Cardrona is a place that truly offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re after adrenaline on the slopes, a peaceful horseback ride, or scenic photography opportunities, this part of New Zealand’s South Island doesn’t disappoint. We’re especially fond of the Cardrona Valley: Mountain Quad Bike Experience because it combines stunning alpine views with accessible trails for all skill levels, making it perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike. Plus, the wide-open backcountry vistas are unbeatable.
While the ski season is a highlight, Cardrona’s tours go well beyond snow — offering everything from private photography tours to wine tastings and scenic drives. Whether you want to explore on horseback, take a multi-day adventure, or simply enjoy the mountain landscape, this list will help you find the best way to experience it.
Quick Overview
Our list features adventure tours, including quad biking (#1), horse trekking (#2), and ski passes (#5). For scenic and cultural explorations, we highlight full-day photography tours (#3), private day trips (#8), and wine and spirits tasting (#7). Skiers will find options for beginner packages (#9) and multi-day passes (#5). Below, you’ll see detailed insights to help you pick the perfect experience.
1. Cardrona Valley: Mountain Quad Bike Experience
If you’re craving a dose of off-road fun, the Quad Bike Experience offers a lively way to see the alpine scenery. For just $204, you’ll spend two hours exploring trails on Yamaha 350-450cc bikes that are comfortable and easy to handle. The tours cater to all skill levels, making it suitable whether you’re a novice or a seasoned rider. The guides tailor trails to your ability, which means no one feels lost or overwhelmed.
The tour highlights include discovering hidden backcountry spots, panoramic mountain views, and the sense of adventure that comes with riding through rugged terrain. The guides excel at sharing local stories and safety tips, making this both a fun and educational experience. It’s perfect if you want a quick, exhilarating taste of the mountains without the hassle of ski gear or horseback riding.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking fast-paced adventure with stunning vistas, and great for families or groups with mixed skill levels.
2. Cardrona Valley: Horse Trekking Experience
For a more relaxed, yet equally memorable, experience, the Horse Trekking Experience is hard to beat. At $234 per person, this tour offers between 2 and 4 hours riding gentle horses along serene mountain trails. The focus here is on bonding with the horses, many of which are specially chosen for their calm demeanor. You need no prior riding experience, as the guides customize lessons to build your confidence.
The trail rides afford sweeping views of the Cardrona Valley, with plenty of opportunities for photo stops. The guides are attentive and knowledgeable, sharing insights about local flora, fauna, and the history of the area. Many riders find this tour especially calming, a perfect antidote to busy days or a great way for beginners to experience the mountains.
Guest favorite: “The horses were so gentle, and the scenery was breathtaking. It felt like a quiet escape.”
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a peaceful, scenic ride that emphasizes connection with nature and animals.
3. Queenstown: Half Day Private Photography Tour
If you love capturing stunning landscapes on camera, the Half-Day Private Photography Tour is a fantastic choice. At $189 per person for five hours, this tour is customizable to your interests. Your guide helps you choose from hotspots like Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables, or historic Arrowtown, depending on your preferences.
What sets this tour apart is the personalized guidance — whether you’re into landscape, wildlife, or urban photography, your guide offers tips to improve your shots. Pickup and drop-off at your hotel make it convenient, and the inclusion of snacks and the option to buy lunch adds a touch of comfort. Many guests leave with not only beautiful photos but also newfound confidence behind the lens.
Best for: Photography enthusiasts eager to improve skills while exploring New Zealand’s iconic scenery.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a tailored, expert-supported photography experience that captures Queenstown’s best angles.
4. Queenstown to Christchurch via Franz Josef 2-Day Tour
For travelers who prefer a deeper journey, this 2-day tour covers the scenic West Coast, with plenty of memorable stops. Starting from Queenstown, you’ll head to Franz Josef Glacier, exploring highlights like the Wanaka Tree in the lake and Mt Cook’s reflection on Lake Matheson. The tour includes an overnight stay in Franz Josef, giving you time to explore the glacier or relax in the town.
