Available languages
4 hours
Mobile ticket
Fewer People - More Wildlife!
The Clearwater Family's Farm is home to more wildlife per square meter than anywhere in Dunedin.
The intimate small group tours offer the chance to see Yellow-eyed penguins, NZ sea lions, NZ fur seals, albatross plus a wide variety of birdlife, in the wild.
Your professionally guided tour of no more than 10 people will take you to the private beach & wildlife reserves through our working farm at Cape Saunders on the Otago Peninsula.
A wild and untamed, dramatic environment that we are lucky enough to share with some of New Zealand's rarest species.
The aim is to give you a truly authentic wildlife experience and leave you with memories that will last for a lifetime.
The Clearwater family has deep roots here and is devoted to preserving and enhancing its pristine beauty.
Become a part of our shared commitment to protect its natural wildlife habitats.
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Level of fitness: This tour requires a moderate level of fitness. There are some hills to walk up and down and the beach walk also includes walking on sand and uneven ground. There are also several sets of steps and stairs therefore the terrain visited is not suitable for persons with walking disabilities.
Clothing: Our tours are an outdoor activity in a land where maritime weather prevails, the weather can change very quickly, regardless of the season. Always bring warm and waterproof clothes. For those that are unprepared we provide wind and rain proof jackets.
Footwear: Walking shoes/boots with good tread are recommended and necessary if conditions are wet or muddy.
Food: Tours are 4 hours in duration, so guests are welcome to bring pre-packed food and drink as there are no opportunities to stop for food during our tours.
Children: Small children might have difficulty keeping up on the trails. For safety reasons children are not able to sit on an adult's lap.
Medicines: Personal medicines etc. should be carried if required on all tours. Any medical condition which could potentially be a problem should be communicated to your guide at the start of a tour.
Photography: There will be some amazing photo opportunities during our tours so bring your best camera.
Cancellation Policy: To receive a full refund, travelers may cancel up to 24 hours before the experience start time in the local time zone. No refunds will be given after that time period.
Cruise Ship Passengers - Please advise us of the name of the cruise ship you are arriving on.
Not recommended for travelers with mobility issues.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
There are toilet facilities at the farm and at our meeting point in the Octagon.
Complimentary High Quality Binoculars
Complimentary wind & rain proof jackets
Air-conditioned vehicle
We have complimentary water & cookies on board
There are no food stops along the way. Guests are welcome to bring a packed lunch or snacks.
Our tour is not suitable for children under 5 years of age
Otago Peninsula
Voted in the Top 10 of Things to Do in NZ for 2025! The journey to Cape Saunders takes you through the beautiful backcountry and inlets of the Otago Peninsula where you will see a variety of wetland and wading birds amid breath-taking scenery. Arrive at Cape Saunders farm and experience a uniquely secluded breeding colony of NZ fur seals and a variety of sea birds from two stunning viewing locations overlooking the wild and rugged Pacific Ocean. We then journey to our native conservation reserve where our knowledgeable and experienced staff will guide you to vital breeding grounds for yellow-eyed penguins and New Zealand sea lions. Witness this special place from several viewing hides and secluded locations while exploring one of NZ’s most beautiful untouched natural beaches. After embarking on a spectacular wildlife experience and witnessing unforgettable vistas and breathtaking coastal beach and shore environments we complete the journey back to your pick up location.
394 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Sam E,
Aug 30, 2025
- Viator
This was a fantastic tour - highly recommend!! Four hours seemed like a long time at first, but it gave us so much time to sit and watch the wildlife. Ben was a great tour guide; he was very knowledgeable and fun to talk to.
Stefano P,
Aug 27, 2025
- Viator
Amazing experience that brings you to discover one of the most amazing and secret spots of the Otago Peninsula. Our guide, Kelly, has been amazing in explaining us the local fauna and the story of this region. Best spots: yellow-eyed penguins, southern royal albatross and a beach full of majestic sea lions. One of the best experiences we had on south island at all!
Iain M,
Jul 1, 2025
- Viator
Truly magnificent. Access to private land with supremely knowledgeable staff. On the end we had a private tour - just us two and two guides!
Fabian B,
Jun 14, 2025
- Viator
Absolutely stunning and the best trip to see sealions and pinguins. Kelly has been the best guide for this tour.
Lewis S,
May 7, 2025
- Viator
We were fortunate enough to hit the wildlife jackpot, observing no less than a half dozen yellow penguins emerging from the ocean. Add a couple of seal pups and lots of sea lions on the beach. Even if we had not I still would have given this tour 5 stars. The ride and scenery were breathtaking, well off normally travelled routes. Our guide, Eric, was outstanding.
Operated by Clearwater Wildlife Tours