Queenstown 4WD + Dart River Jet Combo

Experience two spectacular sides of the Queenstown and Whakatipu region in one unforgettable day, combining wilderness jet boating with a genuine 4WD backcountry adventure.

Travel from Queenstown to Glenorchy before boarding the Dart River Wilderness Jet for approx 2 hours on the Dart River. Journey deep into the spectacular wilderness of Mount Aspiring National Park, surrounded by towering mountains and pristine alpine landscapes.  

Travel back to Queenstown for a quick lunch then join the Nomad Safaris 4WD and discover the magic of Tolkien’s Middle-earth on a small-group 4WD adventure through the spectacular landscapes surrounding Queenstown. View The Remarkables from Queenstown Hill, featured as the Misty Mountains, and look across to Deer Park Heights, used for the Refugees of Rohan and Battle of the Wargs scenes. 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. Learn about the history of the gold mining era. Then journey up Coronet Peak and travel along the famous Skippers Canyon Road towards Lighthouse Rock and take in spectacular panoramic views.

Throughout the journey, your local guide brings Middle-earth to life with behind-the-scenes stories, filming insights and tales from the making of the trilogy.

Tour Highlights

• Approx 2 hours jet boating on the Dart River

• Explore Mount Aspiring National Park wilderness

• Spectacular Glenorchy alpine scenery

• Nomad Safaris 4WD adventure

• Afternoon tea plus lunch 

• Arrow River crossings and gold panning

• Visit locations Misty Mountains, Pillars of the Kings and Ford of Bruinen

• Skippers Canyon and Lighthouse Rock

What's Included

Return transport between Queenstown and Glenorchy, Dart River Wilderness Jet experience, Nomad Safaris guided Queenstown LOTR 4WD adventure, experienced guide, Lord of the Rings filming locations, river crossings, gold panning, light afternoon refreshments and a $20 Queenstown lunch voucher.

What to Bring

Small backpack, snacks for the morning, water, camera or phone, sun protection, comfortable shoes and suitable clothing. Life jackets and spray jackets are provided by Dart River Wilderness Jet, as you may get splashed.

Pick up & Drop off

Meet at The Station Building on Duke Street for the Dart River transfer. After returning to Queenstown, check in for the Nomad Safaris 4WD portion at Info & Track / Info & Snow, 37 Shotover Street. Full timing details will be confirmed with your booking.

Important Information

Contact us to enquire about availability. Jet boating and 4WD routes are subject to weather, river levels, road and operational conditions, which may affect river crossings, Skippers Canyon access or other parts of the itinerary. Please review our Disclosure of Risks and Weather Cancellation Policy before booking.