South Island
Franz Josef Kayaking Tours – Wilderness Tours & Cruises
Experience Franz Josef kayaking tours and scenic boat cruises on Lake Mapourika, just minutes from the glacier. These guided tours combine calm water paddling, wildlife spotting and stunning Southern Alps views — with options for all experience levels.
All tours include expert guides and equipment, making this one of the easiest and most scenic ways to explore Glacier Country. Bookings are recommended due to limited daily departures.
— bookings are recommended.
Franz Josef Kayaking & Cruises – Quick Facts
- Duration: 2–3 hours (varies by tour)
- Departs: Franz Josef Glacier area
- Includes: Kayak or boat, guide, safety equipment
- Experience level: Beginner to moderate
- Best for: Nature, wildlife & scenic exploration
- ✔ Bookings recommended
Franz Josef Kayaking Tours – Prices & Booking
- Kayak tours from $149 per person
- Scenic cruises from $125 per person
- Fishing charters available
- ✔ Secure your preferred time in advance
Kayak & Boat Tours in Franz Josef Glacier Region
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!
Franz Josef Kayak Tours – Lake Mapourika
Kayak Classic
Price: $149 per person
$95 (17 Years and under)
Departs: 9 am & 2 pm
Duration: 3 hours (approx)
Glide across Lake Mapourika with panoramic views of the Southern Alps and rainforest. Paddle into the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary with your guide.
Kayak & Walk
Price: $169 per person $110 (17 Years and under)
Departs: 9 am & 1 pm
Duration: 4 Hours (Approx)
Access a private rainforest trail only reachable by kayak and boat. Explore untouched wilderness and enjoy hot drinks with glacier views.
Sunset Classic
Price: $149 per person
$95 (17 Years and under)
Departs: 5 pm
Duration: 3 Hours (Approx)
Experience Lake Mapourika in the evening light with calm waters and stunning alpine views. Summer seasonal.
Franz Josef Glacier Boat Tours on Lake Mapourika
Scenic Cruise on Lake Mapourika
Duration: 2 Hours
Price: $125 per person Child: $75 pp
Relax on a small-group eco cruise with glacier views, rainforest and native birdlife. Includes commentary, tea and coffee.
Cruise & Rainforest Walk
Duration: 2.5 Hours
Price: $149 per person Child: $85 pp
Cruise across the lake and explore a private rainforest trail in the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary.
West Coast Trout & Salmon Fishing Lake Mapourika
Lake Mapourika Fishing Charters – What to Expect
Fish the calm waters of Lake Mapourika on a guided trout and salmon fishing charter set against the backdrop of the Southern Alps and native rainforest. This scenic fishing experience combines expert local knowledge with one of the West Coast’s most peaceful locations.
Your skipper provides all equipment and guidance, making this suitable for both beginners and experienced anglers. The enclosed cabin offers comfort for groups, while dedicated fishing space at the rear of the boat allows up to four people to fish at once.
- Trout fishing: Available year-round
- Salmon season: October to March
- Species: Brown Trout and wild Quinnat Salmon
- No experience required
Fishing Charter Lake Mapourika
Duration: 3 Hours
Price: $225 per person Child: $95 pp
Target brown trout and salmon with a local guide. All equipment provided. No experience required.
Phone: +64 (03) 752 0230 Freephone: 0800 423 262
Email: [email protected] Visit our Website: www.franzjoseftours.co.nz/
Franz Josef Kayaking Tours – FAQs & Booking Information
Prices for Franz Josef kayaking tours typically start from around $149 per person, with options for kayak tours, scenic cruises and fishing charters.
Franz Josef kayaking tours on Lake Mapourika offer calm water paddling, glacier views and access to the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary. Guided tours are suitable for beginners and include all equipment.
No experience is required. Franz Josef kayaking tours are beginner-friendly, with expert guides providing full instruction and safety equipment before you head out on the water.
All kayaking and boat tours depart from Lake Mapourika, located just a few minutes from Franz Josef Glacier Village.
Most kayaking tours last between 2 to 4 hours, depending on the experience you choose. This includes time on the water and guided exploration.
Tours include a guide, kayak or boat, safety equipment and access to protected areas such as the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary. Some tours also include hot drinks and complimentary photos.
Yes, Franz Josef Wilderness Tours offers scenic boat cruises on Lake Mapourika. These are ideal if you prefer a relaxed experience with wildlife viewing and glacier scenery.
You may see native birdlife including herons, whitebait fish and other wetland species. The lake sits within a protected rainforest and kiwi sanctuary area.
Yes, many tours are suitable for families and beginners. Boat cruises are also a great option for all ages.
Kayaking tours operate year-round, with calm conditions on Lake Mapourika making it suitable in most weather. Sunset tours are especially popular during summer.
Yes, bookings are recommended as tours have limited spaces and can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel periods.
