DriverEducational TourLight RefreshmentLight SnackNOT INCLUDEDMealsSouvenirs

Departure: AOTEA GIFTS | Tekapo TownshipDeparture Time: 9:00 AMMinimum of 2 PeopleDress Code: Casual, Comfortable, Stable Footwear, Warm Jacket, Hat, Sunglasses, CameraAvailability: October – MayTour Note: There will be opportunities for photos and breathtaking vistas to enjoy. Light walking to close proximity viewpoints for photos, so stable footwear is recommended.

Adult: 17 years +Child: 16 years and under

Overview Itinerary Departure Dates Book now

Braemar Station Backcountry 4WD Tour

Oct-May

South Island

Tekapo Adventures

from

US$228

per adult

Book Now

Two 4WD vehicles driving across Braemar Station with Lake Tekapo and snow-capped Southern Alps in the background

Experiences

4x4 Adventure Tours

Family-friendly Tours

Half-Day Tours

South Island

Start: Aotea Gifts, Lake Tekapo

Location: Lake Tekapo

Travel Time: 3 hours

Braemar Station Backcountry Tour: A Scenic High Country Escape

Departing from Lake Tekapo, the Braemar Station Backcountry Tour leads you through the rugged beauty of New Zealand’s Mackenzie Basin. Set against the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki, Braemar Station spans 4100 hectares of wide-open terrain framed by the Gammack Range. You'll journey across tall tussock grasslands and glacially carved landforms, including spectacular lateral moraines unique to this high country environment.

While the tour doesn’t travel to Mount Cook, it offers some of the clearest views of the peak from a distance—perfect for your camera lens. Learn about the station’s long-standing sheep farming heritage, with the Mackenzie family managing the land since 1969. It’s an unforgettable slice of Kiwi countryside, ideal for those keen to explore authentic backcountry landscapes.

Discover New Zealand's Unique Intermontane Landscapes

This off-the-beaten-track tour showcases the natural drama of the Mackenzie Basin, one of the most geologically diverse regions in Aotearoa. As you traverse the terrain, expect panoramic views of the Southern Alps, Lake Pukaki, and the striking Ben Ohau Range. The light and colours of the high country shift throughout the day, creating an ever-changing backdrop of natural beauty.

The journey takes you through remote valleys and tussock-filled basins that few get to see. Starting from Lake Tekapo, it’s a scenic escape into a world shaped by ancient glaciers and time-worn winds. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or curious explorer, this backcountry experience leaves a lasting impression.

Wide golden tussock field with a clear view of Aoraki Mt Cook in the distance

Mirror-like Lake Pukaki reflecting Aoraki Mt Cook on a still, clear day

Remote hut at Braemar Station with 4WD vehicles parked under alpine skies

Driver
Educational Tour
Light Refreshment
Light Snack

NOT INCLUDED

Meals
Souvenirs

Departure: AOTEA GIFTS | Tekapo Township
Departure Time: 9:00 AM
Minimum of 2 People
Dress Code: Casual, Comfortable, Stable Footwear, Warm Jacket, Hat, Sunglasses, Camera
Availability: October – May

Tour Note: There will be opportunities for photos and breathtaking vistas to enjoy. Light walking to close proximity viewpoints for photos, so stable footwear is recommended.

Adult: 17 years +
Child: 16 years and under

More than 24 hours before departure: Full Refund.**
Within 24 hours of the tour starting: No refund

Note: **Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount. Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.