Lake Wakatipu Nature Walking Tour from Queenstown

After hotel pickup in Queenstown, travel by minivan a short distance outside the city to the starting point for your walk.

Following your guide, walk along a track that winds through native shrub and beech forest to the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Admire views through the trees and across the water to the mountains beyond; on a clear day, you can see the Remarkables Range and Cecil Peak.

In this area's microclimate, plants are protected from the elements, which allows them to grow larger than elsewhere on the island. Learn about the native plant and animal life from your guide, who points out different bird species and shows you edible and medicinal plants used by the local Maori people and European settlers. You'll also hear some Maori legends from the region.

Your walk takes you along the lake on a wide track that goes over some uneven terrain. At a leisurely pace, you can expect to walk for about two to three hours, covering up to 3 miles (5 km). If you wish, you have the option to tackle a steeper climb that takes you up to a lookout point for magnificent views in all directions. Enjoy plenty of stops for photos, as well as a snack break with tea or coffee on the lakeshore.

At the end of the walk, your guide returns you by vehicle to your Queenstown hotel.