Franz Josef to Queenstown Tour via Wnaka

Traveling across New Zealand’s South Island is about soaking in breathtaking landscapes, discovering charming towns, and feeling the thrill of the road. This particular tour, offered at $170 per person and lasting about a day, takes you from Franz Josef through the scenic Wanaka and Wānaka Tree spots, ending in Queenstown. Led by enthusiastic local guides—like Colin, who gets glowing reviews—you’ll explore iconic lakes, historic pubs, and mountain passes that look like they’re straight out of a postcard.

What makes this trip stand out? We love how it balances comfort and adventure, with a modern minibus packed with amenities and a flexible itinerary that hits all the must-see sights. Plus, the personal stories and insider tips from guides like Colin add a layer of authenticity you won’t find on self-guided drives. The only caveat? The tour runs for a full day, so it’s best suited for those ready for a long, immersive experience rather than a quick peek.

If you’re after a well-organized, value-packed way to see some of South Island’s most stunning scenery, this tour is perfect. It suits travelers who appreciate a small-group feel, informative guides, and the chance to capture those perfect lakeside photos. Family groups (with children over 4), couples, or solo explorers eager to learn about the region’s highlights will find this trip checks all the boxes.

Key Points

• Stunning Lakes: Lake Matheson, Lake Hawea, and Lake Wanaka offer some of New Zealand’s most famous reflective views.
• Historic and Iconic Stops: Cardrona Hotel provides a taste of local history and classic Kiwi hospitality.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Colin are praised for their storytelling and insider knowledge, enhancing the experience.
• Comfortable Transportation: Modern minibuses with scenic windows make the long drive enjoyable and relaxed.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Lunch, bottled water, and snacks are included, offering great value for a day trip.
• Flexible Cancellation: Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point: Franz Josef

Your day begins in Franz Josef, a small town famous for its glacier. While the glacier itself is a magnet for helicopter and helicopter-and-glacier tours, this journey offers a different perspective—focusing on the lush, mountain-fringed landscapes and lakes that surround the area. The guide will typically pick you up from your accommodation, so it’s worth being ready a few minutes early.

Scenic Drive Along the West Coast

From Franz Josef, the route heads south along the West Coast, where the scenery is dramatic: rugged coastlines, dense rainforests, and towering mountains. Your guide’s commentary will bring these landscapes to life, sharing stories and facts that turn a simple drive into an engaging lesson in New Zealand’s natural history.

Lake Matheson: Nature’s Mirror

The first major stop is Lake Matheson, often called the reflection lake because of how perfectly it mirrors the surrounding peaks, especially Mt. Cook on clear days. You’ll have the chance to walk around this tranquil spot, soaking in views that feel almost surreal. We loved the way the still waters create a perfect mirror, making it a photographer’s paradise.

More Great Tours Nearby

Wainui Bay and Haast Pass

Next, the tour crosses the Haast Pass, a mountain road that offers some of the most dramatic views on the South Island. The drive itself is a highlight, winding through lush rainforests and past waterfalls like Thunder Creek Falls. While the tour doesn’t include stops at all waterfalls, the scenery from the bus provides ample photo opportunities and a sense of adventure.

Blue Pools (Temporarily Closed)

The itinerary mentions the Blue Pools, a popular stop known for their crystal-clear waters and suspension bridge. However, as noted, they are temporarily closed—something to keep in mind if you’re planning around specific sights. Even without this stop, the drive through the area is impressive and worth noting.

Lakes Wanaka & Hawea and the Wānaka Tree

As you reach the Wanaka region, the scenery shifts to more expansive lakes and mountain vistas. You’ll get to see Lake Wānaka, home to the famous Wānaka Tree, which has become an Instagram icon. The guide will likely point out the best spots for photos, and you’ll have some time to take in the panoramic views and snap those iconic shots.

The Charm of Cardrona Hotel

No trip to the region would be complete without a visit to Cardrona Hotel. Recognized as one of New Zealand’s oldest and most iconic hotels, it’s a cozy spot to step back in time, enjoy a drink, or simply soak up the historic atmosphere. Travelers rave about how authentic and warm the ambiance is—perfect for a quick break and some photos.

Ending in Queenstown

The final leg takes you into Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. After a day filled with lakes, mountains, and stories, arriving here feels rewarding. You’ll have the chance to explore or simply relax, knowing you’ve experienced some of the best scenery the South Island has to offer in a single day.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Multiple reviews praise the guides’ knowledge—one reviewer from Poland highlighted a “wonderful and communicative driver, who tells great stories and knows what is worth seeing, at what time, and for how long.” Another from Australia appreciated Colin’s friendly demeanor and local expertise. These personal touches elevate the tour from a standard sightseeing bus trip to an engaging, educational experience.

Value for Money

For $170, including lunch, bottled water, snacks, and a small-group setting, this tour offers considerable value. The comfort of the minibuses and the flexibility of a guided experience mean you get a lot for your money, from scenic vistas to interesting commentary.

Things to Consider

The main consideration is long hours—the trip takes a full day, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with extended travel and eager to see multiple highlights without the hassle of self-driving. Also, weather can change quickly in the mountains, so bringing layered clothing and good shoes is recommended.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This trip is ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts who want a curated experience with expert insights. It’s perfect if you prefer not to drive long distances and want a hassle-free way to see key sights. Families with children over 4, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed, well-organized day out will find it suits their needs perfectly.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If your goal is to see some of South Island’s most iconic lakes, enjoy a historic pub, and learn about the landscape from passionate guides—all without the stress of planning and navigating—this tour offers extraordinary value. The small-group size ensures a more personal experience, and the carefully curated stops mean you’ll walk away with memorable photos and stories.

However, if you prefer a more flexible or spontaneous itinerary, or you’re on a tight schedule, you might want to consider other options. But for those who want to combine scenic beauty with expert storytelling in comfort, this trip is a winner.

This tour will especially suit travelers eager to absorb the region’s highlights in one comprehensive day, with a good balance of nature, history, and local color. It’s a well-rounded way to deepen your appreciation for New Zealand’s dramatic landscapes without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

FAQ

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately one day, with pickup times arranged from Christchurch. It’s a full-day experience designed to maximize sightseeing.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a pre-ordered lunch is included. If you have dietary restrictions, be sure to notify the provider at least 24 hours in advance.

Are snacks and water provided?
Yes, bottled water and snacks are included, ensuring you stay refreshed throughout the day.

What should I bring?
It’s wise to bring layered clothing, good walking shoes for stops like Lake Matheson, and a camera. Remember, weather can change rapidly in the mountains.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children over 4 years old are suitable, but it’s not recommended for very young children or cruise ship guests.

How many people typically join this tour?
It’s a small-group experience, which generally means fewer crowds and more personalized attention from the guides.

Is this tour suitable for photographers?
Absolutely. The scenic stops, especially Lake Matheson and Wanaka, are perfect for photography.

Are there any stops that are temporarily closed?
Yes, the Blue Pools are currently closed, but other highlights remain accessible and spectacular.

What makes the guides special?
Reviewers consistently praise guides like Colin for their storytelling skills, local knowledge, and friendly demeanor, making the journey more engaging.

What is the main selling point of this tour?
The combination of stunning scenery, expert guides, and comfort delivers a well-rounded, memorable day exploring some of New Zealand’s most gorgeous landscapes.

In essence, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated taste of South Island’s best lakes, mountain passes, and historic spots, wrapped up in the comfort of a small-group guided ride. Perfect for travelers who want to see a lot without the stress, and who value authentic stories as much as they do the scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: