Wanaka is a place that invites exploration—thanks to its stunning mountain scenery, pristine lakes, and accessible trails. If you’re a fan of outdoor adventures, you’ll find plenty to love here. The town’s small size makes it easy to combine scenic boat cruises with guided walks, offering a well-rounded taste of the region’s natural beauty. We especially like the Jet Boat and Wilderness Walk Tour, which offers the thrill of a high-speed jet boat combined with a peaceful hike through Mount Aspiring National Park. That perfect blend of adrenaline and serenity makes it a standout.
You’ll also see options for island cruises—like the Mou Waho Island Nature Walk—which combine wildlife spotting with scenic views, or shorter boat excursions to Ruby Island. Whether you’re after a quick snapshot or a full day immersed in nature, Wanaka’s walking tours deliver.
1. Jet Boat and Wilderness Walk Tour from Wanaka
At number 1, the Jet Boat and Wilderness Walk Tour combines the best of adventure and nature. For about $198.81, you’ll spend roughly four hours exploring Mount Aspiring National Park. The tour kicks off with an exhilarating jet boat ride along the Matukituki River, giving you a front-row view of the rugged landscape made famous by Lord of the Rings filming locations. The boat trip is a highlight for thrill-seekers and those who appreciate high-speed scenery.
Afterward, you’ll enjoy a guided hike through lush forests, past waterfalls, and alongside glacier-fed streams. The walk is rated easy, making it accessible for most fitness levels, and the small-group format ensures personalized attention. Guides like Ben are praised for their local knowledge and engaging storytelling. The reviews highlight how fun the jet boat ride is and how informative the walk turns out to be. This tour suits anyone looking for a blend of adventure and tranquility—and it’s particularly great if you want to tick both a boat trip and a walk off your list.
Bottom line: An energetic, small-group experience perfect for active travelers who want to see some of Wanaka’s most iconic scenery with a dose of adrenaline.
2. Lake Cruise & Mou Waho Island Nature Walk
Number 2 on our list is the Lake Cruise & Mou Waho Island Nature Walk. For $173.80, this approximately 3.5-hour tour offers a relaxing boat adventure across Lake Wanaka, combined with a guided walk on the island. The journey starts with a cruise on the lake, where your captain shares insights about Wanaka’s geography and natural history.
Once ashore on Mou Waho, you’ll have the opportunity to plant a native tree and explore the island’s unique features, including a secret lake perched atop the island—an unforgettable sight. The highlight is the guided walk to panoramic viewpoints, providing sweeping views of the Southern Alps. The tour also offers the chance to see the rare buff weka, a native bird reintroduced to the island. Reviewers rave about the engaging guides like Michael and the overall eco-friendly focus. This trip suits travelers wanting a combination of gentle walking, wildlife viewing, and scenic beauty without the strenuous effort.
Bottom line: A perfect mid-length tour that balances wildlife, scenery, and conservation—ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a laid-back experience.
3. Mou Waho Island Cruise and Guided Nature Walk
In third place, the Mou Waho Island Cruise and Guided Nature Walk offers a shorter but equally enriching experience for $103.06. It’s about three hours of a scenic cruise combined with a guided walk on Mou Waho, famous for its birdlife and stunning top-of-the-world lake views.
Your guide will take you ashore for about 1 hour and 40 minutes of exploration, focusing on the island’s geology, flora, and bird populations—including species extinct on the mainland. The walk takes you to Arethusa Pool, a glacier-fed lake in the sky, which is a sight you won’t forget. The trip is highly rated for its informative guides like Reon, who shares stories about the island’s biology and history.
This tour is best for those interested in birdwatching and natural history, offering a good mix of boat time, light hiking, and photo opportunities. The reviews highlight the ease of the walk and the knowledgeable guides.
Bottom line: An excellent short option for wildlife enthusiasts and anyone wanting a snapshot of Wanaka’s conservation success.
4. Stevensons Island 2-Hour Cruise and Nature Walk
Number 4 is the Stevensons Island 2-Hour Cruise and Nature Walk. For just $49, you get a luxury boat cruise plus a guided walk on this more accessible, shorter trip. The boat ride offers breathtaking views of Wanaka’s lakeside scenery, with plenty of photo opportunities. Once on the island, your guide will lead you on a walk showcasing the local flora and fauna.
Ideal for travelers short on time or those who prefer a less strenuous outing, this tour offers relaxing scenery with a bit of walking. Reviewers mention how comfortable the boat is and praise the knowledgeable guides for their insight into Wanaka’s natural landscape.
Bottom line: A quick and easy way to enjoy Wanaka’s scenery, suitable for all ages and mobility levels.
5. Mou Waho Island: 3-Hour Cruise and Guided Nature Walk
Number 5, the Mou Waho Island: 3-Hour Cruise and Guided Nature Walk, is a slightly longer adventure for $99. It combines a scenic boat ride with a guided walk to explore the island’s topography and wildlife. It’s perfect for those who want more time on the water and on land, with detailed insights into Mou Waho’s conservation efforts.
The highlight is the chance to see rare bird species and visit the lake at the top of the island, providing great photo opportunities. Guides like Reon are praised for their depth of knowledge. The tour is well-suited for travelers who want a relaxed pace with a focus on nature.
Bottom line: A solid choice for wildlife and landscape lovers who enjoy a longer, more immersive outing.
6. Wanaka: Jet Boat & Wilderness Walk
Number 6 on our list is the Wanaka: Jet Boat & Wilderness Walk for $199. This four-hour experience takes you deep into the Matukituki Valley, where the jet boat speeds past glaciers and streams. After the adrenaline rush, you’ll step off the boat into the peaceful wilderness for a 50-minute walk with a guide.
This tour offers a combination of high-speed adventure and quiet reflection, making it perfect for travelers who want both thrills and tranquility. The reviews mention how knowledgeable the guide Ion is, and how the scenery during the walk is breathtaking. It’s a great choice for those looking for a comprehensive outdoor experience in one trip.
Bottom line: An energetic tour that balances adrenaline with nature, suitable for active visitors and those with a day to spare.
7. Stevensons Island Cruise and Nature Walk from Wanaka
In seventh place, the Stevensons Island Cruise and Nature Walk from Wanaka offers a relaxed 2-hour trip for $51.23. You’ll sail on a luxury catamaran, enjoying panoramic views, before disembarking to hike to the island’s summit. The walk provides spectacular views of the lake and the Southern Alps, with commentary from your guide about the landscape and wildlife.
This trip is ideal for travelers seeking a short, scenic outing with good photo opportunities. Reviewers appreciate the friendly crew and how the trip is well-organized. It’s a convenient choice for those with limited time but still want to experience Wanaka’s natural beauty.
Bottom line: A straightforward, scenic boat and walk experience suitable for families and casual hikers.
8. 1-Hour Ruby Island Cruise and Walk from Wanaka
Number 8 is the 1-Hour Ruby Island Cruise and Walk, perfect for those pressed for time. For just under $30, this quick trip includes a short cruise and a self-guided walk on Ruby Island. It’s suitable for families and travelers with mobility concerns, offering a relaxed way to enjoy Wanaka’s scenery.
The island’s exotic and native plants provide a colorful foreground for photos, and the walk is easy to navigate. Reviewers note how helpful and friendly the crew are, making it a smooth experience even with limited time.
Bottom line: A great quick fix for nature lovers wanting a taste of Wanaka’s lakeside charm.
9. From Wanaka: Ruby Island 1-Hour Cruise and Photo Walk
Number 9 offers a similar experience with a focus on photography. The From Wanaka: Ruby Island 1-Hour Cruise and Photo Walk emphasizes incredible scenic views and photo opportunities during the short cruise and walk. Perfect for travelers wanting quick, picture-worthy moments, it’s priced at $29.
The guided walk on the island offers great vantage points and insight into the island’s intriguing history. Reviewers mention it’s ideal for a quick, scenic escape, especially if you’re short on time but want beautiful photos.
Bottom line: A photo-focused tour for those eager to capture Wanaka’s lakeside beauty in a brief outing.
10. Rob Roy Glacier Guided Walk
Number 10 is the Rob Roy Glacier Guided Walk. Though longer at around 9 hours and priced at $253.35, this full-day trip is for serious outdoor enthusiasts. It begins with a scenic drive around Lake Wanaka and involves walking into the Mount Aspiring National Park to see the magnificent Rob Roy Glacier.
The walk includes crossing swing bridges, hiking through beech forests, and enjoying panoramic views of alpine terrain. The guides are experts, providing detailed insights about the landscape, flora, and fauna. The reviews are limited but highlight the trip’s spectacular scenery and the professional guidance. It’s a significant time investment but rewarding for those wanting a full immersion into the wilderness.
Bottom line: For dedicated hikers willing to spend a day, this tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime glacier experience.
$253.35 per person
11. Mou Waho Island Boat Tour and Nature Walk
Number 11 offers a comprehensive experience combining a boat tour and guided walk. Costing $167, it lasts about 3.5 hours, perfect for travelers wanting a full but manageable half-day outing. You’ll explore Mou Waho’s rare bird populations, plant a native tree, and enjoy stunning views from the top of the island.
This experience suits those who appreciate ecology and conservation and want a personalized nature walk with expert guides. The reviews mention the spectacular scenery and appreciate the opportunity to do some bird spotting. It’s ideal if you want a more immersive experience without committing to a full day.
Bottom line: A balanced trip combining boat, walk, and conservation activities—good for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
$167 per person
How to Choose the Best Walking Tour in Wanaka
When selecting your walk or boat cruise, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. For adrenaline combined with nature, the Jet Boat and Wilderness Walk Tour is hard to beat. If wildlife and birdwatching are your focus, Mou Waho Island experiences or Cruise and Guided Walks make excellent choices.
Those with limited time may prefer the Ruby Island cruise, which offers a quick taste of Wanaka’s lakeside beauty. For serious hikers or those seeking a full-day adventure, the Rob Roy Glacier provides a challenging and rewarding experience.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time and ensure availability.
In summary, Wanaka’s walking tours and boat trips cover a spectrum of interests—from high-speed adventure rides to serene wildlife walks. For families, the Ruby Island cruise provides accessible fun, while the Rob Roy Glacier walk appeals to serious hikers. Whichever you choose, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of this stunning region. Book early, pack your sense of adventure, and enjoy exploring Wanaka’s spectacular outdoors.