
Macetown 4WD Adventure – Full Day Guided Tour from Queenstown
About This Experience
Step into the past on this thrilling full-day 4x4 off-road journey to Macetown – a remote gold mining settlement hidden deep in Queenstown’s backcountry. Follow the rugged Arrow River trail, crossing its waters 25 times in each direction, as you encounter dramatic landscapes, historic relics, and the legacy of Otago’s 1860s gold rush. Perfect for adventurous travellers, photographers, history buffs, and families, this is no ordinary road trip – it’s a true off-road expedition. Expert guides take you along the narrow miners’ wagon trail once used by gold prospectors, deep into the mountains behind Arrowtown. With 50 river crossings, 90 minute walk, picnic lunch, relics, and lupin-filled valleys in spring and summer, every moment offers something new. Hear tales of pioneer hardship, colourful gold rush characters, and the rise and fall of the once-thriving township, with immersive storytelling and countless photo-worthy scenes along the way.
What's Included
- ✓Entrance fee covered for the Lakes District Museum
- ✓A selection of fresh filled rolls, fresh fruit, snacks, and beverages.
- ✓Light refreshments (including tea, coffee, hot chocolate, fruit cake and cookies)
- ✓Driver/guide
- ✓Pickup from central Queenstown accommodations is included. Surround suburbs (Kelvin Heights, Frankton, Arthur's Point, Fernhill and others) by arrangement. Please contact to reconfirm pick up arrangement and time.
- ✓Transport by 4WD vehicle
Practical Details
Duration
9 hours
Cancellation
Free cancellation
Good to Know
- •Public transportation options are available nearby
- •Specialized infant seats are available
- •Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- •Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- •Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- •Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- •Operates in all weather conditions unless the river is too high. Dress appropriately for comfort and the 90 minute walk.
- •Minimum numbers apply (min 2 per tour for confirmed departure, min 4 on NZ public holidays). There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
per person
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