Private Full Day Photo Tour of Queenstown | Skippers | Glenorchy

An Unforgettable Day Exploring Queenstown and Beyond

If you’re passionate about photography and eager to capture New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes, this Private Full Day Photo Tour of Queenstown offers an ideal blend of scenic beauty and personalized guidance. Starting from the charming town of Queenstown, known for its vibrant lakeside atmosphere, the tour takes you through iconic spots like Arrowtown, Glenorchy, Wanaka, and Skippers Canyon. Priced at around $281.11 per person for approximately 7 to 8 hours, it’s a full day of picture-perfect moments led by a local photographer who knows exactly where to take you for the best shots.

What we love most about this experience is the flexibility of the itinerary—your guide tailors the day to your interests and photography goals, making each stop uniquely suited to your style. Also, the inclusion of professional photographs and the comfortable air-conditioned 4WD vehicle with Wi-Fi make the journey as enjoyable as the destinations. A possible drawback? If you’re a very small group or solo traveler, you’ll want to confirm how the private tour suits your budget, but the personalized attention makes it worthwhile. This tour is perfect for photography enthusiasts who want expert guidance and access to lesser-known spots, alongside the must-see views everyone talks about.

Key Points

Personalized itinerary tailored to your interests and photography goals
Expert guidance from a local photographer to help you get stunning shots
Comfortable transportation with Wi-Fi, snacks, and a picnic lunch included
Unique stops like Moke Lake and Skippers Canyon that aren’t typical day-trip destinations
Intimate small-group experience ideal for solo travelers or small groups (2-4 people)
Flexible start times and full refund policy if canceled due to weather

Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Queenstown

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

The Perfect Introduction: Queenstown and Arrowtown

Your day begins in Queenstown, a lively hub surrounded by towering mountains and crystal-clear lakes. The tour kicks off with a quick hour exploring the town and its stunning waterfront views. It’s an ideal warm-up for the day ahead, offering plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the iconic Lake Wakatipu and the bustling townscape.

Next, you’ll visit Arrowtown, a charming historic gold-mining village. In just 20 minutes, you get a taste of New Zealand’s past, with its well-preserved streets and quaint atmosphere. While brief, this stop is perfect for capturing nostalgic scenes—rustic buildings, old bridges, and the surrounding autumnal trees if you’re there in the right season. The reviews emphasize how this spot’s unassuming beauty often surprises visitors: “We enjoyed our day with her since she’s very flexible, professional, and friendly,” one traveler noted, highlighting how guides often take you off the beaten path.

Breathtaking Adventures in Skippers Canyon

From Arrowtown, the tour continues into Skippers Canyon, a rugged, dramatic gorge carved by the river. Here, you’ll spend around an hour, and you can expect to find jaw-dropping vistas with steep red cliffs, winding roads, and rushing water. Skippers is a favorite among photographers for its wild, unspoiled feel—a contrast to the more polished tourist spots.

One reviewer described Skippers as “amazing,” emphasizing how the guide’s local knowledge enhances the experience: “She took us to see unusual places which are normally unlisted in the typical tours.” That’s the beauty of a private tour—you get to see locations less crowded but equally photogenic. Visitors often comment on how the guide’s expertise helps uncover those perfect angles and viewpoints that make your photos stand out.

The Heart of the Tour: Glenorchy and Paradise Valley

After Skippers, the journey takes you to Glenorchy, a small town at the northern tip of Lake Wakatipu. Known for its stunning Paradise Valley, this 3-hour stop is the highlight for many. The landscape here resembles scenes from fantasy films, with lush green hills, river crossings, and mountain backdrops. It’s no wonder that the area is a magnet for photographers wanting to capture the raw beauty of New Zealand’s wilderness.

Travelers frequently mention the “incredible views” and “amazing photo opportunities” at Glenorchy. One review states, “From the start to end, our professional photographer / tour guide, Aiste, was perfection! She guided us to incredible views, amazing photo opportunities, and unbelievable photos.” The guide’s advice on framing and timing helps even amateur shooters get shots that look like they belong in a travel magazine.

