Mou Waho Island Cruise and Guided Nature Walk
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Cruise to unique Mou Waho Island for a guided nature walk to the natural glacial lake on top of the island . Once aboard our fast lake cruiser, guests can relax in comfort and enjoy a 30 minute cruise among spectacular mountain scenery with commentary on local history, geology and culture.
On the island you will have 2 hours ashore for a guided walk. Learn about the island and its unique bird-life from our knowledgeable guides as you hike to the summit enjoying outstanding photo opportunities.
Mou Waho Island is a predator-free Department of Conservation nature reserve with a natural glacial formed lake at its summit. Here you can see first-hand results of conservation efforts including the rare flightless Buff Weka (extinct on the mainland since 1920), the Mountain Stone Weta and many other native birds.
Please note that the walk goes up 150 m vertically over 1 km.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
This experience requires a minimum of 4 adult bookings to run
Boarding is at 8.45 am. You may not be admitted if you are not present at this time.
Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund.
Good fitness is required for the walk. Please do not attempt the walk if you have age, medical or fitness related disabilities.
Good fitness level required
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Lake Wanaka
Cruise on Lake Wanaka to the famous Mou Waho Island Nature Reserve. Your knowledge kiwi skipper will provide commentary along the way.
Pass Ruby Island with a the 1920's dance hall on top
What‘s Included
Department of Conservation Park fees
Local skipper/guide
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Cruise and guided Island walk
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Options
Mou Waho Island Cruise Guided
Reviews
68 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Good walk
Ian R,,Feb 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00An interesting trip and a lovely walk. The guide and skipper was helpful and knowledgeable. We were ok but some of the others struggled with the pace of the walking.
Spectacular!
Michelle C,,Jan 29, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The boat ride itself was enjoyable, and once on the island the views were stunning in every direction. Hike was easy and our guide was knowledgeable and informative without being overwhelming, which really enhanced the experience. A must-do if you’re visiting Lake Wānaka.
A lovely way to spend the day.
Petrina N,,Jan 27, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00A lovely few hours on the lake learning all about the history of the area. Then a good hike to the top of the hill on Mou, and learn a lot about local plants, trees & birds
Must do in Wanaka
232debrag,,Jan 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Amazing journey to see the “island in a lake on an island in a lake on an island.” The boat was super comfortable and our tour guide Jamie was incredibly helpful, friendly and super knowledgeable about the geology, botany and history of the area. Great way to spend a half day on Lake Wanaka!
Island Tour on Lake Wanaka
Mark H,,Jan 24, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Nice boat ride, beautiful scenery, interesting facts about the lake, island, wildlife and plants Need to be able to hike over some rocks and up a grade.
Good value for money
Susan C,,Jan 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00A lovely excursion. A lovely boat ride up the lake and then a walk up to the top of the island. It foes get zteep at the top but we enjoyed it.
Boat trip to Mou Waco Island
CIP0410,,Dec 8, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Took the Guided option which was very worthwhile. Toby was well informed, interesting and knowledgeable. Shop around for the best prices. Inadvertently we managed to save over $100 on the booking.
Nice trip to island & moderately difficult walk
Stephen M,,Dec 6, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.0035 min each way on small boat 15 pax in total. Steep climb at times, occasional damp (remember decent footwear. Im 71 with average capability. Managed the climb with a few stops to catch a breath. Well worth the views from the top. Jaimie was our guide who walked with me (others already spurted on ahead of the “group”). Really enjoyed the walk. Only spotted a bellbird, no weka for me but some did see the elusive bird🤣 Would do it again. Long drop type toilets by the island landing point for those in need🤪
Excellent trip to Mou Waho Island
mpm445,,Nov 30, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an excellent trip from Wanaka to Mou Waho island. The boat trip to and from the island went very smoothly with excellent views of the surrounding landscape of Wanaka. When we reached the island we had a very enjoyable guided walk to a lake at the top of the island and then proceeded to the summit of the island with spectacular 360 degree views. Highly recommended.
Try it!
Yashika J,,Nov 19, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This was a great experience with nice views and a bit of cardio/steps to round out the day. Jamie (guide) was very informative and personable. The boat ride out to the island was a little choppy initally because of the weather, but generally felt safe and comfortable during the ride. The walk up the island does require a little bit of fitness as it is a steady incline, BUT there are numerous rest points, you can take your time and go at your own pace and you don't have to walk all of the way to the top of the summit to enjoy nice views. We had a decent range of age groups, fitness levels etc., so don't feel intimidated. Great tour - would recommend.
From NZ$179.00
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Operated by Cruise Lake Wanaka Ltd