Queenstown Guided Self-Drive Buggy Tour
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
New Zealand’s premium guided self-drive buggy experience - you drive, we guide. After a quick training session, follow your guide through steep climbs, creek crossings and forest tracks in our exclusive off-road park, just 5 minutes from Queenstown.
You will be surprised what these buggies can climb and conquer, even if it is your first time off-road. Enjoy hands-on driving, real capability, and stunning viewpoints over Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu. At lookout stops, we will help you grab photos before you get back behind the wheel.
Return transfers from central Queenstown are included, and we provide all the gear you need, including helmets and eye protection - just show up and enjoy the drive.
Available options
Challenger Buggy Family of 4
Challenger Buggy Family of 4<br/>Wolverine MX4: Four Seater Buggy<br/>Four Seater Buggy: Minimum Driver Age - 18 years (Licenced) • Minimum Passenger Age - 4 years • Up to two licensed drivers included in hire
Challenger Self Drive Tour
2 Person Challenger Buggy Tour<br/>Wolverine MX4: Four Seater Buggy<br/>Four Seater Buggy: Minimum Driver Age - 18 years (Licenced) • Minimum Passenger Age - 4 years • Up to two licensed drivers included in hire
Challenger Buggy Family of 3
Challenger Buggy Family of 3<br/>Wolverine MX4<br/>Four Seater Buggy: Minimum Driver Age - 18 years (Licenced) • Minimum Passenger Age - 4 years • Up to two licensed drivers included in hire
What's included
Helmets and eye protection
Return transfers from our Queenstown shop
Wet-weather gear (jacket, pants and gumboots) if required
Expert local guide (guided tour)
Late model 4x4 buggies
Detailed itinerary
1
Check in at our Queenstown shop (61A Shotover Street, Queenstown), then jump in for a short transfer to our private adventure park just 5 minutes away. Start with a quick training session in our training area, then follow your guide into real off-road terrain - steep climbs, creek crossings and forest tracks built to thrill. You'll be amazed what these buggies can climb and conquer.
Along the way, you'll reach stunning viewpoints above Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and Coronet Peak, with short lookout stops to take it in before you get back behind the wheel. The buggy seats up to four guests, with up to two drivers who can swap during the tour.
At the end, we’ll transfer you back to our shop in central Queenstown - with plenty to talk about on the way.
What's not included
Snacks
Optional gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
36 reviews
5★
35
4★
1
3★
0
2★
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1★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
146 reviews
5★
145
4★
1
3★
0
2★
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1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
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
Duration: Allow around 1.5 hours total, including approximately 60 minutes of self-drive buggy time.
Check-in: Off Road Adventure Centre, 61A Shotover Street, Queenstown. Please check in 15 minutes before your tour. Return transfers are included. After check-in, you may follow the guide to the park in your own vehicle if you prefer.
We provide: Return transport from central Queenstown, late model 4x4 buggies, helmets and eye protection. Wet-weather gear (jacket, pants and gumboots) is available if required.
We recommend: Wear comfortable clothing you don’t mind getting dusty. Bring water and a camera (or GoPro) if you’d like.
Suitability / minimum age: Drivers must be 18+ with a full driving licence (NZ or international) and good conversational English for safety instructions. Minimum passenger age is 4+. Please bring your licence to check-in.
Bond: Drivers will be asked to sign a NZ$3000 insurance excess agreement at check-in and provide Visa/Mastercard credit card details (no charge is made unless damage occurs).
Meeting point
Please arrive at 61A Shotover Street, Queenstown, 15 minutes before your tour departure time.
Thank you for booking with us!
Important notes
Off Road Expeditions reserve the right to cancel or amend any trip due to river, road or weather conditions. Stringent safety procedures are observed at all times, however there remains an element of risk. Off Road Expeditions cannot be held responsible for personal injury or for loss or damage of equipment.
About Queenstown
Queenstown, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Remarkables mountain range, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and adrenaline-pumping activities. This vibrant town offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and luxury, making it a top destination for travelers seeking both excitement and natural beauty.
Top Attractions
Queenstown Garden
Queenstown Garden is a beautiful public garden located in the heart of the city. It offers stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Skyline Queenstown
Skyline Queenstown offers a range of activities, including the Skyline Gondola, Luge rides, and a restaurant with panoramic views of the city and lake.
Adventure
2-3 hours
Moderate to Expensive
Arrowtown Chinese Settlement
Arrowtown Chinese Settlement is a historic site that showcases the lives of Chinese miners during the Otago Gold Rush in the 1860s.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Lamb
New Zealand lamb is renowned for its tender texture and rich flavor. It's often served with seasonal vegetables and local wines.
Main Course
Contains meat
Green-Lipped Mussels
Green-lipped mussels are a delicacy in New Zealand, known for their unique flavor and texture. They're often served steamed with garlic, wine, and herbs.
Appetizer
Contains shellfish
Pavlova
Pavlova is a popular dessert in New Zealand, made with a crisp meringue shell, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.
Dessert
Contains eggs and dairy
Popular Activities
Bungee jumping
Skydiving
Jet boating
Hiking
Mountain biking
Spa treatments
Wine tasting
Scenic cruises
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long daylight hours, and a wide range of outdoor activities. It's ideal for hiking, water sports, and exploring the great outdoors.
20°C to 30°C
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Māori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Queenstown is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Exercise caution when engaging in adventure activities and be aware of the weather conditions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash
Getting there
By air
- Queenstown Airport • 5 km from city center
By bus
Queenstown Bus Interchange
Getting around
Public transport
Orion buses provide reliable and affordable transportation throughout Queenstown and to nearby attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Central Queenstown
Frankton
Arrowtown
Day trips
Milford Sound
120 km from Queenstown • Full day
Milford Sound is a stunning fjord known for its dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife. A day trip to Milford Sound includes a scenic drive and a boat cruise through the fjord.
Glenorchy
45 km from Queenstown • Half day to Full day
Glenorchy is a charming village nestled at the head of Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. It's a great base for hiking, horse riding, and other outdoor activities.
Wanaka
65 km from Queenstown • Full day
Wanaka is a picturesque town known for its stunning lake and mountain views, as well as its vibrant arts and culture scene. It's a great destination for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Festivals
Queenstown Winter Festival • June
Gibbston Valley Winter Festival • July
Arrowtown Autumn Festival • April
Pro tips
- Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- Book accommodations, tours, and transportation in advance, especially during peak season.
- Dress in layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
- Try local specialties like lamb, green-lipped mussels, and pavlova.
- Explore beyond the city center and visit nearby attractions like Arrowtown and Glenorchy.
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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