Franz Josef: Kayak & Walking Tour to Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary

Set out on a breathtaking adventure at the Franz Josef: Kayak & Walking Tour to Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary. This 4-hour excursion takes you across the serene waters of Lake Mapourika, surrounded by stunning mountain and glacier views. Venture into the lush rainforest on a guided walk, where you’ll have the chance to spot the elusive kiwi bird. With top-notch equipment, refreshments, and digital photos included, this tour immerses you in New Zealand’s captivating natural beauty. But what truly makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to witness the rare and fascinating kiwi in its natural habitat.

This experience made our list of the 2 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Franz Josef Town.

Key Points

• A 4-hour guided tour that combines kayaking across Lake Mapourika and a walking tour through the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary to spot rare kiwi birds.
• Offers panoramic views of the Southern Alps and the opportunity to observe diverse native bird species in the Jurassic rainforest.
• Includes high-quality kayaking equipment, complimentary tea/coffee, digital photos, and free cancellation up to 24 hours.
• Recommended for those seeking an immersive experience in the captivating natural surroundings of Franz Josef.
• Overall positive customer reviews highlighting the guides’ expertise, scenic beauty, and value for money.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Kayak & Walking Tour to Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary takes place in the picturesque setting of Franz Josef, with prices starting from $99.23 per person.

This 4-hour activity allows visitors to kayak across the serene Lake Mapourika, soaking in stunning mountain and glacier views.

The tour then takes participants on a guided walk through the exclusive Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary, where they can spot the rare kiwi bird and abundant birdlife.

The tour includes high-quality kayaking equipment, complimentary tea and coffee, and free digital photos.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and visitors can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

With a 4.8/5 overall rating, this tour offers an immersive and memorable experience in the heart of New Zealand’s Southern Alps.

Experience Highlights

Kayakers can glide across the serene Lake Mapourika, taking in the stunning mountain and glacier vistas that surround them. The guided walk through the exclusive Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary then offers visitors the opportunity to spot the rare kiwi bird and observe the abundant birdlife inhabiting the Jurassic rainforest.

Highlight	Description
Kayak Tour	Paddle across the picturesque Lake Mapourika with breathtaking views of the Southern Alps and glaciers.
Kiwi Sanctuary	Set out on a guided nature walk through the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary to catch a glimpse of the elusive kiwi bird.
Birdwatching	Discover the diverse array of native bird species thriving in the lush Jurassic rainforest.

These immersive experiences offer an unforgettable connection with the region’s captivating natural wonders.

Inclusions

High-quality kayaking equipment, complimentary tea and coffee, and free digital photos are among the inclusions that enhance the overall experience of this tour.

Transportation to the starting point and a knowledgeable guide ensure a seamless and informative journey for participants.

Visitors are encouraged to bring their own water bottle and small snack to fuel the adventure.

The tour’s inclusion of rain gear, if necessary, demonstrates the organizers’ commitment to ensuring that participants can fully enjoy the experience, regardless of the weather conditions.

These thoughtful inclusions contribute to the tour’s value, allowing visitors to focus on seeing the stunning natural surroundings and wildlife sightings.

Preparation and Recommendations

Visitors meeting at 30 Main Road, Franz Josef, next to The Landing Restaurant, are advised to bring sunglasses, camera, and sunscreen for the tour. Comfortable pants and shoes, avoiding jeans, along with 2-3 warm layers, are recommended attire to ensure a pleasant experience, as the tour operates in all weather conditions and rain gear is provided if necessary.

The tour provides:

• Complimentary tea and coffee

• Free digital photos during the tour

• Transportation to the starting point

Guests are also encouraged to bring a water bottle and small snack to stay hydrated and energized throughout the 4-hour kayaking and walking adventure.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

The Kayak & Walking Tour to Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an overall rating of 4.8/5 based on 16 customer assessments.

Reviewers praised the knowledgeable and engaging guides, who provided a unique and memorable experience. Customers were particularly impressed by the stunning scenery, including the breathtaking mountain and glacier views during the kayak portion of the tour.

Many also appreciated the excellent photo opportunities throughout the experience. While the value for money was rated slightly lower at 4.2/5, the overall consensus is that this tour offers an exceptional and immersive adventure in the stunning Franz Josef region.

Kayaking Across Lake Mapourika

Participants embark on a serene kayak journey across the tranquil waters of Lake Mapourika, surrounded by the majestic mountain peaks and glaciers of the Southern Alps. The reflections of the dramatic landscape shimmer on the glassy surface, creating a breathtaking visual experience.

As they glide across the lake, kayakers admire the stunning vistas of the Jurassic rainforest lining the shores. They spot native birdlife such as the graceful Paradise Shelduck and enjoy the peaceful solitude and connection with the natural environment.

This tranquil paddle provides a truly immersive way to appreciate the untouched beauty of Franz Josef’s picturesque surroundings.

Guided Walk Through Rainforest

After the serene paddle across Lake Mapourika, the guided walk through the exclusive Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary transports visitors into a lush, Jurassic-era rainforest.

A knowledgeable guide leads them along a private trail, pointing out the diverse native flora and fauna that thrive in this protected ecosystem.

They’ll marvel at the towering tree ferns, massive rimu trees, and vibrant mosses carpeting the forest floor.

With keen eyes and ears, they might spot the elusive kiwi scurrying through the undergrowth or hear the haunting calls of native birds.

This intimate encounter with New Zealand’s ancient rainforest is a highlight of the tour, offering a rare glimpse into a vanishing natural wonder.

Opportunity to See Kiwi Birds

In Franz Josef, the Kayak & Walking Tour to Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary offers visitors a unique opportunity to see the rare and elusive kiwi bird.

With some luck, visitors may catch a glimpse of the nocturnal kiwi during the guided walk through the sanctuary. The Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary is home to one of the rarest kiwi species, the Rowi kiwi, with an estimated population of only around 500 birds.

The guided tour provides:

• Knowledgeable guides who share insights about the kiwi’s behavior and conservation efforts

• A chance to spot the kiwi’s distinctive call and movement in its natural habitat

• An appreciation for the importance of protecting this iconic New Zealand species

Recap

The Franz Josef: Kayak & Walking Tour to Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary offers a captivating blend of natural wonders.

Paddle across the serene Lake Mapourika, then learn about the lush rainforest, seeking a rare glimpse of the iconic kiwi bird.

With stunning glacier and mountain views, high-quality equipment, and professional guides, this tour provides an unforgettable encounter with New Zealand’s diverse ecosystem.

You can check if your dates are available here: