Guided Walk

DISCOVER THE Blue Pools & Makarora Bridle Track

These two trails provide a peaceful immersion into New Zealand’s wild heart, perfect for nature lovers, bird watchers, and those seeking a gentle yet rewarding outdoor experience.

Distance

8 - 9 kms

depart WANAKA

9am daily

Suitable for

all ages and fitness levels

TOUR SIZE

6 hikers per guide

elevation gain

210m

DURATION

8 hours

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Discover the striking clarity of the Blue Pools, where glacier-fed waters meet native silver beech forest in a scene of unforgettable beauty.

  • Cross swing bridges over glacier-fed rivers with vibrant turquoise waters

  • Follow the historic Makarora Bridle Track, and enjoy the solitude of lush beech forest

  • Learn the secrets of the native plants, birds and cultural history from your local guides

  • Enjoy a supplied gourmet lunch

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    RIVERS & WATERFALLS

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    protected habitat

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    Moderate walk

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    Family friendly

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    highly recommended

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    safety certified

FAQ & WHAT TO BRING

  • We recommend wearing sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots on the day walks.  Layered clothing suitable for changing alpine weather, a waterproof jacket, and a sunhat. Even on sunny days, conditions can change quickly.

    Requirements: good strong walking shoes/boots, layers of clothing, waterproof jacket, day pack and water bottle,

  • Bring a water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, and your camera or phone (we promise you'll want photos).

    We supply walking poles (if needed) and some snacks or refreshments depending on the trip.

    • Actual walking distance: 5 km (return)

    • Actual walking time: 2 hours (return)

    • Altitudes: lowest: 350 m and highest: 562 m

    • Grade: average fitness

  • Yes, our trips are family-friendly! Children need to be comfortable walking on uneven terrain and accompanied by an adult. We generally recommend ages 4 and up for Mou Waho and 8+ for Rob Roy or Heli Hikes due to the length of the walk and terrain. 

    For the Lake Cruise and Island Nature Walk we can accommodate infants and provide a back pack carrier if required. 

  • Safety comes first. We monitor forecasts closely and may delay or adjust departure times for better conditions. If we need to cancel due to unsafe weather, we’ll offer an alternative date or a full refund.

    You are encouraged to call us the day before on +64 (0) 27 923 1420 the day before and we can give you the latest updated on what conditions you should prepare for. 

    For the Lake Cruise and Island Nature Walk, cancellations are primarily due to strong winds on the lake, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests. We proceed in light rain, but if official weather warnings are in place, we will cancel to prioritize safety.

    For day walks, we follow MetService warnings and cancel when advised to avoid hazardous conditions. If heavy rain is forecast with no expected improvement, we may cancel or offer an alternate hike in a safer location. Guest safety is our top priority, and we will always adjust plans to ensure the best possible experience while keeping everyone secure.

    For the Lake Cruise and Island Nature walk if we were to cancel it would normally be for wind strength on the lake and we normally proceed when light rain is forecast but will cancel when warnings are in place. 

    For the day walks we cancel when warnings are in place with MetService. If the forecast suggested no let up in the rain we would cancel and/or offer an alternate hike opportunity (often the weather is better closer to Wanaka). 

    For Heli Hikes we must watch for low cloud cover, wind and rain which can affect visibility. 

  • Yes. All our guides are qualified in outdoor first aid, experienced in leading wilderness hikes, and equipped with communication devices and first aid kits are carried and in the vessels/vehicles.

  • Absolutely. We love crafting personalised experiences for couples, families, or small groups. Just let us know your interests or special requests.

Walk the gravel path through Silver Beech to the Blue Pools. Spot feeding Rainbow and Brown trout from the swing bridge over the Makarora River and the viewing platform overlooking the crystal clear blue pools.

Have lunch at Cameron Flat, with commanding views over the Makarora River to the Main Divide of the Southern Alps.

Follow the Bridle Track on the original, horse-only access to the West Coast, passing through more forest, and follow the upper reaches of the Makarora River, with stunning river and valley views.

Return home through wonderful views of Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea, with many photo opportunities along the way.

5 Star Adventures

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