Location: Wanaka
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The 10 Best Tours in Wanaka, South Island
The South Island town of Wanaka appeals to both adventure lovers and relaxation-minded travelers. Situated on the crystal-clear waters of New Zealand's fourth-largest lake, just a short drive from Mount Aspiring National Park, Wanaka is an ideal spot to go fishing, hiking, skiing, wine-tasting or golfing. The city also hosts Warbirds Over Wanaka, the largest three-day air show in the Southern Hemisphere.
Restaurants in Wanaka
1. Full-Day Small-Group Routeburn Valley Walk
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
After being picked up from your hotel in Queenstown, you will take one of the most beautiful road journeys in New Zealand to the Western end of Lake Wakatipu, led by a knowledgeable local guide.The world-renowned Routeburn Track provides stunning variation in vegetation, bird species, and topography as it climbs 6.5 kilometers one way, on a moderate fitness trail through gorges and valleys. This is small group tour with a maximum of 6 people that you will be spending the 7 hour day with. Your lunch sandwich, wrap or bread roll is an additional cost, afternoon tea / coffee fruit and cookies are included.
Inclusions: GST (Goods and Services Tax), National Park fees, Afternoon tea & cookies, Fresh fruit, Bottled water, Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Coffee and/or Tea
Exclusions: Lunch is not included, a stop is made at a local bakery for you to select a bread roll, wrap or salad.
Reviewed By sanpula
Charles is an excellent friendly guide with tons of interesting knowledge. We took the tour to Skippers Canyon and very glad we did! The views were absolutely breathtaking. My partner suffers from quite severe motion sickness but Charles' smooth handling of the treacherous terrain meant that my partner was comfortable the entire time. We learnt so much of the local gold mining history and bit of LotR and other film facts too. Thanks again!
2. Wanaka Rock Climbing Intro Fun Day
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
WANAKA ROCK CLIMBINGS "INTRO FUN" OPTIONS ARE THE PERFECT WANAKA EXPERIENCE. ENJOY THE BEAUTIFUL OUTDOORS OF MT ASPIRING NATIONAL PARK, ALL WHILE EXPERIENCING A NEW AND EXCITING SPORT. THESE COURSES ARE IDEAL FOR BOTH TRAVELLERS AND FAMILIES WHO ARE LOOKING FOR AN INTRODUCTION TO ROCK CLIMBING IN A SPECTACULAR SETTING.
Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, Beverages, Lunch, Light refreshments, Professional guide, Transport by private vehicle, Use of climbing equipment, Bottled water
Exclusions: Gratuities
Reviewed By EdenGabriel
I took the 3 day course. Was by myself so they turned it into a 2 day course with private guide for the same price, which was very kind. They taught me everything I wanted to know and it felt very professional and very thorough. I learned a lot and had an amazing experience. Would defenitely recommend.
3. Explore Wanaka Rock Climbing with Lunch
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
This trip caters to experienced climbers wanting to explore the climbing possibilities around Wanaka. Are you looking to improve your technique or just get out and climb some of the areas classic pitches? This is the day trip for you! Lunch is included!
Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, Beverages, Lunch, Light refreshments, Professional guide, Transport by private vehicle, Use of climbing equipment
Exclusions: Gratuities
Reviewed By EdenGabriel
I took the 3 day course. Was by myself so they turned it into a 2 day course with private guide for the same price, which was very kind. They taught me everything I wanted to know and it felt very professional and very thorough. I learned a lot and had an amazing experience. Would defenitely recommend.
4. Wilderness Adventure Including Scenic flight Self-guided Hike and Jet Boat Ride
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 8 reviews
The original since 1975 and still the best! Four hours of unique New Zealand wilderness adventure in the vast Mount Aspiring National Park. Experience a true New Zealand wilderness adventure. Fly, Walk, and Jet boat through New Zealand’s most spectacular alpine environment on an adventure like no other.
Inclusions: Scenic flight, Scenic hike, Jet boat ride, Free parking at Wonderland Makarora Lodge, Makarora West, Glaciers-Waterfalls-Remote Landing-Nature Hike-Native Bush-Jetboat Safari-Crystal Clear Rivers-Great
Exclusions: Personal expenses, Food and drink
Reviewed By CA300
The Siberia Wilderness trip had been on the bucket list for some time and was well worth the wait. It was a fantastic trip. An absolute gem of an experience and right at our back door! Well looked after by all the staff, office, pilot, jet boat driver. Everything was well organised. Highly recommend it. Get out there Kiwis!!
5. Level 1 Waterfall Climb from Wanaka (3 hours return)
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 61 reviews
Living a rich life is about experiences, not stuff – our spectacular backyard is full of adventure and we want to share it with you. Get out of your comfort zone and be rewarded as we conquer the highest waterfall cable climb in the world together. Our beginner climb involves approximately 1-hr of climbing and 4 bridge crossings. Our Via ferrata tour is perfect for those who love the outdoors, waterfalls and beautiful places. This tour is suitable for beginners, families and hesitant adventurers with basic fitness. No experience required. Your tour starts at the waterfall where your friendly guide will fit your safety gear and teach you how to use the equipment before starting the climb. You will be climbing on steel ladder rungs and crossing wire bridges to finish at a beautiful picnic spot. We then walk down a mountain trail and back to the base. If you are more adventurous and are looking to explore more in this incredible vertical world, we recommend our intermediate climb.
