Tucked away in the heart of southern Canterbury on New Zealand’s South Island, the Omarama Clay Cliffs offer a surreal experience that feels like stepping onto another planet. Just a short drive from the charming township of Omarama, this dramatic landscape features towering pinnacles and deep ravines that resemble the rugged terrain of Mars.

Formed over millions of years by glacial and river erosion, the clay cliffs near Omarama are composed of layered gravel, silt, and clay. These striking formations rise above the Ahuriri River, and can be admired both from a distance and up close on a scenic walk through the cliffs. Their jagged silhouettes and earthy tones create a breathtaking contrast to the surrounding countryside, making the Omarama Clay Cliffs a must-see destination for nature lovers, photographers, and road trippers alike.

Is Omarama Worth Visiting?

Omarama is absolutely worth visiting. Omarama is a hidden gem in New Zealand’s South Island that’s well worth a stop. While it may be a small town nestled between Lake Tekapo and Wanaka, Omarama offers a unique blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and convenience for travelers exploring the region. Whether you’re en route to the iconic Hooker Valley Track or waiting out a snowstorm in the Lindis Pass, Omarama makes for a perfect pit stop.

One of the town’s standout attractions is the Omarama Hot Tubs, where you can soak in private outdoor tubs surrounded by mountain views, an unforgettable experience in both sunshine and snow. The surrounding terrain, including the famous Omarama Clay Cliffs, provides stunning photo opportunities and a chance to connect with New Zealand’s dramatic landscapes.

Omarama also features a handful of cozy cafés, bakeries, and a welcoming visitor centre where you can pick up local souvenirs and travel tips. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat, Omarama delivers a memorable experience that goes far beyond its size.

A man standing on the edge of a small rocky ledge in the middle of the Omarama Clay Cliffs

What are the Omarama Clay Cliffs?

The Omarama Clay Cliffs are towering pinnacles and deep ravines located in southern Canterbury, near the town of Omarama on New Zealand’s South Island. Formed over millions of years by glacial and river erosion, these dramatic formations are made of layered gravel, silt, and clay, rising above the Ahuriri River.

Their jagged silhouettes and earthy tones create a Mars-like landscape that attracts photographers, hikers, and road trippers from around the world.

About Omarama Clay Cliffs

Omarama clay cliffs sit on private land and the land owners very kindly let any Tom, Dick, and Harry drive onto their property to marvel at these century-old creations. A $5 donation is expected at the gate, so take a bit of cash with you.
Walking around the Omarama Clay Cliffs is like stepping onto another planet, the cliffs were eroded by a river running through the area millions of years ago, exposing the stone, dirt, and grit that you see today.

Be prepared for the elements when visiting Omarama clay cliffs: the eastern side of the cliffs is extremely exposed, and the entrance can act as a wind tunnel. Dress warmly, especially in winter, and expect strong gusts and chilly conditions.

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Hundreds of tourists from around the country and the globe flock to Omarama Cliffs each year to get pictures of the interesting landscape. Find any New Zealand-based travel blogger on Instagram and you’re bound to find pictures of the clay cliffs.

How Long is the Walk at Omarama Clay Cliffs?

The walk from the carpark to the Omarama Clay Cliffs takes about 10 minutes, but the path is rocky and uneven due to loose gravel and erosion. It’s not suitable for people with mobility issues, so wear sturdy walking shoes and watch your step.

Things to Know Before Visiting Omarama Clay Cliffs

Entry Fee: $5 per vehicle (cash only)
No toilets on site, use the facilities back in Omarama township
Not wheelchair accessible, if you have mobility issues it’s best to sit this one out.
Check the weather conditions; hazards include rockfall, flash flooding and snow closures.
Bring warm layers, sturdy shoes and your camera!

How to get to the Clay Cliffs in Omarama

Getting to the clay cliffs in Omarama is simple if you have a car and an open schedule. Head to the town of Omarama and take Quailburn Road off State Highway 8; 3 minutes North of Omarama township. Drive this route until you come to the clearly labelled signs for the cliffs which will direct you the rest of the way. The cliffs are on private land, so a $5 charge is expected at the gate to maintain the road surface and vegetation. Don’t be a d*ck and drive through without paying because that will ruin it for the rest of us.

The last section of the road is gravel and a few potholes may pop up. If you have a rental vehicle be very careful not to lose a wheel or smash a bumper.
The path from the carpark is short and not steep, but definitely not wheelchair friendly due to the enourmous rocks and gapping holes in the ground, so watch your ankles!

