Taupo Travel Guide

There's just something about New Zealand that sparks the inner adventurer in everyone. Perhaps it is the majestic skylines, the deep-blue waters, or the lush forests that cover entire regions of the islands. As far as Taupo goes, what more could you ask for? Nestled along the northern banks of Lake Taupo and the edge of the Waikato River, staying here means you have access to the views across the lake towards the rising peaks of the Tongariro National Park, and some of the best hiking trails in the country. This is a backpacker’s paradise, complete with waterfalls, volcanoes, hot springs, fo… read morerests, and plenty of water between the rivers and the lake.

Taupo is primarily a tourist town due to its proximity to the Tongariro National Park to the south, with all its mountains and forests. But beyond simply hiking and cycling through the picturesque beauty of the New Zealand countryside and places like Kaingoroa Forest, visitors here can also experience a variety of adrenaline sports such as skydiving, paragliding, or heading out on the water for some water sports. There’s far more than just that, however, and visitors here can see the awesome wonder of Huka Falls, the Aratiatia Dam, the lakeside village of Kinloch—looking like it was built specifically for a postcard—just 15 minutes out, as well as Mount Tauhara. Visitors can also explore the Craters of the Moon, which is a geothermal hotspot, or head out onto the lake and see the wild Maori rock carvings. This is also one of the best trout fishing grounds in the world, with many people swearing that Lake Taupo is the Rainbow Trout capital of the world, so regardless of what exactly you are after in your New Zealand adventure, Taupo is likely going to provide it for you. And with such amazing views surrounding combined with all the outdoor activities, why would you want to go anywhere else?