On the way, you’ll walk to the Devil’s Punchbowl, a 131-meter waterfall in Arthurs Pass Village. The flexibility to choose your stay in Franz Josef means you can tailor your experience—whether you want a cozy lodge or a boutique hotel. This tour is ideal for those wanting to combine scenery, wildlife, and cultural stops in one comprehensive trip.
Guest feedback: “The scenery along the way is breathtaking, and I loved having time to relax in Franz Josef.”
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers eager to see multiple highlights over two days with a flexible schedule.
5. Cardrona and Treble Cone: Multi-Day Ski Lift Pass
If skiing or snowboarding is your passion, the Multi-Day Lift Pass provides access to both Cardrona and Treble Cone, covering over 1100 hectares of terrain. For $199, you can choose between 2 and 7 days of access, which makes this ideal whether you’re a weekend warrior or planning an extended ski trip.
What makes this pass stand out is the flexibility to explore two of New Zealand’s top ski fields, with different terrains suitable for all levels. Cardrona offers varied slopes for beginners and families, while Treble Cone caters more to advanced skiers and snowboarders. The combined experience maximizes your time on snow and offers excellent value.
Review highlight: “Having both ski fields in one pass meant I could switch things up depending on my mood or skill level.”
Bottom Line: Best for intermediate to advanced skiers looking to maximize their time and variety across two major ski resorts.
$199 per person
6. Queenstown and Environs: Full Day Private Photography Tour
For serious shutterbugs, the Full-Day Private Photography Tour offers 9 hours of tailored exploration. The $286 fee includes pickup and drop-off, plus the chance to visit iconic sites like Arrowtown, Wanaka, and the Crown Range. The guide helps craft a personalized itinerary to suit your themes — whether mountain vistas, wildlife, or townscapes.
The advantage here is having an expert’s support throughout the day, ensuring you capture the perfect shot at the right time. Many guests appreciate the flexibility and the chance to go beyond standard photo spots. Enjoy coffee and snacks on board, with options to buy lunch in a charming local village.
Best for: Photographers wanting an immersive, flexible experience with professional guidance.
Bottom Line: Ideal for dedicated photographers who want to document Queenstown and its surroundings with expert help.
$286 per person
7. Queenstown More Than A Wine Tour (Private)
Wine, gin, whiskey, or beer — this private tasting tour is customizable. For $689 per group (up to four people), your guide can tailor the day to include visits to top vineyards or distilleries. The tour balances leisure with education, and you can add a visit to the Cardrona Hotel for a historic pub experience.
The tour offers a chance to relax amidst beautiful scenery while sampling some of Central Otago’s best drinks. It’s also a good pick for travelers seeking an intimate, personalized experience that combines scenic beauty with culinary indulgence.
Reviews mention: “The guide really knew her stuff and made the day fun and relaxed.”
Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups wanting a bespoke, upscale tasting experience with a scenic backdrop.
$689 per group up to 4
8. Queenstown: Private Day Trip to Wanaka, Arrowtown & More
This 6-hour private tour offers a flexible way to see Wanaka, Arrowtown, and the Cardrona area. For $332, your guide customizes the itinerary — whether you want to visit the famous Wanaka Tree, explore historic Arrowtown, or enjoy a wine tasting at Cromwell.
The highlight is the ability to tailor the day to your interests, with stops for photos, local food, or just soaking in the scenery. Modern vehicles and friendly guides make for a comfortable experience. It’s an excellent way to see more of the region without the hassle of planning every detail.
Best for: Travelers who want a personalized day without the crowds.
Bottom Line: Great for families or groups wanting flexibility and local insights.
$332 per group up to 4
9. Cardrona: First Timer Ski or Snowboard Package
If you’re new to snow sports, the First Timer Package makes starting easy. At $134, you get a full day of group lessons with a friendly instructor, plus equipment rentals if needed. It’s designed to build your skills from zero to confident on beginner runs.
