Exploring Queenstown Solo: A Guide To Adventure And Fun

Queenstown, New Zealand, is a top destination for solo travellers. Known for its natural beauty and outdoor adventures, it offers something for every type of traveller. From its stunning alpine scenery to its bustling downtown, Queenstown is the perfect place to explore alone.

Queenstown is considered safe for tourists, with a low crime rate. It's easy to get to, with the airport just 8-10km from the city centre, and there are plenty of accommodation options, from hostels to luxury hotels.

The city is packed with shops, restaurants, and bars, making it a great place to meet people. There are also plenty of opportunities to connect with locals and join guided tours and experiences, from food and wine tours to cultural walks.

Queenstown is known as the Adventure Capital of the World, offering adrenaline-pumping experiences like bungee jumping, skydiving, paragliding, jet boating, and skiing. It's also surrounded by breathtaking natural wonders, including Lake Wakatipu, the Kiwi Birdlife Park, and the Milford Sound.

Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or a lover of the great outdoors, Queenstown has something for everyone.

Adventure activities: bungee jumping, skydiving, hiking, jet boating, skiing, snowboarding

Queenstown, New Zealand, is known as the birthplace of bungee jumping and the adventure capital of the country. It is home to the world's first commercial bungee jump site, with three different sites to choose from. The most famous bungee jump is the Kawarau Bridge Bungy, the world's first commercial bungee jump site, which is 43 metres above the Kawarau River. You can also opt for The Ledge Bungy, located 47 metres above Queenstown, or the Nevis Bungy, Queenstown's highest bungee jump at 134 metres. You can even choose to jump tandem with a friend at the Kawarau Bridge Bungy!

If you're looking for an even bigger adrenaline rush, skydiving might be for you. Tandem skydiving in Queenstown involves climbing to an altitude of 9,000 to 15,000 feet, where you'll be treated to stunning views of the snow-capped Remarkables mountain range. After taking in the scenery, you'll be harnessed to an experienced jumpmaster and step out of the aircraft, freefalling for 60 seconds at 200 kilometres per hour.

For those who prefer their adventures on solid ground, Queenstown offers some of New Zealand's best walks and hikes. The region boasts breathtaking scenery, including jagged mountains, native beech forests, wild rivers, waterfalls, and glassy lakes. There are short walks, day walks, and multi-day hikes suitable for all ages and abilities. Some popular options include the Queenstown Hill Time Walk, the Lake Hayes Walkway, the Ben Lomond Track, and the Mt. Crichton Loop Track.

If you're looking for an adventure on the water, jet boating is a must-do activity in Queenstown. Jet boat operators, such as Shotover Jet and KJet, offer thrilling rides on the Kawarau and Shotover Rivers. You'll speed through canyons and experience 360-degree spins while taking in the stunning views.

Finally, if you're visiting during the winter months, skiing and snowboarding are popular adventure activities in Queenstown. The town is a world-renowned ski destination, with four major ski resorts in the area offering options for all skill levels. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, there are plenty of other winter activities to enjoy, such as snowshoeing, ice skating, and heli-skiing.

Outdoor activities: scenic hikes, cycling, wine tours, gondola rides

Outdoor Activities in Queenstown

Queenstown is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of scenic hikes, cycling routes, wine tours, and gondola rides to enjoy. Here's a detailed guide to help you make the most of your solo travel to Queenstown:

Scenic Hikes

Queenstown boasts some of the most stunning hiking trails in the world, offering a range of options for solo travelers. From leisurely walks along the lakefront to challenging multi-day hikes in the mountains, there is something for every level of hiker. Here are some recommended hikes:

• Queenstown Hill Time Walk: This short 2-3 hour return walk offers panoramic views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu.
• Lake Hayes Walkway: An 8-kilometer scenic walk that takes you along the shoreline of Lake Hayes, offering beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
• Ben Lomond Track: A challenging 6-8 hour hike that rewards hikers with spectacular views of Queenstown and the surrounding mountain ranges.
• Mt. Crichton Loop Track: A 4-5 hour hike that takes you through lush forests, past waterfalls, and along the way, you'll be treated to stunning views of Lake Wakatipu.
• Routeburn Track: This 32-kilometer hike takes 2-3 days to complete and leads you through alpine scenery and past breathtaking waterfalls.
• Rees-Dart Track: Embark on a challenging 4-5 day hike that takes you through remote valleys, over mountain passes, and past pristine glacial lakes.

