Wanaka: 6-hour Advanced Waterfall Cable Climb

Wanaka: 6-hour Advanced Waterfall Cable Climb
Location: South Island, New Zealand
Price: $439 per person
Duration: 6 hours
Rating: 5/5 (based on 3 reviews)

If you’re craving a truly adrenaline-pumping adventure in New Zealand’s stunning South Island, the Wanaka Advanced Waterfall Cable Climb should be on your bucket list. This isn’t your typical sightseeing tour. For roughly six hours, you’ll be scaling what’s claimed to be the world’s highest waterfall cable climb—a feat that combines adrenaline, breathtaking views, and a hefty dose of technical skill. Your journey starts at the base of Twin Falls, just before the Treble Cone Ski field, and takes you behind waterfalls, across suspension bridges, and through vertical cliffs you’d normally only see in movies.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to climb behind a 60-meter waterfall—an exhilarating perspective that’s hard to find elsewhere. Second, the helicopter ride back down provides a spectacular way to end your climb, offering a bird’s-eye view of Wanaka’s lakes, mountains, and farmland. As a bonus, you get expert guidance throughout, and the lunch included keeps you fueled.

On the downside, this adventure is clearly aimed at fit, adventurous souls who aren’t afraid of heights or physical exertion. It’s a more challenging activity, suitable for those with a good head for heights and a reasonable level of fitness. The price, at $439, is not cheap but reflects the unique mix of technical climbing, safety gear, helicopter transfer, and small-group support.

This tour is perfect for thrill-seekers, experienced hikers, or adventure travelers looking for something beyond the usual outdoor activities. If you’re comfortable with heights, enjoy technical challenges, and want a memorable story to tell, this experience will likely be a highlight of your trip to Wanaka.

Key Points

Highest waterfall climb: Tackle the tallest waterfall cable route in the world for a true adrenaline rush.
Spectacular scenery: Enjoy views of mountains, lakes, and farmland as you ascend.
Behind-the-waterfall experience: Climb behind a 60-meter waterfall for a unique perspective.
Technical and exciting: Cross suspension bridges, scale vertical cliffs, and navigate airy overhangs.
Expert guides: Well-trained, supportive guides like Jasper help ensure safety and fun.
Helicopter transfer: Fly down in a helicopter, offering a stunning aerial view of Wanaka’s landscape.

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The Experience in Detail

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Starting Point: Twin Falls

Your adventure begins at the base of Twin Falls, a scenic spot just before the Treble Cone ski area. The drive there is part of the fun, as you’ll pass through some of the South Island’s most gorgeous scenery—rolling farmland, towering mountains, and shimmering lakes.

Preparing for the Climb

Before you start, the guides conduct a safety briefing and provide all necessary climbing safety equipment. These are top-grade, modern gear designed to keep you secure as you navigate verticals and overhangs. We appreciated how thorough the instruction was—no previous experience needed, but good physical condition and a head for heights are essential.

The Climb Itself

You’ll begin with an introductory training climb, allowing you to get comfortable with the gear and what’s to come. Once ready, you’ll ascend the waterfall, crossing a two-wire suspension bridge early on, which adds a fun, bouncy element and a sense of crossing into a different world.

A major highlight is climbing behind the 60-meter waterfall—a truly immersive experience. The rush of water, the roar behind you, and the spray make it feel like you’re in your own action movie. As you climb higher, you’ll pass beautiful hidden pools and smaller waterfalls that add to the awe-inspiring scenery. The course includes scaling an airy overhang, testing your agility and nerve.

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The Guides and Safety

According to reviews, guides like Jasper are knowledgeable, reassuring, and attentive. They support you throughout, making sure safety protocols are followed and that everyone is comfortable. The climbing is tailored to advanced adventure seekers, so you’ll need a good head for heights and be physically prepared.

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The Helicopter Ride Down

The finale is a helicopter flight that zooms you down from the summit. This isn’t just a convenient way to get off the mountain; it’s a chance to revel in panoramic views of Wanaka’s lakes, the surrounding mountains, and farmland. The experience turns your climb into a full-day adventure with spectacular visuals from start to finish.

What We Loved

We loved the stunning vistas that unfold during the helicopter ride, giving you a whole new appreciation for Wanaka’s landscape. We also appreciated the supportive guides—their expertise and calmness made the challenging parts much easier to enjoy. Plus, climbing behind a waterfall is a rare opportunity that allows a truly intimate encounter with nature’s power.

Considerations and Downsides

This tour is definitely not for everyone. It’s physically demanding and involves heights, which could be intimidating for some. Those who are over 100kg need to call ahead to ensure safety protocols are met. Also, the cost might seem high for some, but when you consider the helicopter ride, expert guides, and the uniqueness of the experience, it’s a fair value for thrill-seekers.

Who Should Sign Up?

This activity suits adventure travelers who are physically fit, confident with heights, and eager for a challenge. It’s perfect for those looking to tick off a world record climb and enjoy a day filled with spectacular sights and adrenaline. It’s also good for small groups or solo travelers who want a personalized, safe experience led by knowledgeable guides.

Those with young children, pregnant women, or anyone with heart problems should probably skip this intense activity. Also, if you’re not comfortable with open water or heights, this might not be the best fit.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Clothing & footwear: Dress in outdoor clothing and wear hiking shoes for grip and comfort.
Bring water: Hydration is key, especially when climbing for hours.
Timing: Tours are usually in the morning and last about six hours, so plan your day accordingly.
What’s not included: Water bottles and clothing are not supplied, so bring your essentials.
Weight limit: Anyone over 100kg should call ahead.

FAQ

Is this climb suitable for beginners?
No, this is an advanced climb, meant for fit adventure seekers with a good head for heights.

What do I need to bring?
Bring hiking shoes, water, and outdoor clothing. The tour provides all safety gear and instructions.

Can children participate?
No, this experience is not suitable for children under 15 years.

What if I am pregnant or have health issues?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women or people with heart problems.

How long is the helicopter ride?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, it’s described as a thrilling helicopter descent — a highlight of the tour.

What about the group size?
The tour is designed for small groups, with personalized support from guides like Jasper.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if plans change.

Final Thoughts

The Wanaka 6-hour Advanced Waterfall Cable Climb offers a rare blend of technical challenge, breathtaking scenery, and pure adventure. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who want to push their limits while enjoying some of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes. The experience of climbing behind a waterfall, crossing suspension bridges, and flying down in a helicopter makes it a memorable story you’ll be excited to tell.

Though it’s demanding physically and mentally, the support from excellent guides and the unbeatable scenery make it well worth considering if you’re after something truly extraordinary. For those eager to embrace their adventurous side and are comfortable with heights, this climb promises a day packed with excitement, awe, and accomplishment.

In the end, this tour isn’t just about conquering a waterfall; it’s about experiencing nature in a way most travelers never get to. If you’re seeking a challenge that combines thrill, scenic beauty, and a sense of achievement, this is the adventure for you.

You can check availability for your dates here: