Glenorchy Island Safari, Self-drive option
Overview
Available languages
4 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Come and enjoy a kayaking tour to a wildlife sanctuary not able to be accessed by the general public. Unless you have a kayak in your back pocket, you will not be able to access Pigeon Island. These Islands are fantastic places with wildlife, beaches surrounded by mountains, and away from the crowds
Additional Info
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Not suitable for children under 8yrs old
All participants must be able to speak English
What To Expect
After a full safety and equipment briefing on a secluded beach, we kayak across Lake Wakatipu to Pigeon Island. A bird sanctuary in the heart of the Southern Alps. We stop on the beach for morning/afternoon tea and a short walk where we hopefully see some of the flightless birds that call the island their home, before paddling back along the wild shorelines overlooked by glaciers crowding the mountain peaks.
Options
Glenorchy Island Safari, Self-drive option
What‘s Included
Private transportation
Cake and a hot drink
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
23 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
A Wonderful Kayaking Experience
B2334QGrichardm,Apr 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We booked a family kayaking tour on April 9, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable experiences of our South Island trip. A special thanks to our guide, Andy, who provided clear and helpful kayaking instructions, along with sharing his knowledge about Pigeon Island, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding area. His knowledge and enthusiasm truly made the whole experience even more enjoyable.
Scenic, peaceful and friendly guide. Wonderful experience
Rachael A,Mar 25, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We had that section of the lake and the island almost all to ourselves and it was so peaceful! Our guide was very friendly and knowledgeable and I thought it was fantastic value given the price of other tours from Queenstown
Great afternoon
Mary F,Mar 24, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Such a fun afternoon. Really e hyped this activity. Andy was a great guide and kept us safe and informed and entertained. Beautiful scenery
Excellent kayak ride in the most exceptional scenery and amazing sunny day
Alex M,Feb 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Andy was an excellent tour guide. We truly enjoyed the kayak cruise on the lake and the hike on the island. It may make more sense to revise the meeting place to be by the lake where the tour starts on kayaks rather than in Glenorchy followed by a drive to the lake launch area. Just a suggestion.
Spectacular scenery, very relaxed kayaking, Weka and fruit cake thrown in.
David M,Jan 28, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The whole experience was relaxed and very enjoyable, Marcus and Andy are very personable and great guides. I would highly recommend booking this regardless of your kayaking experience. We were very lucky in that when we arrived at the hut, a family of Weka walked right out in front of us. There was a speculation that they knew when the cake was going to arrive.
Very well organised and truly unforgettable.
Fahim P,Dec 26, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Fantastic kayaking experience with Glenorchy Island Safari. The guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and made everyone feel safe. Stunning scenery, calm waters, plus a lovely break with hot Raro drink and fruit cake. Very well organised and truly unforgettable.
Fab time out !
Departure11434029909,Nov 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Absolutely priceless morning on the lake with our guide Andy. The threat of wind never arrived and concluded our trip with an extra long paddle to enjoy such good weather. Meditative and therapeutic for sure.
Amazing day on the lake!
Quoc T,Feb 28, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00It was an amazing and lovely day on the water with our friendly guide Grace! She was knowledgeable, funny, warm and a great storyteller! We loved hanging out with her kayaking around the lake. It was a beautiful day and the water was so nice and peaceful. Highly recommend! Thank you again Grace for an amazing day ❤️
A Memorable Kayaking Experience!
ashlynguintoo,Feb 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had the best time kayaking on Lake Wakatipu to Pigeon Island! Our guide, Amanda, was amazing and made the experience very comfortable. She was so friendly, great to have a laugh with and had so many insightful stories about New Zealand. We felt so safe on the water and were able to go at our own pace. A very memorable experience that we will be sure to tell everyone about!
Amanda was a fantastic...
Angie M,Feb 12, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Amanda was a fantastic tour guide and has excellent knowledge to share! We had a great time kayaking with her and thoroughly enjoyed this experience!!
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Operated by Rippled Earth Ltd