Queenstown Holiday Tips and Ideas for Walkers
If you love hiking, you can have the adventures of your life when you vacation in Queenstown. The local region has much to offer, from leisurely walks through vineyard-covered valleys to demanding mountain trails. You will greatly benefit from planning your trips in advance. Consider practical information and tips that will help you with this.
Best time to visit
Summer, which runs from early December to late February, is ideal for a Queenstown holiday for walkers. The weather is warm and sunny and the temperature does not usually exceed 30 degrees Celsius. If you want somewhat cooler weather, you may also want to consider vacationing in late spring or early fall. These times are generally less busy as well.
Popular local tracks
You can easily choose between different tracks based on length, level of difficulty, and proximity to Queenstown. The Ben Lomond track starts just above the town. It can be accessed from the gondola. You will enjoy a day hike and the most spectacular views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. One thing to note is that the track is quite steep and quite challenging. Queenstown tourists should be well equipped and prepared to exercise.
You can enjoy the Hollyford Track in Fiordland National Park on a short trip, involving a helicopter ride, or the classic 3-day trip. The track has everything to offer, from a valley with an ancient forest to high mountains covered with snow. You will meet various creatures. When you reach the sea, the local colony of sea lions will be waiting for you.
The Kepler Track, which is also located in Fiordland, offers some of the best mountain views in New Zealand. You will have to walk up and down ridges, but the effort will be worth it when you look at the landscape below you. The Routeburn Trail runs through two national parks: Fiordland and Mt. Aspiring. Harris Lake and Routeburn Falls are among the top attractions. The tour lasts three days.
get equipment
If you can’t bring your own essentials, you can easily rent or buy the items you’ll need. There are several outdoor sports equipment stores in Queenstown. You can find everything you need, from clothes to insect repellent.
Finally, you can organize a hiking tour yourself or take one of the guided tours. Compare the different options to decide which one is best for you and fully enjoy your Queenstown holiday.