Rediscover the magic of Tolkien’s Middle-earth on a small-group 4WD adventure through the spectacular landscapes surrounding Queenstown.

View The Remarkables from Queenstown Hill, featured as the Misty Mountains, and look across to Deer Park Heights, used for the Refugees of Rohan and Battle of the Wargs scenes. Continue to Kawarau Gorge, filming location for the Pillars of the Kings (Argonath), before travelling towards Arrowtown and Gladden Fields, where the loss of the One Ring was filmed.

Then it's time to head off-road. Follow a historic gold-mining road alongside the Arrow River, crossing the river as you make your way towards the Ford of Bruinen. Stop for morning or afternoon tea, try your hand at traditional gold panning and learn about the history of the gold mining era. Then journey up Coronet Peak and travel along the famous Skippers Canyon Road towards Lighthouse Rock and take in spectacular panoramic views.

Throughout the journey, your local guide brings Middle-earth to life with behind-the-scenes stories, filming insights and tales from the making of the trilogy.

Tour Highlights

• Visit locations Misty Mountains, Pillars of the Kings, Gladden Fields and Ford of Bruinen

• Genuine off-road 4WD adventure and Arrow River crossings

• Traditional gold panning on the Arrow River

• Travel part of the historic Skippers Canyon Road to Lighthouse Rock

• Spectacular panoramic views across the Whakatipu Basin

• Behind-the-scenes filming stories from your local guide

• Morning or afternoon tea included

What's Included

Travel in a 6-seater 4WD Land Cruiser or Land Rover, experienced local guide, Lord of the Rings filming locations, off-road driving and river crossings, gold panning equipment, morning or afternoon tea.

What to Bring

Water, camera or phone, sun protection, comfortable shoes and suitable clothing

Pick up & Drop off

The main departure point is Nomad Safaris, 37 Shotover Street, Queenstown, with complimentary pick-up and drop-off also available from selected central Queenstown accommodation.

Prefer to Explore Privately with a More Personalised Experience?

Book this experience as a Private Tour and enjoy exclusive use of the 4WD vehicle and guide, private accommodation pick-up and a more personalised experience for up to 6 guests. 

Important Information

This tour visits filming locations rather than movie sets. The original sets were removed after filming, but many of the landscapes featured in the trilogy remain instantly recognisable. Minimal walking is required and guests can stay in or near the vehicle at stops if preferred.  Itineraries may change due to weather, river levels, road or track conditions which may affect river crossings or access to some locations. Please review our Disclosure of Risks and Weather Cancellation Policy before booking.