Franz Josef: Kayak & Walking Tour to Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary

Located in the stunning town of Franz Josef on the South Island of New Zealand, the Franz Josef: Kayak & Walking Tour to Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary is a thrilling four-hour adventure that offers nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers an unforgettable experience.

With an impressive overall rating of 4.9/5, this activity has captured the hearts of many.

The tour begins with a guided walk through an exclusive rainforest trail, where participants can enjoy the beauty of the prehistoric rainforest and its abundant birdlife.

The highlight of the tour is kayaking across the serene Lake Mapourika to reach the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary, providing a chance to catch a glimpse of the rare Kiwi bird.

With panoramic views and complimentary tea and coffee, this adventure promises to be an exhilarating journey into the heart of nature.

This experience made our list of the 2 Best Walking Tours In Franz Josef Town.

Good To Know

• The activity offers a guided walk through an exclusive rainforest trail and kayaking across Lake Mapourika to Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary.
• The activity provides the opportunity to marvel at the prehistoric rainforest and abundant birdlife, with the possibility of catching a glimpse of the rare Kiwi bird.
• The duration of the activity is 4 hours and includes scenic kayaking, panoramic views, and complimentary tea and coffee.
• The activity has received positive reviews, with an overall rating of 4.9/5, highlighting the cruise experience, alpine background, tranquility, knowledgeable guide, and the guide’s efforts in capturing digital photos without any additional charge.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Kayak & Walking Tour

The Franz Josef Kayak & Walking Tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore the stunning Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary by kayaking across Lake Mapourika and taking a guided walk through an exclusive rainforest trail.

This guided tour provides numerous benefits for those seeking an adventurous and informative experience. With the help of a knowledgeable guide, visitors can learn about the importance of wildlife conservation and the efforts being made to protect the unique ecosystem of the sanctuary.

By participating in this tour, visitors not only get to witness the breathtaking beauty of the prehistoric rainforest and abundant birdlife but also contribute to the ongoing conservation efforts. The guided tour ensures that visitors gain a deeper understanding of the sanctuary’s significance and the measures being taken to preserve it.

It’s an experience that combines adventure, education, and the opportunity to make a positive impact on the environment.

Highlights of the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary

A visit to the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary offers a glimpse into the unique ecosystem and diverse birdlife of this protected area. Birdwatching enthusiasts will be delighted by the opportunity to observe a wide range of bird species in their natural habitat.

The sanctuary is especially known for its efforts in kiwi conservation, providing a safe haven for these endangered birds. As visitors explore the sanctuary, they may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the rare and elusive kiwi bird.

The sanctuary also boasts a rich variety of other bird species, including the kākā, tūī, and bellbird, creating a symphony of birdcalls in the lush rainforest.

With its stunning natural surroundings and dedication to kiwi conservation, the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts alike.

Activity Options in Franz Josef

Visitors to Franz Josef have several activity options to choose from. Here are four alternative activities to consider, along with a price comparison:

1. 3-Hour Kayak Tour on Lake Mapourika: Set out on a water adventure and explore the picturesque Lake Mapourika. Paddle through calm waters, surrounded by stunning alpine scenery. Price per person: $99.

2. Scenic Glacier Quad Bike Tour: Get your adrenaline pumping with a quad bike tour that takes you through rugged terrain and offers breathtaking views of the Franz Josef Glacier. Price per person: $135.

3. Franz Josef Glacier Lookout Guided Walk: Lace up your hiking boots and embark on a guided walk to the Franz Josef Glacier lookout point. Enjoy the beauty of the glacier and its surrounding landscapes. Price per person: $89.

4. 2.5-Hour Lake Mapourika Cruise and Walk: Experience the tranquility of Lake Mapourika on a leisurely cruise. Take a guided walk through the rainforest, learn about the local wildlife, and enjoy panoramic views of the Southern Alps. Price per person: $98.

With these alternative activities, visitors to Franz Josef can enjoy a range of thrilling adventures and scenic experiences, all while comparing prices to find the best option for their budget.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Customers rave about the Franz Josef kayaking and walking tour to Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary, with glowing reviews and positive feedback pouring in. The tour has received an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5, indicating high customer satisfaction.

Many reviewers express their appreciation for the wildlife encounters they experienced during the tour. They mention marveling at the prehistoric rainforest and abundant birdlife, with the possibility of catching a glimpse of the rare Kiwi bird.

Customers also praise the knowledgeable guide who shares their expertise in wildlife and the environment. They appreciate the guide’s local knowledge and fieldcraft survival skills, which enhance the experience.

Plus, customers are grateful for the guide’s efforts in capturing digital photos without any extra charge.

