Franz Josef to Wanaka Small Group Tour (One Way)

Experience the ultimate adventure from Franz Josef to Wanaka. Our small group, fully-guided tour takes you from Franz Josef along the beautiful West Coast beaches, over the stunning Haast Pass, and through the picturesque landscapes of Wānaka and Hāwea lakes.

Get ready for a one-of-a-kind authentic Kiwi experience with our famously passionate guides, renowned for their engaging stories and rich local knowledge. Travel in modern, comfortable minibuses, fully equipped with amenities to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the trip.

Lunch is provided on this tour.

Highlights:

• Lake Matheson
• Bruce Bay
• Ship Creek
• Thunder Falls
• Blue Pools 
• Lake Hāwea
• Lake Wānaka (including the Wānaka Tree) 

Itinerary:

1. Franz Josef

Following pick up from your central accommodation, we'll pass many glacial rivers as we journey from Franz Josef past Fox Glacier

2. Lake Matheson (1 hr)

We continue to every photographer's dream: Lake Matheson. On a calm day, you can capture Mt Cook reflected elegantly across this picturesque lake. This easy walk will reward you with breathtaking views of the Southern Alps.

3. Bruce Bay (10 min)

Here, thick native rainforest meets the seemingly endless open ocean. Bruce Bay truly showcases the best of the West Coast!

4. Ship Creek (30 min)

As we head south along the border where ancient rainforest meets the ocean, we’ll stop at Ship Creek. Dig your toes in the sand and feel the crash of the relentless waves of the Tasman Sea. Explore the dunes via an easy 1km walking track.

5. Hard Antler, Haast (45 min)
Here we stop at the Hard Antler where you have 45 minutes to enjoy your lunch.

6. Thunder Creek Falls (20 min)

An easy 5-minute walk will reward you with a spectacular view of Thunder Creek Falls. This 28-metre waterfall, a remnant of a once-great glacier, pours from a hanging valley.

7. Blue Pools (1 hr)

Located in Mt Aspiring National Park, the aptly named Blue Pools are a must-see. This easy 3km round trip is well worth the effort to witness the breathtaking blue waters of the Makarora River.

8. Lake Hāwea (10 min)

Heading eastward past the stunning Lake Hawea, we'll stop for a quick photo at a lookout point between Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea before crossing the mighty Clutha River.

9. Wānaka 

We’ll stroll down to the lakeside for that iconic photo of the Wānaka Tree. Soak in the beauty of this expansive lake, backdropped by Mt Aspiring and the Southern Alps—a paradise for photographers, before being dropped off at the Wanaka Lakefront Car Park.

Inclusions:

• Small Group
• Fully Guided Tour
• Lunch
• Water available & snacks provided

While the destinations you'll visit on tour are truly spectacular, at Cheeky Kiwi Travel, we believe it's our small groups, passionate guides and little details that truly set our tours well apart. From secret stops and wildlife viewings to specially designed vehicles and complimentary refreshments, we include many delightful surprises to ensure our tours are an unforgettable experience.