Remember to always check the weather and trail conditions before embarking on your hike, and ensure you are well-prepared and equipped, regardless of the hike's difficulty level.

Cycling Adventures

Cycling is an excellent way to explore Queenstown's natural beauty and there are various bike rental options available in the town center. Here are some recommended cycling routes and experiences:

• Queenstown Trail: This popular route takes cyclists through vineyards, historic mining sites, and breathtaking landscapes.
• Skyline Queenstown Bike Park: For more advanced cyclists, this park offers a range of downhill mountain biking trails with over 30 trails catering to intermediate and advanced riders.
• Coronet Peak and Cardrona Alpine Resort: These resorts offer excellent downhill mountain biking options for those seeking a challenging ride.
• Frankton Arm Trail: If you prefer a more leisurely ride, this 9-kilometer lakeside cycleway is flat and easy, perfect for beginners and families.
• E-bike Tours: For a unique cycling experience, try an e-bike tour. These electric bikes assist with pedaling, making it easier to cover more ground and take on challenging terrain without getting exhausted.

Wine Tours

Queenstown is surrounded by renowned vineyards and wineries, making it an ideal place for wine enthusiasts. Here's what you can expect:

• Gibbston Valley: In the heart of Gibbston Valley, you'll find wineries bearing the names of New Zealand's finest winemakers. Take a journey into the 'valley of the vines' and discover vineyards nestled among spectacular mountain ranges and dramatic river gorges.
• Small Group and Private Tours: Queenstown Winery Tours offer small group or private tours, ensuring a personalized and affordable experience. You'll get to taste exceptional wines and learn about the Central Otago wine district.
• Bespoke Experiences: With bespoke tours starting at $195, you can create a unique wine-tasting experience that suits your preferences and budget.

Gondola Rides

For a panoramic view of Queenstown and its surroundings, a gondola ride is a must-do activity. Here's what you need to know:

• Skyline Queenstown Gondola: Take a gondola ride up to the top of Bob's Peak, where you'll be treated to stunning views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Walter and Cecil Peak, and Lake Wakatipu. At the top, you can also enjoy activities like luge rides, mountain biking, and hiking.
• Stratosfare Restaurant and Bar: Pair the breathtaking views with a dining experience at this restaurant, where you can indulge in New Zealand's finest produce and signature Kiwi hospitality.

Social activities: nightlife, local markets, live music, bars, restaurants, cafes

Queenstown has a buzzing nightlife, with over 150 bars, restaurants and cafes to choose from. Here are some ideas for social activities when travelling alone in Queenstown:

Nightlife

Queenstown has a lively music scene, with many bars and clubs offering live music performances, DJs and dancing. Check out venues like The World Bar, The Find, or The Bunker for live entertainment. Queenstown's nightlife is great fun, and you’ll meet travellers and locals from around the world any night of the week.

Local Markets

Keep an eye out for local night markets, which often feature food stalls, live music, and artisan crafts. These markets are a great way to experience the local culture and enjoy delicious street food.

Live Music

Queenstown has a diverse music scene, with something to suit all tastes. From DJs and live music in bars and clubs to classical music and opera, there's always something to enjoy. Check out the local events calendar to see what's on during your visit.

Bars

Queenstown has a variety of bars to suit all tastes and budgets. For a cosy wine bar, try The London or The Sundeck. If you're looking for a lively pub, head to 1876 or Rhino's Ski Shack. For a unique experience, visit one of Queenstown's famous ice bars, such as Minus 5 Ice Bar or Below Zero Ice Bar.

