Lake Tekapo Scenic 4WD Tours Backcountry Adventures
Updated: 27 th June 2026
Explore Lake Tekapo's Remote High Country by 4WD
Discover parts of the Mackenzie Country that most visitors never see. Tekapo Scenic 4WD Tours provide exclusive access to remote high-country stations, braided rivers, alpine valleys and spectacular mountain landscapes beyond the sealed roads around Lake Tekapo.
Travel in the comfort of iconic Land Rover Defenders as experienced local guides take you through private stations including Braemar and Glenmore, where you’ll discover working sheep farms, hidden valleys, unique wildlife and breathtaking views of Aoraki / Mount Cook, Lake Pukaki and the Southern Alps.
Whether you’re looking for an authentic high-country farm experience, outstanding photography, endangered birdlife or a private customised adventure, these scenic 4WD tours showcase some of New Zealand’s most spectacular backcountry landscapes.
Why Choose a Lake Tekapo 4WD Backcountry Tour?
A Lake Tekapo 4WD backcountry tour offers access to spectacular landscapes that most visitors will never experience from the main highways. Travel beyond the public roads into private high-country stations, remote alpine valleys and rugged backcountry tracks, accompanied by knowledgeable local guides who bring the Mackenzie Country’s history, farming heritage and unique wildlife to life.
Whether you choose the Braemar Station tour, the Cass Valley adventure or a private customised experience, you’ll enjoy breathtaking scenery, authentic working farms and unforgettable views of Aoraki / Mount Cook, Lake Pukaki and the Southern Alps. It’s one of the most rewarding ways to discover the hidden side of New Zealand’s high country.
Which Lake Tekapo 4WD Tour Is Right For You?
Braemar Station Backcountry Tour
Best for: First-time visitors wanting spectacular mountain scenery, working high-country stations and outstanding views across Lake Pukaki to Aoraki / Mount Cook.
Cass Valley High Country Tour
Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts, photographers and travellers wanting to explore remote alpine valleys, braided rivers and endangered bird habitats.
Private Mackenzie Backcountry Tour
Best for: Couples, families and small groups looking for a personalised 4WD adventure with a flexible itinerary and exclusive access to the Mackenzie backcountry.
Braemar Station Backcountry Tour
Price: $349 per person – Children $299 pp (Aged 16 & under)
Tours Depart: 9:00 am & 2:00 pm
Duration: 3 Hours
Embark on a scenic 4WD adventure through Braemar Station, one of New Zealand’s most iconic high-country sheep farming stations. Nestled on the eastern shores of Lake Pukaki, this 4,100-hectare station is bordered by the majestic Gammack Range to the north and offers uninterrupted views of Mount Cook, the Ben Ohau Range, and the Main Divide.
Discover Tekapo’s Remote Backcountry
With its turquoise waters and towering peaks, Lake Pukaki provides the perfect backdrop for this authentic backcountry tour. Braemar Station, a working farm since 
1969, is home to Perendale sheep, Angus cattle, and red deer, giving you a glimpse into traditional New Zealand farming life.
Explore remote 4WD tracks across open tall tussock grasslands, red tussock-covered moraines, and other unique landforms that define the Mackenzie Basin. Your journey offers stunning vistas from hilltops and rugged trails, immersing you in the vast remoteness and natural beauty of Tekapo’s high country.
Tour Highlights:
- Authentic High Country Experience: Visit a working farm with sheep, cattle, and deer.
- Spectacular Scenic Views: Marvel at Mount Cook, Mount Tasman, the glaciated Main Divide, and Lake Pukaki.
- Backcountry 4WD Adventure: Journey along remote tracks with breathtaking landscapes.
- Educational Insights: Learn about the area’s unique landforms, flora, and fauna.
The Braemar Station Backcountry Tour is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone looking to explore some of New Zealand’s most unforgettable high-country landscapes. With its rugged terrain, dramatic vistas, and peaceful remoteness, this adventure offers a glimpse into the heart of Tekapo’s backcountry at its finest.
Cass Valley High Country 4WD Tour
Price: $349 per person – Children $299 pp (Aged 16 & under)
Tours Depart: 2:00 pm
Duration: 4 Hours
Discover the rugged beauty of the Cass Valley on a 4WD adventure through Glenmore Station, a historic high-country sheep farm located on the western shores of Lake Tekapo.
Spanning an impressive 19,000 hectares, Glenmore Station has been farming Merino sheep since 1912 and is home to 10,000 sheep, Merino studs, Angus cattle, and red deer.
Explore Glenmore Station and the Cass Valley
Your journey begins at Glenmore Station, where you’ll traverse remote 4WD tracks to access the stunning alpine wilderness of the Cass Valley.
The Cass Valley is also a vital habitat for some of New Zealand’s most endangered birds, including the rare Black Stilt, Wry Bill, Banded Dotterel, and Black-Billed Gull. With a bit of luck, you’ll witness these incredible species in their natural braided river habitat.
This breathtaking landscape is renowned for its glacial-carved U-shaped valleys, rocky scree slopes, braided river systems, and tussock-covered terraces. Along the way, marvel at the lateral moraines, cascading waterfalls, and glaciers that define this unique high-country environment.
Midway through the tour, enjoy refreshments at a true backcountry hut while soaking in the tranquility of this remote and untouched landscape.
Tekapo 4WD Tour Highlights
- Backcountry 4WD Scenic Tour: Explore Glenmore Station and the stunning Cass Valley.
