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Okarito Nature Tour
About This Tour
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!
What's Included
✓ Included
- Wet weather clothing - (please call to order sizes)
- Walking boots - (please call to book as limited supply available)
- Coffee and/or Tea
- umbrellas
- Walking poles if required
✗ Not Included
- Lunch
- water
Itinerary
1
Visit this historic ex-gold mining village, home to now 35 permanent residents. Loads of history, and home to 75 sea and land bird species including eastern bar-tailed godwits, Rowi Kiwi, banded dotterels, ferbirds and the infamous Kotuku (white heron) - its perfect for those that love birds and nature. With lagoons, rugged west coast beaches, mountains, wildlife & historic buildings this is NZ's hidden gem. Key points normally include Okarito historic Wharf shed/lagoon & Okarito beach.
2
Join your guided walking tour to the Okarito Trig point, through beautiful west coast bush, flora & fauna, including native mushrooms & orchids, info on how this landscape has been shaped over time by glaciers. Wonder in 360 degree views of the Okarito village, Okarito Lagoon, 3 Mile lagoon, beach & coastline, Westland Tai Poutini National Park (home to the Rowi Kiwi) Mt Cook & Mt Tasman (NZ's highest mountains) & Franz Josef Glacier at the top of this track.
Good to Know
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately