From Te Anau: Full Day Kepler Track Guided Heli-Hike

Exploring the renowned Kepler Track in Fiordland National Park is a truly captivating experience. Travelers can embark on a guided heli-hike tour from Te Anau, soaring by helicopter to the summit of Mount Luxmore before descending into a world of alpine landscapes and ancient forests. This full-day adventure not only immerses participants in the region’s breathtaking natural beauty, but also provides insights into its rich ecology and geology. With an optional water taxi ride to conclude the day, this excursion promises an unforgettable connection with one of New Zealand’s most spectacular wilderness areas.

Key Points

• A full-day adventure that combines a scenic helicopter flight to Mount Luxmore and a guided hike along the Kepler Track, starting from Te Anau.
• The tour includes a 15-minute helicopter flight, 2.5 hours of hiking to Luxmore Hut, and an additional 3 hours of hiking with breaks.
• Participants can enjoy sweeping vistas of snow-capped peaks, alpine herb fields, and dense native forests while learning about the region’s conservation, geology, and ecology.
• The tour provides a 30-minute break at Luxmore Hut and a scenic stop at Geirsgata 5, with an optional water taxi ride back to Te Anau.
• Essential gear is provided, and the tour is not suitable for children under 8 or individuals with mobility or fitness issues.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Kepler Track Guided Heli-Hike is a full-day adventure that combines a scenic helicopter flight over the Fiordland landscape with a guided hike along the renowned Kepler Track.

This activity is based in Te Anau and is priced from SEK 4,456 per person. The tour lasts 8 hours and is limited to 12 participants who’ll explore the area with an English-speaking guide.

Pickup from your Te Anau accommodation is included. During the experience, you’ll soar over the magnificent terrain before embarking on a challenging yet rewarding hike through alpine landscapes and native forests.

At the end of the day, you can opt for a relaxing water taxi ride back to Te Anau.

Itinerary Details

In an article titled ‘From Te Anau: Full Day Kepler Track Guided Heli-Hike’, the itinerary details are as follows.

The tour kicks off with a pickup at your accommodation in Te Anau, followed by a 20-minute van transfer to Perissa Beach.

From there, you’ll embark on a 15-minute helicopter flight that whisks you up to the summit of Mount Luxmore, where the Kepler Track hike begins.

You’ll then spend 2.5 hours hiking along the Kepler Track, arriving at the Luxmore Hut for a 30-minute break.

The journey continues with 3 more hours of hiking, before a 30-minute break at Geirsgata 5.

Helicopter Flight and Hiking

A scenic 15-minute helicopter flight transports participants from Perissa Beach to the summit of Mount Luxmore, where the Kepler Track hike begins.

The guided walk takes hikers through an ever-changing landscape, revealing:

• Sweeping vistas of snow-capped peaks and deep valleys

• Alpine herb fields filled with vibrant wildflowers

• Dense native forests teeming with unique flora and fauna

• Serene alpine lakes reflecting the rugged surroundings

• Challenging yet rewarding ascents and descents along the trail

Throughout the hike, the local guide shares insights into the region’s conservation efforts, geological history, and delicate ecosystem.

Hikers enjoy regular breaks to catch their breath and soak in the stunning scenery before continuing on their journey.

Conservation, Geology, and Ecology

Preserving Fiordland’s pristine wilderness is a key focus of the Kepler Track guided heli-hike, as the local guide expertly explains the region’s intricate conservation efforts and geological history to participants. Hikers learn about the critical role of New Zealand’s Department of Conservation in maintaining the natural integrity of this World Heritage site. The guide delves into the area’s fascinating geology, detailing how ancient glacial movements and volcanic activity shaped the dramatic landscapes. Participants marvel at the diverse alpine flora and fauna, gaining insights into the delicate ecosystems that thrive in this remote corner of the country.

Key Geological Features	Key Conservation Initiatives
Glacial Valleys	Pest and Predator Control
Volcanic Peaks	Native Forest Restoration
Glacial Lakes	Endangered Species Protection
Granite Monoliths	Sustainable Tourism Management
Moraine Landscapes	Iwi (Maori) Partnership Programs

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Luxmore Hut and Geirsgata 5

The Kepler Track guided heli-hike includes stops at the Luxmore Hut and Geirsgata 5, offering hikers the chance to rest, refuel, and soak in the stunning alpine scenery surrounding these iconic trail landmarks.

At the Luxmore Hut, trekkers enjoy a 30-minute break to admire the sweeping vistas of Lake Te Anau and the Fiordland peaks.

The hike then continues to Geirsgata 5, another scenic stop along the Kepler Track, where hikers can:

• Explore the diverse alpine flora and fauna

• Take in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains

• Refuel with a snack or packed lunch

• Learn about the area’s rich cultural and natural history

• Prepare for the final leg of the hike back to Te Anau.

Water Taxi Ride

After hiking the Kepler Track, participants have the option to cap off their experience with a relaxing water taxi ride across Lake Te Anau, providing a scenic conclusion to the tour.

The short 20-minute journey aboard the water taxi allows travelers to sit back, take in the serene surroundings, and reflect on the day’s adventure.

As the boat gently glides across the lake, participants can admire the stunning vistas of the Fiordland landscape, including the towering cliffs and forested slopes that line the shoreline.

This leisurely boat ride is a fitting way to end the Kepler Track Guided Heli-Hike, offering a peaceful transition back to Te Anau and the tour’s starting point.

Included and Required Gear

This Kepler Track Guided Heli-Hike tour includes an array of gear to ensure participants’ comfort and safety throughout the day’s activities. Visitors receive a comprehensive safety briefing and are provided with essential equipment like rain gear, hiking poles, and warm layers to protect against the alpine environment’s changeable weather.

Plus, the tour operator supplies hot drinks and snacks to fuel hikers during their trekking on the Kepler Track.

Participants are required to bring:

• Warm clothing
• Sun hat
• Hiking shoes
• Gloves
• Reusable water bottle

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 8 or individuals with mobility impairments or low fitness levels, as the hike can be challenging.

Customer Feedback

Travelers consistently praise the Kepler Track Guided Heli-Hike as a must-do experience, with an overall rating of 5 out of 5 based on 5 reviews.

Customers highlight the tour’s friendly guides, stunning views, and informative experience.

The challenging yet rewarding hike through alpine herb fields and native forest is a highlight, allowing participants to learn about the region’s conservation, geology, and ecology.

The scenic helicopter flight over Fiordland’s landscape and the optional water taxi across Lake Te Anau are additional draws.

Families and friends alike enthusiastically recommend this tour as an unforgettable way to explore New Zealand’s beautiful backcountry.

Recap

The Full Day Kepler Track Guided Heli-Hike from Te Anau offers an unforgettable experience.

Guests soar over Fiordland’s stunning landscape in a helicopter before embarking on a guided hike along the Kepler Track.

They’ll marvel at alpine vistas, lush forests, and learn about the region’s ecology and geology.

The optional water taxi ride across Lake Te Anau provides a tranquil conclusion to this exceptional adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: