We slept in a bit, enjoyed a leisurely breakfast at our hotel, and then took the water taxi into town. We grabbed a quick lunch, did a little shopping, and then headed out for our half-day adventure with Canyon Explorers.
Definitely a more physical adventure as we navigated a canyon. You heard me right…a canyon. It turned out to be one of the most unique things we’ve done so far.
Canyoning is basically nature’s version of a water park—but more rugged. You make your way down through a canyon using whatever the terrain gives you and you use your body, your equipment (ropes, carabiners), plus experienced guides. Then you hike, climb, rappel, zipline, slide, and occasionally jump into pools along the way.
We were a group of 9 plus our two guides, Tim and Oscar. After a safety briefing, we took a short hike through a beautiful forest that suddenly opened up to this hidden, high-walled canyon. From there, it was nonstop. We ziplined twice across the canyon, repelled next to a waterfall, squeezed through narrow rock passageways, floated through pools, and navigated natural slides carved into the rock over time.
It was part adrenaline, part problem-solving, and part just staying on my feet! We wore wet suits because that water was cold. 🥶
By the time we finished, dinner was calling loudly so we indulged at an AMAZING restaurant with incredible views called Flame. We definitely got our share of protein with the mixed grill for two: ribs, chicken, fillet, and African boerewors sausage. Add fries, amazing sauces, and cole slaw salad that was out-of-this-world good!
We walked around town after dinner, then took the water taxi back to pack. We’re hitting the road again tomorrow for more South Island exploring!
Queenstown, I will miss your postcard views and your adrenaline-filled energy around every corner. You have a way of getting my heart 💗 racing one minute, and completely stealing it the next. Until we meet again (I have a few more things to do on the next visit).
Christina’s Journey Journal 