Guided Kepler Track Heli Hike

The Guided Kepler Track Heli Hike is an exhilarating outdoor adventure that combines the thrill of a helicopter flight with the beauty of an alpine hike. Departing from Te Anau, participants soar over the stunning landscapes of Fiordland National Park before landing at Luxmore Hut, where they embark on a captivating trek through diverse alpine terrain and lush beech forests. Led by knowledgeable local guides, this personalized experience offers breathtaking scenery and an unforgettable connection with the natural world. But the true highlight may just be the journey itself, as adventurers discover the unparalleled wonders that await them on this exceptional hike.

Key Points

• This guided hike combines a helicopter flight, alpine hiking, and a water taxi crossing through the landscapes of Te Anau in Fiordland.
• The hike starts at Luxmore Hut with an 800-meter descent, offering panoramic views of Fiordland’s peaks, alpine lakes, and rugged terrain.
• The diverse trek includes ridges, alpine meadows, and a serene descent through native beech forests, showcasing the region’s flora and fauna.
• The hike is led by knowledgeable local guides, with a maximum group size of 12 for a personalized experience.
• The tour includes essential equipment, complimentary refreshments, and a scenic water taxi ride back, providing a well-rounded and immersive adventure.

Overview of the Guided Hike

The Guided Kepler Track Heli Hike offers visitors a comprehensive day-long adventure exploring the stunning landscapes of Te Anau, New Zealand. This tour combines a helicopter flight, alpine hiking, and a water taxi crossing for an immersive experience.

Guests will be whisked away by helicopter to the Luxmore Hut, where they’ll embark on a guided hike through alpine terrain and native beech forests, culminating in an 800-meter descent.

The return journey is made by water taxi across the serene Lake Te Anau. With a maximum group size of 12, this tour provides an intimate and personalized nature experience led by a knowledgeable local guide.

Helicopter Flight and Mountain Views

As visitors board the helicopter, they’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the iconic Fiordland peaks that dominate the landscape.

The pilot skillfully navigates the aircraft, providing guests with a bird’s-eye perspective of the rugged terrain below. Towering snow-capped summits, deep valleys, and pristine alpine lakes come into view, leaving passengers in awe of the region’s natural beauty.

This exhilarating helicopter flight transports them directly to the Luxmore Hut, a remote mountain lodge situated in the heart of the Kepler Track.

From this vantage point, the group will embark on their hiking adventure, seeing the stunning Fiordland wilderness.

Alpine Hike and Beech Forest Descent

Departing from the Luxmore Hut, hikers embark on an exhilarating alpine trek that takes them through a diverse array of landscapes, from rugged ridges to serene alpine meadows. The guided hike offers a unique opportunity to take in the breathtaking natural beauty of the region.

Here are three highlights of the alpine hike:

1. Traversing the alpine slopes, hikers are treated to panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and pristine valleys.

2. The descent through the native beech forest is a serene and rejuvenating experience, as hikers navigate the winding trails and observe the diverse flora and fauna.

3. The overall experience provides a well-rounded adventure, seamlessly blending the exhilaration of the alpine landscape with the tranquility of the forested descent.

Return via Water Taxi

After the hiking portion, participants return to Te Anau via a relaxing water taxi across the serene Lake Te Anau.

The water taxi provides a scenic and leisurely end to the day’s adventure, allowing hikers to reflect on the stunning landscapes they’ve experienced.

The boat ride offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests, as it gently glides across the tranquil lake.

The water taxi is a comfortable and enjoyable way to complete the Kepler Track Heli Hike experience, transporting participants back to their starting point in Te Anau.

This final mode of transportation caps off a day filled with breathtaking scenery and an immersive exploration of New Zealand’s natural wonders.

Inclusions and Provided Equipment

The guided Kepler Track Heli Hike provides participants with essential equipment and amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout the day-long adventure.

Walking poles and rain jackets are provided to help navigate the terrain, while coffee, tea, and hot drinks are available during the hike.

Plus, the tour includes:

• A packed lunch (which can be pre-ordered for an extra charge)

• Bottled water (though participants are encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle)

• Safety and communication equipment carried by the experienced guide

These inclusions, along with the pick-up and drop-off service from Te Anau accommodation, create a well-rounded and hassle-free hiking experience for participants of all abilities.

Physical Fitness Requirements

To participate in the Kepler Track Heli Hike, a moderate level of physical fitness is required.

Participants must be able to hike for 3-6 hours, covering a distance of 8 km with a minimum descent of 800 m. The terrain can be challenging, with steep and uneven sections, so a good level of cardiovascular endurance and leg strength is essential.

The hike isn’t recommended for those with limited mobility or significant health concerns. The operator may refuse participation if they deem a person unsuitable for the activity.

Proper hiking attire, including sturdy shoes, is also required.

Booking, Cancellation, and Pricing

Confirmation is received at the time of booking for the Kepler Track Heli Hike. Participants can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, with a free cancellation policy in place.

The tour operator offers a lowest price guarantee, and a reserve now and pay later option is available.

The booking and pricing details for the Kepler Track Heli Hike include:

1. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour

2. Lowest price guarantee for the experience

3. Reserve now and pay later option available

These flexible booking policies and pricing options make it easy for adventurous travelers to secure their spot on this stunning helicopter and hiking tour in New Zealand.

Positive Guest Feedback

Overwhelmingly positive guest reviews attest to the exceptional Kepler Track Heli Hike experience, with visitors praising the stunning scenery and professional guiding.

The tour has earned a coveted Badge of Excellence based on 21 reviews, all of which rate the experience a perfect 5 out of 5 stars.

Guests highlight the breathtaking helicopter flight, the serene alpine hike, and the picturesque lake crossing by water taxi.

Many note the knowledgeable and friendly nature guide who enhances the experience with insightful commentary.

Reviewers consistently describe the Kepler Track Heli Hike as a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ adventure that exceeded their expectations, making it clear why this tour is so highly regarded.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Dietary Requirements Catered for on the Hike?

The tour information doesn’t specify if dietary requirements are catered for. Participants are advised to bring their own lunch, so it’s likely they’ll need to cater for any dietary needs themselves on the hike.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The maximum group size for the tour is 12 people. The tour operator limits the group size to ensure a personalized experience and maintain the safety and comfort of all participants.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Hiking Equipment?

Participants can bring their own hiking equipment, but the tour provides walking poles and rain jackets. Bringing a reusable water bottle is recommended, as bottled water is provided.

Is There an Option to Purchase Lunch on the Day?

Yes, participants can pre-order lunch for an extra charge on the day. The tour operator provides coffee, tea, and hot drinks during the hike, but hikers should bring their own lunch or order it in advance.

Can the Tour Accommodate Guests With Mobility Issues?

Unfortunately, this tour is not wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for guests with significant mobility issues. Participants must be able to hike for several hours over uneven terrain with a minimum 800 m descent.

Recap

The Guided Kepler Track Heli Hike offers an exhilarating blend of helicopter flight, alpine hiking, and scenic boat ride, allowing adventurers to enjoy Te Anau’s breathtaking landscapes.

With personalized guidance and a small group size, this unique experience caters to active travelers seeking an unforgettable day of outdoor exploration and stunning scenery in New Zealand’s picturesque Southern Alps.