Wild Hills Off Road Safari

If you’re heading to Wanaka and craving a taste of the region’s wild, less-visited corners, the Wild Hills Off Road Safari promises a memorable journey. This small-group tour offers a chance to explore private farms and stunning mountain scenery—something you won’t get by just driving yourself or sticking to the main tourist spots.

We’ve gathered plenty of details to help you decide if this adventure fits your travel style, from its highlights to its quirks.

What we love most about this tour is the expert guiding—your local Kiwi guides share stories that bring the landscape alive—and the jaw-dropping views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding peaks. Plus, the chance to see wildlife, such as herds of Red Deer grazing freely, adds a genuine touch of nature. One thing to consider: this experience is best suited for those comfortable with a rugged, off-road ride and a bit of walking.

If you’re after a relaxed, luxury experience, this might not be your top choice. But if you want authentic access to Wanaka’s backcountry, it’s a winner.

This tour is perfect for travelers who love outdoor adventures, small-group interactions, and discovering hidden parts of New Zealand’s Southern Alps. It’s especially suited to those who appreciate expert-guided stories and panoramic photo opportunities. Now, let’s break down everything you need to know about the Wild Hills Off Road Safari.

Key Points

Authentic access to private farms and remote mountain areas.
Expert local guides who share stories and insights.
Stunning panoramic views of Lake Wanaka, the Southern Alps, and Mount Aspiring National Park.
Wildlife encounters, including herds of Red Deer grazing freely.
Flexible options for walking or staying in the vehicle, catering to different energy levels.
A small-group experience limited to six travelers for a more intimate adventure.

What is the Wild Hills Off Road Safari?

This is a half-day adventure that takes you beyond the usual tourist track into the rugged backcountry of Wanaka. Led by professional guides from Ridgeline Wanaka, the tour provides exclusive access to high country farms and mountain roads that are typically off-limits to independent travelers. Over approximately four and a half hours, you’ll explore scenic ridgelines, alpine farmland, and remote mountain passes, all in a rugged 4WD vehicle.

A major draw is the chance to see breathtaking views of Lake Wanaka, the Southern Alps, and Mount Aspiring National Park. Your guide will share stories of the region’s history and help you appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds this part of New Zealand.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: Ridgeline – Beyond the Farm Gate

Your adventure begins by leaving behind the private farm of West Wanaka Station—an extensive high-country farm that most visitors never see. Instead of staying on the main roads, your guide takes you along exclusive private backroads high into the mountains, reaching elevations of around 1000 meters. Here, the scenery transforms into a spectacular tableau of lakes, mountains, and open farmland.

Expect to enjoy easy alpine nature walks that are accessible even to those with limited mobility. Along the way, shearing herds of Red Deer grazing freely add a wild touch to the landscape. The guide’s storytelling is a highlight here; they’ll share fascinating insights into the region’s farming, wildlife, and history.

Photo Opportunities and Refreshments

One of the tour’s standout moments is the photo stop at the ridgeline, where the panoramic views are as close to a postcard as you’ll find. The tour offers amazing photo ops against the backdrop of Lake Wanaka and mountains, perfect for capturing memories or sharing with friends back home.

After a good walk and photo session, you’ll relax at the alpine cafe—a unique feature of this tour—where you can enjoy freshly brewed coffee and tasty treats. It’s a genuine highlight, offering a moment to breathe in the mountain air and soak in the scenery.

Optional Walks and Flexibility

Guests can choose whether to take part in one or two optional walks, which vary in difficulty and length. If you prefer to stay in the vehicle, that’s fine too. The flexibility means the tour caters to different energy levels and interests, making it more inclusive for families or travelers with limited mobility.

What Travelers Say

The reviews speak volumes for the tour’s appeal. Cynthia, one of the rave reviewers, describes her experience as a “wonderful day” with a “great climb up the mountain, plenty of wildlife, good information about the area and a relaxing cup of coffee at the top.” This captures the core of what makes this safari special: stunning views combined with informative storytelling and a relaxed vibe.

