Wanaka: Waterfall Climb and Canyon Tour

If you’re craving an active day in New Zealand’s South Island, this Waterfall Climb and Canyon Tour in Wanaka is an excellent option. For around $193 per person, you get six hours of adventure that combines climbing, canyoning, and close encounters with some of the region’s most spectacular waterfalls. Led by experienced guides, this tour promises both adrenaline and beautiful scenery, all tailored for beginners with a good level of fitness.

What we love about this experience is its balanced mix of challenge and safety—you’re supported every step of the way—and the chance to abseil down waterfalls that you might normally only admire from afar. Also, the small group size ensures a more personalized and flexible experience, allowing you to go at your own pace and even do some detours for extra fun.

The only thing to consider is that this tour requires you to be active on uneven terrain and comfortable with heights. If you’re looking for a very relaxed, sightseeing-only day, this might not be the right fit. But for adventure lovers who want a taste of climbing, canyoning, and mountain views, this trip hits the mark.

This experience suits adventurous beginners—those who are fit, active, and eager to learn new skills—and is perfect for travelers who aren’t afraid of getting wet and tackling some exposed cliffs.

Key Points

• Active adventure combining climbing and canyoning without prior experience needed.
• Stunning mountain and lake views enhance the thrill of the journey.
• Small group sizes (limited to 6) offer personalized support and flexibility.
• Well-supported by experienced guides teaching safety and climbing skills.
• Tour includes all necessary safety gear and equipment, plus lunch.
• Suitable for adventurous, fit beginners with a good head for heights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Wanaka Waterfall Climb and Canyon Tour

What’s Included and How It All Comes Together

This tour offers a well-rounded experience packed into six hours, running mainly in the morning. Starting with a Level 1 cable climb, you’ll learn the ropes—literally—and get comfortable with climbing on a controlled, beginner-friendly setup. The guides are there to support your learning, making sure everyone is safe and confident before moving on.

From there, you’ll follow a cliffside trail to the adjoining waterfall, which is where the real fun begins. The highlight is abseiling (or rappelling) down the lower section of the Twin Falls Waterfalls—an activity that promises a sense of accomplishment and some serious bragging rights. Once down, there’s a chance to cross a wire with a guide, giving you a different perspective and a bit of an adrenaline rush.

Throughout the tour, you’ll get to walk through native bush and enjoy breathtaking mountain and lake views—which make for great photos and memorable moments. The guides are not only skilled climbers but also passionate about sharing the environment, ensuring you connect with the landscape on a meaningful level.

The Experience for Beginners and Adventure Seekers

You don’t need any prior climbing or canyoning experience—just a good level of fitness and a sense of adventure. The tour is suitable for adventurous, fit beginners willing to be active on uneven terrain and handle exposed cliffs. If you’re comfortable walking, climbing, and getting a little wet, you’ll do just fine.

The training and safety equipment provided means you can focus on enjoying the activity rather than worrying about safety. Expect to wear wetsuits and wetsuit socks, which are necessary for keeping warm and dry during the water activities.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

We loved the combination of climbing and canyoning—it’s rare to find a tour that offers both with such straightforward learning. The stunning mountain backdrop elevates the whole experience, transforming an adrenaline activity into a scenic adventure. The guides earn high praise for their knowledge, support, and friendly manner—one reviewer, Svenja from Germany, notes, “The small group allowed us to really go our own pace and do some detours for extra fun.”

Another aspect that keeps travelers coming back is the value for money. For six hours of guided adventure, the tour includes all safety gear, training, wetsuits, and lunch—making it a well-rounded package. Plus, the small group size ensures more personal attention and fewer crowds, which is often a concern in popular adventure activities.

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The Meeting Point and Practical Tips

The meeting spot is straightforward: from Wanaka town, follow the Wanaka-Mt Aspiring Road west along the lake towards Treble Cone Ski Field. After about 20 minutes, look for a cattle stop and pull to the left in front of two waterfalls and a locked farm gate with the guide’s sign. It’s a quiet, natural setting that keeps the tour feeling authentic.

What to bring? Pack swimsuits, towels, sturdy shoes to get wet, and water. You’ll want your waterproof phone or camera case if you wish to take photos during the activity. Since part of the tour involves walking on uneven and exposed terrain, sturdy shoes are essential.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This adventure is perfect for adventurous beginners who are fit and active, and eager to try something different from typical sightseeing. It’s ideal for travelers who want a hands-on experience with nature, rather than just looking at waterfalls from a distance. It’s not suitable for children under 14, or those with weight or height restrictions listed, but for most active travelers, it offers a memorable challenge.

Final Thoughts

The Wanaka Waterfall Climb and Canyon Tour offers a rare combination of adventure, scenic beauty, and personal achievement. Whether you’re conquering your fear of heights or simply enjoying the stunning mountain vistas, this trip provides real value through experienced guides and well-thought-out activities.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to push themselves physically but also appreciate the natural beauty of New Zealand. The small group size means more attention and flexibility, making it a safer and more engaging experience.

If you’re eager for a thrilling day that leaves you with stories to tell and photos to cherish, this is a great choice. Just come prepared to get wet, work your muscles, and marvel at the breathtaking surroundings.

FAQ

Do I need previous climbing or canyoning experience?
No, this tour is designed for beginners. You will receive training and all safety equipment to help you learn the skills required.

What should I wear and bring?
Bring swimsuits, towels, sturdy shoes to get wet, and water. You might find a waterproof phone or camera case useful if you want photos during the activity.

How physically demanding is this tour?
It’s suitable for fit beginners. You should be comfortable walking on uneven terrain and exposed cliffs. Expect to be active for up to 5 hours.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, children under 14 years old are not recommended. The activity involves heights and physical exertion that are not suitable for younger kids.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers an experienced guide, safety training, safety gear, wetsuits, wetsuit socks, and lunch.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet at the cattle stop in front of the waterfalls just after the Treble Cone Road turnoff. Follow signs from Wanaka town towards Mt Aspiring.

Whether you’re craving an adrenaline rush or simply want to experience New Zealand’s spectacular landscapes from a new perspective, this tour offers a unique blend of thrill and scenery. It’s a memorable way to connect with nature—and yourself—on your Wanaka trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: