Franz Josef to Queenstown Tour via Wanaka (One-Way)

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 4.4km/90-minute easy walk will reward you with breathtaking views of the Southern Alps.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Your tour concludes in the stunning town of Queenstown. As we drive into the town, your guide will point out key sites and local highlights before dropping you off to your central Queenstown accommodation.

Planning an onward journey from Queenstown? Explore our tours from Queenstown to destinations like Milford Sound, Mt Cook, Lake Tekapo and Christchurch.