The package includes a descent from the mountain top to the base, giving you a real sense of achievement. Many first-timers appreciate the supportive environment and the chance to try snow for the first time without feeling overwhelmed.
Tip: The package doesn’t specify reviews, but the focus on beginner support makes it well-suited for newcomers.
Bottom Line: Best for first-time skiers or snowboarders who want to learn in a supportive setting.
$134 per person
10. Cardrona: Single Day Ski Lift Pass and Rental Package
For an uncomplicated day on the slopes, this lift and rental package includes everything you need for $128. It covers access to the entire resort, with nine cafes and restaurants to refresh at, and rentals available at three convenient locations.
With 615 hectares of terrain, Cardrona offers options for all ability levels. The package is straight-forward — perfect for those who want to maximize their ski time without fussing over logistics. It’s also a good choice for families, thanks to the variety of beginner areas.
Guest feedback: “The rentals were quick and easy, and I loved the variety of terrain.”
Bottom Line: An excellent value for a full day of exploring the resort at your own pace.
$128 per person
11. Cardrona Ski Resort: Single Day Ski Lift Pass
This single-day lift pass for $111 opens access to one of New Zealand’s largest ski resorts. It’s suitable for all skill levels, from first-timers to seasoned skiers, with terrain spread across multiple basins offering endless options.
The resort’s proximity to Queenstown and Wanaka makes it very accessible. The nine cafés provide ample spots for breaks, and the diverse terrain ensures everyone finds something to enjoy. It’s a straightforward way to experience Cardrona’s sprawling slopes in a single day.
Best for: Visitors who want a hassle-free, full-day ski experience at a competitive price.
Bottom Line: A reliable choice for a day on the snow, regardless of your skiing ability.
$111 per person
12. Queenstown: Scenic Tour to Wanaka via Cardrona & Cromwell
This full-day scenic tour combines the best of the Queenstown-Wanaka region. For $146, you’ll visit Arrowtown, the famous Wanaka Tree, and cross the Crown Range for spectacular mountain views. Stops include the historic Cardrona Hotel and the quirky Bra Fence for memorable photos.
The flexible itinerary allows you to explore at your own pace, with plenty of scenic breaks and photo opportunities. The guide’s local insights help you appreciate the area’s natural beauty and history. It’s a great way to see multiple highlights in one comfortable day.
Guest review: “I loved the mix of scenery, history, and charming towns; it felt like a true local experience.”
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want an easy, scenic day with diverse stops and memorable views.
$146 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Cardrona Tour
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you have. If you’re after adrenaline, the Mountain Quad Bike Experience delivers fast-paced fun. Those seeking a more relaxed, scenic experience might prefer the Horse Trekking Tour or the private photography trips.
Ski enthusiasts should consider multi-day passes or lift tickets, especially if they’re planning to spend several days on the slopes. For food and drink lovers, the wine and spirits tours offer a fantastic way to taste local flavors. And if you want a deeper dive into the region’s natural beauty, the scenic day trips to Wanaka and Arrowtown are ideal.
When booking, think about the season—some experiences like skiing are seasonal, while others like photography tours work year-round. Early booking is recommended for popular tours, especially in peak winter or summer.
Final Thoughts
Cardrona offers a wide range of tours tailored to different interests and activity levels. For adrenaline junkies, the quad biking is hard to beat, while horse trekking provides a peaceful alternative. Skiers will appreciate the flexibility of multi-day passes and lift tickets, and those seeking cultural or culinary experiences can’t miss the private wine tours.
If you’re visiting with family or a group, options like the private day trips or the ski packages offer great value and flexibility. Planning ahead and booking early ensures you get the experience that suits your style and schedule. Whatever you choose, Cardrona is ready to deliver memorable adventures and authentic New Zealand scenery.