Makarora attractions

On the drier northwestern side of Mount Kenya, near Nanyuki, this route offers more scenic walking than the Naromoru approach. You will climb through forest and emerge onto a wide ridge that leads toward the summit area. Along the way you will enjoy open ridgelines and the kind of terrain that makes for some of the finest walking on the mountain. Access on this side is adequate, and the bunk house facilities here are the best on this flank of the mountain. The route starts close to Nanyuki town, and although the summit is reachable via this approach, an overnight acclimatisation at the base in Nanyuki is strongly recommended. That extra night can be arranged for an additional fee. The description focuses on the route, the landscape and the accommodation on this side of Mount Kenya to help you plan what to expect.

At the waterfall you'll take on the highest waterfall cable climb in the world on a Level 1 via ferrata. The route is ideal for people who love the outdoors, waterfalls and beautiful places. It suits beginners, families and hesitant adventurers with basic fitness, and no previous experience is required. A friendly guide will meet you at the waterfall, fit your safety gear and show you how to use the equipment before you begin. The climb involves physical sections on steel ladder rungs and four wire-bridge crossings. Along the way you'll move through dramatic vertical terrain and finish at a beautiful picnic spot. From there you will walk down a mountain trail back to the base. If you want a greater challenge, you may consider the intermediate Level 2 climb for a more adventurous exploration of this vertical world.

The highest waterfall cable climb in the world offers an active, outdoors experience beside a spectacular, vertical waterfall. On this intermediate climb you will use steel ladder rungs and cross six bridges that run next to the falling water. Along the way you will climb close to vertical cascades and finish with a walk down a mountainside trail. You will stay dry and no prior climbing experience is required, though being comfortable with heights will help. This tour suits travellers who enjoy exploring wild, scenic places and the thrill of height. As you move through the route you will take in dramatic waterfall views and the surrounding mountain scenery. If you are hesitant or would prefer a smaller taste of this type of activity, a Level 1 / Beginner climb is recommended.

The jet boat is the mode of transport, the river safari is the attraction. The jet boat will take you safely up the river into remote back country. Touch and learn about the natural history of New Zealand's remote World Heritage Area. Your tour is operated by a family business, when you go on this tour, you arrive as strangers and leave as friends. There are many stops for commentary on the native birds, animals and forest of the South Westland region. A photographer's dream, stretch your legs at the top of the river for an optional forest walk into New Zealand's rain forest. Touch the ferns, listen to birds and spot the fish. Ideal for all ages and physical fitness. For infants to elderly, this is a must do, to explore the UNESCO World Heritage area-Te Wāhipounamu of South Westland, New Zealand.

This combined climbing and canyoning tour will immerse you in the natural environment and help you truly connect with the landscape as you learn both disciplines. You will learn climbing and canyoning skills in one experience, gaining hands-on practice as you move through rocky terrain and water-carved gorges. Along the way you will enjoy stunning mountain and lake views and get up close to waterfalls. The tour includes the chance to feel an adrenaline rush as you rappel down six waterfalls, taking you through dramatic drops and close to rushing water for a memorable, nature-centred adventure.

Lake Hāwea offers a quieter, more remote fishing experience than many of New Zealand’s better-known lakes. On this expert-guided outing you will explore the lake’s crystal-clear water and alpine surroundings while trying your hand at fishing for trout and salmon. The pace is unhurried, so you may try different fishing spots and techniques and settle into the peaceful rhythm of the lake. The boat uses an electric trolling motor to keep the experience quiet and low-impact. As you move across the water, enjoy the stillness and the dramatic mountain views along the shore. This trip is about more than the catch: it combines hands-on, guided fishing with the calm charm of Lake Hāwea and the vivid scenery that makes it a special place.

At Lake Hāwea you’ll find one of New Zealand’s most peaceful alpine lakes, with crystal-clear water, mountain views and rugged Southern Alps scenery. You’ll enjoy a quieter, more scenic fishing experience away from the crowds, and as you move across the water you’ll take in the calm natural surroundings. With guidance from your friendly skipper you’ll target trout and salmon using quality gear and proven techniques such as trolling and downrigging. You’ll ride on a craft powered by a quiet electric trolling motor, which will create a smooth, low-impact experience and help you stay connected to the lake. In small groups of up to six guests you’ll have plenty of space to fish, relax and enjoy the views. You’ll be provided with the fishing equipment, snacks and cold non-alcoholic drinks, and the activity is described as suitable for beginners, families, couples and experienced anglers alike.