Looking for the ultimate way to explore New Zealand’s remote wilderness without spending days off-grid? Say hello to the incredible Siberia Experience — a half-day adventure that ticks all the boxes: a scenic flight, an unforgettable hike, and a thrilling jet boat ride.

Tucked away in the heart of Mount Aspiring National Park, this experience is one of the South Island’s best-kept secrets. With jaw-dropping alpine views, tussock valleys, and crystal-clear river crossings, it’s a backcountry adventure that feels like something straight out of a movie, but accessible in just four hours.

And what better way to explore it than with Merrell NZ? We laced up the Moab Speed 2s for this mission and can confidently say: our feet have never been happier.

Fly into the valley

The adventure begins in Makarora, a tiny town about an hour from Wānaka. From here, you’ll hop into a small fixed-wing aircraft and take off on a scenic flight over some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Southern Alps.

The flight itself is worth the trip. Braided rivers, snow-capped peaks, and untouched valleys. About 20 minutes later, you’ll land on a grassy airstrip deep in Siberia Valley, surrounded by rugged mountains and pure silence.

The Hike: 7 kms of pure NZ beauty

Once you’ve landed, it’s boots-on and time to walk. The track weaves its way through a mix of native beech forest, open tussock flats, and mountain streams. It’s 7km in total — expect to spend around 2.5 to 3 hours on the trail, depending on your pace and how many photo stops you make.

We tackled the hike in the Merrell Moab Speed 2s, and they were game-changers. Lightweight, grippy, and breathable, they handled river crossings, muddy patches, and rocky inclines with ease. 

This isn’t a technical tramp, but it still offers that feeling of real off-the-beaten-track adventure — no crowds, just you, the trail, and the mountains.

The Grand Finale: Jet boat ride out

Just when you think the experience can’t get any better, you reach the river and your ride home arrives. In true Kiwi fashion, the return journey is fast & so much fun. Skimming down the Wilkin River, you’ll be grinning ear to ear as you look back at where you’ve just come from.

This final leg is the perfect way to finish — a reminder that adventure doesn’t always mean multi-day missions or sleeping in huts. Sometimes, it’s just a few hours of wild beauty stitched together into one unforgettable loop.

Why You Should Add This to Your NZ Bucket List

If you’re after a taste of New Zealand’s most remote and beautiful landscapes but don’t have the time for a multi-day backcountry tramp. The Siberia Experience is hands-down one of the most unique and memorable ways to explore the Southern Alps. It ticks all the boxes for those looking for a bit of everything. Adventure, scenery, solitude, and a good dose of adrenaline.

Whether you’re a seasoned tramper or just looking to try something new, this trip is a must-do. And with the right Merrell gear, it’s even better.

Everything You Need to Know

• Where: Makarora, Mt Aspiring National Park (1 hr 15 min from Wānaka)
• Duration: Approx. 4 hours total
• Hike distance: 7km (2.5–3 hours walking time)
• Experience includes: Scenic flight in, hike out, jet boat back

What to bring: Layers, snacks, water, sun screen, and sturdy hiking shoes (we obviously recommend Merrell).