Clay Cliffs near Omarama: Complete Guide on the South Island

If you’re road tripping through the South Island of New Zealand, you’ve probably heard about the famous lakes and mountain scenery, but have you come across the Clay Cliffs near Omarama? These striking rock formations look like something out of another world, and for first-time visitors, they’re often an unexpected highlight.

The tricky part is that the Clay Cliffs don’t always get the same attention as the bigger South Island icons. Many travellers pass them by, unsure if they’re worth the detour, how easy they are to reach, or whether they can be explored quickly on a tight itinerary.

Having visited the Clay Cliffs myself, I can share exactly everything you need to know and what to expect once you arrive. Whether you’re chasing dramatic landscapes for photography, or just love discovering hidden gems, this guide will help you decide if the Clay Cliffs deserve a spot on your South Island adventure.

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How to get to the Clay Cliffs near Omarama?

The Clay Cliffs are an impressive natural attraction located just 20 minutes from Omarama or about 35 minutes south of Twizel, making them an easy stop along State Highway 8.

The drive out is straightforward, with clear signs along the way:

• Head north-east on State Highway 8 from Omarama.
• After 4.4 km, turn left onto Quailburn Road.
• Continue for 3.8 km, then turn left again onto Henburn Road.
• Drive another 3.5 km, and you’ll find the Clay Cliffs car park on your left.

Are the Clay Cliffs worth visiting? I think so, Yes. While it’s a relatively small attraction, it doesn’t take much time to explore and is well worth adding to your South Island road trip itinerary.

The cliffs offer a dramatic, almost otherworldly feel, with their jagged spires and eroded formations standing in stark contrast to the snow-capped mountain terrain you usually associate with New Zealand. It’s this unique difference that makes the Clay Cliffs such a memorable stop and a quick detour that leaves a lasting impression.

Visiting the cliffs doesn’t take long, about an hour is enough to walk among the formations, snap photos, and soak up the otherworldly scenery.

They’re perfectly placed as a stopover when travelling between destinations, whether you’re heading north towards Mount Cook National Park or south on your way to Queenstown.

How much does it cost to visit?

The Clay Cliffs are on private property, and a $5 per vehicle donation (or $20 per bus) is required to enter the premises. This money goes towards road maintenance that leads to the cliffs and allows future visitors to see this amazing site.

However, it runs on an honesty system, and you’ll place the money in the small cash box near the fence.

Please ensure you have the correct money, as there is no change given.

Know that tourist are allowed to enter when the fence is OPEN, and a camera is watching for those who don’t comply with the payment. 

How long is the walk & Difficulty?

There is a 1.3 kilometre return walk (about 7 minutes each way) to get there.

Still, you can see some pinnacles as soon as you start the walking track. However, I think it takes more time to walk around the Cliffs and explore the different sections and views.

Walking among the cliffs feels like stepping into another world, often compared to landscapes found in Utah or on a movie set. The formations are unlike any other in New Zealand, making them a must-visit for those traveling between Queenstown and Christchurch. 

The short walking track to the Clay Cliffs is not that difficult and can be completed by almost everyone. However, the uneven ground and loose surface might call for closed-in shoes for safety. 

Climbing in and around the Cliffs does get more difficult as you get inclines and use your hands to balance. But, this is not the official walking track, and you don’t have to do it to see the rock formations. 

How much time do you need?

I would allocate at least 1 to 1.5 hours to via off the highway, but longer if you really want to get into it.

This stunning landscape is an ancient geologic feature that will have your senses on heightened alert, and some people will need more than others! 

However, if you’re strapped for time, there is an option to stop off on the side of the road of Highway 8, and you can view them from a distance here.

From the town of Omarama, it takes about 5 minutes to drive south for the viewpoint, with a backdrop of the Southern Alps. (As pictured below)

FAQ’s – Popular Questions Asked?

Are there any tours?

Sorry, but there are no organised or public tours available. So, you will need your own car or hire one to get there.