- Endangered Bird Viewing: Spot rare species such as Black Stilts, Wry Bills, and Banded Dotterels.
- High-Country Farm Experience: View Merino sheep, Angus cattle, and red deer up close.
- Breathtaking Natural Features: Witness waterfalls, glaciers, lateral moraines, and tussock terraces.
- Remote Backcountry Access: Cross rivers and streams on rugged 4WD tracks.
- Authentic Backcountry Hut: Experience a real high-country hut setting.
- Educational Insights: Learn about the geology, ecology, and history of the Mackenzie Basin.
This 4-hour tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into the natural beauty and cultural heritage of New Zealand’s Mackenzie Country. From glacial valleys to unique wildlife, the Cass Valley High Country Farm Tour is a must-do for nature lovers, photographers, and adventurers alike.
Private Mackenzie Backcountry Tour
Price: $1650 Up to 4 people
Tours Depart: 9 :00 am and 2:00 pm or by arrangement
Duration: 4 Hours
Experience the stunning beauty of New Zealand’s Mackenzie Country on a private 4WD adventure tailored exclusively to you. Perfect for couples, families, or small groups, this tour offers a luxurious and peaceful journey through some of the country’s most breathtaking wilderness, accompanied by professional driver guides and the legendary Land Rover Defender 4WD vehicles.
Your Exclusive Backcountry Experience
Roam the Mackenzie backcountry in comfort and style as you explore dramatic landscapes, including glacial valleys, rolling tussock grasslands, and panoramic mountain vistas. Whether you’re seeking remote serenity or unique photo opportunities, this private tour ensures you have uninterrupted access to the region’s most iconic sights, all at your own pace.
Your experienced guide will share insights into the history, geology, and ecology of the Mackenzie Basin, providing a deeper connection to the land as you journey through its hidden treasures. Plus, with the flexibility to customize your itinerary, this adventure can be tailored to your interests and preferences on the day.
Tour Highlights
- Private Scenic 4WD Tour: Explore the Mackenzie backcountry exclusively with your group.
- Outstanding Natural Landscapes: Marvel at snow-capped peaks, vast plains, and pristine wilderness.
- Customized Itinerary: Tailor the experience to your interests, with stops and activities personalised just for you.
- Luxury Travel: Ride in the iconic Land Rover Defender, combining comfort and rugged capability.
- Expert Guides: Learn about the Mackenzie Basin’s unique history, wildlife, and natural features.
This exclusive 4-hour tour is ideal for those seeking a truly private and immersive experience of the Mackenzie Country’s outstanding natural beauty. Whether it’s a special occasion or a desire for unmatched serenity, the Private Mackenzie Backcountry Adventure is an unforgettable journey into New Zealand’s most scenic wilderness.
Tours are offered as a 4 Hour Experience. and can be customised to your requirements on the day
All enquiries: [email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Tekapo 4WD Backcountry Tours
What are Lake Tekapo 4WD backcountry tours and what can I expect?
Lake Tekapo 4WD backcountry tours provide exclusive access to private high-country stations, remote alpine valleys and rugged backcountry tracks beyond the public roads around Lake Tekapo. Travelling in iconic Land Rover Defenders with knowledgeable local guides, you’ll discover working farms, hidden valleys, unique wildlife and spectacular views of Aoraki / Mount Cook, Lake Pukaki and the Southern Alps.
Which Lake Tekapo 4WD tour is right for me?
The Braemar Station Backcountry Tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting spectacular mountain scenery, authentic high-country farming and outstanding views across Lake Pukaki. The Cass Valley High Country Tour is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers interested in endangered birdlife and remote alpine landscapes. The Private Mackenzie Backcountry Tour is best for couples, families and small groups wanting a personalised itinerary with exclusive access to the Mackenzie backcountry.
What will I see on the Braemar Station Backcountry Tour?
This three-hour tour takes you through the working Braemar Station, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Lake Pukaki, Aoraki / Mount Cook, the Ben Ohau Range and the Southern Alps. Along the way you’ll learn about high-country farming while travelling across remote 4WD tracks through the Mackenzie Basin.
What makes the Cass Valley High Country Tour special?
The Cass Valley tour explores the spectacular Glenmore Station and remote alpine wilderness of the Cass Valley. Highlights include glacial valleys, braided rivers, waterfalls, tussock terraces and opportunities to spot rare native birds such as the Black Stilt, Wrybill, Banded Dotterel and Black-billed Gull in their natural habitat.
Is the Private Mackenzie Backcountry Tour suitable for families or small groups?
Yes. The private tour is ideal for couples, families and groups of up to four people who want a more personalised experience. Your local guide can tailor the itinerary to suit your interests, allowing extra time for photography, sightseeing or exploring the spectacular Mackenzie Country at your own pace.
What should I wear on a Lake Tekapo 4WD tour?
Wear comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for the season, along with sturdy walking shoes or boots. Weather conditions can change quickly in the Mackenzie Country, so bringing a warm jacket, sunglasses, sunscreen and a camera is recommended.
Do the tours operate all year round?
Yes. Tekapo Scenic 4WD Tours operate throughout the year, with every season offering a different perspective of the Mackenzie Basin. Tours are weather dependent, and operators will advise if conditions require a change to your booking.
Why choose a 4WD backcountry tour instead of exploring by yourself?
Many of the spectacular locations visited on these tours are on private high-country stations that are not accessible to the general public. Travelling with experienced local guides also provides fascinating insights into the region’s farming heritage, geology, wildlife and history while allowing you to safely explore remote parts of the Mackenzie Country.