Dubbed as the world’s adventure capital, Queenstown sure won’t leave you hanging for any heart-pounding, adrenaline-rushing activities! It has easily become a favourite destination for daredevils and adrenaline-junkies- and with good reason!
Alternatively, if you’re a bit more chill and want a more relaxed vacation (that won’t involve you feeling your heart is about to jump out your chest), Queenstown is also a perfect destination. Long walks and spectacular alpine sceneries? Check. Good food? Check. Quaint little towns with cute cafes and novelty shops? Check.
Here are Klook’s recommended top things to do in Queenstown for both kinds of travellers alike!
First up, for the daredevils out there….
1. Jump off a plane from 15,000 ft above!
You can choose between 9000 ft, 12000 or 15000 ft, but since you’re already there, why not just go full force and choose 15,000 ft?! Free fall for up to 60 seconds at a (literally) breathtaking speed of 200km/h- and believe us, 60 seconds will feel like a lifetime to enjoy the world below you- you’ll get a once in a lifetime view of the Remarkables and the turquoise waters of Lake Wakatipu!
2. Conquer the Shotover River in a Jet Boat
Buckle up and sit tight for this crazy ride! You’ll go in between tall and narrow canyon walls, so be ready for the jet boat’s crazy twists and turns - this ride will keep your heart pumping for a good 30 minutes!
The river is about a 10-minute drive from Queenstown but you get complimentary roundtrip transfers with Klook!
3. Dive in head first in the Kawarau Bridge Bungy
The Kawarau Bridge Bungy is definitely not for the faint of heart. Feeling extra brave? Jump 43m off the historic Kawarau Bridge head first- you know the trick, don’t think too much and just do it!!
4. Go crazy at The Nevis Bungy
Feel like the Kawarau Bridge Bungy isn’t exciting and thrilling enough for you?! Then, you would love this - New Zealand's highest bungy jump at 134m. Rumor has it that even skydiving instructors won’t even attempt to do this one! With this you’ll get 8.5 seconds of exhilarating free fall- and after, you’ll rightfully earn bragging rights and say that you’re badass.
5. Take a ride at the Nevis Swing
Not keen on the bungy jumps? Ride this swing instead! The Nevis Swing is the world’s highest. You will be strapped to the seat and be swinging at 120km/h, with the Nevis RIver 160m below you! How crazy is that?! Don’t worry though, you could do this one with a mate to share those jitters with!
For the chill nature buffs…
6. Skyline Gondola & Luge Rides
If you wanna have the perfect view of Queenstown, going up Bob’s Peak is the way to go. And the best way to get to Bob’s Peak? Through a Skyline Gondola. Marvel at the stunning mountain ranges that surround Queenstown, as well as the iconic Lake Wakatipu, whilst peering outside the cable cart.
Tip: just go before sunset to be just in time to catch the breathtaking scenery from the peak!
7. Relax at the TSS Earnslaw Steamship Cruise
If you’re up for a quiet, easy cruise, then this one is perfect for you. The ship will take you on a 90 minute journey across the turquoise waters of Lake Wakatipu and you’ll sail past snow capped peaks of The Remarkables, Cecil Peak and Walter Peak. You’ll have plenty of time to take it all in and just revel in Queenstown’s amazing scenery.
8. Explore Glowworm Caves
Do you have half a day to spare and are interested in nature’s unique wonders, including little glowing creatures? This tour starts off with a relaxing, scenic cruise on Lake Te Anau, and then you’ll hop on a small boat and visit a hidden grotto and see thousands of glowworms lighten up a cave. Quite the experience!
9. Queenstown Sunrise Balloon
If you want to be up in the air but without feeling like your heart’s about to jump out of your chest, the Sunrise Hot Air Balloon activity is your match. You can take your time, enjoy the view, and have breakfast afterwards- with pastries, hot drinks, juice, and fruit, and of course, champagne- yes you read that right!
10. Have coffee and shop at Arrowtown
Just about a 30-minute drive from Queenstown is the enchanting (definitely instagrammable!) little town of Arrowtown.
You can expect charming little local cafes, a good selection of restaurants, and quaint little shops selling unique souvenirs to take home. The best part? You’ll feel like you’re time- travelling back to when Arrowtown was a gold-mining town as you’ll be walking on streets with European and Chinese styled buildings that have been very well-preserved!
Why book your car on Klook?
🚙 Top and trusted brands at the best prices (We've got Hertz, AVIS, Alamo, etc!)
🚙 Over 22 pick up and drop off locations across Australia & New Zealand
🚙 Instant confirmation on your booking (with at least 4 hours ahead of desired pick up time)
🚙 Free cancellation if plans change (before pick up!)
🚙 Choose from a variety of car types to suit your needs
🤑 Pre-book your car for Sydney on Klook and save heaps!