We recommend bringing a camera, warm and waterproof outerwear, sturdy hiking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent. Don’t forget to pack snacks, plenty of water, and any additional items you may need for your comfort during this remote adventure in the New Zealand wilderness.

Allow 4 hours (approximately) for the whole adventure.

The Heli Siberia is designed for individuals with moderate fitness levels and higher. The unguided walk spans 7km in total on a well-marked track. While there is a 2.5km uphill stretch, the remainder of the route descends and follows the picturesque Wilkin Valley and along the valley floor. We strongly recommend wearing hiking footwear and staying vigilant for track hazards and weather changes, as this is remote terrain. For more advice, please contact the Backcountry Helicopters team at +64 (0)3 443 8351.

No, the walk is not guided. The track is well maintained and managed by the Department of Conservation as an unguided freedom track. It is well-marked with orange markers for navigation.

Yes! Children are warmly welcomed on our Heli Siberia adventure. The walk spans a total of 7km and typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours to complete. Due to the nature of the trail, it is important to closely supervise children throughout as you will come across steep drop offs and uneven ground. Children are also welcome on the jet boats, and appropriate life jackets are supplied for their safety.

If you have more than 6 people in your group, your helicopter will run back-to-back trips allowing the first drop off group some additional time to explore the Siberia Hut and nearby waterfall whilst they wait for the second group drop off before commencing the walk. Our jet boat is weight dependent but can accommodate between 10-11 passengers per boat load. If you have a group of 11 or more, please contact us directly to discuss further on +64 (0)3 443 8351.

Phone us on 0800 538 945 or +64 (0)3 443 8351 at least 24 hours prior to your flight for a weather and time check. 

Arrive 30 minutes before departure time.

Make sure you have appropriate clothing and footwear for your flight.

Where does Heli Siberia depart from?

The Heli Siberia begins in Makarora, located on State Highway 6. It’s a picturesque 45-minute drive north of Wanaka, passing through mountain scenery and along the shores of Lakes Hawea and Wanaka. Alternatively, Makarora is located 1 hour and 30 minutes south of Haast or 2 hours from Queenstown. 

Join us at our Backcountry Helicopters base, situated at the Corner of Rata Road and State Highway 6, Makarora 9382 on the main West Coast Highway, Makarora West. For more information, please contact us at +64 (0)3 443 8351.

Please arrive 30 minutes before your departure time.

In the event of inclement weather and there is no alternative flight availability on alternative days a full refund will be made at the point of sale. If we need to postpone your trip due to weather on the day we will do our very best to rebook you as soon as we can.

48 hours’ notice of cancellation is required. If cancellation is made within 48 hours’ notice 25% will be charged to your nominated Credit Card or invoiced to you.

The Heli Siberia experience is operated by Backcountry Helicopters and Wilkin River Jets, and bookings can be made online here. This adventure operates annually from 15th October to 30th April.

In the event that someone in your party becomes injured, one person should stay behind with the injured person while the remaining group continues on to the jet boat pickup location and inform the driver. If there is only two of you, the non-injured party should continue to the jet boat pickup to inform the driver. If itʼs a minor injury and you require a later pickup time for the jet boat or a helicopter ride back to base, an additional cost may apply. For major injuries, we initiate our emergency plan and call 111. You will most likely be transferred to a hospital via helicopter rescue. Backcountry Helicopters and Wilkin River Jets will provide the transport in and out of the Mt Aspiring National Park for you. Keeping in mind that you will be in the New Zealand wilderness, please bring everything you might need for your safety and personal comfort during the day.