Inclusions: Professional guide, Training and safety briefing, All equipment including helmets, harness, via ferrata lanyard, safety equipment, GST(Goods and Services Tax)
Exclusions: Gratuities
Reviewed By NatHowe
Breathtaking day. Professional and friendly staff made the climb fun and safe. Be prepared for weather changes… thin layers better than one or two thick items. Very satisfying sense of achievement at the end. I’ve done lots of adventures around the Queenstown area and this has been my favourite. Had a smile on my face for days.
6. Ultimate New Zealand - Hiking New Zealand - 23 Days
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
The Ultimate North is the ideal choice for those who have a little less time but want to experience the very best that the North Island, New Zealand, can offer. Hike into a river-side hut in the middle of Jurassic-like rainforest. Explore thermal areas in Rotorua. Trek the high sections of the remote Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk deep in the magical rain forests of Te Urewera. Relax in lodges in beautiful locations. Discover the surreal volcanic wonderland of Tongariro National Park, staying high above the world in an alpine hut. The Ultimate North has short hikes, as well as two overnight hikes staying in backcountry huts.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner, Dinner, Dinner, Breakfast, Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Dinner
Exclusions: Personal Hiking Equipment
Reviewed By Discover820406
I completed a four-day hike in Arthurs Pass with Hiking NZ. Not having a lot of hiking experience I was apprehensive about what to expect. However, the trip exceeded expectations, the scenery was stunning, the days although long were rewarding and our guide let us take our time. Couldn't recommend more
7. Ultimate South - Hiking New Zealand - 15 days
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Four multi-day hikes » Golden sands of Abel Tasman Coastal Track » Crystal clear rivers and limestone canyons of the West Coast » Cycling the West Coast Wilderness Trail » Cruising the magnificent Milford Sound
Inclusions: Lunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Dinner, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Lunch, Dinner, Dinner, Dinner, Lunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Air-conditioned vehicle, Use of bicycle, Waka experience and boat cruise
Exclusions:
Reviewed By Discover820406
I completed a four-day hike in Arthurs Pass with Hiking NZ. Not having a lot of hiking experience I was apprehensive about what to expect. However, the trip exceeded expectations, the scenery was stunning, the days although long were rewarding and our guide let us take our time. Couldn't recommend more
8. Milford Sound Glacier Flight & Cruise from Wanaka
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 13 reviews
Fly further and see more when you fly with us from Wanaka. Fly to Milford Sound through two of New Zealand’s most picturesque national parks. View alpine lakes nestled amongst snowcapped mountain peaks and pristine glaciers, with vast rain forest and cascading waterfalls visible from every seat! Locally owned with an excellent safety record. Mount Cook + Fox Franz & Tasman Glaciers and Mount Aspiring & Glaciers are other options available, giving you the opportunity to view huge, untouched vistas of land.
Inclusions: Scenic flight & boat cruise, Free parking at Wanaka airport, Coffee and/or Tea
Exclusions: Personal expenses, Food and drink
Reviewed By CA300
The Siberia Wilderness trip had been on the bucket list for some time and was well worth the wait. It was a fantastic trip. An absolute gem of an experience and right at our back door! Well looked after by all the staff, office, pilot, jet boat driver. Everything was well organised. Highly recommend it. Get out there Kiwis!!
9. Wanaka Small Group Guided 2.5hour Scenic Bike Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
A lovely, easy grade guided bike ride following another one of Wanaka’s beautiful rivers. Crystal blue water, endless mountain vistas and easy pedalling, make this a great trip for people wanting some gentle exercise. A great trip for the whole family. We'll provide all the necessary equipment, transport, and friendly, qualified, local guide.
Inclusions: Afternoon tea, Bottled water, Coffee and/or Tea, Snacks, Local guide, Professional guide, Hotel/port drop-off, Hotel/port pickup, Use of bicycle, Use of helmet, Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Exclusions: Lunch, Gratuities
Reviewed By lynnanddj
On previous trips we have independently ridden other trails in the area, so we were looking for something a little different this time, and this trip certainly fitted the bill. Starting with a scenic, half hour water taxi crossing on Lake Wanaka, we were headed to the Minaret Burn track on the western shore of the lake. After the beach landing, we headed onto the track which is well formed, and not particularly technical. Any sections that might be more challenging for some, are short, and can easily be walked through. The scenery along the shoreline is really lovely, and we enjoyed the historical commentary provided by our guide John, on the land through which we rode. Before long we were at the end of the track at Homestead Bay where the shuttle awaited for the short transfer back to Wanaka. We would definitely recommend this experience - our booking request was promptly responded to; the dual suspension bikes are excellent (dropper posts) and well maintained; and the guides, punctual, helpful and John was a great photographer.
10. Bike Hawea to Wanaka
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 5 reviews
The best value of any bike trip in Wanaka, this is our most popular ride! We shuttle you from downtown Wanaka to the neighbouring lakeside town of Hawea where you make your way back to Wanaka in your own time. You'll see Lake Hawea, Hawea River, Clutha River and Lake Wanaka. There a number of eateries along the way as well as famous sights, such as #thatwanakatree!
Inclusions: Private transportation, Use of bicycle, Helmet
Exclusions:
Reviewed By mkinder2021
Well organised. Excellent information and briefing. Track from Hawea to swing bridge best ever. Stopped in Albert Town did lunch and up the Clutha home. Great experience.
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