Ōkārito Nature Tour

Embark on the Ōkārito Nature Tour with Glacier Valley Eco Tours and explore a hidden gem of New Zealand's South Westland, recently added as NZ's newest Tohu Whenua site.

This is our best bird-watching tour, thanks to the great mahi (work) of Predator Free South Westland and Zero Invasive Predators (ZIP) project, Ōkārito is now predator-free and the bird life is outstanding!

 

Just a 20-minute drive from Franz Josef Glacier, the small coastal village of Ōkārito offers an unparalleled bird-watching experience amidst stunning natural diversity. Suitable for all ages and abilities, this tour includes a shuttle service from the Franz Josef township or guests can meet us in Okarito. The tour guides you through lush rainforests, estuaries, sea cliffs and wetlands, revealing breathtaking views of the Southern Alps, including Aoraki/Mt Cook, Mt Tasman and even Franz Josef Glacier on clear days. Delve into the rich history of gold mining and early settlement with the opportunity to encounter the area's rich birdlife - up to 76 bird species, such as the Kotuku (great white heron), kea, fernbird, tui and kākāriki.

 

Visit the Ōkārito Community Native Plant Nursery to plant a native tree as part of the Ōkārito Plant Project. 

Book your tour today and uncover the natural wonders of Ōkārito! 

For a full emersion, see our Discover Ōkārito package tour with Ōkārito Boat ecotours.​​​​