Rotorua: Kaituna Rafting & Mt. Tarawera Hiking Combo

Rotorua’s thrilling outdoor adventures are a must-experience for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. The Kaituna Rafting & Mt. Tarawera Hiking Combo offers an exhilarating blend of white-water rafting and scenic hiking, guided by local experts. Participants can expect to navigate 14 rapids and the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall, followed by a journey to the summit of the iconic Mt. Tarawera, where breathtaking vistas and cultural insights await. This full-day excursion promises an unforgettable combination of adrenaline and natural beauty – a perfect way to take in the stunning landscapes of Rotorua.

Key Points

• This full-day tour in Rotorua, New Zealand, offers a thrilling combination of whitewater rafting on the Kaituna River and a scenic hike up Mount Tarawera.
• Participants can navigate 14 rapids, including the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall, and learn about Maori culture during the guided crater walk.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, experienced local guides, all necessary river gear, and transport to the mountain’s base via 4×4 vehicles.
• The experience is suitable for adventurers with moderate fitness levels, with a minimum age requirement of 13 years and the option to purchase photos after the tour.
• Positive customer reviews highlight the tour’s amazing and unforgettable nature, with the balance of adrenaline-pumping rafting and scenic hiking being particularly praised.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The activity is called ‘Rotorua: Kaituna Rafting & Mt. Tarawera Hiking Combo’ and costs from K₭3,403 per person.

It’s a 9-hour tour that’s conducted in English and highlights rafting down the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall, navigating 14 rapids, and ascending Mt. Tarawera via 4×4 vehicle to enjoy views and Maori culture.

Participants will get to experience the thrill of whitewater rafting and the stunning natural scenery of the region.

This combo tour is perfect for adventure-seekers and nature lovers alike, offering a well-rounded experience that showcases the best of Rotorua’s outdoor activities.

Itinerary Details

The tour starts at the Main Car Park on Mount Tarawera, where participants embark on a 4.5-hour hike before enjoying a 2.08-hour whitewater rafting experience, ultimately returning to the same starting location.

The hiking portion allows explorers to ascend Mount Tarawera via 4×4 vehicle, taking in stunning views and learning about the region’s Maori culture along the way.

The rafting adventure then takes thrill-seekers through 14 rapids, including the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall.

While the itinerary is subject to change, the overall combination of hiking and rafting provides an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Rotorua’s natural beauty.

Included Features

This tour includes a comprehensive package of features to enhance the overall experience.

Participants receive hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as courtesy transport to the rafting base. They’ll be accompanied by experienced local guides throughout the entire adventure.

The highlight is a thrilling 3.5-hour whitewater rafting experience, complete with all necessary river gear and safety equipment. Following the rafting, you will embark on a 90-minute guided crater walk at Mount Tarawera, accessing the site via a 4×4 vehicle.

The tour also includes:

• All transportation

• Experienced local guides

• Full river gear and safety equipment

• 4×4 vehicle transport up Mount Tarawera

• 90-minute guided crater walk

Important Information

Minimum age for participants is 13 years, and a moderate fitness level is required.

Guests should bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, snacks, water, and a jacket, as changing rooms with lock boxes and free parking are available on-site.

Go-Pros are allowed on a chest mount, subject to the guide’s discretion, and photos from the tour can be purchased afterward.

This Kaituna rafting and Mt. Tarawera hiking combo offers an unforgettable adventure.

Thrill-seekers will navigate 14 rapids, including the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall, while also enjoying the stunning views and Maori culture during the 4×4 drive and guided crater walk.

The tour is suitable for all experience levels, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and enthusiasts.

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Customer Feedback

Based on the overwhelmingly positive reviews, it’s clear that this Kaituna rafting and Mt. Tarawera hiking combo offers an unforgettable adventure for thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Customers consistently praise the guides for making everyone feel safe and the overall experience as ‘amazing’ and ‘unforgettable.’

Reviewers highlight several key aspects of the tour:

• The perfect balance of adrenaline-pumping rafting and scenic hiking

• Stunning views of the volcanic landscape and Maori cultural elements

• Excellent organization and execution of the tight schedule

• Suitability for all experience levels, from beginners to seasoned adventurers

• A truly memorable and worthwhile full-day excursion in Rotorua.

Rafting the Kaituna River

The heart of this Rotorua adventure lies in the thrilling whitewater rafting experience on the Kaituna River, known for boasting the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall.

During the 2.08-hour rafting excursion, adventurers will navigate 14 exciting rapids, taking on the world-famous 7-meter Tutea Falls.

Led by experienced local guides, rafters will feel the rush of the river’s powerful currents while surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the region.

With all the necessary equipment and safety gear provided, even first-time rafters can confidently take on this adrenaline-filled activity.

The Kaituna River rafting segment delivers an unforgettable whitewater experience that complements the hiking adventure on Mount Tarawera.

Exploring Mount Tarawera

Following the thrilling whitewater rafting on the Kaituna River, adventurers embark on an exploration of the majestic Mount Tarawera, a geological marvel steeped in Maori cultural significance.

Guests are transported by rugged 4×4 vehicles to the mountain’s base, where they’ll begin a 90-minute guided hike through the volcanic crater. Along the way, they’ll learn about the mountain’s dramatic eruption in 1886 and its lasting impact on the local landscape and people.

The hike rewards adventurers with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding geothermal wonderland, including the stunning Tarawera Falls and Lake Rotomahana. This unique hiking experience provides a deeper appreciation for the natural and cultural richness of the Rotorua region.

• Guided 4×4 transport to Mount Tarawera

• 90-minute crater hike with local guide

• Panoramic views of volcanic landscapes

• Insight into the 1886 eruption’s impact

• Exploration of Maori cultural significance

What to Expect

This exhilarating Rotorua adventure combines the thrills of whitewater rafting on the Kaituna River with the stunning natural beauty of Mount Tarawera. Guests can expect an immersive full-day experience that showcases the region’s geological wonders and rich Maori heritage.

The day begins with a 4×4 ascent to the Tarawera crater, where a guided 90-minute hike offers panoramic views.

Then, it’s on to the Kaituna River, where adventurers will tackle the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall and navigate 14 thrilling rapids.

Throughout, knowledgeable local guides provide expertise and ensure everyone’s safety.

With ample time for both activities, this combo tour allows travelers to fully enjoy Rotorua’s natural and cultural landscapes.

Recap

The Rotorua: Kaituna Rafting & Mt. Tarawera Hiking Combo offers an exhilarating adventure that combines the thrill of white water rafting with the natural beauty of a scenic hike.

Guided by experienced locals, participants can expect an unforgettable experience filled with stunning views, cultural insights, and a perfect blend of adrenaline and natural wonder.

This tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.

You can check if your dates are available here: