Half Day Walter Peak Horse Trek and Cruise from Queenstown

Queenstown’s scenic wonders come alive in this half-day adventure that combines a vintage lake cruise, a gentle horse trek, and a relaxing farm afternoon tea. Priced at just under $140 per person and lasting around 3.5 hours, this tour offers a balanced mix of nature, comfort, and authentic country charm. You’ll begin with a cruise aboard the iconic TSS Earnslaw, crossing Lake Wakatipu with spectacular views of the Remarkables mountain range. After arriving at Walter Peak High Country Farm, you’re treated to country-style afternoon tea, then set off on a leisurely horse ride led by friendly guides. The tour wraps up with a scenic cruise back to Queenstown.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the small-group format ensures personalized attention, making it easier to relax and enjoy the scenery. Second, the combination of a vintage steamship, farm visit, and horse riding means it’s a well-rounded taste of Queenstown’s rural beauty, perfect for those who enjoy gentle outdoor activities paired with excellent local hospitality.

A potential consideration? The horse trek is quite short—about 40 minutes of walking—so if you’re an experienced rider looking for a thrill, this may feel a little tame. Also, the tour’s popularity means it books up often, so securing a spot in advance is wise.

This tour suits beginners, families, and anyone eager to soak in Queenstown’s iconic landscapes without strenuous effort. It’s especially ideal if you’re after a relaxed, scenic experience with a warm, country atmosphere.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Expect breathtaking scenery of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables, whether from the boat or the horse trail.
• All-Ages Friendly: No riding experience needed; helmets and waterproof jackets are provided.
• Small Group: Limited to six travelers, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.
• Balanced Experience: Combines a vintage cruise, farm visit, equestrian activity, and afternoon tea.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Enjoy country-style tea and a scenic farm setting on Walter Peak.
• Value for Money: At $139.65, it offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Queenstown rural life.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Imagine starting your day at the Queenstown wharf, where you board the historic TSS Earnslaw for a relaxed cruise across Lake Wakatipu. This steamship, with its vintage charm and occasional piano serenades, offers a wonderful introduction to the area’s natural beauty. The spectacular mountain vistas, especially the towering Remarkables, unfold as you glide across the water, creating perfect photo opportunities and a sense of adventure.

Once you arrive at Walter Peak High Country Farm, the atmosphere shifts to a peaceful country estate. You’ll be greeted with warm, country-style morning or afternoon tea, featuring freshly baked scones, cakes, and tea—an excellent way to soak in the farm’s tranquility and to reset before your horse ride. Several reviewers, like Liza_D, rave about the delicious afternoon tea, describing it as a highlight of the tour.

After tea, the horse trek begins. You don’t need previous riding experience, as guides lead small groups across gentle terraces on well-cared-for horses. The trail is leisurely—expect about 40 minutes of walking—taking you through paddocks and offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and farmland. One guest, Wanda_S, appreciated the attentive staff and the stunning scenery, calling the location “beautiful.” Another reviewer, Debra_S, wrote that the guide Matt was “tremendous,” making the ride engaging and informative, especially for first-timers.

The guides don’t just lead the horses—they often share insights about the farm, the local sheepdog work, and the landscape, adding depth to the experience. This personalized touch is something many travelers truly value, as it transforms a simple horse ride into an engaging, authentic encounter.

After the ride, you’ll return via the same vintage boat, completing your scenic loop. The cruise back offers another chance to absorb Queenstown’s iconic vistas, with many reviewers mentioning how relaxing and beautiful the journey is.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

Transportation: The tour begins at 88 Beach Street, Queenstown, conveniently close to public transportation options and central accommodation. The boat cruise is included, and you’ll need to arrive on time for your departure.

Duration: Approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, which comfortably fits into a morning or afternoon slot. The short length makes it suitable for those with limited time but still eager for a taste of Queenstown’s highlights.

Group Size: Limited to 6 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience. Many reviews mention how this small-group setting enhances the enjoyment and allows guides to cater to individual needs.

Pricing and Value: At $139.65, the tour includes the boat cruise, farm visit, horse riding, and afternoon tea. While the ride itself is only about 40 minutes, the overall experience offers excellent value—combining leisurely outdoor activities, delicious food, and scenic transportation.

What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, waterproof jacket, long trousers, and warm clothing are recommended. The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so dressing in layers ensures comfort.

Restrictions: A weight limit of 95kg and a minimum height of 120cm are in place. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but children under 7 must be accompanied by an adult.

Authentic Guest Perspectives

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the breathtaking scenery. One reviewer, Michelle_E, noted that if you’ve ridden horses before, you might find the trek “boring,” but for most, it’s a relaxing way to enjoy nature. Others highlight the friendly staff, with comments like “Izzy was awesome,” and “Benny was brilliant,” ensuring you feel well cared for throughout.

Many appreciate the value for money, especially considering the diverse activities included. They mention how the afternoon tea is a delightful treat that caps off the day perfectly, as noted by Wanda_S and Jacqueline_M.

However, some travelers express slight disappointment regarding the short riding time or the slow pace if they’re more experienced riders. One review pointed out that the guides walking in front made the ride less exciting for some. But for most, the calm, scenic nature of the trek is part of its charm.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This half-day Walter Peak Horse Trek and Cruise tour offers a calm, scenic, and authentic experience of Queenstown’s countryside. It’s especially suited for beginners, families with children, or anyone looking for a relaxed way to appreciate the mountains and lake scenery without strenuous activity. It’s also great for those who enjoy historical steamship rides and farm visits, combined with a touch of outdoor equestrian leisure.

If you value personalized attention, delicious regional food, and spectacular views—all wrapped into a compact, half-day experience—this tour is a smart choice. Just remember, it’s not about adrenaline or long rides, but rather about soaking in the peaceful beauty of this stunning corner of New Zealand.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 7 and up are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult. The minimum height is 120cm, and no previous riding experience is necessary.

How long is the horse riding portion?
The actual trek lasts around 40 minutes, which is leisurely and suitable for beginners. The entire tour, including cruise and tea, is about 3.5 hours.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, long trousers, and warm, waterproof clothing are recommended. The weather can change quickly, so layering is wise.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour has a flexible cancellation policy. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are included to ensure safety during the horse ride.

Is this tour a good value?
Considering the boat cruise, farm visit, guided horse trek, and afternoon tea, many find this tour to offer good value for its price—especially given the small group size and authentic experiences.

This tour offers a relaxed, scenic snapshot of Queenstown’s rural charm, perfect for those who want a taste of New Zealand’s iconic landscape without breaking a sweat. It’s a chance to enjoy gentle outdoor activities, learn about local life, and indulge in delicious farm-style treats—all wrapped into a memorable, half-day experience.