Wanaka’s 12 Best Walking Tours

Wanaka is a town that seems to have been built for outdoor lovers. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, shimmering lakes, and lush forests, it’s a place where your feet can keep pace with the stunning scenery. Whether you’re after a quick stroll or an all-day trek, Wanaka’s walking tours offer something for all. We particularly love the Jet Boat and Wilderness Walk Tour for its adrenaline-fueled start and easy hike through Mount Aspiring National Park, giving you a taste of the wild and the wonderful in one half-day outing. It’s perfect for those who want action but still enjoy a relaxed walk with plenty of personal attention.

For nature lovers, tours like the Lake Cruise & Mou Waho Island Nature Walk and the Mou Waho Island Cruise and Guided Nature Walk deliver breathtaking views and close encounters with native birdlife. These trips combine boat rides with gentle hikes, making them ideal for families or anyone who wants a balanced day on the water and on foot. To help you decide, we’ve broken down the top walking tours, highlighting what makes each unique and why they might be the right fit for your Wanaka adventure.

1. Jet Boat and Wilderness Walk Tour from Wanaka

Speed along the Matukituki River on an exhilarating jet boat ride and then enjoy a guided hike through Mount Aspiring National Park. This tour is celebrated for its combination of high-speed water action and serene nature walks. The jet boat takes you past glaciers and film locations from The Lord of the Rings, offering dramatic scenery that’s hard to beat. The walk, rated as easy and suitable for most fitness levels, offers a chance to see lush forests, waterfalls, and mountain vistas in a relaxed setting. The small-group setup ensures personalized attention, and reviews highlight guides like Ben, who share interesting details about the area.

Practical for those who want a mix of adrenaline and nature, this tour is priced at around $216 per person and lasts about four hours. It’s especially recommended for travelers who enjoy adventure but also appreciate a good story from their guide. The ongoing praise for the water views, expert commentary, and the chance to explore a location used for the Lord of the Rings films makes this a memorable choice.

Bottom Line: For a fun, active experience combining thrill and tranquility, this tour offers excellent value and a well-rounded taste of Wanaka’s wild side.

2. Lake Cruise & Mou Waho Island Nature Walk

For a calmer, more contemplative experience, the Lake Cruise & Mou Waho Island Nature Walk is a standout. Priced at about $177, it includes a boat trip across Lake Wanaka, a guided walk to the island’s highest point, and a chance to see the rare Buff Weka bird, reintroduced to the island. The boat captain offers commentary on Wanaka’s geography and natural history, enriching your understanding of the landscape. The highlight is reaching the top of Mou Waho, where you’ll see a freshwater lake on an island — on a lake — on an island! The tour also involves planting a native tree, contributing to ongoing conservation efforts.

The tour’s reviews praise the balance of scenic beauty and educational value. One visitor said, “We learned so much about the plants and animals in the area,” which sums up the experience well. It’s roughly a three-and-a-half-hour outing, ideal for families or anyone wanting a peaceful day immersed in nature without strenuous activity.

Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you value ecological restoration, wildlife, and stunning lake views in a relaxed setting.

3. Mou Waho Island Cruise and Guided Nature Walk

This shorter, more budget-friendly option offers a comprehensive look at Mou Waho Island’s wildlife and scenery for about $111. The trip includes a boat cruise, a guided walk, and park fees included in the price. It’s an easy way to see rare native birds, such as the Buff Weka, and enjoy panoramic views from the island’s summit. The walk, which lasts around 2 hours, is suitable for most fitness levels, although some steep sections require a bit of effort.

Guests comment that the guides are knowledgeable about the geology, history, and biology of the island. One reviewer remarked, “The views were stunning, and the guided walk made the experience even richer.” With a total duration of about three hours, this tour is ideal for travelers short on time but eager to see and learn about Wanaka’s unique island ecosystems.

Bottom Line: A great pick for those who want a high-impact, educational outing with minimal fuss and maximum scenery.

4. Stevensons Island 2-Hour Cruise and Nature Walk

This short yet engaging trip offers a two-hour cruise combined with a guided walk on Stevensons Island. Starting from the Wanaka lakefront, you’ll enjoy spectacular views and get up close to the island’s flora and fauna. The cruise, in a luxury catamaran, provides fantastic photo opportunities, making it perfect for photography enthusiasts. The guided walk is brief but informative, giving insights into the local environment.

Rated 4.6 out of 5, travelers appreciate the ease of access and high-quality commentary. The trip suits visitors who want a quick, scenic escape and some light walking without committing a whole day. It’s especially good for families or those with limited time who still want to experience Wanaka’s natural beauty in a relaxed manner.

Bottom Line: For a short but scenic outing with excellent photo opportunities, this cruise and walk combo delivers superb value.

5. Mou Waho Island: 3-Hour Cruise and Guided Nature Walk

Offering a slightly longer exploration, this three-hour tour focuses on discovering Mou Waho Island’s wildlife and landscapes. It includes a boat cruise, a guided walk to the island’s lookout, and plenty of opportunities for photography. The trip is tailored for those who want a more in-depth experience of the island’s biology and geology, with a focus on conservation. Guests often praise the guided walk, which takes you through the diverse terrain and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Reviews highlight the quality of the guides and the beautiful scenery, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. The inclusion of park fees and the opportunity to plant a native tree further enhance its ecological value.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a more immersive, nature-focused experience on Mou Waho Island.

