Wanaka Glacier Adventure
Just 1 hour from Wanaka is the beautiful World Heritage area of the Mt Aspiring National Park. Within the park is the Matukituki valley, home to the Rob Roy Glacier. It is a massive glacier beginning high above on Rob Roy Peak- 2606 metres, clinging to the ever-steepening mountainside as it descends into the Rob Roy Valley. The Wanaka Glacier Adventure takes you to view this stunning glacier in the morning followed by a gourmet lunch and a walk up to a stunning lookout over Lake Wanaka in the afternoon. Intriguing history, stories and breath-taking landscapes punctuate this fantastic trip.
Tour Outline
One of our local guides will collect you from your accommodation before driving you along the western shore of Lake Wanaka and then journey along the scenic Mt Aspiring Rd, discovering its rich history along the way. After crossing several fords, we arrive at Raspberry creek where the road ends and our walk begins. We make our way across the open farmland of Mt Aspiring Station, gateway to Mt Aspiring National park on well-formed trails alongside the beautiful Matukituki River.
After approx. 1hr we reach the viewpoint opposite the Rob Roy Valley and take in a part of the glacier that formed the Matukituki valley descending from the majestic peaks above.
We then return to the vehicle and stop at a scenic lunch stop for our provided picnic lunch and refreshments. Your guide will then drive you to the nearby Diamond Lake Track. After approx. 1hr walking up through Tree Fuschia forest, home to Bellbirds (Korimako), we will emerge at the Eastern lookout with striking views of the winding Matukituki river feeding into lake Wanaka.
Those wishing to walk further, can continue on to the summit of Rocky Mountain for stunning views of Mt Aspiring and the Matukituki River Valley, fed by the waters of the Rob Roy Glacier, one of the most beautiful valleys New Zealand has to offer. Your guide will then return you to your accommodation at around 4-5pm depending on how far you have chosen to walk.
Trip Information – Lake Wanaka View Point
Actual Walking Distance: 9km to Wanaka viewpoint only
Total Actual Walking Time: 3hrs
Altitude – Highest Point – Lake Wanaka Viewpoint 560m
Total elevation increase: 260m
Trip Information – Rocky Mountain
Actual Walking Distance: 11km to summit of Rocky Mountain
Total Actual Walking Time: 4hrs
Altitude – Highest Point – Rocky Mountain – 775m
Total elevation increase: 475m
Requirements : Moderate fitness level, layers of clothing, waterproof jacket, good strong walking shoes or boots, day pack and a water bottle.
Included : Courtesy pick-up & drop-off from Wanaka Accommodation
Seasonality : October – April
Prices
- Adult $350, child $235 (8-14 years)
- Minimum 2 adults
- Lunch is included in the price.
- Prices are valid: 1 October 2023 – 30 September 2024
