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

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.