Queenstown: Shotover River Rafting & Skippers Canyon Tour

If you’re looking for a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and a touch of New Zealand history, the Shotover River Rafting & Skippers Canyon tour in Queenstown might just be your ticket. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary give us a pretty good sense of what to expect. From gentle river floats to dramatic canyon views, this experience offers a well-rounded taste of the South Island’s wild side.

One of the things we really appreciate about this tour is how it caters to a broad range of travelers—whether you’re a total newbie or a seasoned thrill-seeker. Plus, the guides seem genuinely knowledgeable and friendly, which always makes a difference. On the flip side, if you’re not comfortable with a 5-hour commitment or cold water, it’s worth considering how that fits into your plans. Overall, it’s best suited for those craving a fun, scenic outdoor adventure that also introduces you to some local history.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Accessible for all ages: Suitable for kids from age 3 and up, making it a family-friendly option.
• Stunning scenery: From canyon walls to historic relics, the views are a highlight.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides make the experience fun and informative.
• Well-organized gear: All necessary equipment is provided, helping you stay comfortable and safe.
• Balance of thrill and scenery: Gentle rafting combined with scenic drives offers variety.
• Flexible cancellation policy: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour promises a pretty well-rounded day for anyone wanting a taste of Queenstown’s outdoor magic. It combines gentle rafting on the Shotover River with a scenic exploration of Skippers Canyon, one of the most scenic and historically significant routes in the region. The mix of water-based fun and breathtaking vistas makes it appealing whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo.

What really shines here are the guides. According to reviews, they’re not only well-informed but also make the experience enjoyable and engaging. Sylvia from Australia mentioned that her guides made it “fun and entertaining,” which hints at a lively, friendly atmosphere. Meanwhile, Mihaela from Romania appreciated how the guides helped her feel comfortable as a beginner, which is always good to hear when trying something new.

Your journey begins with a 45-minute drive into the heart of Skippers Canyon. This part of the trip is more than just transportation; it’s an experience in itself. The historic Skippers Road winds along sheer canyon walls and offers stunning views that will likely make your camera work overtime. As you travel, you’ll hear stories of gold prospecting and hardships faced during the gold rush era, giving a fascinating historical layer to the scenery.

This drive is a great opportunity for some quiet reflection or just soaking in the views. The canyon’s rugged beauty, combined with relics of old gold mining activities, creates a sense of stepping back in time. The road is narrow and winding, so if you’re prone to motion sickness, you might want to prepare accordingly. But most travelers find the scenery more than worth the slight bumpy ride.

Once you arrive, there’s a half-hour break to stretch your legs and take photos. It’s enough time to appreciate the relics and the dramatic landscape before heading back to the scenic drive section. The canyon is renowned for its sheer walls and history, making it an ideal spot for photo ops and learning about New Zealand’s gold rush past.

This part of the tour isn’t just about pretty views; it’s about understanding how people once risked everything for gold, and how the landscape retains that wild, untouched feel. If you’re into history or photography, you’ll find plenty to love here.

After the scenic drive, it’s time for the main water activity. Safety is a priority here, with a pre-activity briefing and all gear provided—wetsuits, jackets, helmets, and buoyancy aids. The rafting itself lasts about 1.5 hours and takes place at the “Ford of Bruinen,” a location made famous by the Lord of the Rings films, adding a bit of movie magic.

The rapids are graded Grade 1 and 2—meaning they’re gentle enough for most people but still offer enough splash and excitement to keep things lively. As Mihaela mentioned, it’s a “super fun” way to get your adrenaline going. The water is cool, but the gear helps keep you comfortable, and the guides are attentive, ensuring everyone has a good time.

Most travelers love the chance to float along and take in the stunning canyon scenery from a different perspective. Playful rock jumps, spotting relics along the riverbanks, and the thrill of a gentle rapid make for a memorable experience.

Post-raft, there’s another half-hour break to reflect on your water adventure before heading back into Skippers Canyon for more sightseeing and a scenic drive. The final stretch offers sweeping views back toward Queenstown, giving you a chance to appreciate the landscape from a different vantage point.

The tour wraps up with a return to Camp Street, where you started. The entire experience spans about five hours, which is a nicely balanced chunk of time—enough to feel fulfilled without it dragging on.

For the price point—considering the included gear, transportation, experienced guides, and the combination of both water and land adventures—the tour offers good value. It’s not just about ticking off a bucket list item; it’s about enjoying a well-organized, scenic, and safe adventure that keeps you engaged from start to finish.

This trip is best suited for adventure enthusiasts who want a flexible, family-friendly excursion. It’s perfect for first-time rafters or those wanting a gentle introduction to river activities. History buffs and photographers will also appreciate the scenic stops and relics. If you’re craving a mix of nature, history, and a splash of adrenaline, this tour ticks many boxes.

The Queenstown Shotover River rafting and Skippers Canyon tour delivers a solid combination of gentle adventure, jaw-dropping scenery, and engaging storytelling. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge are clear highlights, making the experience both fun and informative. With scenic drives along historic routes, stunning canyon vistas, and a relaxing raft trip, it’s a versatile choice that appeals to a broad range of travelers.

If you’re after a day that combines nature, history, and a bit of thrill, this tour is likely to meet your expectations. It’s especially suitable if you want a safe, well-organized experience that maximizes scenery and fun while providing enough structure for a worry-free adventure.

Just remember, it’s about the gentle rapids and scenic exploration—not extreme white-water action—so if that’s what you’re after, there might be other options. But for a well-balanced, engaging outing that offers great views and a dose of excitement, this tour is hard to beat.

Is water confidence necessary for this tour?
No, water confidence isn’t a requirement. The guides will brief you beforehand, and all gear is provided to help keep you comfortable.

Can I bring my kids?
Yes, the tour is suitable for children from 3 years upwards, making it a good family outing if your little ones enjoy outdoor adventures.

What should I wear?
Bring your swimwear and a towel. It’s best to wear your swimsuit under your clothing for easier changing into wetsuits.

How long does the whole tour take?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, including transportation, breaks, and activities.

What’s included in the gear?
All necessary safety equipment such as wetsuits, jackets, helmets, and buoyancy aids are provided.

Where do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is at the bus stop outside Marmalade Cafe, with coordinates -45.03121566772461,168.66099548339844.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, activities are subject to weather conditions, but generally, it runs in most weather unless conditions are unsafe.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English.