Queenstown to Franz Josef via Wanaka Small Group Day Tour (1-Way)
Overview
Available languages
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.
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.
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
42 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Kristina gave an...
Folu F,,Jan 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Kristina gave an excellent tour with lots of relevant commentary, she is very knowledgeable! She was also great at interacting with all the guests.
Part1 Queenstown to Franz Josef, wonderful! Looking forward to part 2
S685LVbenm,,Jan 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00CheekyKiwi, wow! Our tour guide Martin was fantastic! We got picked up on time for part 1 of our tour, Queenstown to Franz Josef. What an excellent tour, and Martin was spot on for the entire day. Made the best recommendations and drove like a pro. Thank you!!!
Great trip
Discover739495,,Dec 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This two-day trip from Queen Town to Christchurch is amazing! Professional and attentive guides, along the way to the Hotel Cedrona, Lake Vanaka, Lake Havaiya to the magnificent Rae River Falls and glacier views. Whether it is natural beauty, comfortable experience or photographing memories are super satisfying, really very worth participating and recommending!
Great trip to Franz Josef Glacier.
Carly L,,Dec 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great 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
5.00It’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
5.00I 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
5.00Our 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
5.00It 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
5.00I 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
5.00Hanna 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
From NZ$290.00
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