While in Queenstown, here are other experiences we've covered

The Iconic Wanaka Tree and Lake Wanaka

The final major stop is Lake Wanaka, home to the famous Wanaka Tree. With around 2 hours allocated, this stop lets you capture the iconic lone tree that’s become a global photography obsession. The mirror-like lake, surrounding mountains, and the tree itself create a perfect scene for landscape shots, especially at sunrise or sunset.

According to reviews, this is a “must-see” for photography lovers. One traveler raved, “Both places, Moke Lake and Skippers, were amazing,” indicating how these lesser-known but equally photogenic spots enhance the overall experience. Plus, the provided light lunch and snacks keep you fueled for the day’s shooting.

Practical Details and What You Can Expect

Transportation and Comfort

Travel is in a luxurious, air-conditioned 4WD vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable ride through sometimes rugged terrain. This vehicle allows access to remote locations that larger buses can’t reach, and the small group size (up to 4 people) means you won’t be crowded or rushed.

Timing and Flexibility

The tour is adaptable to your preferred start time, making it convenient regardless of your schedule. The itinerary isn’t rigid—your guide will help craft a route that fits your interests, whether that’s focusing on mountain vistas, lakes, or historic villages. The flexible timing also means you can linger longer at spots that inspire you.

Food and Drinks

Included in the tour are coffee, tea, bottled water, and a light lunch, which is a thoughtful touch after several hours of outdoor photography. Having snacks and drinks on hand makes a difference, especially when you’re out in the elements all day.

Price and Value

At just over $280 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the personalized guidance, access to exclusive locations, and the inclusion of professional photographs. While it may seem steep compared to group tours, the intimacy and customized experience are often worth the extra investment—especially for serious photographers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who value expert guidance and want to enhance their photography skills amidst stunning scenery. It’s great for small groups or solo travelers who prefer a tailored experience and are willing to pay a premium for flexibility and exclusivity. The reviews suggest that even casual photographers will appreciate the tips and the chance to capture truly memorable images.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re seeking a personalized day with a seasoned photographer exploring some of New Zealand’s most beautiful spots, this tour delivers. It’s about more than just seeing sights—it’s about capturing them in ways that do justice to their awe-inspiring beauty. The smaller group setting, flexible itinerary, and knowledgeable guide mean you get a more genuine, enriching experience.

However, keep in mind the price and the fact that weather can influence the day’s success. If you’re flexible and prepared to prioritize photography, this tour makes every dollar count. It’s perfect for those who want to combine travel with the chance to improve their skills and take home stunning images.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You’ll receive photographic guidance, snacks, bottled water, coffee or tea, a light lunch, and transport in a comfortable, Wi-Fi-equipped 4WD vehicle. Five to ten professional photographs are also included.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The tour offers a flexible schedule and can start at a time that suits you. The destinations are tailored to your interests, with stops like Arrowtown, Skippers Canyon, Glenorchy, and Wanaka shaped around your preferences.

What size are the groups?
It caters to small groups of 1-4 people, making the experience intimate and personalized. Solo travelers or couples will find this particularly appealing.

Can I bring my own camera gear?
Yes, this tour is designed for photography lovers, so bring your camera, drone, or smartphone. The guide is there to help you get the best shots.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather for optimal photos. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long does each stop last?
Most stops range from 20 minutes to about 3 hours, giving you ample time to explore and shoot, especially at places like Glenorchy and Wanaka.

Is transportation comfortable?
Absolutely. The air-conditioned 4WD is equipped with Wi-Fi, making the journey comfortable and connected.

What if I want to customize my experience?
Since the itinerary is flexible, discuss your interests with your guide beforehand. They’ll help craft a day that’s perfect for your photography goals.

In sum, this private photography tour offers a well-rounded, personalized experience in some of New Zealand’s most photogenic spots. Whether you’re a serious photographer or simply want to capture memories of this stunning region, the guidance, comfort, and access to exclusive locations make it a worthwhile addition to your Queenstown adventure.