These customer reviews highlight the exceptional wildlife encounters and the level of satisfaction experienced during the Franz Josef kayaking and walking tour to Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Location and Contact Information

The location and contact information for the Franz Josef kayaking and walking tour to Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary can be found at 30 Main Road, Franz Josef, next to The Landing Restaurant.

Here are four key points to consider about the location:

1. Activities nearby: The tour is conveniently located in Franz Josef Town, South Island, New Zealand. This means there are plenty of other exciting activities nearby for visitors to enjoy, such as exploring the Franz Josef Glacier or taking a scenic quad bike tour.

2. Best time to visit: The best time to embark on this adventure is during the warmer months, from November to April, when the weather is more pleasant for kayaking and walking. However, it’s important to note that the tour operates year-round, so visitors can still have a great experience even during the cooler months.

3. Product ID for reference: The product ID for this tour is 383477, which can be useful for making reservations or inquiries.

4. More information and reviews: For further details and customer reviews, interested you can visit the website for a rundown of the tour and its offerings.

More Information and Reviews

For more information and reviews about the Franz Josef kayaking and walking tour to Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary, visitors can refer to the website. The website features a comprehensive description of the activity, including its duration of 4 hours and highlights such as a guided walk through an exclusive rainforest trail and kayaking across Lake Mapourika to the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary. The website also mentions the possibility of catching a glimpse of the rare Kiwi bird and offers complimentary tea and coffee during the tour. Along With the activity details, the website provides similar activity options, each with its own duration, rating, reviews, and price per person. Visitors can also find customer reviews, with an overall rating of 4.9/5, praising the cruise, alpine background, and tranquility of the experience. Many reviewers appreciated the knowledgeable guide and their expertise in wildlife and environment, as well as the guide’s efforts in capturing digital photos without any additional charge. For those interested in local wildlife and looking for more information or reviews, the website is a valuable resource.

Activity Details	Similar Activity Options	Customer Reviews
Duration: 4 hours	Water activity option: 3-Hour Kayak Tour on Lake Mapourika in Franz Josef	Overall rating: 4.9/5
Guided walk through exclusive rainforest trail	Adventure option: Scenic Glacier Quad Bike Tour with Gear in Franz Josef Town	Positive feedback about the cruise, alpine background, and tranquility
Kayaking across Lake Mapourika to Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary	Adventure option: Franz Josef Glacier Lookout Guided Walk in Franz Josef	Appreciation for the knowledgeable guide and their expertise in wildlife and environment
Possibility of seeing the rare Kiwi bird	Water activity option: 2.5-Hour Lake Mapourika Cruise and Walk at Franz Josef Glacier	Mention of local knowledge and fieldcraft survival shared by the guide
Scenic kayaking, panoramic views, complimentary tea and coffee		Gratitude for the guide’s efforts in capturing digital photos without any additional charge

Common Questions

What Is the Difficulty Level of the Guided Walk Through the Exclusive Rainforest Trail?

The guided walk through the exclusive rainforest trail offers a moderate difficulty level. Adventurers can navigate the lush surroundings while learning about the unique flora and fauna, making it an engaging and informative experience.

Can Children Participate in the Kayak & Walking Tour to Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary?

Children are welcome to participate in the kayak & walking tour to Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary. Safety measures for children are in place to ensure a fun and secure experience. It’s an exciting adventure for the whole family!

Is It Possible to See Other Wildlife Besides the Rare Kiwi Bird During the Tour?

Wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted on the Franz Josef: Kayak & Walking Tour to Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary. Besides the rare kiwi bird, there are ample wildlife sightings and birdwatching opportunities, making it an adventurous and informative experience.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the 4-Hour Activity?

Restroom facilities are available during the 4-hour activity. The tour difficulty level is moderate, offering an engaging and adventurous experience. Participants can explore the stunning scenery, kayak across Lake Mapourika, and potentially spot the rare Kiwi bird.

Is the Activity Suitable for Beginners With No Prior Kayaking Experience?

The activity is suitable for beginners with no prior kayaking experience. The knowledgeable guide will provide instruction on kayaking techniques and ensure safety precautions are followed throughout the tour.

The Sum Up

Embark on the Franz Josef: Kayak & Walking Tour to Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary for an exhilarating adventure in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island. Enjoy the prehistoric rainforest, paddle across the tranquil Lake Mapourika, and keep your eyes peeled for the rare Kiwi bird at the sanctuary.

With stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and rave customer reviews, this four-hour activity promises an unforgettable journey into nature.

Don’t miss out on this thrilling experience in Franz Josef Town.

You can check if your dates are available here: