional guide
• Full safety briefing and training
• Light refreshments
• Transfers
• Admission to Queenstown Hill Station

What to Wear & Bring

We provide all-weather riding and safety gear. You may wear your own fully enclosed shoes if preferred.

Please bring:

• Water bottle
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Camera or phone
• Warm layers in cooler weather
• A sense of adventure
• Valid credit or debit card for insurance and liability purposes

Pick-Up & Drop-Off

The main departure point is our Info & Track / Info & Snow shop at 37 Shotover Street, Queenstown.

Pick-up options are also available from Frankton Bus Hub or Tucker Beach Reserve.

If you have your own vehicle, free parking is available at 420 Tucker Beach Road (Tucker Beach Recreational Reserve), close to our quad bike base. Please let us know in advance if you would like to meet us here; otherwise, we'll assume you are meeting us at the Queenstown shop.

Rider Requirements

All riders must be at least 16 years old and have a good command of English so they can clearly understand and communicate with their guide during training and throughout the tour.

Before departure, every rider receives a safety briefing and quad bike training. You must demonstrate that you can confidently and safely control the quad bike before joining the trail ride.

Quad biking is a physically demanding activity and requires a reasonable degree of physical strength. Our guides are trained to identify potential safety concerns, including rider size, strength and ability, and this may restrict participation.

The maximum rider weight is 150kg.

Important Information

For everyone's safety, riders who are unable to demonstrate safe quad bike handling during training will not be permitted to continue riding. In some circumstances, you may be offered the opportunity to ride pillion with a guide; however, this cannot be guaranteed.

We have a strict drug and alcohol policy. If your guide considers you unfit to safely operate a quad bike due to alcohol or drugs, you will not be permitted to participate and a refund may not be provided.

A valid credit or debit card is required at check-in. In the event of an accident, a charge of up to $2,500 may apply to cover damage, repairs or insurance excess.

Quad biking involves inherent risks, including rolling or flipping the vehicle, collisions with obstacles or other riders, falling from the quad and natural hazards. Please review our Disclosure of Risks and Weather Cancellation Policy before booking.

Tours operate subject to weather, track and operational conditions. If your preferred date or departure time is unavailable, please contact our team and we'll be happy to help.

This is the ultimate tour for every Lord of the Rings true fan! Spend a full day deep in the scenic movie locations, hear tales and behind the scenes filming stories, try replica props and walk in ancient forests. Our local guides will transport you through the magical lands of Queenstown and Glenorchy, bringing the films to life for you. This tour includes a light lunch ($20 voucher) in a Queenstown café as well as morning and afternoon tea.
The morning begins with the scenic Glenorchy safari which offers breathtaking mountain and forest views along the shore of Lake Wakatipu towards Glenorchy and the Paradise Valley. Visit the filming locations for Isengard, the Ithilien Camp, Lothlorien & Fanghorn forest, and the Seat of Seeing/ Battle of Amon Hen, and many more.
The Route from Glenorchy follows the Dart River to the spectacular filming location for Isengard. This location offers stunning views of Mt Earnslaw. Heading to Paradise, discover the location for the Forrest of Lothlorien. Leaving Glenorchy and heading towards Queenstown, you will stop at 12 Mile Delta to explore the location of the Ithilien Camp.
After lunch travel part way up Queenstown hill, you get a birds-eye view of Deer Park Heights, which was used for the refugees of Rohan and the Battle of the Wargs scenes. Travelling from the Queenstown hill viewpoint, we head to the Kawarau Gorge where the filming took place for the Argonath, or Pillars of the Kings. Leaving the Kawarau Gorge the trip heads to Arrowtown where the loss of The One Ring at Gladden Fields was shot. Near Arrowtown, you will experience a true off-road adventure. Following a historic gold mining road up the Arrow River, you will cross the river many times to get to the Ford of Bruinen. At this point, you can indulge in afternoon tea and try your hand at a spot of gold panning. From Arrowtown, you will travel to the entrance of Skippers Canyon where you will be offered spectacular panoramic views of Queenstown and into Skippers Canyon to Lighthouse Rock.
The trip may alternate with the Queenstown tour in the morning and Glenorchy in the afternoon.

If your preferred date and time are unavailable, please feel free to contact us.

Important: get in touch if you need to cancel between 7 days and 24 hours prior to your tour: res@nomadsafaris.co.nz



FAQ's
Private Charters
If you’d like a more private trip, you can book a whole vehicle for your group, our maximum group size is 6.
4 Pax max
Choose this option to guarantee everyone a window seat. A maximum of four passengers per vehicle, each guest enjoys their own window seat. This differs from our standard tours, which accommodate up to six passengers per vehicle, and do not guarantee a window seat throughout the experience. Please note, our guides always encourage seat rotation so everyone has the opportunity to enjoy a different window view during the tour.
Will I see sets from Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit?
No. As part of gaining permission to film in the spectacular locations, the producers were required to dismantle all sets except for Hobbiton.
We specialise in showing you where specific scenes were filmed. Many of the movie locations are recognisable on our trips and your guide will give you insights into the stories behind them.
How long is the trip?
9.5 hours (1 hour for lunch in Queenstown).
Where will you pick up and drop off?
We will pick you up and drop you at any central accommodation or information centres.
Where will we have lunch?
A local café – Balls and Bangles ($20 voucher), 62 Shotover St
Is any walking involved?
Our Glenorchy trips include an easy 15 minute (return) nature walk to a LOTR scene over a formed trail. Clients have the option of staying in or near the vehicle if they wish at any of the stops on any of our tours.
What type of vehicles do you use?
6 seater 4WD Land Rover or Land Cruiser.
What are your child rates/ Child ages?
We do have child rates available. Infants (0-3 years) travel for free and children (4-14 years) travel at a discounted price.


Important Information: Tour Itinerary Adjustments
Your safety is our top priority. In certain situations, it may be necessary to alter the tour itinerary due to conditions beyond our control, such as high water levels or adverse road conditions. This could mean we are unable to cross rivers or drive certain roads or drive the full length of roads like Skippers Canyon.
When booking, please understand that these adjustments may be required.


IMPORTANT Every adventure has risks — from changing weather to rough trails and physical challenges. Before you book, please review our full Weather Cancellation Policy and Disclosure of Risks.


Discover Queenstown with Nomad Safaris. Explore our full range of adventure tours at www.nomadsafaris.co.nz

Macetown 4WD Adventure – Full Day Guided Tour

Step into the past on this thrilling full-day 4x4 off-road journey to Macetown – a remote gold mining settlement tucked deep in Queenstown’s backcountry. Follow the rugged Arrow River trail, crossing its waters 25 times in each direction, as you discover dramatic landscapes, historic sites, and a legacy carved during Otago’s 1860s gold rush.

Ideal for adventurous travellers, photographers, history buffs, and families looking to experience the South Island’s untouched beauty.

Winter Operations

Our scheduled Macetown 4WD Adventure does not operate during winter and is unavailable until 1 October due to snow, ice, river conditions, and the challenging nature of the Macetown access road.

Private 4WD charters may be available during this period, subject to weather, track conditions, and vehicle availability. Please contact our Reservations Team to discuss current conditions and enquire about private winter touring options.

What to Expect

This is no ordinary road trip – it’s a true off-road expedition. Our expert guides drive you along the narrow miners’ old wagon trail once used by gold prospectors, deep into the mountains behind Arrowtown. With river crossings, scenic walks, historic relics, and stunning lupin-covered valleys in spring and summer, every moment is an experience.

Along the way, your guide will share stories of pioneer hardship, colourful characters of the gold rush era, and the rise and fall of the once bustling township. Expect immersive storytelling, a deep connection to place, and plenty of photo-worthy moments throughout this rugged and remarkable journey.

During the walking component, the section between Andersons Battery and Homeward Bound Battery follows an unformed track and involves three creek crossings, as well as several areas where the track crosses washouts. This section is not recommended for less agile participants.

Tour Highlights

• Experience the thrill of crossing the Arrow River over 50 times in a rugged 4WD, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery
• Enjoy lively, engaging commentary from expert local guides who bring Otago’s gold rush history to life
• Walk through wild alpine terrain to the towering, four-story Homeward Bound Battery – a powerful remnant of gold mining ingenuity
• Step back in time at the Lakes District Museum in historic Arrowtown and explore the town’s gold rush roots
• Relax with a picnic lunch in the remote and beautiful Macetown, far from the crowds
• Try your luck at gold panning in the Arrow River with hands-on instruction
• Relive iconic film moments at locations used in The Lord of the Rings, including the Ford of Bruinen

Itinerary Snapshot

• Depart Queenstown and drive to Arrowtown
• Explore the Lakes District Museum and historic town centre
• Begin the off-road journey following the Arrow River
• Learn about historic sites such as Soho Creek and Britannia Terrace
• Arrive at Macetown for a picnic lunch and relic exploration
• Take a 90-minute return guided walk to the Homeward Bound Battery
• Try gold panning with your guide in the Arrow River
• Return via the same scenic route

Sustainable Travel

Nomad Safaris operates under Department of Conservation guidelines and prioritises responsible off-road travel in sensitive environments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Q: What should I bring?
  A: Wear comfortable sturdy footwear and bring a rain jacket, sunscreen, hat, and a large water bottle. Dress in layers as the weather can change quickly.  Recommend bringing a second pair of shoes to change into after the walk as shoes will likely be wet.
• Q: Is the tour suitable for children?
  A: Yes – it’s family-friendly. However, the off-road journey is bumpy, so may not suit very young children or anyone with certain medical conditions.
• Q: How long is the walk to Homeward Bound Battery?
  A: About 45 minutes each way on a rugged alpine track. Moderate fitness is recommended, not suitable for less agile participants as there are three creek crossings and well as crossing over washouts.
• Q: What’s included in the lunch?
  A: A selection of fresh filled rolls, fresh fruit, snacks, and beverages. Dietary needs can be catered to with advance notice.
• Q: Do I need experience to pan for gold?
  A: Not at all. We supply all the equipment and will teach you the techniques used by the early miners.
• Q: When does the tour operate?
  A: October to the end of May, when weather is more favourable. Tours are subject to river and road conditions.

Ready to unlock the secrets of Macetown? Join Nomad Safaris for an unforgettable full-day 4WD adventure – rich in history, scenery, and hands-on discovery. Book now through our website or contact our team to reserve your seat.

IMPORTANT Every adventure has risks — from changing weather to rough trails and physical challenges. Before you book, please review our full Weather Cancellation Policy and Disclosure of Risks.

Discover Queenstown with Nomad Safaris. Explore our full range of adventure tours at www.nomadsafaris.co.nz