Explore the enchanting landscapes of Franz Josef with an unforgettable 3-hour kayak adventure on the serene waters of Lake Mapourika. Glide through the tranquil mirror-like surface, surrounded by the majestic Southern Alps and lush Jurassic rainforest. This guided tour promises an immersive experience, where you’ll discover the area’s rich wildlife and conservation efforts. With all necessary gear provided and expert insights from knowledgeable guides, you’re in for a journey that will leave you captivated by the breathtaking natural beauty of this picturesque region. What secrets might the lake and its surroundings unveil?
This experience made our list of the 2 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Franz Josef Town.
Key Points
- A 3-hour guided kayak tour on the serene Lake Mapourika, offering stunning views of the Southern Alps, glaciers, and Jurassic rainforest.
- Explore the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary and ancient, diverse flora and fauna during the tour.
- Complimentary shuttle service, essential gear, and professional photography provided for a hassle-free experience.
- Flexible cancellation policy and recommended packing list ensure a stress-free and comfortable adventure.
- The tour caters to most visitors, with experienced guides assisting throughout the journey, regardless of weather conditions.
Tour Overview
The 3-hour kayak tour on Lake Mapourika in Franz Josef, New Zealand, promises a captivating adventure amidst the region’s breathtaking natural beauty.
Priced from $87.20 per person, this all-weather tour allows you to glide across the serene lake, drinking in the stunning vistas of the Southern Alps, glaciers, and Jurassic rainforest.
You’ll also have the chance to explore the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary and old-growth rainforest, all while being guided by knowledgeable experts.
With complimentary photos and courtesy transport to and from the lake, this tour offers an exceptional value for the price.
However, due to its popularity, it’s advisable to check availability and book in advance to secure your spot on this unforgettable experience.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Franz Josef Town
Activity Highlights
Gliding across the serene waters of Lake Mapourika, participants can enjoy the region’s breathtaking natural splendor, with unobstructed views of the towering Southern Alps, majestic glaciers, and the lush Jurassic rainforest that lines the shore.
The tour offers a chance to:
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Discover the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary, a protected haven for the rare and elusive Rowi kiwi.
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Explore the ancient, old-growth rainforest, teeming with diverse flora and fauna.
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Capture stunning photographs, which are provided complimentary with every tour, to immortalize the scenic beauty.
Throughout the journey, a knowledgeable guide provides insightful commentary, enhancing the overall experience and ensuring participants learn about the region’s unique natural and cultural heritage.
Included Experiences
A complimentary shuttle service transports participants to and from the lake, ensuring a seamless start and end to the tour.
Experienced guides lead the way, providing essential equipment like jackets, paddling gloves, and dry bags to keep valuables safe.
Capturing the scenic beauty is made easy with the inclusion of free photos taken throughout the journey.
The tour offers a comprehensive experience, with knowledgeable guides sharing insights about the local flora, fauna, and conservation efforts within the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary.
Paddlers can enjoy the tranquil waters of Lake Mapourika, surrounded by the stunning Southern Alps, glaciers, and ancient Jurassic rainforest.
It’s an unforgettable adventure that caters to all experience levels.
Gear and Essentials
In an article titled ‘Franz Josef: 3-Hour Kayak Tour on Lake Mapourika’, it’s now time to discuss the CURRENT SUBTOPIC ‘Gear and Essentials’.
Participants receive all necessary gear to ensure a comfortable and safe kayaking experience. This includes a warm jacket, paddling gloves, and a cap or beanie to protect against the elements. On top of that, a dry bag is provided to keep personal belongings secure during the tour.
The recommended packing list includes:
- Sunglasses to shield your eyes from the glare off the water.
- A camera to capture the stunning scenery.
- A small snack and water bottle to refuel during the tour.
With all the necessary equipment provided, participants can focus on enjoying the serene lake and immersive natural surroundings of the Franz Josef region.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCancellation Policy
Participants can take advantage of the tour’s flexible cancellation policy, which allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
This gives travelers the freedom to adjust their plans if needed, without worrying about losing their money.
The company understands that unexpected events can come up, so they’ve designed a hassle-free cancellation process to provide peace of mind.
Whether you need to change your travel dates or can no longer attend, you can cancel your kayak tour reservation up to a day before the scheduled departure and receive a complete refund.
This policy ensures a stress-free booking experience for all participants.
- Franz Josef: Twin Fox & Franz Josef Glaciers Helicopter Trip
- Franz Josef: 13,000ft, 16,500ft or 18,000ft Skydive
- Franz Josef: 3-Hour Kayak Tour on Lake Mapourika
- Franz Josef: Half-Day Glacier Helicopter and Hiking Tour
- Franz Josef: Helicopter – Picnic Amongst the Peaks
- Franz Josef: 30-min Flight Franz Josef & Tasman Glaciers
What to Bring
When preparing for the Franz Josef kayak tour, guests’ll want to be sure to bring a few essential items.
Sunglasses and a camera are musts to capture the stunning scenery, while sunscreen and a water bottle ensure comfort and hydration throughout the adventure. Small snacks can also be a good idea to refuel during the 3-hour experience.
The tour recommends guests bring:
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Sunglasses to shield their eyes from the glare on the water.
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A camera to document the incredible views of the Southern Alps, glaciers, and Jurassic rainforest.
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Sunscreen to protect their skin from the sun’s rays during the outdoor activity.
With these items in tow, travelers can fully enjoy the beauty of Lake Mapourika and the surrounding natural wonders.
Clothing Recommendations
For the Franz Josef kayak tour, guests are recommended to wear 2-3 warm layers, comfortable pants, and shoes that avoid jeans to ensure maximum comfort and mobility throughout the 3-hour excursion.
The changing weather conditions on Lake Mapourika can be unpredictable, so dressing in layers is essential. Warm, breathable fabrics like wool or synthetic materials are ideal, as they’ll keep you cozy while allowing for easy movement.
Comfortable, quick-drying pants are also a must, as you may encounter some splashing from the paddles. Closed-toe shoes or boots will provide the best traction and support, preventing any slips or discomfort.
Following these clothing recommendations will help you stay warm, dry, and focused on enjoying the stunning scenery.
Accessibility and Weather
The Franz Josef kayak tour caters to most visitors, though it may not accommodate wheelchair users due to the terrain and boat design. This all-weather excursion carries on rain or shine, allowing participants to enjoy the stunning natural scenery regardless of the day’s climate.
The tour’s accessibility includes:
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Transportation to and from the lake, ensuring a seamless start and end to the adventure.
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Provision of essential gear, such as jackets, gloves, and dry bags, to keep adventurers comfortable and protected.
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Experienced guides who provide knowledgeable commentary and assistance throughout the journey.
While the tour may not be suitable for all, it offers an opportunity for visitors to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Franz Josef in an immersive and accessible manner.
Recap
Enjoy the serene beauty of Lake Mapourika with a 3-hour kayak tour in Franz Josef.
Experience the stunning Southern Alps and lush Jurassic rainforest, while learning about the local wildlife and conservation efforts.
With all necessary gear provided and knowledgeable guides, this guided adventure promises an unforgettable journey into nature’s splendor.
You can check if your dates are available here: