Explore Mount Aspiring National Park from above, on foot, and by river on this exclusive wilderness adventure.
The day starts with a scenic drive to the small settlement of Glenorchy at the head of Lake Whakatipu. Take a spectacular helicopter flight over Lake Whakatipu and the Dart Valley, before beginning a stunning walk through ancient beech forest into Mount Aspiring National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Stroll under a canopy of native forest located between the Dart and Routeburn river valleys. This is an area where Guided Walks New Zealand is the only company permitted to walk off-trail. You will then meet an exclusive private jet boat on the banks of the Dart River where you will journey along the braided, shallow, glacier-fed river whilst learning about the area’s rich history, the Pounamu trail and renowned Māori legends. After a delicious lunch in Glenorchy, finish the day with breathtaking views of Lake Whakatipu on the Bob’s Cove walk.
Duration
Full day, approximately 9 hours return
Walking Distance
6 to 7 km (easy to moderate). Approximately 2 to 3 hours.
Track
Unformed trails, easy to moderate. Walking on leaves and moss
Food
Snacks, tea and coffee, and lunch
Departures
7:00am from Queenstown
Reconnect with nature as you explore the incredible landscapes and wildlife that New Zealand has to offer. Our expert guides are on hand to share their knowledge and passion for the outdoors as well as providing you with morning tea and a delicious lunch.
Transport is provided from your Queenstown accommodation and your driver will share commentary and stop for photos along the way.
RESTRICTIONS: Please note, for safety reasons, we are unable to accept clients on this trip who are pregnant or children under one metre in height (irrespective of the child's age).
Privately Guided Experience Price
| 1-4 People | $4,795 |
| Extra Adult | $935 |
| Extra Child (8-14 years) | $935 |
| Extra Adult/ Child rate charged up to a full group of 10. | |
|---|---|
Add a helicopter landing on the summit of Mt Alfred to your Aspiring Wilderness Experience and enjoy picturesque views of Mt Aspiring National Park and Lake Whakatipu.
Add on a Mt Alfred Helicopter Landing
| 1- 4 People | $750 |
| Extra Adult | $250 |
| Extra Child (8-14 years) | $250 |
Aspiring Wilderness Experience
Wear sensible footwear, ideally closed-toed trail shoes or hiking boots. Sunglasses are essential all year round, as are hats (bring your sun hat in summer and a warm hat for the jet boat ride), sunscreen, a drink bottle and a waterproof jacket.
Our weather can be changeable, especially in the mountains so make sure you come prepared with plenty of warm layers. Bring a small daypack if you have one or borrow one from us.
Transport to and from your Queenstown accommodation (excludes private residence).
Morning tea and lunch.
Knowledgeable and friendly guides.
Interpretative commentary of flora, fauna, history and geology.
Walking poles, day packs and jackets are also available on loan.
The walk is predominantly flat on a mix of well-formed track and off-track sections where there may be small obstacles to navigate around. We would recommend an average level of fitness (ability to walk for 2-3 hours on uneven ground).
Wear sensible footwear, ideally closed-toed trail shoes or hiking boots.
This experience is not suitable if you are pregnant due to the jet boat ride but we do have other experiences that are suitable, check out our Lakeshore, Forest and Bird experience.
There are no toilets on the track. Should clients need to use the 'green room' our guides carry toilet paper and hand sanitiser.
Drive: 45-60min one way,
Helicopter ride: 5-7min,
Guided Walk: 2-3 hours;
Jet Boat ride 45-60min,
Optional additional 1 hour walk at Bob’s Cove
Yes, we can cater for all dietary needs. Please get in touch with our friendly team before your experience to let us know.
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Aspiring Wilderness Experience Image Gallery
Check out the spectacular Aspiring Wilderness Experience in photographs.
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How to Prepare for a Hike
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