Lord of the Rings 4WD Tours
Full Day Lord of the Rings 4WD Tour
Experience the ultimate Lord of the Rings adventure, combining Queenstown, Glenorchy and Paradise in one unforgettable day. Discover iconic Middle-earth filming locations, explore ancient forests, dress up with replica props, tackle 4WD river crossings and try your hand at gold panning.
Key Information
Duration
9.5 hours
Time
8:00am
Operates
Year-round
Walking
15 minute walk
Highlights
- Combines the Queenstown and Glenorchy LOTR tours in one epic day
- Visit locations Isengard, Lothlórien, Fangorn Forest, Misty Mountains, Pillars of the Kings and more
- Spectacular Glenorchy and Paradise scenery
- Dress up with replica costumes and props
- Off-road 4WD adventure and Arrow River crossings
- Traditional gold panning
- Skippers Canyon Road and Lighthouse Rock
- Morning and afternoon tea plus lunch voucher
- Behind-the-scenes filming stories throughout the day
What You’ll Experience
Travel in 4WD from Queenstown along the shores of Lake Whakatipu on one of New Zealand’s most spectacular scenic drives, surrounded by the Southern Alps, glacial valleys, braided rivers and native beech forest. Visit 12 Mile Delta then enjoy a 15 minute scenic walk. Journey through Glenorchy and Paradise to discover filming locations associated with Isengard, Fangorn Forest, Ithilien Camp and the Battle of Amon Hen. Travel towards Paradise with views of Mt Earnslaw, and venture into the Forest of Lothlórien. Stop for morning tea and dress up in replica cloaks, pose with movie props and let your local guide connect the landscapes to the movies with film imagery, behind-the-scenes stories and filming insights. Enjoy lunch and a short break back in Queenstown then head off for your afternoon adventure. View The Remarkables from Queenstown Hill, featured as the Misty Mountains, and look across to Deer Park Heights. Continue to Kawarau Gorge, filming location for the Pillars of the Kings (Argonath), before travelling towards Arrowtown and Gladden Fields, where the loss of the One Ring was filmed. Then it’s time to head off-road. Follow a historic gold-mining road alongside the Arrow River, crossing the river as you make your way towards the Ford of Bruinen. Stop for afternoon tea and try your hand at traditional gold panning. Then journey up Coronet Peak and travel along the famous Skippers Canyon Road towards Lighthouse Rock and take in spectacular panoramic views. For dedicated fans wanting the best possible Middle-earth experience in one day, this is The One.
Tour Options
Private Tours
Looking for a More Personalised Experience?
Book this experience as a Private Tour and enjoy exclusive use of the 4WD vehicle and guide, private accommodation pick-up and a more personalised experience for up to 6 guests.
Good to Know
What’s Included
Travel in a 6-seater 4WD Land Cruiser or Land Rover, experienced local guide, Queenstown and Glenorchy Lord of the Rings filming locations, replica props, 15 minute walk, off-road driving and river crossings, gold panning, morning and afternoon tea and a $20 cafe lunch voucher.
What to Bring
Water, camera or phone, sun protection, comfortable shoes and suitable clothing
Meeting Point
The main departure point is Nomad Safaris, 37 Shotover Street, Queenstown, with complimentary pick-up and drop-off also available from selected central Queenstown accommodation.