Franz Josef
Wilderness Tours
Wilderness kayak tours, boat tours & quad bike adventures in Franz Josef.
ALL TOURS
KAYAK TOURS, BOAT TOURS &
OFF-ROAD ADVENTURES
Explore Franz Josef with the local adventure experts. We specialise in guided kayak tours, scenic boat cruises and kayak rentals on Lake Mapourika. We also operate off-road quad bike and buggy tours through the wild West Coast rainforest and glacial riverbeds.
Explore Lake Mapourika as you paddle through hidden rainforest waterways or cruise beneath the Southern Alps and glaciers – or get muddy with us on the Waiho Riverbed. Our adventures take you beyond the glacier and into some of Franz Josef’s most spectacular places. Locally owned and operated since 2013, we know this corner of the West Coast inside out.
5 TOURS
KAYAK TOURS
4 TOURS
SCENIC BOAT TOURS
3 TOURS
OFF-ROAD TOURS
4 TOURS
KAYAK TOURS
3 TOURS
SCENIC BOAT TOURS
3 TOURS
OFF-ROAD TOURS
Trusted by Over 4,000 Happy Guests
With more than 4,000 five-star reviews, Franz Josef Wilderness Tours is one of New Zealand’s highest-rated providers of guided kayak tours and scenic cruises. Specialising in calm, family-friendly kayaking experiences on Lake Mapourika, our local guides are described as passionate experts in their environment. Let us guide you through ancient rainforest, spot native birdlife and enjoy some of the West Coast’s most spectacular scenery.
Beyond the Lake, we’re home to one of New Zealand’s most unique off-road adventures. Combining rainforest trails and glacier-fed riverbeds, our guided quad bike and buggy tours showcase a remarkable variety of West Coast terrain. Led by experienced guides and suitable for both first-time riders and adventure seekers – it’s a tour many guests tell us was the “highlight of their New Zealand holiday”.
REAL STORIES FROM REAL ADVENTURERS
We started the day by picking a boat tour around the lake. We had the most enjoyable experience with our guides Emma and Ella that we made the decision that we must do a second excursion with her as a guide so went on an off road quad adventure as well. We Could not fault the operation of Franz Joseph Wilderness Tours, from start to finish. From making a phone enquiry and being greeted with an awesome receptionist, the hospitality at the main office and the phenomenal guides themselves (especially Emma and Ella) I could not think of one aspect of our experience that they could do better, highly recommend booking activities with these guys, you would not regret it!
Cam B, NZ
REAL STORIES FROM REAL ADVENTURERS
We loved every minute of this well organised kayak on the lake. The guide was knowledgeable, friendly and professional. Excellent views and reflections of the mountains and the flora in the lakes. We even had a closeup visit to a white heron. Highly recommended!
Simi, New York, USA
REAL STORIES FROM REAL ADVENTURERS
I cannot recommend this enough! I’ve now done it twice in 3 years and both times it was spectacular, both in terms of scenery and overall experience. Our guide was fun and knowledgeable and was taking candid snaps all throughout the trip that we had access to later on. I highly recommend the morning trip, as that’s when the water is like glass and it feels so serene gliding over it. It truly is one of the best experiences in Franz Josef.
Hourikhat, Sydney, Australia
HIRE KAYAKS & PADDLEBOARDS
Hire a single or double sea kayak or stand-up paddleboard and discover Lake Mapourika’s calm sheltered bays. Glide across the calm lake water, beneath the Southern Alps and Glaciers. Explore the edge of the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary and keep an eye out for native birdlife including White Herons, Tui and Bellbirds. A peaceful and family-friendly way to experience Franz Josef’s wilderness.
2 HR KAYAK HIRE
HALF DAY KAYAK HIRE
STAND-UP PADDLEBOARD HIRE
2 HR KAYAK HIRE
HALF DAY KAYAK HIRE
FULL DAY KAYAK HIRE
STAND-UP PADDLEBOARD HIRE
Why choose us
- Over 4000 5-star reviews
- 20+ years’ experience
- Tailor-made private tour options
- Combine tours for a full day adventure
- Family owned & operated
- Safety audited operation
- Free photos included
- Access to exclusive locations across our tours
@FRANZJOSEFTOURS
FAQS
What Makes Lake Mapourika One of the Best Places to Kayak in New Zealand?
Lake Mapourika combines calm, sheltered waters with spectacular views of the Southern Alps and Glaciers. Surrounded by untouched, predator-free rainforest the native birdlife is abundant. We explore the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary by foot on a guided walk, or via a rainforest creek which offers one of the most scenic and accessible kayaking experiences on New Zealand’s West Coast. Unlike coastal kayaking, there are no tides or ocean swells to navigate, making it ideal for a relaxed day on the water.
What tours are available in Franz Josef Glacier?
Franz Josef Wilderness Tours offer kayak tours and rentals, stand-up paddleboarding, boat cruises, guided walks, fishing charters, off-road quad bike and buggy tours, plus private and guided options for families or groups.
What Wildlife Can I See on Lake Mapourika?
Lake Mapourika is home to a variety of native birdlife including white herons (kōtuku), tūī, bellbirds, kererū, kingfishers, fantails, tomtits, robins and many more.. Wildlife sightings vary throughout the year, but birds are regularly seen on both our kayak tours and scenic boat cruises. The surrounding rainforest is part of a predator free region, making the Lake one of the richest bird habitats on the West Coast.
Are the tours family-friendly?
Definitely! All of our tours are suitable for families and are designed to be accessible, enjoyable and safe for a wide range of ages and abilities. Lake Mapourika’s calm waters are particularly popular with families looking for a relaxed outdoor adventure surrounded by nature, without worrying about ocean tides or currents. All our kayak tours are particularly well suited for families with kids, with options for all ages. Our Off-Road Adventure Tours are great for kids, choose the right adventure depending on the height of your kids. Get in touch with our friendly team if you have any questions.
Can I do a tour on a rainy day in Franz Josef?
Yes! All of our tours run in wet weather. Head-to-toe waterproof gear is provided for comfort and safety.
What Makes the Off-Road Adventure Quad Tour Different?
Our off-road quad bike and buggy tours combine rainforest trails and glacier-fed riverbeds in a single adventure. The variety of terrain is unique on the West Coast and provides a fun and memorable way to experience Franz Josef beyond the glacier. Many guests tell us it was the highlight of their New Zealand holiday, and it’s fun to do rain or shine!
Why choose Franz Josef Wilderness Tours?
With 20+ years’ experience, safety-audited operations, local guides, wildlife encounters, glacier views, and over 4,000 5-star reviews across TripAdvisor rating and Google you know you’re in good hands with us. We deliver unforgettable experiences in Franz Josef Glacier that are often quoted as being the highlight of a trip to New Zealand with our passionate friendly guides.
Are your tours suitable for beginners or first-timers?
Absolutely! Absolutely. Many of our guests are trying kayaking, cruising or off-road adventures rides for the first time. Our experienced local guides provide full safety briefings, top quality equipment and plenty of support along the way. This makes our tours suitable for beginners while still being enjoyable for more experienced visitors.
Why Choose A Scenic Boat Cruise On Lake Mapourika?
Lake Mapourika is one of the most scenic lakes on New Zealand’s West Coast. Our boat tours boast mirror-like reflections, ancient rainforest and spectacular views of the Southern Alps.. Our small-group, personalised scenic cruises allow guests of all ages and abilities to experience this unique landscape while learning about local history, wildlife and conservation from our knowledgeable local skippers.