Wanaka is a fantastic base for exploring some of New Zealand’s most stunning National Park landscapes. Surrounded by rugged mountains, lush forests, and crystal-clear rivers, Wanaka offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. We especially love the Jet Boat and Wilderness Walk Tour for its combination of excitement and scenery, and the Siberia Experience for those who want a little bit of everything—flying, hiking, and boating. Whether you’re after a quick half-day trip or a full sensory immersion in nature, Wanaka’s tours deliver memorable experiences.
If you’re considering a trip here, you’ll find tours that suit different interests and fitness levels. The options range from relaxed walks with incredible views to adrenaline-pumping jet boat rides and scenic flights over the mountains. Each one offers a unique way to see the Mount Aspiring National Park and its surroundings, so you’ll want to pick based on what excites you most.
Quick Overview
This list features the best national park tours in Wanaka, including:
– Jet Boat and Wilderness Walk Tour from Wanaka, a 4-hour adventure combining a jet boat ride and an easy hike.
– Siberia Experience: Fly-Hike-Jetboat, a 4-5 hour thrilling mix of scenic flight, independent hiking, and jet boating.
– Wanaka: Jet Boat & Wilderness Walk, a 4-hour tour with a focus on glaciers, Lord of the Rings filming sites, and forest walks.
1. Jet Boat and Wilderness Walk Tour from Wanaka
At number 1, this half-day adventure offers a perfect balance of heart-pumping activity and relaxed exploration. Starting with an exhilarating jet boat ride along the Matukituki River, you’ll zip past towering cliffs and lush green scenery that served as filming locations for the Lord of the Rings movies. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a guided walk through Mount Aspiring National Park, taking in waterfalls, glacier-fed streams, and dense forests.
What makes this tour stand out is its small-group setting, which ensures a personalized experience. The tour is rated a perfect 5 out of 5 based on 245 reviews, with visitors praising the knowledgeable guides and fun, easy-going pace. Guests love the interactive nature of the boat ride and the chance to walk through some of the most iconic landscapes in the area. It’s ideal for those with an average fitness level who want a quick, action-packed taste of Wanaka’s wilderness.
Bottom line: If you want a fun, comprehensive experience that combines extreme water travel with a peaceful nature walk, this is a top pick. It offers good value at $198.81 per person and is suitable for most visitors.
2. Siberia Experience: Fly-Hike-Jetboat
The Siberia Experience ranks second for its epic mix of aerial scenery, independent hiking, and jet boating. Starting with a scenic flight from Makarora, you’ll soar over the Southern Alps—a view that alone makes the trip worthwhile. Your pilot will land you beside the Siberia River, where you’ll embark on a self-guided hike along remote trails.
This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy independent exploration and breathtaking vistas. The highlight is hiking at your own pace through moss-covered logs, waterfalls, and snowy peaks, then meeting your jet boat at the Wilkin River for a high-speed return. The jet boat ride back is described as “adrenaline-inducing,” perfect for adventure lovers.
Reviews highlight the excellent scenery and well-organized logistics, with one traveler calling it “one of the finest adventures” they’ve experienced, especially noting the scenic flight and the gorgeous hiking trail. At around $348.34, it’s a higher-priced option, but the combination of fly, walk, and boat makes it a full-day, once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Bottom line: This trip is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who want to maximize their time in Wanaka with a multi-sensory experience, appreciating the landscapes from the sky and on foot.
3. Wanaka: Jet Boat & Wilderness Walk
At number 3, this Jet Boat & Wilderness Walk offers a slightly more budget-friendly option at $199 per person. The tour lasts about 4 hours and focuses on the spectacular glaciers near Mount Aspiring National Park, with the added thrill of a jet boat ride through the wilderness of the Matukituki Valley.
What sets this experience apart is its emphasis on film locations from Lord of the Rings and Hobbit, which might appeal to movie fans. The walk is designed to be informative and accessible, taking visitors past waterfalls and streams with a knowledgeable guide. Rated 4.8 out of 5 based on 38 reviews, travelers appreciate the balance of adventure and education, with many describing it as a “great way to see glaciers up close” and “an unforgettable wilderness experience.”
While it may not include a scenic flight or as lengthy a hike as the Siberia Experience, it offers a solid introduction to the area’s glacial landscapes with a focus on film history and wildlife spotting.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a combination of thrill and storytelling without the extra travel logistics or higher price tag.
How to Choose
When deciding between these top Wanaka national park tours, consider your interests, fitness level, and budget. For a quick, fun-packed half-day, the Jet Boat and Wilderness Walk from here is perfect. If you’re after a full-day adventure with aerial views and independence to hike at your own pace, the Siberia Experience offers an impressive combo. For travelers seeking a more affordable, film-themed experience focusing on glaciers and forests, the Wanaka: Jet Boat & Wilderness Walk is a solid choice.
Remember, booking early is wise, especially during the busy months, to secure your spot on these popular tours. Think about your activity preferences—whether you prefer a quick thrill, a scenic flight, or an independent hike—and match that to the tour that best fits your schedule and budget.
Final Thoughts
Wanaka offers a remarkable variety of ways to experience New Zealand’s National Park landscapes. If you love combining water, land, and sky, the Jet Boat and Wilderness Walk Tour delivers a well-rounded, unforgettable outing. For those with a taste for adrenaline and aerial views, the Siberia Experience will give you a full sensory overload in the best way.
Meanwhile, the Wanaka: Jet Boat & Wilderness Walk offers a fantastic introduction to the area’s glaciers and mountain scenery at a more affordable price. Whichever you choose, these tours promise a genuine connection with the wild beauty of New Zealand’s South Island. Book early, pack your sense of adventure, and enjoy every minute of your time in Wanaka.