Lake Mapourika Kayak Classic Tour

South Island

Franz Josef Wilderness Tours

from

NZ$149

per adult

Book Now

Group of people in yellow kayaks posing on a lake with snow-capped mountains in the background

Experiences

Kayak & Canoe Tours

Family-friendly Tours

Half-Day Tours

Small Group Tours

South Island

Start: Franz Josef

Travel Time: 3 hours

Difficulty: 2

Details

Lake Mapourika Kayak Classic Tour

The Lake Mapourika Kayak Classic Tour is an unforgettable way to explore Franz Josef’s untouched wilderness. Paddling across calm, reflective waters, you’ll be surrounded by towering peaks of the Southern Alps and the striking Franz Josef Glacier in the distance. It’s a peaceful journey that blends adventure with serenity, perfect for travellers seeking a genuine connection with nature.

As your kayak drifts into hidden creeks of the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary, the scenery transforms into lush rainforest. Jurassic-age greenery towers overhead, echoing with the calls of native birds. The experience is a rare chance to see New Zealand’s landscapes at their most pristine and timeless.

Franz Josef Wilderness Guides Kayak

Franz Josef Wilderness Guides Kayak experiences are led by passionate local guides who share deep knowledge of the area’s history and wildlife. Their expertise enhances the journey, ensuring paddlers not only enjoy the natural beauty but also understand the significance of Lake Mapourika and its surrounding ecosystems.

Whether you’re drawn by the glaciers, the mirrored waters, or the ancient rainforest, a kayak tour here promises memories that will linger long after the paddles are put down. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation, discovery, and wilderness immersion.

Two kayakers toss paddles in the air on a calm lake in Franz Josef with snow-capped mountains reflected in the water

Aerial view of kayakers paddling through a winding forest river near Franz Josef

Two people kayaking across a still lake with cloud reflections and light mist in Franz Josef

View from a red kayak navigating through a narrow channel with flax bushes and reflections in Franz Josef

Couple paddling through a misty forest water trail in Franz Josef on a yellow kayak

View from a red kayak following another pair across a misty reflective lake in Franz Josef

Man taking a selfie while kayaking with two others in a calm forest river

Solo kayaker silhouetted against the sun with clouds and reflections on a still lake in Franz Josef

Woman in a kayak smiling toward the camera with calm lake reflections and snowy Southern Alps in the background

Couple kayaking through a narrow forest creek wearing orange life vests

Two people in a yellow kayak on a calm lake with snowy mountains and reflections in the water

Yellow kayak with two people paddling through calm reflective waters surrounded by native forest

HIGHLIGHTS

Panoramic views of glaciers and the Southern Alps.
Exploration of the untouched rainforests in the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary.
Gentle kayaking exercise amidst tranquil natural beauty.
Experience enhanced by native birdsong.

TOUR INCLUSIONS

3-hour guided kayak tour.
Complimentary high-quality digital photos.
Use of dry bags, splash jackets, and quality kayak equipment.
Courtesy transport
Sunscreen and insect repellent for added comfort.

WHAT TO BRING

Snack, Water bottle
Camera (optional, as we provide FREE photos)
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Comfortable pants (no denim recommended) and footwear

AGE INFORMATION

Adults: 18 years +
Child: 17 years and under

Minimum age:

If your little ones fit our life jackets, they’re welcome to join our kayak tours! For families with children under 3 years old, we can often arrange shorter tours—just get in touch with our team. Generally, children aged 4 and up can enjoy our Kayak Classic or Kayak & Walk tours. We always suggest booking morning trips when bringing young children, as the water is typically calmest during that time.