SOUTHERN LAKES / THE EXPERIENCE
Small-Group Kayak Adventure in Franz Josef Glacier
BEFORE YOU GO
Your day, at a glance.
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Group size
- Up to 16 people
- Guide
- English
- Ages
- 2 and over
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Our take
This is the most reviewed tour on our Franz Josef tours page that doesn't need a helicopter. Franz Josef Wilderness Tours checks you in at 30 Main Road, next to The Landing restaurant, 15 minutes early, then drives you out to Lake Mapourika for a guided paddle. The listing gives 3 hours in its header and 2 hours 30 minutes in the itinerary. Dry bags, a splash jacket and, in winter, gloves and hats are supplied, and photos are included.
Around 410 reviews average close to 4.9. It's the obvious plan B when cloud grounds the helicopters, since it runs on the lake rather than the ice. Against the 4 hour kayak and walk from the same company, this is the shorter, simpler trip with no hike. Food isn't included. One reviewer said it needs some fitness, though the listing says most travellers can take part. Groups go up to 16.
Good for
- A cloudy day when the helicopter flights are cancelled
- First-time paddlers, since no experience is needed
Think twice if
- You want to add a rainforest walk, which the kayak and hike trip includes
- Paddling for over two hours would be too much for you
Written by Southern Lakes Tours from the listing, traveller reviews and the videos behind our comparison pages. Checked November 2026. How we review tours.
From the operator
A unique kayak adventure, only minutes from Franz Josef Glacier! Set out across Lake Mapourika's mirror-like water and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Southern Alps and Glaciers.
Lake Mapourika was created by the mighty Franz Josef Glacier as it retreated some 14 000 years ago, now it sits sandwiched between the Southern Alps and the Tasman Sea. The glassy water and unbeatable views make it one of the scenic gems of the West Coast.
Explore a kiwi sanctuary set amidst some of the oldest untouched rainforest in Westland!
This tour lasts up to three hours and is designed to complete your Glacier Country Experience!
From the listing by Franz Josef Wilderness Tours on Viator.
The tour, stop by stop
- Paddle across the stunning waters of Lake Mapourika with your knowledgeable local guide. Take in views of the glaciers and Southern Alps as you paddle across and explore the rainforest and conservation area on the far shoreline of lake. About 150 min.
What's included
- Fully Guided Activity
- Courtesy pick-ups available on request
- Courtesy Transport to and from the Lake
- High Quality Photos
- All equipment provided including dry bags, splash jackets and gloves and hats in the winter
Not included
- Food and drinks, unless specified
Meeting point
Please check-in at our office 15 minutes prior to your trip departure time. We are located in the building next to The Landing Restaurant.
Checking in
Please note this tour leaves promptly at the set departure time. You must arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your tours departure time.
Where it ends
Please check-in at our office 15 minutes prior to your trip departure time. We are located in the building next to The Landing Restaurant.
Your Viator voucher confirms the exact spot and time.
Good to know
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
Cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
How refunds and weather cancellations work is on our booking help page.
How it compares
We compare this tour with the other options on our franz josef glacier tours page, our franz josef glacier guide page and our home page, with what each one includes and where it leaves from. How we choose tours.
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