Franz Josef Classic Kayaking Tour - 3 Hours
Highlights & inclusions
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August 2026
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What you can expect
Embark on a tranquil journey across Lake Mapourika on the Franz Josef Classic Kayaking Tour with Franz Josef Wilderness Tours. This enchanting three-hour adventure offers an unparalleled opportunity on New Zealand's West Coast to paddle through pristine (and often reflective) waters, with the majestic Franz Josef Glacier and Southern Alps as your backdrop.
Lake Mapourika is nestled within the Franz Josef Glacier Valley, its sheltered location making it the ideal spot for kayaking. The calm surface of the lake often mirrors its surroundings, and you'll be captivated by reflections of steep glacial walls and ancient Jurassic rainforests.
The Franz Josef kayaking tour takes you across Lake Mapourika and along a narrow estuary to paddle through the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary. Your knowledgeable guide from Franz Josef Wilderness Tours will ensure you don’t miss any details and the magic of the tour will be captured with complimentary digital photo.
Whether you opt for the morning session, with its reflective waters and clear views of the Southern Alps and surrounding glaciers, or a slightly more dynamic afternoon ride, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. For those seeking a Franz Josef kayaking tour in the evening, a Sunset Classic option is available at 5pm in summer months, or 2pm in winter. This serene experience allows you to kayak under the soft hues of the evening sky, culminating in a spectacular sunset view.
Franz Josef Wilderness Tours ensures a comfortable experience with all necessary kayaking gear, including kayaks, life jackets, safety equipment, dry bags and wet weather gear. Both single and double kayaks are available to suit your preference. With expert guides leading the way, this Franz Josef kayaking tour is the perfect way to experience New Zealand's wild West Coast.
Location
What you need to know
- 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
- Please allow three hours for this experience
- This experience departs from 30 Main Road, Franz Josef township (beside the Landing Bar & Restaurant)
- 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
- Sunset kayak tours during the summer months: Nov 1st-March 31st annually.
- Tour requires a minimum of 2 adults to operate.
- We reserve the right to cancel due to adverse weather in which case we will reschedule or provide full refunds.
- We operate on rain days if we deem the conditions to be safe, feel free to contact our local knowledgeable team for the most up to date forecast.
- Change your booking up to 24 hours before the start time of your experience
- Changes are not permitted within 24 hours of your experience
- Late arrivals or no shows may result in you forfeiting your experience
- Confirmation in the form of a tour voucher will be received at time of booking
- Upon completion of purchase, please print the voucher and present on day of the experience
- Vouchers can also be presented on your mobile device for this attraction
- Availability was accurate at the time of booking however, is subject to change due to circumstances out of our control
- For your information, complete Tour Operator Information including contact details is included on your tour voucher
- We strongly suggest reconfirming your booking with the tour operator within 24 hours of making your booking and prior to making other travel arrangements
