Nature & Wildlife

Queenstown's mountains, lakes, rivers, and valleys await your exploration, offering endless opportunities to immerse yourself in breathtaking natural beauty. Step into this stunning outdoor playground for a nature experience unlike any other, filled with wildlife encounters and pristine landscapes.

Discover Queenstown and the Southern Lakes region with a guided nature walk to learn about the local flora and fauna, get up close to iconic wildlife like the kiwi or the tuatara — New Zealand’s ancient lizard, often called a “living dinosaur.” Kayak along the fiords to spot seals and dolphins, or choose from a variety of experiences that will connect you deeply with nature.

Take a moment to walk quietly, tune into the sounds of the environment, and witness the true essence of Queenstown’s untouched beauty.

Explore Diverse Trails
From short scenic walks starting right in Queenstown’s town center to the inspiring landscapes of Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks, the region offers trails for every explorer. The Queenstown Trail network spans 130 km of easy-to-intermediate paths, winding along rivers, lakes, and mountain ranges, and even passing iconic attractions like bungy jumping, jet boating, and local wineries.

Nature Walks & Multi-Day Hikes
For those looking to fully immerse in the wilderness, there are multi-day hikes that lead through native forests, alpine regions, and even glaciers. Options include fully guided trips with hire equipment, making it accessible for all types of travelers. Maps and trail information are available at local information centers and Department of Conservation (DOC) offices.

National Parks
The Fiordland National Park, a World Heritage Area known as Te Wahipounamu, spans over 1.2 million hectares and offers one of the world’s largest protected natural areas. A visit to Milford Sound, the most accessible of the fiords, rewards travelers with spectacular alpine views and opportunities to spot dolphins and other marine life. For a more remote experience, Doubtful Sound offers a quieter adventure into untouched wilderness.

Choose from a variety of ways to explore this unique environment, including kayaking, scenic cruises, flights, diving, and a visit to the underwater “Discovery Centre” observatory.

Overnight Wilderness Adventures
Get closer to nature with an overnight water journey, whether it's pack-rafting through Queenstown’s backcountry or kayaking on Fiordland’s dark, tranquil waters. Guided multi-day trips allow you to set up camp each night and experience the serenity of the wilderness.

Our online travel assistance team is here to help with instant bookings for all nature and wildlife experiences, ensuring a smooth journey through Queenstown’s natural surroundings. Before booking any activity, please read our terms and conditions, as well as our cancellation policies, to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

For any questions, feel free to reach out anytime via WhatsApp: +6421982195 or WeChat: SkyCenturyNZ.