4x4 Safari of Scenes
The perfect tour for those who want the thrills of an off-road adventure but also want to discover exciting 'Lord of the Rings' film locations.
Dart River Wilderness Safari
Dart River Wilderness Safari, New Zealand
Guests are collected from a convenient pick-up point and driven to the tranquil village of Glenorchy, on the northern tip of Lake Wakatipu. Here you board the Dart River jet-boat on a white-knuckle ride for an hour and a half up the narrow, meandering waterway, into real wilderness country. Jet boats are a New Zealand design which allow high speed travel up extremely shallow glacial riverbeds, and a by-product of this design feature is that they are able to put on the brakes suddenly which is hugely exciting.
Once you have disembarked from the boat, take a short guided walk on some picturesque forest tracks, where your knowledgeable guide will enliven your walk with and informative and entertaining commentary about the ancient native beech forest the unique flora and fauna, as well as the fascinating Maori and colonial history of the area. Finally, you return to Glenorchy by 4WD coach via a scenic back-road route, while hearing stories about the surrounding countryside and stopping to view scenery that has formed the epic backdrop for many international films, including 'The Lord of the Rings'.
Speak to someone
who's been there
Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our New Zealand specialists
- 617-223-4580
- Make an inquiry
Photos of Dart River Wilderness Safari
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![Jet boat on the Dart River]()
Jet boat on the Dart River -
![Dart River Wilderness Safari]()
Dart River Wilderness Safari -
![Dart River jet boat safari, Queenstown]()
Dart River jet boat safari, Queenstown -
![Dart River Jetboat Safari, Queenstown]()
Dart River Jetboat Safari, Queenstown
Other experiences in Queenstown
These activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences around where you're staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident's eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can suggest tours and activities, such as cooking classes, that will introduce you to the local ways of life.
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Hot Air Balloon Flight
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Dart Stables provide a superb riding experience through some of New Zealand's most breathtaking scenery. You will journey through locations used in such films as 'Lord of the Rings' and 'Willow' whilst taking in the spectacular surroundings.
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TSS Earnslaw cruise to Walter Peak High Country Farm
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