Franz Josef Glacier Kayaking Tours

The water is so glassy and pure that you cannot tell the lake from the sky. Almost vertical walls of glacial deposits are reflected perfectly, and ancient rainforest adds an emerald hue to the cool icy blue that surrounds you. This is Lake Mapourika, and you have the chance to touch it!

Franz Josef Wilderness Tours invite you to experience their kayak adventure and kiwi sanctuary tour, minutes away from Franz Josef. Lake Mapourika – which is positioned between the sea and the mountains – is situated in a drier, warmer area of the Franz Josef Glacier valley and is a perfect place for capturing the beauty of the glaciers.

Kayak Classic: On your guided tour, you will be led across the magical, reflective surface of the lake where you will be enchanted by the sights. The Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary and the 900 year old kahikatea trees you encounter next will leave you breathless and your friendly guide will be there to capture it all on camera (photos are for free at the conclusion of the tour).

During the morning, the view is so magnificent that you are able to see Mount Cook, Mount Tasman and 14 glaciers. In the afternoon, the glossy surface of the lake becomes a little more uneven as the coastal breeze gently goads it into small waves. This makes the after-lunch tours a little more exciting, particularly when combined with the shifting light and the amazing cloud contours that form across the peak tops of the Southern Alps.

Sunset Classic: This guided kayaking tour gives you the chance to experience the original Kayak Classic adventure in the beautiful & soft evening light. With breathtaking views of the Southern Alps, this 3 hour kayaking tour is perfect for those seeking remoteness & gentle paddling. After your kayaking tour, you will return to the beach just in time to watch the sunset.