The Ultimate 10-Day Queenstown Campervan Itinerary: Explore the South Island by Motorhome

Campervanning Around Queenstown: The Ultimate 10-Day Motorhome Itinerary

Dreaming of mountains, lakes, and the freedom to explore New Zealand’s South Island at your own pace? There’s no better way to experience it all than in a campervan or motorhome—especially when your journey begins in Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world.

In this 10-day Queenstown round-trip itinerary, we’ll guide you through the most scenic routes, charming towns, and must-see attractions — all while enjoying the flexibility and comfort of a fully self-contained motorhome.

Why Start Your Motorhome Adventure in Queenstown?

Queenstown is not only well-connected by air but also perfectly positioned for exploring the lower South Island. With easy access to lakes, mountains, vineyards, and national parks, it’s the ideal starting point for a campervan road trip.

Motorhome hire in Queenstown is simple, with plenty of pickup options near the airport or city centre. Many Camplify owners also offer convenient add-ons like bedding, kitchenware, and even Wi-Fi, so you can hit the road fully equipped.

Day 1: Queenstown to Glenorchy (46 km | 1 hr)

Pick up your campervan in Queenstown and kick off your adventure with one of the most scenic drives in the country. The road to Glenorchy winds around Lake Wakatipu, offering jaw-dropping views at every turn.

Highlights:

• Stop at Bennetts Bluff lookout
• Explore Glenorchy’s short walks and jetboat tours
• Overnight: Glenorchy DOC campsite or Mrs Woolly’s Campground

Day 2: Glenorchy to Te Anau (205 km | 3 hrs)

Head south through Kingston and Mossburn to reach Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park. Stock up on supplies and prepare for the Milford Sound detour.

Highlights:

• Te Anau Glowworm Caves
• Lake Te Anau foreshore walk
• Overnight: Te Anau TOP 10 Holiday Park

Day 3: Te Anau to Milford Sound (120 km | 2.5 hrs)

Leave early for a full-day return trip to Milford Sound. The drive is part of the experience, with alpine scenery, waterfalls, and mirror lakes.

Highlights:

• Cruise Milford Sound
• Walk to The Chasm and Mirror Lakes
• Overnight: Return to Te Anau or stay at Milford Lodge (limited campervan sites, book ahead)

Day 4: Te Anau to Invercargill (160 km | 2 hrs)

Cruise through the green pastures of Southland towards Invercargill, New Zealand’s southernmost city. It’s the perfect stop to refuel, restock, and stretch your legs.

Highlights:

• Bill Richardson Transport World
• Bluff (30 minutes further south for seafood lovers)
• Overnight: Invercargill Holiday Park

Day 5: Invercargill to The Catlins (110 km | 2 hrs)

Venture into the untamed beauty of The Catlins, an off-the-beaten-path region filled with waterfalls, wildlife, and coastal cliffs.

Highlights:

• Nugget Point Lighthouse
• Purakaunui Falls
• Curio Bay penguin viewing
• Overnight: Catlins Holiday Park or freedom camping (where permitted)

Day 6: The Catlins to Dunedin (135 km | 2.5 hrs)

Drive north to Dunedin, a city known for its Scottish heritage and vibrant student energy.

Highlights:

• Larnach Castle
• Otago Peninsula (spot seals and albatross)
• Street art trail and Speight’s Brewery
• Overnight: Dunedin Holiday Park

Day 7: Dunedin to Lake Pukaki via Oamaru (320 km | 4.5 hrs)

Make your way inland, with a stop in Oamaru to see its historic precinct and famous blue penguin colony before heading to the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki.

Highlights:

• Oamaru’s Steampunk HQ
• Clay Cliffs near Omarama
• Stargazing at Lake Pukaki
• Overnight: Freedom camping near Lake Pukaki

Day 8: Lake Pukaki to Aoraki/Mount Cook (65 km | 1 hr)

Take a short drive into the heart of the Southern Alps to New Zealand’s tallest mountain.

Highlights:

• Hooker Valley Track (3 hr return walk)
• Tasman Glacier
• Mount Cook Alpine Salmon shop
• Overnight: White Horse Hill DOC Campsite

Day 9: Aoraki to Cromwell (200 km | 3 hrs)

Wind your way back through the high country towards Central Otago’s fruit bowl and wine region.

Highlights:

• Lindis Pass
• Cromwell Heritage Precinct
• Wine tasting in Bannockburn
• Overnight: Cromwell TOP 10 Holiday Park

Day 10: Cromwell to Queenstown (60 km | 1 hr)

Wrap up your adventure with a relaxed drive back to Queenstown. Drop off your motorhome and take a final stroll along Lake Wakatipu or reward yourself with a Fergburger.

Quick Tips for Campervanning in Queenstown and Beyond

• Plan for all seasons: Weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains.
• Freedom camp responsibly: Stick to designated areas and follow the self-containment rules.
• Book ahead during peak season: Especially Milford Sound and popular DOC campsites.
• Drive cautiously: Roads can be narrow, steep, or icy depending on the time of year.

Start Your Adventure

Whether you’re chasing snow-capped peaks or sunlit lakes, campervan hire in Queenstown is your ticket to one of the most memorable road trips on earth.

Ready to explore Queenstown and beyond in a motorhome?