Queenstown to Franz Josef via Wanaka 1 Way - Day Tour
Meals included
Hotel pickup
Highlights & inclusions
Enjoy a breathtaking drive to Franz Josef
Scenic stops Lake Hāwea, Thunder Creek Falls & more
Witness iconic "That Wanaka Tree" & Lake Wanaka
Capture beautiful views at Lake Matheson
Visit the historic Cardrona Valley Pub
Join an intimate small group adventure
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$266.80AUD
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to experience
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April 2025
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What you can expect
Embark on a guided small group tour from Queenstown to the stunning West Coast passing through Wanaka. Discover the picturesque landscapes of one of New Zealand's most rugged regions, all from the comfort of a tour bus equipped with Wi-Fi and USB charging ports. With passionate guides leading the way, every moment promises to be unforgettable. You’ll explore pristine beaches, vibrant rainforests, and natural treasures as you travel. Visit the gorgeous lakes of Wanaka and Hawea then journey over the Haast Pass to the iconic Franz Josef. Along the way, enjoy lunch at the historic Cardrona Valley Pub, savour tasty snacks, and take in views at scenic stops like Lake Matheson, Thunder Creek Falls, Ship Creek, and Bruce Bay. With a maximum of just 16 participants, this tour offers the perfect opportunity to uncover the West Coast’s most breathtaking destinations.
Location
What you need to know
Inclusions
- Small group tour
- Lunch
- Water available for refill
- Snacks & refreshments
Exclusions
- Accommodation
- Scenic flights
Itinerary
- 1. Queenstown Your tour begins in the stunning city of Queenstown. As you 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 (30 min) 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, head westward past the stunning Lake Hāwea. 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. Ship Creek (30 min) As you head north along the border where ancient rainforest meets the ocean, 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. 8. Bruce Bay (10 min) Here, thick native rainforest meets the seemingly endless open ocean. Bruce Bay truly showcases the best of the West Coast! 9. Lake Matheson (1.5hrs) Continue to every photographer's dream: Lake Matheson. On a calm day, you can capture Mt Cook reflected elegantly across this picturesque lake. This 4.4km/90-minute easy walk will reward you with breathtaking views of the Southern Alps. 10. Franz Josef Pass many glacial rivers as you journey past Fox Glacier to the destination of Franz Josef. Your 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.
Time
- Meet at The Station - Home of Adventure in central Queenstown at 7:00am if you are not being picked up.
Duration
- This tour is 12 hours approximately.
Location
- Your tour begins in the stunning city of Queenstown.
Departure Location
- This experience departs with a pick up from your hotel or from The Station - Home of Adventure in central Queenstown.
Hotel Pickup
- Pickup is offered for the below hotels only
- Pickup times will vary depending on your location
- Kamana Lakehouse
- Mercure Queenstown
- Heritage Hotel
- Rydges Lakeland
- Hotel St Moritz
- Crowne Plaza
- Novotel Lakeside
- Nomads Hostel
- Flaming Kiwi Backpackers
- Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel
- Pinewood Lodge
- The Station - Home of Adventure
- LyLo Queenstown
- Sofitel Hotel & Spa
- Aspen Lodge
- Ramada Queenstown Central
- Heartland Hotel
- Scenic Suites
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites
- Millennium Hotel
- Copthorne Hotel & Resort Lakefront
- Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Lakeview
- Swiss Belsuites Pounamu
- Oaks Shores Resort
- The Rees Hotel
- Holiday Inn Frankton Road
- Sherwood Hotel
- Frankton Bus Interchange
- Wyndham Garden
Terms And Conditions
- Children aged 3 and younger are not permitted to travel
Cancellation Policy
- Change your booking up to 24 hours before the start time of your experience
- Changes are not permitted within 24 hours of your experience
- Late arrivals or no shows may result in you forfeiting your experience
Booking Information
- Confirmation in the form of a tour voucher will be received at time of booking
- Upon completion of purchase, please print the voucher and present on day of the experience
- Mobile Vouchers are accepted! Vouchers can also be presented on your mobile device for this attraction
- Availability was accurate at the time of booking however, is subject to change due to circumstances out of our control.
- For your information, complete Tour Operator Information including contact details is included on your tour voucher.
- We strongly suggest reconfirming your booking with the tour operator within 24 hours of making your booking and prior to making other travel arrangements.
Need help?
- Email us at enquiry@experienceoz.com.au
- Help code: D2B-A8E6
- This experience is supplied by Cheeky Kiwi Travel Limited
