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Queenstown to Franz Josef via Wanaka Small Group Day Tour (1-Way)

Offered by Cheeky Kiwi Travel

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$290.00 per person

5.0 (62 reviews)

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Booking handled by our partner, Viator

12 hours (approx.)Pickup Available Mobile or paper ticket accepted Offered in: English

Small-group guided journey from Queenstown to Franz Josef via Wānaka and Haast Pass, with stops at Blue Pools, Thunder Creek Falls and Ship Creek.

Tour Overview

Travel from Queenstown to Franz Josef on a small group, fully guided journey through Wānaka, Haast Pass and the West Coast. This route combines alpine roads, lakes, rainforest and open coastline, with time to stop and experience the landscape rather than simply pass through it.

Along Crown Range Road, the Cardrona Hotel offers a glimpse of Central Otago history in a mountain setting. In Wānaka, there is time to walk down to the lakeside for a view of the Wānaka Tree, with Lake Wānaka backed by Mt Aspiring and the Southern Alps. The drive then crosses the Clutha River and continues past Lake Hāwea, including a lookout stop between Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea.

In Mt Aspiring National Park, the Blue Pools walk follows an easy 3km return track to the clear blue waters of the Makarora River. A short 5 minute walk also leads to Thunder Creek Falls, a 28 metre waterfall dropping from a hanging valley. Further north, Ship Creek brings together native rainforest, dunes and the Tasman Sea on an easy 1km walking track, while Bruce Bay marks the point where rainforest meets the ocean.

Travel is by modern minibus, with complimentary refreshments and lunch included. Wildlife viewings and additional stops may be part of the day, depending on the journey.

What's Included

  • Bottled water
  • Snacks
  • Sit down - free choice from a set menu
  • Luggage allowance - 1 large & 1 small per person

Not Included:

  • Restroom on board

What To Expect

  1. 1

    Cardrona

    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.

    10 minutes

  2. 2

    Wanaka

    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.

    30 minutes

  3. 3

    Lake Hawea

    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.

    10 minutes

  4. 4

    Blue Pools Track

    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.

    1 hour

  5. 5

    Thunder Creek Falls

    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.

    20 minutes

  6. 6

    Ship Creek Walks

    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.

    30 minutes

  7. 7

    Bruce Bay

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

    10 minutes

  8. 8

    Lake Matheson Walk

    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.

    1 hour

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup available

If requesting pickup, please select your preferred location when booking through Viator.

Pickup details

*If no pickup is selected at time of booking, you will be allocated our default meeting point. You are welcome to update this at any time. If your location isn’t listed, please choose your nearest available option & meet us there. *Pick-ups can begin up to 20 minutes before the tour departure time, depending on location. To ensure a smooth start, please be ready and waiting outside 5 minute prior to your specific pickup time. ...

Or Meet At Meeting point

The Station - Home of Adventure in Queenstown

Corner of Shotover & Camp Streets, 25 Shotover Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

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Pickup time: 7:00am.

End Point

Franz Josef / Waiau

Franz Josef / Waiau 7886, New Zealand

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This is a one way tour ending in Franz Josef.

Important Information

*You will receive an email with important pickup information in the days prior, please read this information.

Additional Info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. You can hire seats ($20NZD per seat) or you can provide your own
  • Luggage allowance - 1 large & 1 small per person

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.