Discover Okarito’s hidden gems: explore wetlands, spot rare birds, and enjoy stunning views of Mount Cook and Franz Josef Glacier.
Discover Okarito’s hidden gems: explore wetlands, spot rare birds, and enjoy stunning views of Mount Cook and Franz Josef Glacier.
- Okarito - Explore this historic former gold mining village, now home to 35 permanent residents. Rich in history, it hosts 75 species of sea and land birds, including eastern bar-tailed godwits, Rowi Kiwi, banded dotterels, fernbirds, and the renowned Kotuku (white heron). It’s an ideal destination for bird and nature enthusiasts. With its lagoons,…
- Okarito - Explore this historic former gold mining village, now home to 35 permanent residents. Rich in history, it hosts 75 species of sea and land birds, including eastern bar-tailed godwits, Rowi Kiwi, banded dotterels, fernbirds, and the renowned Kotuku (white heron). It’s an ideal destination for bird and nature enthusiasts. With its lagoons, rugged west coast beaches, mountains, wildlife, and historic buildings, this is New Zealand’s hidden treasure. Highlights typically include the Okarito historic Wharf shed/lagoon and Okarito beach.
- Okarito - Embark on a guided walking tour to the Okarito Trig point, traversing the stunning west coast bush, flora, and fauna, featuring native mushrooms and orchids. Learn about how glaciers have shaped this landscape over time. Marvel at the 360-degree views of Okarito village, Okarito Lagoon, 3 Mile lagoon, beach and coastline, Westland Tai Poutini National Park (home to the Rowi Kiwi), Mt Cook and Mt Tasman (New Zealand’s highest mountains), and Franz Josef Glacier at the top of this track.

- Walking boots (limited supply, call to book)
- Wet weather clothing (call to order sizes)
- Local guide
- Walking poles if required
- Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points
- Umbrellas
- Snacks
- Tea and coffee
- Walking boots (limited supply, call to book)
- Wet weather clothing (call to order sizes)
- Local guide
- Walking poles if required
- Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points
- Umbrellas
- Snacks
- Tea and coffee
- Lunch
- water
- Lunch
- water
Embark on the Ōkārito Nature Tour with Glacier Valley Eco Tours and explore New Zealand’s South Westland. Just 20 minutes from Franz Josef Glacier, the coastal village of Ōkārito offers superb bird-watching amidst stunning natural diversity. This tour is suitable for all ages and includes a shuttle from Franz Josef or an option to meet in Ōkārito….
Embark on the Ōkārito Nature Tour with Glacier Valley Eco Tours and explore New Zealand’s South Westland. Just 20 minutes from Franz Josef Glacier, the coastal village of Ōkārito offers superb bird-watching amidst stunning natural diversity. This tour is suitable for all ages and includes a shuttle from Franz Josef or an option to meet in Ōkārito. Guides lead you through lush rainforests, estuaries, sea cliffs, and wetlands, revealing views of the Southern Alps, including Aoraki/Mt Cook, Mt Tasman, and Franz Josef Glacier. Discover the area’s gold mining history and encounter up to 76 bird species such as the white heron, kea, fernbirds, and kakariki. Visit the Ōkārito Community Native Plant Nursery to plant a native tree for our Ōkārito Restoration project. Immerse yourself in Ōkārito’s mystique and spectacular sunsets. Book your tour today to uncover Ōkārito’s natural wonders!
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.