The 4 Nature Reserve Tours in New Zealand That Earn Their Price

1.From Manapouri: Doubtful Sound Wilderness Day Trip

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 1,621 reviews · 7 hours · from $208Our pick

RealNZ takes you from Manapouri across Lake Manapouri, over Wilmot Pass, and into Doubtful Sound for a guided three-hour cruise. Expect rainforest, waterfalls, misty peaks, and possible dolphins, fur seals, and crested penguins. Bring warm rain gear and allow seven hours.

“Fantastic day trip - definitely worth it to experience Doubtful Sound which was awesome and the trip across Lake Manapouri also a highlight along with the commentary. So glad we went.”

Check availability →Read our full review

2.Jet Boat Journey through Fiordland National Park – Pure Wilderness

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 678 reviews · from $127Best value

Set out from Te Anau with Fiordland Jet for a two-hour ride along the Upper Waiau River to Lake Manapouri. Expect warm gear, local stories, trout spotting, three Lord of the Rings locations, high-speed turns and a short guided walk in native forest. Guides include Harry, Alex, John and Jade.

“This experience was very fun and informative. Alex was a terrific guide. I highly recommend this venue!”

Check availability →Read our full review

3.Dart River Jet Boat and Wilderness Experience

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 531 reviews · from $190

Travel from Queenstown to Glenorchy, then race, spin, and glide along the glacier-fed Dart River into Mt Aspiring National Park. Your guide explains native plants, wildlife, Māori stories, and pioneer history. Drivers such as Jordan, Pedro, John, and Dean are known for friendly commentary and confident boat handling.

“Fantastic experience. It was raining and we were skeptical, but it turned out to be an awesome experience with waterfalls and swirling currents we otherwise wouldn't have experienced. The views were amazing. And Dan, our guide was masterful on the boat and extremely friendly. Highly recommend this to anyone.”

Check availability →Read our full review

4.Doubtful Sound Wilderness Day Cruise from Manapouri

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 490 reviews · from $216

Travel from Manapouri across Lake Manapouri, over Wilmot Pass, and into remote Doubtful Sound. A naturalist guide provides commentary as you watch for seals, dolphins, waterfalls, and Fiordland crested penguins. Expect a full day, changeable weather, and a peaceful engine-off silence stop.

“When we left lake manapouri the weather did not look very promising. However, the sun came out later, just at the right time for us to enjoy the scenery.”

Check availability →Read our full review