Queenstown to Franz Josef via Wanaka Small Group Tour (One Way)

Experience the ultimate adventure from Queenstown to Franz Josef via Wānaka. 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:

• Cardrona Valley Pub
• Lake Hāwea
• Lake Wānaka (including the Wānaka Tree) 
• Blue Pools (Temporarily Closed)
• Thunder Falls
• Ship Creek
• Bruce Bay
• Lake Matheson

Itinerary:

1. Queenstown

Your tour begins in the stunning city of Queenstown. As we depart, your guide will set the scene for your journey, pointing out and providing insights into some of the area's top highlights.

2. Cardrona Hotel (10min)

Located on the spectacular Crown Range Road between Queenstown and Wānaka, the Cardrona Hotel is one of New Zealand's oldest and most iconic hotels. Its rustic charm, spectacular mountain setting and rich history make it a must-see in Central Otago.

3. Wānaka (15 min)

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.

4. Lake Hāwea (10 min)

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

5. Blue Pools (Temporarily Closed)

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.

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

8. 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.

9. Bruce Bay (10 min)

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

10. Lake Matheson (1hr)

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.

11. Franz Josef

We'll pass many glacial rivers as we journey past Fox Glacier to our destination of Franz Josef. Our guide will drop you at any central accommodation in either Franz Josef or Fox Glacier. If you are continuing to Christchurch the next day, your guide will pick you up from your hotel to carry on the journey.

Inclusions:

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

Optional Extras:

• Scenic Flight with Glacier Landings
• Heli Hike 

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.

Still have questions? Please visit our FAQs page!