Packrafting Trips Rees Valley & Wanaka from Queenstown
Queenstown Packrafting – Small Group Trips to Remote Rivers
Packrafting Queenstown specializes in small-group guided packrafting trips and courses from our base in Queenstown, New Zealand. Known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown – along with nearby Wanaka – offers some of the most beautiful and untouched environments for exploration.
Packrafts, lightweight and packable boats, are transforming how we navigate the backcountry. Weighing only 3 kg (6 pounds) and packing down to the size of a sleeping bag, they’re easy to carry into remote, previously inaccessible rivers. Despite their small size, packrafts are tough, easy to paddle, and ready to handle challenging whitewater. Our trips are designed to make the most of this versatility as we hike, bike, and paddle through New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes.
With small groups only, we focus on keeping our experiences peaceful and immersive, far from the crowds. For a full day of adventure, choose between the relaxed License To Chill trip on the Rees River or the more challenging Aspiring Packrafter experience. We also offer overnight and multi-day trips for those seeking a deeper escape into nature.
License to Chill - Packrafting Rees Valley Day Trip
Price: $379:00 per person
Duration: Allow 8 Hours
Pick up: Queenstown
Departing from Queenstown, we’ll journey along Lake Wakatipu toward Glenorchy, leaving civilization behind as we enter the remote Rees Valley.
At the end of a dirt road, we’ll take some time to prepare before starting our hike. The walk into the valley is breathtaking, with views of hanging glaciers, towering mountains, and a river winding through open grasslands. This wilderness is home to whitetail deer and has served as a backdrop for many Hollywood films.
As we wade through the river and stroll along the track to our lunch spot, it’s not unusual to have the valley entirely to ourselves. The hike is relaxed and easy, covering 8-9 km over 1.5 to 2 hours, with no steep hills to climb.
At our scenic lunch spot near the impressive Lennox Falls, we’ll enjoy a hearty meal before learning about our packrafts. Your guide will show you how to inflate the rafts (no lung power required!) and provide a full safety briefing on navigating the river.
The paddle back gives a fresh perspective on the valley, transforming this “out and back” journey into a loop. The Rees River is mellow and braided, offering both peaceful floating sections and occasional small rapids for those seeking a bit of thrill.
Eventually, our journey on the water comes to an end. Your guide will help you deflate and pack up the rafts before a short walk back to the car park.
For many of our guests, this trip is not only the highlight of their Queenstown visit but also one of the most memorable parts of their New Zealand adventure!”
Mt. Aspiring Packrafter - Wanaka Day Trip
Price: $389:00 per person
Duration: Allow 8 Hours
Pick up: Queenstown & WanakaThis is the ultimate day adventure – the most thrilling guided packrafting trip in New Zealand!
We start with a scenic hike into Mt Aspiring National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, surrounded by towering peaks. After a well-deserved lunch, we’ll take to the river, where the excitement ramps up.
The Matukituki River offers a perfect balance of fun and challenge. It’s still suitable for beginners but adds a bit more thrill with lively grade II rapids and serene floating sections. You’ll spend the afternoon alternating between moments of pure relaxation and the exhilaration of riding the rapids.
Your day begins in Queenstown, where your guide will meet you for the drive toward Wanaka and the start of our hike. We’ll walk up the river valley to our lunch spot near the Mt Aspiring Hut.
After lunch, your guide will provide a full safety briefing and teach you the skills you’ll need to tackle the rapids, which start almost immediately. You’ll have the freedom to navigate the river at your own pace, bouncing through rapids and waving to hikers as you pass.
We end our paddle with a short walk back to the parking area. After an unforgettable day, your guide will drive you back to town, leaving you tired but deeply satisfied with this wild adventure. This is what days off were made for!
Overnighter - Packrafting Rees Valley (2 Days)
Price: $875:00 per person
Duration: Two days approx (Includes overnight camp)
Pick up: Queenstown
At the northern end of Lake Wakatipu, about an hour from Queenstown, lies the pristine Rees Valley. Far from the crowds and surrounded by stunning landscapes, the Rees Valley will be our playground for the next two days.
Our time is split between hiking through this breathtaking valley to our exclusive camp, exploring hidden side creeks, and paddling down the scenic Rees River. Under the gaze of hanging glaciers and flanked by towering mountains, this river is a packrafting paradise and ideal for beginners.
We’ll provide everything you need, from packrafting gear and tents to food and even a camp toilet (because not all adventures need to be tough). Here, you’ll feel remote and connected to nature, with few people around to interrupt the peace.
Day 1
Our journey begins in Queenstown, where your guide will outline the plan to ensure everyone is prepared for the adventure. After a short drive to the trailhead, you’ll receive any remaining packrafting gear and assistance with packing before starting the hike.
The first day covers around 14 km on gentle, varied terrain, with a scenic lunch stop midway. Shortly after lunch, we’ll arrive at our camping spot and set up camp.
In the afternoon, we take to the river! This session is focused on getting comfortable with the packrafts—learning how to inflate them and practicing basic navigation.
Back at camp, we’ll enjoy a hearty dinner, with time to relax afterward. Whether you want to unwind with a book, stretch out on a yoga mat, capture incredible photos, or chat with your guide, this downtime is yours to savor. After a fulfilling day, you’ll sleep well under the stars.