6. Wanaka: Jet Boat & Wilderness Walk

This four-hour adventure combines a jet boat ride through the Matukituki Valley with a 50-minute wilderness walk. The jet boat takes you past glaciers and filming locations from The Lord of the Rings, delivering a dose of cinematic scenery with the thrill of high-speed water travel. Afterwards, the walk provides a peaceful trek through forests, waterfalls, and streams, guided by a knowledgeable local.

Rated 4.8 out of 5, past guests rave about the combo of stunning vistas and the informative guiding. It’s suited for travelers who like a mix of excitement and calm exploration and who don’t mind a longer outing. The tour offers a chance to see hanging glaciers and Mount Aspiring up close.

Bottom Line: For those who want a full-day adventure that’s both exciting and scenic, this tour delivers a memorable experience.

7. Stevensons Island Cruise and Nature Walk

This more affordable option, at under $60, offers a two-hour cruise and guided walk on Stevensons Island. It’s perfect if you want a quick introduction to the landscape and wildlife of Lake Wanaka. Boarding from the central lakefront, you’ll enjoy a scenic cruise, then disembark for a short walk with your guide. The tour emphasizes wildlife and natural history, and reviews praise the friendly crew and the beautiful views.

Ideal for those with limited time or travelers on a budget, it’s a straightforward yet enjoyable way to see the island and learn about its environment.

Bottom Line: A compact, scenic trip for visitors who want a quick taste of Wanaka’s natural beauty.

8. From Wanaka: Ruby Island 1-Hour Cruise and Photo Walk

This brief but picture-perfect trip offers a one-hour cruise with a guided walk around Ruby Island. It’s perfect when time is short but you still want to capture some great photos. The tour covers the island’s scenery and its history, providing ample opportunities to snap the mountains, water, and native plants.

Rated 4.5 out of 5, reviewers mention the beautiful scenery and helpful guides. It’s best suited for travelers who want a quick, scenic outing with good photo stops.

Bottom Line: An excellent short trip for capturing Wanaka’s natural beauty in a compact time frame.

9. 1-Hour Ruby Island Cruise and Walk

Another quick option, this one-hour cruise and walk allows you to enjoy Ruby Island’s views, native plants, and quick photo opportunities. The self-guided walk on Ruby Island offers a relaxed way to enjoy Wanaka’s scenery without a lengthy commitment. Departing from the Wanaka Marina, it’s accessible and ideal for travelers short on time or looking for a simple nature break.

Guests mention that the island is very photogenic and the crew is helpful, making this a popular choice for solo travelers and families alike.

Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick, scenic escape with plenty of photo opportunities without leaving much time behind.

10. Wanaka High Country Walk

This full-day hike is a rare opportunity to see Wanaka’s high country from a private 4WD. Covering approximately 20 km, with the support of the vehicle, you can hike as much or as little as you like. The views of Lake Wanaka and surrounding mountains are spectacular, especially when you reach backcountry areas seldom visited by travelers. The guide’s expert commentary on flora and fauna enriches the experience, making it ideal for those wanting a deep dive into the local environment.

Rated 5 out of 5, it’s suited for active travelers who enjoy a longer, immersive day in nature. Be prepared for a full day out, with snacks and hydration included.

Bottom Line: For serious hikers or those seeking a comprehensive high-country experience, this tour offers unmatched scenery and insight.

11. Mou Waho Island Boat Tour and Nature Walk

This highly-rated 3.5-hour tour focuses on experiencing Mou Waho Island with a boat tour and a guided walk. It emphasizes birdwatching, with opportunities to see rare species like the Buff Weka. The tour includes planting a native tree on the island, contributing to conservation. Visitors love the stunning views and the chance to learn about the island’s geology, history, and biology from knowledgeable guides.

Rated 5 out of 5, this tour is ideal for eco-conscious travelers and wildlife enthusiasts who want a comprehensive, engaging day.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those interested in conservation, rare birds, and scenic boat trips.

12. Rob Roy Glacier Guided Walk

This intense, full-day trek takes you into World Heritage-listed Mount Aspiring National Park to see the Rob Roy Glacier. Starting with a scenic drive and crossing several fords, the guided hike includes walking through beech forests and alpine terrain. The highlight is the panoramic view of the glacier and surrounding mountains, making it the ultimate adventure for fit, experienced hikers. The guide shares insights on flora, fauna, and local history along the way.

Rated 5/5, reviewers describe it as a “stunning, unforgettable experience.” It’s suited for those ready to commit a full day and looking for an up-close glacier encounter in a spectacular setting.

Bottom Line: For active travelers seeking a challenging, rewarding hike with unforgettable views, this guided walk is hard to beat.

How to Choose the Right Walking Tour in Wanaka

Selecting the perfect tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. If you crave a mix of adventure and scenery, the Jet Boat and Wilderness Walk offers a thrilling start with a scenic walk. For those who prefer a more relaxed day, the Mou Waho Island cruises and Lake Cruise & Mou Waho Island provide stunning views and wildlife encounters without strenuous activity.

Budget travelers may prefer shorter trips like the Stevensons Island Cruise or Ruby Island cruises, while serious hikers should consider the Wanaka High Country Walk or the Rob Roy Glacier Guided Walk. Book early, especially in peak months, as many tours fill up fast.

In summary, Wanaka offers a diverse selection of walking tours – from high-energy jet boat adventures to peaceful island walks and challenging mountain hikes. Whether you’re after a quick scenic trip or a full-day exploration, this list covers all the bases. For families, wildlife lovers, or seasoned trekkers, there’s an experience tailored just for you. With so many options, it’s wise to plan ahead and book early to ensure your spot on these popular outings. Now, get your walking shoes ready and make the most of your Wanaka visit.