Custom Travel Itineraries to New Zealand since 1990

Custom Travel Itineraries to New Zealand since 1990

Paradise Wilderness Experience: Ultimate Queenstown Day Trip

If you’re headed to Queenstown and want a truly unique way to explore New Zealand’s backcountry, the Paradise Wilderness Experience delivers it all — helicopter access, alpine hiking, jet boating, and gourmet food. In just one day, you’ll witness towering waterfalls, glacier-fed rivers, and lush native forests, all far beyond the reach of the usual tourist routes.

From Queenstown to Glenorchy: The Adventure Begins

The day starts with a private transfer from your Queenstown accommodation along one of New Zealand’s most scenic roads. The drive to Glenorchy — at the northern tip of Lake Wakatipu — sets the stage with panoramic lake and mountain views.

Once in Glenorchy, your private helicopter awaits.

Soar Over Remote Valleys and Land Among Waterfalls

Lift off into the skies for a flight over the Dart and Rees Valleys, where glacial rivers snake through rugged alpine landscapes. Your destination: Earnslaw Burn, a remote location accessible only by helicopter.

Touch down in the middle of the wilderness. From here, you’ll take a guided hike through native beech forest, heading toward multi-tiered waterfalls cascading down dramatic rock faces. This is a place few travelers ever see — deep inside Mount Aspiring National Park, part of the Te Wāhipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Area.

Jet Boating Through Paradise

After your hike, re-board your helicopter for a short hop to the Dart River. Your private jet boat awaits on the banks, ready to take you through a maze of braided glacial channels beneath snow-capped peaks. With an expert guide at the helm, this is more than a thrill ride — it’s a deep dive into the region’s natural history, Māori legends, and ecological significance.

Dine Like a Local in Glenorchy

Back on land, you’ll head to Miss Woolly’s, a charming local spot known for its fresh, seasonal fare. Lunch is relaxed and delicious — a chance to savor the moment and take in the peaceful pace of Glenorchy village.

A Perfect Finish: The Glenorchy–Queenstown Road​

The return journey is just as memorable. As your private guide drives you back to Queenstown, you’ll follow the lakeside road, often ranked among the most beautiful drives in the world. Think crystal-clear waters, mirror-like reflections, and mountain vistas around every bend.

What’s Included

  • Private round-trip transfers from Queenstown
  • Scenic helicopter flight with two landings
  • Guided alpine hike in Earnslaw Burn
  • Private Dart River jet boat tour
  • Gourmet lunch in Glenorchy
  • Expert local guide throughout
  • Luxury private vehicle

 

Duration: Full-day (7 hours)
Season: Available September–May
Pricing: From $8,330 NZD for 1–5 guests (larger group pricing on request)

Why Travelers Love This Experience

This isn’t your average day tour. It’s an adventure designed for those who want more— more access, more nature, and more insight into the land. Everything is privately guided and fully customized, allowing you to focus on what matters: the experience.

As a New Zealand travel specialist, we work with top-tier local partners like Alpine Luxury Tours to offer exclusive experiences like this one. Our clients enjoy not only front-row views, but seamless planning and personal touches every step of the way.

Plan Your Wilderness Adventure

We build tailor-made itineraries for travelers who want more than just a vacation — they want stories to tell. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, traveling with friends, or just craving wild beauty, the Paradise Wilderness Experience is a highlight we highly recommend.

Contact us today to start planning your tailor-made wildlife adventure in New Zealand.