Small-Group Kayak Adventure from Franz Josef Glacier
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
A unique kayak adventure, only minutes from Franz Josef Glacier! Set out across Lake Mapourika's mirror-like water and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Southern Alps and Glaciers.
Lake Mapourika was created by the mighty Franz Josef Glacier as it retreated some 14 000 years ago, now it sits sandwiched between the Southern Alps and the Tasman Sea. The glassy water and unbeatable views make it one of the scenic gems of the West Coast.
Explore a kiwi sanctuary set amidst some of the oldest untouched rainforest in Westland!
This tour lasts up to three hours and is designed to complete your Glacier Country Experience!
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Lake Mapourika
Paddle across the stunning waters of Lake Mapourika with your knowledgeable local guide. Take in views of the glaciers and Southern Alps as you paddle across and explore the rainforest and conservation area on the far shoreline of lake.
What‘s Included
Private transportation
Fully Guided Activity
Courtesy pick-ups available on request
Courtesy Transport to and from the Lake
High Quality Photos
All equipment provided including dry bags, splash jackets and gloves and hats in the winter
Lunch
Food and drinks, unless specified
Options
Kayak Classic
Kayak Classic
Reviews
385 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great Kayak Tour and guided adventure walk!
Mkj2186,,Dec 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a great time with tour guide Farrah on the Kayak Adventure tour. Plenty of great photo opportunities and absolutely breathtaking views throughout. Really enjoyed the educational walk too, with a hot drink aswell!
Kayaking and hike half-day hike
carolyncToronto,,Dec 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We did our half-day hike and kayak ride with Kate. She was very friendly and obviously loves her job. She is very knowledgeable and safety conscious. We were blessed with a dead calm lake, so a quick paddle to the reasonably short hike through the 'jungle', and a quick coffee/tea/hot chocolate stop on the hike at "Kate's Kafe'!We enjoyed being with her for the morning immensely and would highly recommend it. The views are beautiful, and the biodiversity on the hike was impresive.
If you like kayaking—definitely book this trip!
Mercedes B,,Dec 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our guide, Farrah, was very enthusiastic, knowledgeable & safety conscious. She made the trip a lot of fun! The lake was just a short distance from Franz Josef & she brought (& recommended!) bug spray for the Sand Flies (don’t leave home w/out it!)
Wonderful trip
rubenvK5727OK,,Dec 4, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Hell good and beautiful trip on the water made. Good guide and lots of facts and facts heard during the trip. Clear explanation and also takes his time for the tour. Were back later, but didn't matter at all and just stayed in character. Were not suddenly hunted. Photos were also a real added value that were taken.
Scenic, calm, and very enjoyable
D9390VFemilyt,,Nov 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00There were 4 kayaks on the tour, so it was small and personal. It wasn't too strenuous as the lake was extremely calm in the morning. Our guide, Marcel, was really nice and knowledgeable — he provided a lot of great facts about the flora and fauna in the area. Highly recommend!
Great time!
Josh P,,Nov 23, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00We had a great time with guides Pickles and Farrah. Both were knowledgeable of area, especially wildlife. Good instructions on safety procedures which led to a great paddle. It’s a challenging but do able paddle for all levels. Highly recommend!
Glorious views and lovely staff
R8761TNlizc,,Nov 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Glorious scenery and lovely staff from the booking office and tour guides Kate and Max. Also the tour guides gave a nice overview of the environment we were paddling in.
A fun paddle in the lake
X6965PLsues,,Nov 8, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Ollie and Farrah were our kayaking guides. It was a sunny start but got increasingly windy. Ollie was cheerful and patient. His humorous but essential guidance really helped. We noted that he made sure that everyone was given sufficient attention and held our interest with his narrative. Farrah was also very informative and formed a nice team with Ollie to convoy us through rather choppy waters on the way back. We all had a great workout and lovely time.
Peaceful lake
Emsmith7902,,Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a great afternoon kayaking on the lake. Although it was raining and we didn’t see the mountains, the misty lake was peaceful and tranquil as we were the only ones out. Kate was very friendly and knowledgeable. I would recommend - great alternative to the helicopters.
Absolute bonza
Harrison K,,Nov 1, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00It was an absolute blast ! Ollie our guide was a total legend , great sense of humour and his knowledge of te reo maori was immaculate ! Highly recommend and will be back again for more.
From NZ$149.00
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Operated by Franz Josef Wilderness Tours