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‘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
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.
Options
Kayak Classic
Kayak Classic
Reviews
378 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
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.
Fun trip
Sandy B,
Oct 25, 2025
- Review from Viator
4.00It was a nice lake kayaking activity, but we could not see the glacier from where we were on the lake.. The Staff were friendly, nice, and informative as well as passionate about the local wildlife and the protection plan to save the Kiwi. It was a rare good weather day.
Stunning Location! Great way to explore the local area!
Joanne S,
Oct 14, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Great trip, great guide, all kit you needed was provided. Stunning location! Good knowledge of local flora, fauna and history.
Very good
297bellaj,
Oct 1, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We originally planned to take a helicopter ride, but it exceeded our budget. In the end, we chose to take this kayak - the scenery is still charming, and this kind of glacier is not can be seen in China. We strongly recommend it, and the price is also reasonable. We can also share the cost with our classmates, very good
Magical trip through the mist
Adventure597653,
Jul 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My family and I had a spectacular morning kayak tour of the lake with the entertaining and humorous guidance of Max. No-one else was on the lake when we did the tour, and the sun glowing through the morning fog made it a magical and serene experience on the water. As the fog burned-off we got to go into the narrow area that feeds the lake and see the mostly unspoiled-by-man plants and bird life. Highly recommended!
EPIC
GoPlaces35514867102,
Jun 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an awesome time kayaking with Franz Josef Wilderness Tours! The whole experience was so much fun, even though it was a bit challenging for us since we hadn’t kayaked in a while. But Max, our guide, was an absolute legend! He was super friendly, patient, and made the whole tour enjoyable and easy to follow. Max kept the vibes chilled and fun the entire time, and made sure we were safe while still having a laugh. The scenery was absolutely stunning, and paddling through the peaceful waters surrounded by the mountains and rainforest was unreal. Highly recommend this tour — especially if you get Max as your guide!
Great experience
sarahfabienneh2025,
May 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was great! We were really lucky with the weather. To hear about the rainforest was also really interesting. I would love to do it again.
High quality tour - a definite highlight from my time in New Zealand
jenjU270OX,
Apr 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My tour companions and I had a great morning and I would highly recommend Franz Josef Wilderness Tours. The kayaking tour was fun with good equipment provided - tandem kayaks with rudder, lifejacket, spray jacket and skirt. The hike was really enjoyable and Dale provided great commentary and demonstrated a real passion for the area and its wildlife. One of my favourite parts of this tour was that Dale took photos for us both on the water and during the hike which meant we had high quality images to share afterwards. Plus this was included in the overall price and delivered less than 24 hours after our tour - a real bonus.
Kayak
MaryJo M,
Apr 28, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Great experience. We had a slight drizzle initially but then that cleared. The kayaks were great and the visit to the forest was wonderful. Great guide.
Related Experiences
Operated by Franz Josef Wilderness Tours