Queenstown to Franz Josef via Wanaka Small Group Day Tour (1-Way)

Overview

Available languages

English

12 hours

Mobile ticket

Experience the ultimate adventure along New Zealand's West Coast from Queenstown to Franz Josef via Wānaka. Our small group, fully-guided tour takes you to the picturesque Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea, over the stunning Haast Pass and along the beautiful West Coast beaches to Franz Josef.

Led by our passionate guides, this tour goes beyond the destinations, offering secret stops, wildlife viewings, and delightful surprises along the way. Travel in comfort with modern minibuses, enjoy complimentary refreshments and provided lunch as you journey through one of New Zealand’s most picturesque regions.

At Cheeky Kiwi Travel, it's the journey, the stories, and the small group experience that truly set our tours apart.

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 at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Children safety/booster seats available to hire for NZ$20 per seat

Tour duration includes travel time between locations

Lunch is provided - kindly advise any dietary requirements

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What To Expect

Cardrona

Located on the spectacular Crown Range Road between Queenstown and Wānaka, the Cardrona Hotel is one of New Zealand's oldest and most iconic hotels. Its rustic charm, spectacular mountain setting and rich history make it a must-see in Central Otago.

10 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

Wanaka

We’ll stroll down to the lakeside for that iconic photo of the Wānaka Tree. Soak in the beauty of this expansive lake, backdropped by Mt Aspiring and the Southern Alps—a paradise for photographers.

30 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

What‘s Included

Bottled water

Snacks

Lunch

Luggage allowance - 1 large & 1 small per person

Scenic Flights / Heli Hike

Pickup points

Select a pickup point

Options

Queenstown to Franz Josef via Wanaka Small Group Tour

Pickup included

Reviews

5.00

39 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Great trip to Franz Josef Glacier.
Carly L,,Dec 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Great guide and driver, friendly and knowledgeable. The route was scenic and feels like I saw so much of the South. Loved the walks and appropriate number of stops so didn’t feel rushed but felt like we packed in a lot. Very much enjoyed.
Relax and nice group tour
B9089RNangelaa,,Dec 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
It’s a nice and pleasant trip to Franz Josef with enough stops to rest and stretch as well as to look around the places. Guide is very informative and helpful. Thank you
Unforgettable trip!🏞️
Trail34399348035,,Dec 10, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
I had a truly memorable experience on my Queenstown to Franz Josef tour, thanks to the outstanding service from Cheeky Kiwi Travel and our incredible guide, Hannah. From the moment the trip began, Hannah impressed us with her deep knowledge, warm personality, and genuine sincerity. She was friendly, hospitable, and consistently attentive to everyone’s comfort throughout the long journey. Her driving skills were exceptional — smooth, confident, and safe — which made the entire trip feel relaxing and enjoyable. It’s clear she is both highly experienced and passionate about what she does, and her professionalism elevated the entire tour. The day itself was filled with stunning highlights: the crystal-clear waters of Blue Pool, the iconic beauty of Lake Wanaka, the refreshing spray of Thunder Creek Falls, and the breathtaking views of Franz Josef Glacier. Each stop was made even more meaningful through Hannah’s stories, insights, and enthusiasm. Overall, this tour became especially unforgettable because of Hannah’s dedication and passion. Cheeky Kiwi Travel is incredibly fortunate to have such a remarkable guide on their team. Highly recommended for anyone wanting a smooth, scenic, and enriching journey across the South Island.
Unforgettable experience
Excursion01303048175,,Dec 10, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Our guide Jonathan was very knowledgeable and friendly. He has a good sense of humour and made our whole journey very enjoyable. Highly recommend to anyone who is gg Franz Josef.
Just great
P3895KUbiancaw,,Nov 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
It was an unforgettable ride. We had two great guides. Polly and Logan were just great and explained a lot to us
Amazing experience travelling with Cheeky Kiwi Travel
anoopm721,,Nov 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
I was little worried as traveling with family but Cheeky Kiwi travel made everything easier. Timely pickup, attention to details, snacks, water, lunch, live commentary and most important our tour guide Noah made sure we cover each attraction. Overall this was a pleasant trip and I’m going to book again with Cheeky Kiwi Travel when I visit NZ next time. Thanks Noah and team for the great experience 👍
Beautiful West Coast
Kalpana R,,Nov 11, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Hanna was so sweet and thoughtful.We were a family of three and thankfully the tour was not called off.West Coast is so beautiful and peaceful.Wanaka,was terrific and photogenic.There were many walking trails in Blue pools walk,Lake Mathson and absolutely loved the experience
Incredible experience!
nik 1700,,Nov 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Hanna was amazing! Very positive friendly made our tour awesome. An incredible experience would highly recommend Hanna. Fantastic! Loved every bit of it.
Wonderfull. We will highly recommend taking this tour
Joergen Brock,,Nov 8, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We were very satisfied with having Lynettes as our driver and guide! She was indeed competent, dynamic and vivid. We enjoyed the tour and had great benefit of being with her on this tour.
Lovely West Coast Tour from Queenstown
DennisCKN,,May 2, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
West Coast is rarely mentioned on most tourism websites. If you want to go to the Glacier at Fox and Franz Josef and visit Wanaka Lake or some famous spots at West Coast, this is the right tour. We had a lovely tour with our tour guide.