Siberia Experience — Local services in South Island

The Southern Alps Air Siberia day trip is an absolutely sensational “best of New Zealand". It begins with a short flight through the mountains to a grass landing strip, but this was not just a delivery run. They take the scenic route right up the main valley to fly closely past mountain peaks, glacial lakes and valleys, with stunning views up close everywhere. Then, the landing on the grass, and shoes off for a walk across a freezing, shallow river (bring crocs, or borrow there’s). The walk was fairly easy – about 3 hours, with a bit of elevation, but nothing too steep, then back down the mountain to the river, and a jet boat pick up. Everything about this was perfect from start to finish, the flight, the views, the walk and the jet boat. And service was superb. We had great weather, but flights had been called off for days before. Instead of just writing them off Southern Alps Air was working with as many of those people as possible to put them on additional flights which flew all morning. A...

Had a great flight into the Siberia block for a hunt and the team in the office and the pilot were outstanding. However we had booked in back flights to get the 4 of us out at 10 and 11am (on 2 flights where they bought in walkers) and we got left there. We had an inreach and had to contact family member to find out what was going on for them to be told the flights were cancelled. There was fog in Makarora in the morning but this cleared at approx 1230pm and the weather at the landing strip at Siberia was perfect. We were told they do not fly in the afternoon so were left high and dry that day and told we can wait for the following day. Due to one of our party to having an international flight to catch, we had to pay for a helicopter to fly us out at a great expense to us. I have not heard anything from the team, about the cancellation or an explanation or even an apology. The guys that got us in there were fantastic however this experience on the way out, would not...

This is an absolutely incredible adventure. Short flight into the Siberian Valley, with the most unbelievable scenery in the world, then a 3-4 hour hike (relatively easy) through native bush and along the river, finished off with a super fun jet boat ride back to base. If you're looking for a great day out with friends and family, this would be hard to beat. Thank you to the pilot (Winston) and jet boat skipper (Harley) for their knowledge, skills and enthusiasm, you made our trip...