Okarito Nature Tour

South Island

Glacier Valley Eco Tours

from

NZ$105

per adult

Book Now

Okarito lookout platform above the forest near New Zealand’s West Coast

Experiences

Nature & Wildlife

Hiking & Walking

Family-friendly Tours

Half-Day Tours

Small Group Tours

South Island

Start: Franz Josef or Okarito

Location: Franz Josef

Duration: 3.5 hours

Distance: 4.2 kms

Difficulty: 1

Details

Explore Wetlands, Wildlife, and Conservation in Ōkārito

Just a short drive from Franz Josef Glacier, Ōkārito offers a serene setting rich in natural and cultural heritage. This guided tour introduces you to the village’s gold mining past and its unique position between rainforest, wetlands, and the towering Southern Alps. Along the way, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Aoraki/Mt Cook, Mt Tasman, and Franz Josef Glacier.

Ōkārito is home to New Zealand’s largest wetlands and over 75 bird species, including the rare kotuku (white heron). Stroll through this biodiverse landscape, spotting wildlife while learning about the region’s ecological importance. With easy terrain and gentle walking, the experience is accessible and enriching for all ages.

Okarito headlands and rugged coastline on the West Coast of New Zealand

New Zealand native wood pigeon (kererū) perched near Okarito

View of Okarito Lagoon and surrounding wetlands on the West Coast of New Zealand

Okarito Lagoon with a scenic view of the Southern Alps in the background

Kotuku (white heron) catching a fish at Okarito Lagoon in New Zealand

View of lush rainforest and Southern Alps behind Okarito Lagoon in West Coast New Zealand

Guided nature tour group enjoying rainforest and Southern Alps views in Okarito, West Coast New Zealand

Pīwakawaka (New Zealand Fantail) perched on a branch in West Coast rainforest

Sunset view over Okarito Lagoon and forested coastline in New Zealand

Snow-covered Southern Alps viewed from an Okarito day tour with Glacier Valley Eco Tours

Two walkers on a forest trail in Okarito surrounded by native New Zealand rainforest

Tōrea pango (Variable Oystercatcher) walking on pebbled shore in Ōkārito, New Zealand

Gravel path winding through dense native bush in Okarito, West Coast New Zealand

Snow-covered Southern Alps viewed from Okarito on the West Coast of New Zealand

Guided rainforest walk with Glacier Valley Eco Tours in Franz Josef, New Zealand

HIGHLIGHTS

Panoramic Southern Alps views, including Aoraki/Mt Cook and Mt Tasman.
Wildlife encounters with the Kotuku and 75 other bird species.
Exploring New Zealand's largest wetlands and lush rainforests.
Conservation activities at the Ōkārito Native Plant Nursery.
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

TOUR INCLUSIONS

Complimentary hot drinks and biscuits.
Rainwear, walking poles, sunscreen, and baby carriers (under 3 years).
Tramping boots on request.
Guidance from experienced local guides.

WHAT TO BRING

Weather-appropriate outdoor clothing
Comfortable shoes
Sun protection
Camera

AGE INFORMATION

Adult: 16 years +
Children: 4-15 years
Infant: 3 years and under

CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS

24 hours or more before departure: Full refund**.
Within 24 hours: No refund

**Less any booking or credit card fees.

Note: Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

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