Wanaka to Franz Josef Small Group Tour (One Way)

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

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. Wānaka 

Following pickup from the Wanaka Lakefront Car Park, 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.

2. Lake Hāwea (10 min)

After crossing the mighty Clutha River, we head westward past the
stunning Lake Hawea where we'll stop for a quick photo at a lookout point
between Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea.

3. Blue Pools (1 hr)

Located in
the 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.

4. 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.

5. Hard
Antler, Haast (45 min)

Here we stop at the Hard Antler where you have 45 minutes to enjoy your lunch.

5. Ship
Creek (30 min)

As we head north 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.

6. Bruce Bay (10 min)

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

7. 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.

8. Franz
Josef

We'll pass
many glacial rivers as we journey past Fox Glacier and on to Franz Josef, where
you will be dropped at your central accommodation.

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.