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
393 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great Kayaking Experience
Michael C,,Jan 22, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great kayaking tour for people of all levels. We were able to view some animals, ducks and black swans, and learn a little about the native trees and glaciers. I highly recommend for those people wanting a little exercise and to venture out into nature.
Amazing
Yamin b,,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00An oportunity to see the very nice view of the mountains from the lake and enjoy kayaking . Our guide , a young lady was very interesting
Awesome day on the lake
Adam S,,Jan 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an awesome experience with Max and Kate and learnt so much about the area at the same time. Our hosts made us feel safe and looked after and they also made sure everyone in the group had an amazing time. Would highly recommend this activity. I am in my 50’s and had no problems on the lake with Max and Kate making sure of it even with a slight wind!!
An amazing way to see the natural beauty of the Franz Josef area from the water with a great team by your side!
Mpivanova,,Jan 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Awesome kayak trip on the lake, prior experience not required. We were with a 9 y.o. Who kayaked for the first time ever, his dad did a bit more of the rowing work, but they made it and our guide Farah (I hope I am writing this correctly) helped them cross the finish line! It is 3 hours of rowing on the lake and in the creek with stunning views around. The forest around the lake is spectacular, we were lucky to even spot a white heron, which took flight in front of our own eyes, a very rare sighting, considered to be a once in a lifetime magic by the Māori. Our guides Farah and Marcel (Apologies if spelling wrong) were amazing. Farah’s passion for the nature and the animal world was genuine and I truly appreciated her attitude and the gracious thanks sh Awesome kayak trip on the lake, prior experience not required. We were with a 9 y.o. Who kayaked for the first time ever, his dad did a bit more of the rowing work, but they made it and our guide Farah (I hope I am writing this correctly) helped them cross the finish line! It is 3 hours of rowing on the lake and in the creek with stunning views around. The forest around the lake is spectacular, we were lucky to even spot a white heron, which took flight in front of our own eyes, a very rare sighting, considered to be a once in a lifetime magic by the Māori. Our guides Farah and Marcel (Apologies if spelling wrong) were amazing. Farah’s passion for the nature and the animal world was genuine and I truly appreciated her attitude and the gracious thanks she expressed to us as guests at the end. Thank you so much and would highly recommend as an experience to do while Around Franz Josef.
Lovely paddle on a beautiful peaceful lake.
Sara C,,Jan 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Perfect peaceful paddle on a mirror like lake on a still morning. Our guide Ollie was lovely and shared interesting information about the natural environment. Relaxing and fun.
Brilliant experience for a family
Nick L,,Dec 31, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Fantastic experience with plenty of interesting information on the local environment. The kayak up the river was stunning
Perfect family adventure
Charlotte C,,Dec 26, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00A lovely experience for family, but be prepared to do most of the work as the kids get tired! Interesting and fun. Our guide Max was knowledgable, extremely patient with our vivacious children and their 18493639 questions and just all round great guide.
Relaxing paddle
John R,,Dec 20, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Great fun, light paddling, informative tour guides, beautiful lake. Short drive to lake, good equipment.
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.
From NZ$149.00
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Operated by Franz Josef Wilderness Tours