6 Days in Wanaka: Skydive Thrills & Glacier Adventures to Franz Josef & Fox Glacier

Is this the right trip?

Experience the best of New Zealand’s South Island with an adventure-filled journey from Wanaka to its iconic glacier region. Feel the thrill of a skydive over stunning alpine scenery before travelling through the dramatic Southern Alps to the wild West Coast. Discover the natural wonders of Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier on scenic day tours, where breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences await. Your trip will be partially guided, meaning each day tour will have a different professional guide and group, allowing you to meet new people throughout your journey. All tours are operated separately, so guides and participants will change daily.

1. 01 Day 1

   Arrival in Wanaka

   Wanaka

   Upon arriving at Queenstown Airport (ZQN), meet your driver in the arrival hall for a transfer to your hotel in Wanaka . After checking in (available from 14:00), you’ll have free time to explore nearby attractions at your leisure. Please note that early check-in is subject to availability upon arrival.

   Wanaka

2. 02 Day 2

   Wanaka to Franz Josef

   Wanaka

   After breakfast, walk to the nearby meeting point at Log Cabin on Lakefront, 100 Ardmore St for your group tour. It is just a short distance from your stay. ­Description: Travel from Wanaka across the stunning Southern Alps to the wild West Coast on a scenic journey to Franz Josef Glacier. Pass crystal-clear lakes and towering peaks, with a stop in Makarora near Mount Aspiring National Park, before crossing the dramatic Haast Pass. Continue through lush rainforest and waterfalls in Westland Tai Poutini National Park. Arrive in Franz Josef, your base to explore the region’s iconic glacier through guided walks or scenic flight experiences. ­

   Wanaka

   Operator notes

   • 6 hours
   • West Coast scenery
   • South Island lakes
   • Haast Pass
   • Entertaining driver commentary
   • Free WiFi and onboard USB charging docks
   • Luxury coach with onboard toilet and leather reclining seats
3. 03 Day 3

   Skydive Wanaka: Up to 9,000ft Tandem Jump

   Wanaka

   After breakfast, make your own way by taxi to the meeting point at 14 Mustang Lane, 9382, Wanaka. The journey will take approximately 12 minutes. Description: Take the ultimate leap in Wanaka with an unforgettable skydive over the stunning Southern Alps. After a safety briefing and gear fitting, board your scenic flight and enjoy incredible views of Aoraki / Mount Cook, Mount Aspiring, shimmering lakes, and the Clutha River. ­ At your chosen altitude, take the plunge and experience an adrenaline-pumping freefall at up to 200 km/h for 25 to 60 seconds over the breathtaking Central Otago. Then, enjoy a peaceful parachute descent back to the ground—an incredible way to see New Zealand from above.

   Wanaka

   Operator notes

   • 3 hours
   • 5-minute canopy flight
   • 25 to 60-second freefall
   • All safety equipment: jumpsuit, frap hat, goggles, gloves, harness
4. 04 Day 4

   Free at Leisure

   New Zealand

   Enjoy a free day at leisure in Wanaka. Take the time to relax, explore the lakeside town, enjoy local cafés, or choose from a range of optional activities at your own pace. ­

   New Zealand

5. 05 Day 5

   Wanaka to Fox Glacier Tour

   Wanaka

   After breakfast, walk to the nearby meeting point at Log Cabin on Lakefront, 100 Ardmore St for your group tour. It is just a short distance from your stay. Enjoy postcard views of mountains and lakes, with a stop in Makarora near Mount Aspiring National Park before crossing the dramatic Haast Pass. Continue through rainforest and waterfalls in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, with a break at a local salmon farm in Paringa. Arrive in Fox Glacier, a stunning alpine village and gateway to one of New Zealand’s most iconic glaciers, where further guided or scenic flight experiences await.

   Wanaka

   Operator notes

   • 5 hours and 30 minutes
   • West Coast scenery
   • Haast Pass
   • Entertaining driver commentary
   • South Island lakes
   • Luxury coach with onboard toilet and leather reclining seats
   • Free WiFi and onboard USB charging docks

   Day tour Wanaka to Fox Glacier Tour Meets at Log Cabin on Lakefront, 100 Ardmore St for your group tour See the tour
6. 06 Day 6

   Departure from Wanaka

   Wanaka

   After breakfast, meet your driver and transfer to Queenstown Airport (ZQN). We recommend scheduling your hotel pick-up up to 3–4 hours before your flight departure time. Please note that hotel check-out is at 12:00 noon, and late check-out will be subject to availability.

   Wanaka

What's included