Blue Pools & Makarora Guided Walk
These 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.
A full day guided tour with lunch and local pick up & drop off in Wānaka included.
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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
HIGHLIGHTS:
Discover the striking clarity of the Blue Pools!
Glacier-fed waters meet native silver beech forest.
Cross swing bridges.
Follow the historic Makarora Bridle Track.
Enjoy the solitude of lush beech forest
Local guides share their knowledge of native plants, birds and history.
Enjoy a supplied gourmet lunch & refreshments!
Distance
8 - 9 kms
depart WANAKA
9am daily
elevation gain
210m
DURATION
8 hours
TOUR SIZE
6 hikers per guide
Suitable for
All ages & fitness levels
FAQS
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Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots and layered clothing suitable for changing alpine weather, a waterproof jacket, and a sunhat. Even on sunny days, conditions can change quickly in the mountains.
Requirements: good strong walking shoes/boots, suitable layers of clothing, waterproof jacket. Bring a day pack and water bottle.
Lunch and refreshments are included.
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Bring a water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, and your camera or phone (we promise you'll want photos).
We supply walking poles (if needed).
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Suitable for anyone in good health, comfortable walking on uneven terrain and near ridgelines. Suitable for active children 8 and over everyone else with average fitness
Our trips are designed for people with a range of fitness and mobility levels. We take regular breaks and always move at the pace of the group.
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Yes, our trips are family-friendly! Children need to be comfortable walking on uneven terrain and accompanied by an adult. We generally recommend ages 8 and up.
We can accommodate infants and provide a back pack carrier if required.
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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 and we can give you the latest updated on what conditions you should prepare for.
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Yes. All our guides are qualified in outdoor first aid, experienced in leading wilderness hikes, and equipped with communication devices and first aid kits.
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Every Eco Adventures trip directly supports predator control, native planting, and island conservation efforts. Ask your guide how your trip contributes to conservation efforts.
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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 forest to the Blue Pools. Spot feeding Rainbow and Brown trout from the swing bridge & viewing platform overlooking the crystal clear blue pools of the Makarora River.
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 beech forest, and follow the upper reaches of the Makarora River, with stunning river and valley views.
Return to Wānaka in our comfortable shuttle, enjoying wonderful views of Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea, with many photo opportunities along the way!
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