Another reviewer highlights the authenticity of the experience, emphasizing the small group size and personalized guide. With only six travelers maximum, conversations are easy, and you get more tailored insights—something larger tours often miss.

The Price and Value

At approximately $204.79 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck if you value exclusive access, expert guiding, and stunning scenery. The cost includes morning or afternoon tea, live commentary, and your guide’s expertise—elements that enrich the experience beyond just a scenic drive.

Compared to other activities in Wanaka, this safari provides a quintessential outdoor experience that’s both immersive and educational. While it’s not a cheap outing, the small-group intimacy, unique access to private farmland, and the chance to explore places most visitors won’t see make it a worthwhile investment.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses a rugged 4WD vehicle that handles New Zealand’s backcountry roads with ease. The group is limited to six travelers, ensuring a more personal and relaxed environment. Expect a start point at Ardmore Street, right in Wanaka’s town center, which makes meeting up straightforward.

The tour lasts about four and a half hours, a good length for a half-day adventure—long enough to see a variety of scenery and enjoy some walking, but not so long that it becomes tiring.

Practical Considerations

This experience requires a minimum of two people to run. If the minimum isn’t met, you might be offered an alternative date or a full refund. The tour is suitable for most travelers, provided you’re comfortable with a moderate off-road ride and some walking. For those who prefer not to walk, the guide allows you to stay in the vehicle during the optional walks.

The tour is flexible, with morning and afternoon options, making it easy to fit into your Wanaka itinerary. It’s a mobile ticket, so you can keep things simple with your digital confirmation.

Cancellation and Booking

You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, providing some peace of mind if your plans change. This flexibility is helpful, especially in unpredictable weather or if your schedule shifts.

This safari is ideal for outdoor lovers and those keen to explore Wanaka’s less-accessible regions. If you appreciate expert-guided stories, stunning panoramic views, and wildlife sightings, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. It’s particularly suited to travelers who want to escape the crowds and experience authentic farm and mountain landscapes.

However, it’s worth noting that this is a rugged off-road experience, so if you prefer luxury or have mobility constraints, you might want to consider other options. Still, for those seeking a true adventure with a local expert, this tour hits the mark.

The Wild Hills Off Road Safari offers an engaging blend of adventure, scenery, and storytelling. It provides a genuine look into the working high country of Wanaka, with exclusive access and expert guides that elevate the experience. Perfect for travelers who want to see more than just the standard sights, it’s a chance to get off the beaten path and into the heart of New Zealand’s Southern Alps.

If you’re after a personalized, informative, and visually stunning half-day tour, this safari delivers. It’s an ideal choice for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone eager to connect with Wanaka’s rugged landscape in a way that’s both fun and authentic.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, making it a manageable half-day activity.

What is included in the price?
Your fare covers morning or afternoon tea, live commentary, and a professional guide. It does not include lunch.

Can I stay in the vehicle instead of walking?
Yes. Guests can choose to not participate in the optional walks and remain in the vehicle for the entire tour.

What is the minimum group size?
The tour requires at least 2 participants to run. If not enough people book, you may be offered a different date or a full refund.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 6 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is this suitable for children or families?
While most travelers can participate, the off-road nature and walking may influence suitability for very young children.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at 103 Ardmore Street in Wanaka—a central location that’s easy to find.

Are there any physical activity requirements?
Guests can participate in one or two optional walks, but walking is not mandatory for those who prefer to stay in the vehicle.

What should I bring?
Most likely, you’ll want to bring comfortable walking shoes, warm layers, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

The Wild Hills Off Road Safari is a compelling choice for those eager to explore Wanaka’s hidden landscapes with the guidance of passionate locals. It combines scenic beauty with authentic farm visits and wildlife encounters—an ideal way to spend a half-day in this breathtaking part of New Zealand.