Description
The water is so glassy and pure that you cannot tell the lake from the sky. Almost vertical walls of glacial deposits are reflected perfectly, and ancient rainforest adds an emerald hue to the cool icy blue that surrounds you. This is Lake Mapourika, and you have the chance to touch it!
Franz Josef Wilderness Tours invite you to experience their kayak adventure and kiwi sanctuary tour, minutes away from Franz Josef. Lake Mapourika – which is positioned between the sea and the mountains – is situated in a drier, warmer area of the Franz Josef Glacier valley and is a perfect place for capturing the beauty of the glaciers.
Kayak Classic
On your guided tour, you will be led across the magical, reflective surface of the lake where you will be enchanted by the sights. The Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary and the 900 year old kahikatea trees you encounter next will leave you breathless and your friendly guide will be there to capture it all on camera (photos are for free at the conclusion of the tour).
During the morning, the view is so magnificent that you are able to see Mount Cook, Mount Tasman and 14 glaciers. In the afternoon, the glossy surface of the lake becomes a little more uneven as the coastal breeze gently goads it into small waves. This makes the after-lunch tours a little more exciting, particularly when combined with the shifting light and the amazing cloud contours that form across the peak tops of the Southern Alps.
Kayak & Walk
Add a guided rainforest walk through the Kiwi Sanctuary to make the most of your experience. Paddle over Lake Mapourika before you set foot upon the ancient soils of the protected Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary. Enjoy a short walk through the untouched rainforest trail before sitting down to your own packed lunch with magical views. Take time to soak in the serenity as you eat lunch nestled amongst Jurassic rainforest and abundant birdlife. Tea and coffee are provided on the Kayak & Walk tour, however, you will need to bring your own packed lunch.
Your enjoyment and safety is the top priority on your tour of the South Island's West Coast, and the excellent guides will make sure you are happy and comfortable as you enjoy learning about this paradise on Earth. Whatever option you choose you will never forget your kayaking eco-adventure on Lake Mapourika!
Sunset Classic
This guided kayaking tour gives you the chance to experience the original Kayak Classic adventure in the beautiful & soft evening light. With breathtaking views of the Southern Alps, this 3 hour kayaking tour is perfect for those seeking remoteness & gentle paddling. After your kayaking tour, you will return to the beach just in time to watch the sunset.
Trip Includes
- 3 hour guided kayak tour or 4 hour kayak & walk adventure
- Digital photos of your experience
- All paddling equipment (including gloves, waterproof jackets, dry bags hat & a selection of single or double kayaks)
- Informative guides
Duration
- Allow 3 hours for the Kayak Classic & Sunset Classic
- Allow 4 hours for the Kayak & Walk
Departures
- Kayak Classic departs at 9 am & 1 pm
- Kayak & Walk departs at 8:30 am & 2 pm
- Sunset Classic departs at 5:00 pm (summer only)
- Departs from Franz Josef township - 30 Main Road, Franz Josef Glacier
- Operates daily all year
Other Information
- Child rates apply (3-16yrs)
- All equipment provided
- If you prefer to kayak in calmer conditions with less wind then we recommend booking the morning tour as the afternoon tour can be affected by the late breeze & is thus a little more adventurous
- There is a late evening tour during peak season as well. Afternoon tour times will be confirmed when you book
- Operates all year in most weather conditions
- Minimal fitness is required
- No minimum age for kayaking
- No previous experience required
Normal Retail Prices
- Kayak Classic:
- adult NZD$130.00
- child (3-16yrs) NZD$80.00
- Kayak & Walk:
- adult NZD$155.00
- child (3-16yrs) NZD$95.00
- Sunset Classic:
- adult NZD$135.00
- child (3-16yrs) NZD$85.00
Special Offer
- FREE photos : NZD$15.00 value
All prices shown in NZD$.
Thank you for your question about Kayaking - Franz Josef Wilderness Tours. The Kayaking skills will be basic ones which you will be taught on the day by your guide, you do not have to have kayak experience, beginners are welcomed. If you prefer to do less then it is recommended to do a morning departure as the lake is very calm and still most of the time dependent on the weather.
Comment by: Etg on 28th Mar 22 at 15:06