I tend to road trip around New Zealand every time I visit and these can be easily hired from Christchurch or Queenstown airport.

➡Find your favourite brand & compare prices for your Rental Car HERE

However, some big bus tours might point them out for you when travelling past, along the State Highway 8.

Do you need a 4WD to get there?

You might be driving on a dirt road, but NO, you don’t need a 4-wheel drive vehicle to the Clay Cliffs and is suitable just to drive in your standard car. 

However, if you’re in a rental car (like we were), you might want to ensure your insurance covers driving on dirt roads. In my experience, they are generally covered if the road is named (which this one is).

What is the Car Parking like?

The Car parking is limited to about 10 to 20 spaces, and you just park where there is a spot. I’m guessing this can get full in peak periods, but early morning and late afternoon are always best to avoid the crowds. 

Are there Bathrooms

This is private land, and NO public bathroom facilities are available around the Car Parking. The closest place would be public areas at Omarama or Twizel.

This means there is also no water and you’ll need to bring your own for drinking, along with a Camera for your best pics of the cliffs.

How old are are they?

Can you believe the Clay Cliffs have been around for over a million years? Geologists and historians marvel at the immense age of the cliffs. The rocks are rich in fossils and are remnants of the area’s rich history. 

Scholars study the landscape for clues to the area’s past and seek to understand how nature has evolved over a long span of time. It’s impossible not to be enchanted by these powerful and ancient walls that have stood tall over Omarama for thousands of lifetimes!

How tall are they?

The Cliffs rise about 30 metres or 98 feet high in the sky. So, it’s no surprise that they draw tourists from all over to marvel at their sheer grandeur. They stand as a testament to the power of nature and the geological forces that shape the Earth. 

You can choose to climb in and around the cliffs or stay closer to the ground – It’s your choice! But, do be careful and know your limits before walking up.

Best time to visit?

Spring, summer, and fall are all fantastic seasons to visit.

However, if you come during summer from November to January, you’ll get the added bonus of seeing some colorful Lupins. They might be weeds, but really an exquisite flower to see in person covering the fields.

In winter or extreme conditions, the trail could become dangerous because of the rocks, snow, and slippery surfaces, so be sure to wear proper hiking shoes. On the other hand, you might find the area closed off altogether.

Where to Stay?

If you wanting to stay in the area, then there are only a few options available to Stay in Omarama itself. However, the town has a population of 290 people, so it could be the quiet little spot you’re looking for.

However, only 30 minutes away, you have Twizel and a superb spot to base a hotel stay while visiting Mount Cook National Park. 

Other Things to do Nearby?

If you’re planning a visit to the Clay Cliffs, you’ll be pleased to know there are plenty of other incredible things to see and do nearby. The South Island is packed with natural wonders and hidden gems, and many of them are just a short drive away.

Here are some highlights to add to your itinerary and you can check out my full guide to the best attractions on the South Island here:

• Mount Cook National Park – Explore one of New Zealand’s most iconic alpine regions with towering peaks and glacier-carved valleys.

• Hooker Lake Hiking Trail – A stunning half-day hike that leads you to a glacier-fed lake with breathtaking views of Aoraki/Mount Cook.
• Tasman Valley Hike – Discover the dramatic Tasman Glacier, complete with viewpoints over the icy lake and its floating icebergs.

• Peters Lookout – A classic roadside stop offering postcard-perfect views of Mount Cook framed by Lake Pukaki.
• Lake Tekapo – Famous for its turquoise waters, Church of the Good Shepherd, and stargazing in the Dark Sky Reserve.
• Twizel Salmon Farm – A great spot to sample fresh salmon and enjoy a quick, tasty bite while on the road.

Wrap up!

Thanks for reading this blog post today on finding the Clay Cliffs near the small town of Omarama, and I hope you found the information you were looking for. Remember to check out more blogs on blog on New Zealand for planning and inspiration.