Okarito

Wilderness Tours - Franz Josef

Paddle Paradise:

Explore Lake Mapourika with Franz Josef Wilderness Tours!

Kayak, Cruise, or Fish on the stunning Lake Mapourika with Franz Josef Wilderness Tours! Just minutes from Franz Josef Glacier, experience the tranquillity of this glacial lake surrounded by the majestic Southern Alps.

Explore on Your Terms:

Kayaking and Stand-up Paddleboarding (SUP): Glide across the crystal-clear waters with our expert guides. Capture the moment with complimentary photos taken during your adventure.
Scenic Boat Cruise: Relax and enjoy the breathtaking scenery from the comfort of our purpose-built tour boat. This option is perfect for photography and wildlife spotting, featuring a warm cabin, covered deck, and viewing platforms. Tea and coffee are included, along with informative commentary from your skipper.
Guided Fishing Charters: Target trophy Brown Trout or Wild Salmon with our experienced local guide. Practice catch and release, or keep your legal catch and have it prepared for you to take home.

Unforgettable Experiences Await:

Franz Josef Wilderness Tours offers unique ways to experience the beauty of Lake Mapourika. Whether you’re seeking an active adventure or a relaxing cruise, we have the perfect option. Combine your trip with a Franz Josef Glacier visit for an unforgettable day in Glacier Country!

Book your Lake Mapourika tour today and create lasting memories!

Kayak Classic

Price: $145 per person
$90 (17 Years and under)
Departs: 9 am & 2 pm
Duration: 3 hours (approx)

Glide effortlessly across the water, taking in the panoramic views of the Southern Alps, glaciers and untouched Jurassic rainforest of Lake Mapourika. Paddle into the heart of the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary, exploring the protected area with your knowledgeable guide.

Kayak & Walk

Price: $165 per person $105 (17 Years and under)
Departs: 9 am & 1 pm
Duration: 4 Hours (Approx)

Explore the Jurassic rainforest and kiwi sanctuary on our private rainforest trail! Exclusively accessed by kayak and boat, you’ll experience the pure remote wilderness of Lake Mapourika.
Hot drinks are provided, with an unbeatable panorama of the glaciers across the lake.

Sunset Classic

Price: $145 per person
$90 (17 Years and under)
Departs: 5 pm
Duration: 3 Hours (Approx)

Embark on our original Kayak Classic Adventure in the soft evening light. Experience 3 hours of solitude and gentle paddling with an unbeatable view of the Southern Alps, returning to the beach in time to watch the sun set below the mountains.
A premium tour is only available during the summer months.

Franz Josef Glacier Boat Tours on Lake Mapourika

Scenic Cruise on Lake Mapourika

Duration: 2 Hours
Price: $120 per person Child: $75 pp

Join us on a spectacular landscape and wildlife eco-cruise with the Southern Alps, Glaciers and lush rainforest as your scenic backdrop. Relax in comfort as you take in the views on our small per- personalized tours. Journey into a kiwi conservation area, enjoy old-growth rainforest and spot New Zealand’s native birdlife.

Cruise & Rainforest Walk

Duration: 2.5 Hours
Price: $149 per person Child: $85 pp

Journey across the lake and enjoy exclusive access to our private rainforest trail through the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary. Step off the boat and into another world! Experience Westland’s oldest Jurassic rainforest and meet curious native birdlife. This trip is our premium cruise, suitable for all ages.

West Coast Trout & Salmon Fishing Lake Mapourika

Lake Mapourika’s calm, reflective waters are home to many fish, such as Trout and Salmon. Experience the beauty of Lake Mapourika while trolling silently past 900-year-old Kahikatea trees and Native Birdsong while you wait for a nibble on the line!

The Hanna-K can seat a large group in the enclosed cabin area and has space for four people to fish off the back of the boat at once. The Skipper provides commentary along the way to keep the non-fishers engaged and having fun! The mirrored lake water and scenic views leave you in awe while awaiting your first bit.

The Trout season runs year-round, and the salmon season runs from October 1st to March 31st annually.

Trout: Brown Trout can be caught year-round.

Salmon: Lake Mapourika is a productive trout and quinnat salmon fishery containing both resident and sea-run salmon.

Fishing Charter Lake Mapourika

Duration:3Hours
Price: $195 per person Child: $95 pp

Lake Mapourika is one of the South Island’s most scenic fishing destinations! The lake holds stocks of Brown Trout and wild Salmon. Your local NZ fishing guide will provide all necessary fishing instructions and equipment. No previous experience is required.