Driving From Wanaka to Omarama

If you are staying in Wanaka then taking a day trip to Omarama clay cliffs is a pretty easy drive. The hour-and-a-half drive will take you through some beautiful scenery over the Clutha River and through Lindis Valley and along state highway 8. Visiting Omarama clay cliffs is a great activity for less than ideal weather conditions as all you will need is a warm jacket and good walking shoes because the township of Omarama will have everything you need for warm lunch or a spot for souvenir shopping.

If you’re traveling during snowy conditions be careful not to get stuck on the wrong side of Lindis pass; heavy snowfall can close the pass for anywhere from an hour to overnight and until the roads have been snow plowed to allow for safer driving conditions.

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A man standing between two large and close sitting cliffs at Omarama Clay Cliffs

A woman walking up a large rocky mound at Omarama Clay Cliffs

Finding Omarama Accommodation

Omarama Top 10 Holiday Park

If instead of heading to Omarama clay cliffs for a day trip and you’re traveling your holiday through the area to continue your holiday along the south island, then you’re going to need to find some accommodation in Omarama.

The Omarama Top 10 Holiday Park is a great first option if you have a self-contained campervan if you have a young family and you want your children outside playing, or even if you want to save some money and don’t mind sharing a kitchen with other people. The Omarama Holiday Park has several motel rooms, cabins, and units on offer, but first in first served because they only have a select few of each. Then as previously mentioned if you have a campervan or even a tent you can book out either a powered sigh to hook your campervan to or a nonpowered site if you’re going for the classic camping experience.

AirBnb Omarama

If you’re a couple wanting a bit more privacy than what a campground can offer then searching for accommodation in Omarama on AirBnb will be your best option. There is plenty of farmers with small cabins on their property that are rented out to holiday goers to experience the great outdoors but from within the comfort and safety within four solid walls. The prices might be more than what you find at the campground but the bedding and décor might be a little bit more luxurious.

Omarama Motels and Apartments

The Omarama Sierra Motel and Apartments are also another good option if you’re wanting privacy and little shampoo and conditioner bottles, they have several accommodation options available from studio apartments to two bedroom units. They may look basic but the Sierra Motel will be exactly what you need if you’re looking for a place to stay that includes a private kitchen and living room space to stretch your legs and relax indoors infront of the television.

Countrytime Hotel

If you’re looking for accommodation in Omarama with a bit of character then the Countrytime Hotel is just what you’re looking for. With 48 rooms available this heritage hotel in Omarama has everything you need onsite for a relaxing holiday in the south island. With beautiful mountain views, a restaurant and bar and nearby cycling, hiking and walking trails why would you need to go anywhere else? Except the clay cliffs of course. The rooms have the choice of either mountain view or garden views so you don’ miss out on beautiful scenery every time you open your curtains.

Things to know Before Arriving at Omarama Clay Cliffs

The cliffs sit on private land, it costs $5 per vehicle to enter the property and cross the gates to the clay cliffs. Which is a fair price when you think about the care needed to preserve the thousand-year-old cliffs and to maintain the road. There are no toilets on site, your last opportunity for a toilet stop is in Omarama township at any of the several cafes, and the clay cliff walking track is not suitable for people with mobility issues, the paths are extremely rocky with large grooves cut out due to rain running down from the cliffs.

Several hazards are present in the area, including rock fall, uneven surfaces, earthquakes and flash flooding. Always check the weather before heading out on an adventure, especially when travelling through the South Island in winter, as heavy snowfall can close any of the passes at short notice.

Best Things to do in Omarama

I wouldn’t blame you if you thought the clay cliffs were the only thing going on for Omarama, It’s the kind of town that if you blinked during your drive you would miss it. But fear not, if you’re looking for things to do in Omarama you’ll easily find something to keep you occupied.

Omarama Hot Pools

The Omarama hot pools are still on my list of places to experience; these central south island hot tubs are one of the best places to stop if you want a hot soak with a view. Each Swedish hot tub sits in a private area of native land overlooking the landscape beyond Omarama. Th Omarama hot pools are well worth the visit if you’re visiting during winter.

Lindis Pass

If you’re in Omarama then you would have probably already driven through Lindis Pass, if not then I’d definitely recommend the drive. During winter if there is heavy snow fall Linids Pass often closes until the road can be cleared of heavy snow, but if you’re travelling through in summer take the opportunity to stop at any of the rest areas and explore the terrain. You will get some beautiful photos with the round winding through the hills.

Whether you’re passing through Omarama or planning a longer stay, the Omarama Clay Cliffs are a breathtaking highlight of New Zealand’s South Island. From hot pools to hiking trails, this small town offers big experiences for every kind of traveler.