Restaurants

Queenstown is known for its diverse and high-quality dining scene. For a classic Queenstown burger, try Fergburger, a local favourite. If you're in the mood for something more upscale, check out the fine dining options at The Bunker or Yonder. And don't forget to sample some of the region's famous Pinot Noir at one of the many wineries in and around Queenstown.

Cafes

Queenstown also has a great cafe culture. For a trendy brunch spot, try Yonder or Attiqa. And if you're looking for a cosy spot to relax and people-watch, head to one of the many cafes along the Queenstown Mall or Shotover Street.

Relaxation activities: spa treatments, wine tasting, hot pools

Queenstown, New Zealand, is a great destination for solo travellers seeking relaxation and pampering. The region is known for its natural beauty, and there are plenty of spa treatments, wine-tasting opportunities, and hot pools to enjoy.

Spa Treatments

Queenstown is home to many spectacular spas, offering a range of treatments to relax and rejuvenate. Body Sanctum is a popular choice, known for its delectable massages and hydrating mānuka honey facial. The Onsen Hot Pools, nestled on the mountainside above the Shotover River, provide a stunning setting for soaking in cedar-lined hot tubs while taking in breathtaking views of the valley. The Onsen also offers a tranquil day spa with an extensive range of face and body treatments.

Other notable spas in Queenstown include the Millbrook Spa, set in a beautiful villa with serene surroundings, and the eforea spa at the Hilton, which offers a unique Aroha Goddess Escape treatment that incorporates locally mined rose quartz crystals.

Wine Tasting

Queenstown is also a great destination for wine lovers. The region is known for producing some of the world's best Pinot Noir. Wine tours are available, departing from central Queenstown and visiting a selection of wineries in Arrowtown, Queenstown, and Gibbston. You can book a guided tour or explore the vineyards by bike, with the option of a shuttle back to town.

Hot Pools

In addition to its spas, Queenstown offers hot pools for the ultimate relaxation experience. The Onsen Hot Pools, as mentioned, provide a luxurious and award-winning experience with their cedar-lined hot tubs overlooking the Shotover River. The Millbrook Spa also offers access to hot tubs and a swimming pool when you book a treatment.

Queenstown's natural beauty, combined with its array of spa treatments, wine-tasting opportunities, and hot pools, makes it an ideal destination for solo travellers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

Transport options: shuttle bus, taxi, rental car, public bus, walking

Shuttle Bus

Queenstown Airport is located just 7-8 kilometres from the centre of Queenstown, which takes around 15 minutes to travel between. The Queenstown Connect shuttle bus service is a popular option for solo travellers, running regularly between the airport and the city centre. It costs around NZD $20-35 per person, depending on the number of passengers and your destination.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Queenstown and can be found outside the airport terminal, at a taxi stand in the town centre, or booked over the phone or online. Fares start at NZD $4.75 with an additional NZD $6.44 added per mile. A taxi from the airport to the centre of Queenstown costs around NZD $40-50.

Rental Car

Hiring a car in Queenstown is simple and affordable, with eight rental agencies at the airport and several companies operating in the city. Prices start from NZD $35 per day for a small car, but the price varies depending on the season and type of car. Driving in Queenstown can be challenging due to narrow, winding roads, so extra care is needed. An international driving permit or an up-to-date license from your home country is required, and remember that Kiwis drive on the left.

Public Bus

The public bus network is an easy, convenient, and affordable way to get around Queenstown and the neighbouring town of Arrowtown. Buses run to and from the airport every 15 minutes throughout the day from 6 am until midnight. In the city, buses run every 15-30 minutes depending on the route. A day pass costs NZD $33, but you can also buy a GoCard for NZD $5, which offers discounted fares.

Walking

The centre of Queenstown is small and charming, making it easy to get around on foot. Many attractions and neighbourhoods are within walking distance of each other, and there are dedicated lakeside roads for pedestrians.

Frequently asked questions