Ride across rolling high-country terraces and return by historic steamship on this half-day Walter Peak experience from Queenstown. Beginner-friendly rides, small groups, and country-style tea make this a compact way to sample Otago’s lake and mountain scenery.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the steamer onto a windswept peninsula and the lake breathes across your face. Wave-lapped shorelines of Lake Wakatipu unfurl beneath the Remarkables; sheep graze on terraced pastures while guides saddle steady horses for a slow, scenic ride. The boat — the historic TSS Earnslaw or its modern counterpart depending on schedule — cuts the water and sets the tone: relaxed, deliberate, and utterly local.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be comfortable mounting/dismounting and able to sit in the saddle for up to an hour.
Wildlife
History
Walter Peak operates as a working high-country farm and pairs with the TSS Earnslaw service, a steamship heritage route that has served Queenstown visitors since the early 1900s.
Conservation
The farm-tour model supports local agriculture while encouraging visitors to stay on marked paths, avoid feeding wildlife, and carry out waste to protect fragile shoreline and pasture ecosystems.
Reserve your spot on the Half Day Walter Peak Horse Trek and Cruise from Queenstown today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive Early to Board
Plan to be at Steamer Wharf 30 minutes before departure to check in and secure your seat on the TSS Earnslaw or Spirit vessel.
Dress in Layers and Bring Waterproofs
Weather on the lake changes fast — wear layers, long trousers for riding, and a waterproof jacket supplied or brought along.
Mind the Weight & Size Limits
The operator enforces a 95 kg weight limit and minimum height/age requirements; disclose weight during booking to avoid issues at check-in.
Protect Your Camera and Phone
Bring a secure strap or dry pouch—wind and lake spray can make handheld devices slippery during the cruise and on exposed trail sections.
Waterproof jacket
Keeps you dry and blocks wind on the open lake and exposed trails.
spring
Closed-toe shoes or riding boots
Protects feet in stirrups and provides better grip when mounting and dismounting.
Layered clothing
Easy to adjust for sun, wind and cold on a short cruise-and-ride itinerary.
Sun protection and sunglasses
High-reflective lake surfaces intensify sun exposure—bring SPF and eye protection.
summer