Family-friendly Tours
Half-Day Tours
Private Tours
Scenic Lookouts and Hands-On Gold Panning
As the 4WD winds towards Lighthouse Rock, the canyon opens up to reveal panoramic views of the entire valley — a perfect spot for unforgettable photos. From here, it’s easy to see why this route continues to captivate travellers and photographers alike. The surrounding cliffs, etched with history, tell tales of courage and endurance against nature’s extremes.
Before heading back to Queenstown, you’ll have the chance to try gold panning at Deep Creek, guided by experts who share traditional techniques from the region’s golden past. It’s a fun, hands-on experience that brings the history of the Shotover River to life. Whether you uncover a fleck of gold or simply enjoy the moment, the Skippers Canyon 4WD Gold Heritage Tour promises a journey rich in scenery, heritage, and adventure.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Drive along the historic Skippers Canyon Road
- Cross the famous Skippers Suspension Bridge
- Explore the restored Skippers township
- Try your hand at gold panning in the Shotover River
INCLUSIONS
- Fully equipped 4WD vehicle
- Experienced driver and guide
- Gold panning equipment
- Light refreshments
- Transfers and free pick-up from your accommodation
WHAT TO BRING
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Bottled water
- Camera
- A good sense of fun!
TOUR INFORMATION
- Check-in Time: 8:15am & 1:30pm (Please be ready 10mins before)
Group Size : Maximum of 6 people per vehicle.
Private Charter
If you prefer a more private experience, you can book the whole vehicle for your group. The maximum group size is 6 people.
4-Person Max Option
If you’d like everyone in your group to have a window seat, choose our 4-person max option. This limits the number of passengers in the vehicle to 4.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: Changes to the Tour Itinerary
Your safety is our main priority. Sometimes, we may need to change the tour plan due to conditions we cannot control, such as high water levels or poor road conditions. This may mean we are unable to cross rivers, use certain roads, or drive the full length of roads like Skippers Canyon. Please understand that these changes may be necessary. You can also check our full weather cancellation policy for more details.
AGE INFORMATION
- Adults: 15 years and over: Full adult fare applies.
- Children: 4–14 years: Travel at a discounted child rate.
- Infants: 0–3 years: Travel free of charge when accompanied by an adult.
CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS
- More than 24 hours before departure: Full refund**.
- Within 24 hours: No refund
Note: **Refund excludes credit card or payment fees, which are non-refundable.
Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*
