Guided Tours

Half-Day Guided Tour of Mou Waho Island with a Cruise & Nature Walk

Participants on a Guided Nature Walk of Mou Waho Island

Experience the magic of a scenic cruise and guided nature walk on Mou Waho Island, where every ticket contributes to preserving its unique ecosystem.

Highlights

Experience the beauty of New Zealand's remote Mou Waho Island with a scenic 30-minute lake cruise and a 2-hour guided nature walk.
Explore the predator-free nature reserve, and contribute to the Department of Conservation (DOC) conservation efforts with every ticket purchased.
Immerse yourself in the island's unique ecosystem, home to rare wildlife like the flightless Buff Weka bird, as you cruise to the Mou Waho Island nature reserve.
Part of your adventure includes a hike to an exceptional glacial lake atop the island, guided by knowledgeable Kiwi experts enriching your journey with fascinating insights.
Fun Fact: The island is a hidden gem, home to the world's only swimming Weka bird and a geographical wonder – an island within a lake, on an island within another lake.

Inclusions

Half-day tour of Mou Waho Island
Expert guides
30-minute cruise to Mou Waho Island
2-hour nature walk
Department of Conservation fees
All taxes, fees, and handling charges
GST (Goods and Services Tax)

Cancellation policy

You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Your Experience

Savour the Spectacle, Support Conservation

Mou Waho Island is a delightful paradox housing a lake on an island within another. It's here you'll realign with nature, witness tireless conservation efforts, and encounter remarkable species, all while contributing to the island's preservation. This is more than just a tour; it's your chance to be a part of a purposeful journey, experiencing the thrill of discovery and leaving a positive impact. Now that's a trip worth packing for!

Cruise into Conservation and Adventure

Begin your journey on the pristine waters of Lake Wanaka, cruising against the backdrop of towering mountains on a fast but comfortable boat. This 30-minute journey is more than just a ride; it's an invitation to a secluded world on Mou Waho Island, a preserved nature reserve. Every guest's ticket contributes to conservation efforts by the Department of Conservation (DOC), making your voyage a meaningful excursion into nature.

On arrival, cast off into a 2-hour guided nature walk. Led by knowledgeable Kiwi guides, you'll traverse the predator-free island, home to the rare flightless Buff Weka, extinct on the mainland since 1920, and the aquatic Mountain Stone Weta. The pinnacle of your journey awaits at the island's summit – a natural glacial lake. Here, discover the phenomenon of a lake within an island, in a lake. It's not just the geographical wonder that will leave you breathless, but also the panoramic views from the lookout rock, offering stunning photo opportunities. The intriguing Maori and colonial history of the region shared by your guide is the cherry on top of this extraordinary adventure.

Itinerary

9am: Departure
30-minute boat cruise to Mou Waho Island
2 hours to enjoy the island and hike to the glacial lake on top
30- minute boat cruise back to Wanaka
12pm: Midday return

Know Before You Go

Important Information

Bring along bottled water & snacks, a camera, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
A warm jacket is advised as cool temperatures can occur at any time of the year.
Please wear rugged-soled outdoor shoes or boots with a good tread for grip.
An above-average level of fitness and mobility is advised for this experience.

Restrictions

The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users, and individuals with walking disabilities.
A minimum of 4 guests are required for this experience to run.

My tickets

Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.
Please arrive at the boarding point 15 minutes before the scheduled time of your cruise to avoid any delays.
Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the boarding point.

Boarding Point

Board your cruise at Lake Wanaka Cruises.
Address: At the lakefront 100 Ardmore Street, Wānaka 9305, New Zealand.
Landmark: At the lake edge near to the kids Dinosaur Park - look for the Wanaka Cruises sign on the beach.

Get Directions to the Boarding Point

Getting There

By Bus

The closest bus stop is Wanaka. It is a quick 1-minute walk to the boarding point.
Board buses Wanaka - Tarras or Queenstown - Franz Josef to get you there.