QUEENSTOWN · DESTINATION
Queenstown’s best days out.
The 15 most popular wanaka tours in Queenstown. A short list of the ones worth planning a day around, with prices, run times and who to book with.
Wildwire Wanaka Level 2 via ferrata: a 4-hour waterfall climb with gear, safety briefings, lunch, and small-group guidance.
Most Popular“The climb is amazing! Mark and the team are great too. Our guide was patient and calm, but fun at the same time. We are very grateful we were able to do this!”
Shuttle to Hawea, then bike scenic Wanaka–Hawea trails by e-bike or bike with helmets, trunk bag, and easy return to town.
“A great way to spend a day in Wanaka. Solid bikes, friendly operators, all the guidance you need, and plenty of paths to go exploring on.”
Relax on Lake Wanaka with a 1-hour catamaran happy hour: included wine/beer, cheese and crackers, and big mountain views from the water.
“Great way to relax, meet some like minded people and enjoy a drink on the beautiful lake.”
Jet boat thrills on the Clutha River from Wanaka with small-group transfers, live history commentary, and photo stops in 1.5 hours.
“Pat was a very skilled and knowledgeable pilot and we had a great time while learning some 'fun facts' about the Clutha and surrounds. Would absolutely highly recommend this to anyone up for an adrenaline rush. Thanks to Pat, Tracey and Gabi for making our time with Go Jets Wanaka full of fun and lots…”
Water taxi to Mou Waho Island: hike to a hidden lake, meet Wekas, and swim in Lake Wanaka, with scenic commentary.
“Everything was perfect- transport, the weather and the views”
Jet boat speed on the Matukituki River plus a guided Mount Aspiring walk for $215.96, small groups, wet gear included.
“Ben is a very knowledgable and gifted skipper. You are in for a real treat on this trip!!!! We had a blast with beautiful scenery, great jet boat ride and walk in a serene beech forest. Would definitely do this again when in Wanaka!”
Take a tandem parachute jump from up to 15,000 ft over Wanaka, with Southern Alps views, fast freefall, and optional photo/video.
“Had a wonderful jump, absolutely amazing experience. Ben was super friendly and made me feel at ease 😊 Definitely would do it again.”
Half-day small-group tour from Queenstown to Arrowtown and Wanaka via Crown Range Road, with guided stops and free time to explore.
“We had an enjoyable time on the tour! If you find yourself in Queenstown and want to explore Wanaka and Arrowtown, this tour is absolutely perfect for you. Our bus driver/ tour guide was very friendly and very knowledgeable.”
Ride 450cc quads through Cardrona Valley from Wanaka, with helmets, small-group guidance, and mountain gold-rush sights in about 2 hours.
“I dont Have any riding experience but my husband has . I found the bikes a bit heavy to navigate at first but once you get comfortable it was fab to just enjoy the ride and experience the magic that is Queenstown . Great way to spend a morning. !”
3.5-hour Wanaka water taxi to Mou Waho Island on Lake Wānaka. Learn geology, spot Weka, hike to Arethusa Pool.
“Awesome guided tour of the lake. Guide was super knowledgeable. Island hike beautiful and well worth our.”
Step into Wanaka’s Puzzling World for a brain-twisting day with the 3-D Great Maze, Illusion Rooms, and iconic wacky photo spots.
“Puzzling World is A LOT OF FUN!!! No AI, no screens, just good old fashion fun! The large outdoor puzzle is a fun workout. Just as you think you are there, dam... another blocked wall. Really enjoyed this experience, and it only takes about 2 hours of of your day, which is great, because there…”
High-speed jet boat on Wanaka’s Clutha River with the Hamilton Spin, 80+ km/h thrills, and snow-capped mountain views in 1 hour.
“So much fun and stunning views of the water. Definitely try it if you’re on the fence you won’t regret it”
Beginner-friendly via ferrata to Twin Falls near Wanaka, with gear, safety briefing, small-group guides, and a sweet snack.
“Loved this experience. Solid shoes with good grip is a must. Our guide Alison was a star and took lots of great photos - thanks for a fab day”
Beginner waterfall cable climbing near Wanaka at Twin Falls. Via ferrata rungs, suspension bridges, hidden pools, and mountain views in 3 hours.
“Loved it!! Shitting myself the whole time but Chester and Rocky were fantastic. Very calming and make you feel safe the whole time.”
A late-afternoon 1-hour Lake Wanaka cruise with a free drink, cheese & crackers, and pass-by views of Ruby Island and the Southern Alps.
“It could be cool because after all, you are on the water! Bring a jacket and expect a good time. The narrative was great, not too long and not too short.”
Every corner of the region, and every way to see it.