Day 2
After a breakfast prepared by your guide, we break camp and hit the river! Today’s journey is about soaking in the beauty around you as you float along, with opportunities to navigate gentle rapids and waves.
We’ll stop for one last alfresco lunch before wrapping up the trip. By mid-afternoon, we’ll start the return journey to Queenstown, aiming to have you back at your accommodation with time to unwind before dinner.
This overnight trip is perfect for first-time packrafters or those seeking a unique camping experience. With only small groups, your guide can tailor the adventure to your preferences, making it as mellow or as thrilling as you like.
Designed with ease in mind, this trip offers light packs, flat hiking, and downstream paddling. We take care of every detail, ensuring a comfortable and memorable journey in the heart of New Zealand’s wilderness.”
Three Days Overnighter - Packrafting Rees Valley
This is definitely our most challenging trip, but by the same measure, it is our most rewarding.
Price: $1299:00 per person
Duration: Three days (approx)
Pick up: Queenstown
We’re incredibly fortunate to escape into the stunning Rees Valley on this three-day adventure. Just an hour from the hustle of Queenstown, the Rees Valley feels like a world apart.
This expedition combines various modes of transport, from hiking and packrafting to mountain biking, offering the perfect mix of relaxation and thrill. You’ll camp under the stars, tackle playful whitewater rapids, and unwind in some of New Zealand’s most remote landscapes.
Day 1
After meeting your guide in Queenstown, we’ll go over the plan to ensure everyone is fully prepared. Following a scenic drive to the trailhead, your guide will provide the final packrafting gear and help you pack before starting the hike.
Today’s journey covers about 14 km on gentle terrain with occasional hills. We’ll pause for lunch midway, then continue to our first campsite.
In the afternoon, it’s time to hit the river. This session is focused on getting comfortable with the packrafts—learning how to inflate and maneuver them at a relaxed pace.
Back at camp, we’ll enjoy a hearty dinner. With some downtime built into the evening, you can relax with a book, take photos, do some stretching, or chat with your guide. After a full day, you’ll sleep soundly under the stars.
Day 2
Your guide will prepare breakfast before we break camp and return to the river. Today is all about enjoying the scenery and tackling small rapids. We’ll stop for an alfresco lunch before paddling through a 7 km stretch of Grade II whitewater in the afternoon.
Later, we’ll swap paddles for pedals and mountain bike back toward camp. Tonight, we’ll stay in a private backcountry hut, complete with a cozy fire to warm up and unwind.
Day 3
After breakfast, we break camp and set out on the river once more. Today’s adventure revisits the whitewater, giving you a chance to relive yesterday’s thrills or perfect your technique.
As we float downriver, thoughts of a pub lunch and a cold beer motivate us toward Glenorchy and back to Queenstown. You’ll return exhausted but thoroughly satisfied, carrying memories of an unforgettable journey.
This is our most challenging trip, but it’s also the most rewarding. If you’re looking for an adventure that blends rugged exploration with moments of pure relaxation, this three-day expedition is for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Packrafting Tours:
1. Do I need prior experience to join a packrafting tour?
No experience is necessary! Our tours are beginner-friendly, and your guide will provide all the training and support you need. You’ll learn how to paddle, navigate, and handle rapids safely.
2. What should I bring with me?
We’ll send you a packing list tailored to your specific trip. Essentials include comfortable hiking clothes, warm layers, waterproof gear, sturdy footwear, and personal items like sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle.
3. Is all the equipment provided?
Yes, we provide all packrafting equipment, including rafts, paddles, life jackets, and safety gear. For overnight trips, we also supply camping gear, including tents and sleeping mats, as well as all meals.
4. What fitness level do I need?
A moderate level of fitness is ideal. Most tours involve hiking, paddling, and sometimes biking, but the pace is designed to suit the group, and we ensure plenty of breaks.
5. How big are the groups on your tours?
We keep our groups small to ensure a more personal experience and allow us to tailor the trip to each participant’s needs and abilities.
6. What kind of rapids can I expect?
The rivers we use typically feature Grade I or II rapids. These are beginner-friendly but still provide plenty of fun and excitement.
7. Are meals included on the tours?
Yes, all meals are included on overnight tours. We provide hearty, energy-rich meals, and we can cater to dietary requirements if notified in advance.
8. What if the weather is bad?
Safety is our priority. If the weather makes the trip unsafe, we will reschedule, offer an alternative experience, or provide a refund where necessary. Your guide will monitor conditions closely.
9. Can I bring my camera or phone?
Yes, but we recommend bringing a waterproof camera or keeping your phone in a secure dry bag. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture stunning photos of the scenery and your adventure.
10. What age restrictions do you have for packrafting tours?
Our trips are designed for adults and teenagers aged 13 and above. Younger participants may be considered on a case-by-case basis—please contact us to discuss.
11. How do I book a tour?
You can book directly through the website. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak seasons.
12. Do I need to know how to swim?
While it’s helpful to know how to swim, it’s not essential. You’ll be wearing a life jacket at all times on the water, and your guide will ensure your safety.
13. What makes packrafting different from regular rafting?
Packrafts are lightweight, portable, and versatile boats that allow us to combine hiking, biking, and paddling. They enable access to remote areas that larger rafts cannot reach, offering a more immersive adventure.
14. What if I’ve never camped before?
No problem! Our guides handle all the logistics, including setting up tents, cooking meals, and ensuring everyone is comfortable. You just need to bring your sense of adventure!
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