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This is our level 1 and easiest climb option. In just a few hours, you will learn all you need to know to safely ascend steel rungs and cross 4 suspension bridges as you make your way up the lower section of the waterfall. This tour includes approximately 1 hour of climbing and a 20 minute walk down. No previous experience is required, just an adventurous spirit. If you can climb a ladder, you can conquer Lord of The Rungs - Lower (Level 1)!

What to know

  • Round trip from Wanaka around 3 hours.

  • Basic fitness and a head for heights required.

  • If you can climb a ladder and walk on hilly terrain for up to 2 hours, then you’ll be OK.

  • Suitable for beginners, no climbing experience required.

  • Bring snacks if you tend to get hungry (lunch not included).

  • All climbing & safety equipment is provided plus a training route before we start the waterfall climb.

  • Restrictions apply - see ‘Conditions’ below

Highlights

  • Climb 150m (500ft) vertical alongside cascading waterfalls.

  • Exceptional mountain views.

  • Cross 4 suspension bridges including the final 30m (100ft) bridge.

  • Stay dry! (your feet may get wet in high water).

    • Minimum weight is 40kg - this is determined by our safety equipment restrictions and Work Safe regulations which we are bound by

    • Minimum height is 120cm.

    • Minimum age is 10 years.

    • Groups of up to 8 on our daily tours. For bookings of more than 8 please see our custom climbs.

    • Please be aware that a harness weight restriction of 110kgs applies. Our max. waist measurements for our harnesses are 100cm, and the upper thigh is 70cm – call us to discuss this or for clarification.

  • An upgrade to continue on a do LOTR - Upper (Level 2) may be possible on the day.

    Climbing time is approximately 45min-1 hours. Descent is approximately 20-30mins

    If there is no availability online, do get in touch. We will either endeavour to open up some more spaces for that trip or let you know other alternate options we can offer. We will always get back to you regardless and do our best to accommodate you when possible!

    If you have a group of 4 or more and you have no availability on any other open dates, we can look to open up a tour for you.

    For more information see our Full FAQs here.

    • Sturdy walking shoes are required.

    • Full bottle of water.

    • Active wear is recommended. Dress for the weather. (No jeans!)

    • Bring snacks if you tend to get hungry (small snack is included).

    • Bring small cameras at your own risk. (GoPro mounts are available on some helmets).

  • We will offer a full refund if:

    • You have given at least 24hrs notice to cancel.

    • We cancel due to the weather, and you cannot reschedule.

    • We cancel due to minimum numbers are not being reached.

    Sorry, No refunds will apply to:

    • Cancellations within 24hrs of the departure date.

    • Late arrivals or no-shows on the day.

    • Downgrades or deciding not to climb.

    Please make sure you book the right climb for you!

    We reserve the right to cancel trips if the minimum number of 2 is not reached. We reserve the right to cancel if weather or any other situation should demand.

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  • Lord of the Rungs Upper

    Duration: 5 hours (approx.)

    The Upper Climb is our most popular climb, suitable for adventurous, active beginners. Having completed the Lower section, we climb higher, crossing 2 more suspension bridges including a 3-wire bridge before finishing at the base of a spectacular 60m waterfall.

  • Lord of the Rungs Full

    Duration: 7 hours (approx.)

    This is our advanced climb and an absolutely amazing experience! You will climb the entire waterfall to the very top and finish by helicopter. Along the way, you will cross a 3-wire bridge, go behind a 60m waterfall and climb through an airy overhang. The Full Climb is our most advanced climb, suitable for fit adventure seekers with a great head for heights!

  • Climb & Canyon

    Duration: 5 hours (approx.)

    It’s the best of both worlds! Start by climbing our Level 1 cable climb, then join our cliffside trail to the nextdoor waterfall. Here you will get up close and personal with the waterfall by abseiling/rappelling the lower section of right-hand Twin Falls Waterfalls.