Available languages
4 hours
Mobile ticket
An adventure safari packed with breathtaking scenery, thrilling 4WD action whilst discovering LOTR filming locations. Visit the filming locations of Minas Tirith, Misty Mountains, the Pillars of the Kings (Argonath), Gladden Fields, the Ford of Bruinen and more. Travel an historic gold mining road, following the Arrow River, stop for an opportunity to try your hand at gold panning. Take in the spectacular panoramic views over the Wakatipu Basin.
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
min 2 per tour for confirmed departure, min 4 on NZ public holidays
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Lake Wakatipu
Travelling part way up Queenstown hill you get a birds eye view onto Lake Wakatipu and Deer Park Heights, which was used for the refugees of Rohan and the Battle of the Wargs scenes.
Kawarau River
Head to the Kawarau Gorge where the filming took place for the Argonath, or Pillars of the Kings.
Gold panning
Transport by 4WD vehicle with your driver/guide
Selected Queenstown Hotel pickup and drop-off
Lunch
Morning Departure: Wakatipu Basin tour. Departs at 8.15am, returns at 12.15pm.
319 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
B4203CGpaulg,Apr 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Recently been on the Lord of the Ring Queensltown Tour/ Nomad Safaris. Highly recommended ……… our Guide Lucas was enthusiastic and very knowledgeable..Really felt we got to appreciate the beauty and history on the area… and a must for the LOR fan … visited some iconic scenes ,half expected to encounter a few hobbits.
penny099,Apr 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
You don't need to be a LOTR fan to love this tour. Incredible scenery and fun drive through amazing terrain.
rflenniken,Apr 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Sweet informative guide who was a joy to drive us around. Interesting facts about the movie
Barney S,Mar 30, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Toured with Pete with Nomad Safaris. He was a terrific guide and a pleasure to be with.
Tour34819479596,Mar 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Very good scenes and vistas. Hannah (?) was very thoughtful and thorough in her explanations. Hi Five!
190amauria,Mar 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Excellent, fun and informative. If you are a LOTR fan you will get to stand at the places where the film was shot. The scenery is stunning. Our guide was relaxed and knowledgeable. This is a great way to see some places that might be out of reach for the average visitor.
davidsC1559JR,Mar 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Finley ( I’m pretty sure it was with an e not an a) was a great guide , relaxed , knowledgeable and funny . We had a cracking time and even the non LOR nerd enjoyed the day . Highly recommended: gold pannning , River off roading , Skippers canyon , Arrowtown ( briefly) , plenty going on . Thanks !
Janet S,Mar 17, 2026
- Review from Viator
An exciting tour of the Queenstown basin and the many beautiful places used In filming Lord of the Rings. With a river drive and gold panning thrown in.
Eileen Cowes,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
A bit white knuckle at times but very competent and experienced driver
Eileen0813,Mar 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Thanks to Benjamin, this visit was amazing. I could almost hear the soundtrack of LOTR during the visit. A must if you are a fan of LOTR and spend a moment in Queenstown

Operated by Nomad Safaris