Franz Josef Glacier Kayaking Tours

Highlights

• 3 hour kayaking tour in Franz Josef
• Views of Franz Josef Glacier & Southern Alps
• Kayak through the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary
• Sunset kayaking option available!

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.

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
• 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 

Departures

• 9:00am & 1:00pm in summer (Nov-Mar)
• 9:00am & 10:00am in winter (Apr-Oct)
• Sunset tours depart at 5:00 pm in summer & 2:00pm in winter
• Departs from Franz Josef township, 30 Main Road, Franz Josef Glacier
• Operates daily all year

Other Information

• Child rates apply (3-17yrs)
• All equipment provided
• Please bring a camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, comfortable leggings or trousers (no denim) & comfortable footwear
• 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 (please let us know if you are travelling with a child under 4 years old)
• No previous experience required

Normal Retail Prices

• Kayak Classic:
  • adult NZD$145.00
  • child (3-17yrs) NZD$90.00
• Sunset Classic:
  • adult NZD$145.00
  • child (3-17yrs) NZD$90.00

Special Offer

• FREE photos : NZD$15.00 value

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