Franz Josef Cruise & Guided Walk

Discover the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary in Franz Josef on a cruise and rainforest walk with Franz Josef Wilderness Tours. Franz Josef is renowned for its glaciers, ancient rainforest and native flora and fauna, the perfect destination for experiencing the South Island’s wild west coast. Journey across the reflective waters of Lake Mapourika on a scenic cruise before exploring the Kiwi Sanctuary on foot with a guided rainforest walk.

Your scenic cruise with Franz Josef Wilderness Tours takes you across the glassy waters of Lake Mapourika, known for its incredible mirrored reflections. Along the way, enjoy views of the Jurassic rainforest and snow capped mountains, where you can spot some of New Zealand’s most iconic glaciers. Your friendly skipper provides interesting commentary on your surroundings, before leading the way off the boat and onto the rainforest trail in Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary.

Carefully carved out by the team at Franz Josef Wilderness Tours, the trail winds through untouched rainforest and provides the best viewing of pristine native bush and curious wildlife. Look out for white herons and native bush birds as you make your way through this pure natural environment in Franz Josef, which is also home to the rarest kiwi in the world - the Rowi.