West Coast Highlights – Private Tour from Queenstown

A Private Journey Through Wānaka, Haast Pass and Glacier Country

Wild coastlines, rainforest, waterfalls and glacier scenery
This private West Coast tour is designed for travellers who want to experience one of New Zealand’s most dramatic and remote regions with the comfort of a private vehicle and local guide. Travel from Queenstown through Wānaka and the Haast Pass, with time for scenic stops, waterfalls, rainforest, wild coastline and the glacier towns of Franz Josef or Fox Glacier. This tour can be shaped as a long private day, a one-way transfer, or a multi-day West Coast journey.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Wānaka and lake scenery: Travel through the Southern Lakes region with photo stops around Lake Wānaka and the surrounding mountain landscapes.

Haast Pass scenic drive: Journey through one of New Zealand’s most beautiful alpine routes, with rainforest, rivers, waterfalls and mountain views along the way.

Waterfall and rainforest stops: Enjoy selected short scenic stops through the Haast Pass and West Coast rainforest, depending on timing and conditions.

The Blue Pools area: When accessible, this is a beautiful stop known for its clear glacial water and native forest setting.

The wild West Coast: Experience the raw beauty of the West Coast, where rainforest meets the Tasman Sea and the landscape feels wonderfully remote.

Glacier Country: Visit the Franz Josef or Fox Glacier region, with the option to include glacier viewpoints, short walks, scenic flights or heli-hike experiences at your own cost.

Lake Matheson option: If staying overnight near Fox Glacier, you may like to visit Lake Matheson, famous for its mirror-like reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman on a clear day.

Flexible tour style: This private tour can be planned as a long day from Queenstown, a one-way transfer to Franz Josef or Fox Glacier, or part of a multi-day West Coast itinerary.

A private pace: Because this is your own tour, your guide can adjust the day within the time available.

Pricing & Tour Options

Due to the flexible nature of this tour, pricing depends on the number of days, final destination, vehicle required and group size.

Private West Coast day tour: Price on application

Private one-way tour to Franz Josef or Fox Glacier: Price on application

Multi-day West Coast private tour: Price on application

RST Signature Tour: Price on application

Optional attractions, meals, drinks, accommodation, scenic flights and glacier activities are additional unless included in your confirmed itinerary.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Private vehicle and local guide: Travel with your own experienced guide for the day.

Queenstown accommodation pick-up: Start from your Queenstown accommodation.

Scenic route through Wānaka and Haast Pass: The standard route travels through Wānaka, the Haast Pass and into the West Coast region.

Selected photo stops: Scenic stops are included throughout the day, depending on weather, road conditions and timing.

Comfort and food stops: Your guide will allow time for comfort stops and food stops along the route.

Flexible itinerary: The day can be adjusted to suit your interests within the available time.

One-way or multi-day options: This tour can be arranged as a one-way journey to Franz Josef or Fox Glacier, or as part of a longer West Coast itinerary.

Know Before You Go

Start time: Usually 7:00 AM.

Finish time: This depends on the style of tour booked and your final destination.

Duration: This is a long touring day if travelling from Queenstown to the West Coast.

Pick-up: Queenstown accommodation only.

Tour style: Private guided tour, private transfer, or multi-day West Coast itinerary.

Best for: Travellers who want dramatic scenery, remote landscapes, rainforest, waterfalls, glacier country and a private touring experience.

Attractions not included: Scenic flights, heli-hikes, glacier experiences, lake cruises, meals, drinks and paid attractions are not included unless confirmed in writing.

Weather and road conditions: The West Coast is a wild and changeable region. Some stops may vary depending on weather, timing and road conditions.

Blue Pools access: Access can change due to track or bridge conditions, so this stop is subject to availability on the day.

Extra time: Any additional touring time may be charged on the day.

Call us on +64 (03) 441 8867 between the hours of 8.30 am and 6.30 pm if you have any questions.

Trans Alpine Train

Continue the Adventure: Return to Queenstown or Ride the Legendary TranzAlpine Train

Stay Longer in Franz Josef – More Time to Explore Glacier Country

If you’re captivated by the raw beauty of Franz Josef Glacier, why not stay an extra night to soak it all in? This flexible option allows you more time to explore the area’s stunning landscapes, relax in the glacier hot pools, or take on unforgettable experiences like:

  • 🚁 Scenic helicopter flights

  • 🧗 Guided glacier walks or heli-hikes

  • 🚶‍♂️ Rainforest and valley walks

  • 💦 Soaking in natural thermal pools

Let the serene beauty of the West Coast sink in before we begin your private return journey to Queenstown, winding back through the iconic Haast Pass, complete with scenic stops and local insights.

Venture North to Greymouth and Ride the TranzAlpine Train

For those eager to continue exploring New Zealand’s South Island, head north along the rugged coast to Greymouth, where a truly iconic experience awaits: the TranzAlpine Train.

Widely considered one of the world’s most spectacular train journeys, the TranzAlpine will carry you across:

  • The wild West Coast

  • Towering viaducts and braided rivers

  • The majestic Southern Alps

  • The open plains of Canterbury

You’ll arrive in Christchurch, the South Island’s vibrant "Garden City," with a heart full of memories and a camera full of breathtaking photos.

FAQs

  • Yes. This is a fully private tour with your own vehicle and local guide.

  • It can be arranged as a long private touring day or one-way transfer, but the West Coast is a long distance from Queenstown. For the best experience, we often suggest allowing at least one overnight stay.

  • The tour starts from Queenstown accommodation.

  • This depends on your itinerary. It may finish in Franz Josef, Fox Glacier, Greymouth, Christchurch by connecting train, or return to Queenstown as part of a multi-day tour

  • Yes, the tour can be planned to include Franz Josef, Fox Glacier or both, depending on the time available and where you are staying.

  • No. Scenic flights, heli-hikes, guided glacier activities and other paid experiences are not included unless they are added to your confirmed itinerary.

  • Yes. Lake Matheson is a lovely option if you are staying near Fox Glacier or have time in your itinerary. It is especially beautiful early in the morning on a calm, clear day.

  • Yes. You can continue north to Greymouth and connect with the TranzAlpine train to Christchurch. This works best as part of a multi-day itinerary.

  • No. Lunch is not included, but your guide will allow time for food and comfort stops along the way.

  • Yes, children can join. Please note this is a long travel day, so it is best suited to families who are comfortable with longer drives and scenic stops. A child seat can be provided on request for $60 NZD.

  • Bring comfortable shoes, layered clothing, a rain jacket, camera, sunscreen, water and spending money for meals, drinks or optional attractions.

  • This is a private guided scenic journey, not just transport. Your guide will include local commentary, scenic stops and flexibility along the way, making the drive part of the experience.

Upgrade This Tour To The Highest Standard of Private Touring in Te Waipounamu

Our most refined private touring experience, designed for travellers who value exceptional comfort, complete privacy, and an unhurried pace. Featuring ultra-luxury vehicles and expert local guides, Signature Tours represent the highest standard of travel we offer across New Zealand’s South Island.

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