Wanaka Heli Siberia: Honest Review of Flight, Hike & Jet Boat

Wanaka, New Zealand, is almost like a place ripped straight from a postcard, and the Heli Siberia adventure promises a trifecta of thrilling experiences. I mean, seriously, who wouldn’t want a helicopter flight, a gorgeous hike, and a wild jet boat ride all rolled into one? I get the appeal, so I went for it and let me tell you all about my adventure.

Up, Up and Away: Helicopter Flight Over Mount Aspiring Park

The adventure kicks off, so I think you’ll find it really neat, with a helicopter flight that whisks you away over Mount Aspiring National Park. Actually, I thought the views alone were worth the price of admission. You get that “Lord of the Rings” landscape sort of perspective with the jagged snow-capped mountains, and it truly is an impressive, stunning visual. Now, the chopper ride itself is, arguably, very smooth, and the pilot is quite the narrator. Seriously, they know pretty much everything there is to know about the area, like history, geology, all that sort of information.

That said, the best part, anyway, is when the helicopter touches down in a remote part of the Siberia Valley. Is that remote, you might wonder? Well, it felt a little like stepping into a place that time forgot. I guess I really wasn’t expecting it to feel that wild. If you’re worried about weather, typically, the flights run year-round, but naturally weather can play a big role in whether they go ahead. Keep an eye on that forecast. More or less, if the weather is poor, they reschedule.

On Foot Through Paradise: Hiking in the Siberia Valley

After the flight, of course, the next stop is a hike that weaves its way through the Siberia Valley. In some respects, this valley felt pretty serene with the glacial rivers running through it. If you’re the sort of person that really values those pristine spots, then, by the way, this is where this activity shines. Typically, the hike isn’t too challenging, so nearly anyone with average fitness levels can totally handle it. Usually, you will see lots of diverse groups here.

Seemingly, you get to soak it all in at your pace, too. Actually, there is just a beautiful sound with those birds singing and that water rushing that totally calms your nerves. So, you might just appreciate those times you just get to breathe in fresh, crisp air and enjoy a place so untouched. Keep in mind that sturdy shoes are definitely a requirement for a hike like this; in that case, comfortable clothes are more or less advisable. Just because that Kiwi sun can be deceptively intense, sunscreen is very necessary. Almost certainly, bugs can also be present, so pack that repellant too. In a way, you’re prepared, you can, probably, totally enjoy yourself better.

Hold on Tight: The Thrills of the Wilkin River Jet Boat Ride

To top things off, really, the Heli Siberia adventure concludes with a thrilling jet boat ride on the Wilkin River. Instead of being calm and sedate like a rowboat, you’ll find this part exciting, in particular as you zip and zoom past those gravel banks and the towering canyon walls. Of course, these jet boats can handle some super shallow water too. It’s almost magical as you get to skim through those sections you would have assumed impassable.

Seriously, these drivers have real skill. Apparently, the jet boat drivers can throw the boat into spins, so naturally it is exhilarating but completely safe too. More or less, just remember to hold on tight. I want to emphasize that getting a little wet is usually part of the excitement, as a matter of fact. Make sure that you keep electronic devices protected.

Things to consider for your Wanaka Heli Siberia adventure

Duration: Plan on roughly 4 to 5 hours for the full experience.
Cost: Expect to pay a bit more, as this activity is absolutely on the premium side. However, when considering it offers three distinctive experiences it can seem reasonable.
What to bring: Layers are ideal since mountain weather may change quite quickly. Don’t forget sunglasses, camera gear, water bottle.
Booking: Seriously, consider booking in advance, most of all in peak travel times, as spots are extremely limited.
Physical Level: A basic level of fitness is quite enough; the hike has minimal elevation gain.

Is the Wanaka Heli Siberia Adventure Worth It?

Okay, after putting all these experiences under the microscope, if you are after an adventure, this adventure has it all; soaring sights, calming hike plus the exhilaration from rapid river rides. Basically, while it does ring up as more costly than a few activities, if you weigh that it does three activities in one with unmatched access into Wanaka’s wildlands, the bang that you receive could be well worth its value.

#Wanaka #HeliSiberia #AdventureTravel #NewZealand