Lake Manapouri Tours and Activities

Lake Manapouri
Lake Manapouri which includes general coastal views, landscape views and mountains
Photo by YoungAdventuress
Photo by YoungAdventuress
Photo by Nicole Smelson
Photo by Nicole Smelson
Photo by Mel Fekto
Photo by Mel Fekto

Use the shores of this striking lake as a base when visiting the popular Doubtful Sound and many other beautiful areas in Fiordland National Park.

Enjoy outdoor activities around Lake Manapouri, including kayaking, boating, hiking and fishing. Located within Fiordland National Park, the lake is a gateway to many of New Zealand’s most beautiful attractions, including Doubtful Sound and Dusky Sound. Admire Lake Manapouri from a scenic walking path or explore the lake by boat or kayak.

Lake Manapouri is a popular departure point for overnight cruises and kayaking adventures. Book a cruise to see the region’s wildlife, including dolphins, fur seals and crested penguins. With such pristine water, Lake Manapouri is perfect for fishing. Cast a line into the calm waters and fish for brown and rainbow trout.

Organise a cruise to Doubtful Sound from Lake Manapouri. The sound is one of the deepest and longest inlets in New Zealand. Kayaking adventures are an excellent way to appreciate the beauty of Doubtful Sound however, if you would rather travel in comfort, book an overnight cruise.

Lake Manapouri is also great for hiking, with some of the country’s best trails running next to the water’s edge. Kepler Track is a long-distance hiking trail with views of Lake Te Anau, Lake Manapouri and many grass-covered ridgelines. Allow about 4 days to complete the 67-kilometre (42-mile) loop track or plan to walk sections on a daytrip.

Dusky Track is another great long-distance trail for experienced hikers. Access the track via boat services operating from Lake Hauroko or the small lakeside town of Manapouri. The remote 8-day walking track features amazing views of glaciers, misty forests, snow-capped mountains and steep jagged valleys.

Stay in the town of Manapouri when visiting the lake. Manapouri is about 640 kilometres (400 miles) from Christchurch. Luxury hotels and self-catered apartments are also available in the nearby towns of Te Anau and Queenstown. Wear suitable hiking footwear and pack supplies if you wish to attempt one of the many walking trails.

Known as the gateway to Doubtful Sound and other incredible natural destinations, Lake Manapouri is perfect for visitors looking for an adventure.

Plan a trip to see Lake Manapouri

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
The Spire Hotel Queenstown

The Spire Hotel Queenstown

5 out of 5
Queenstown City Centre
Save 100% on your flight
per person
9 Sept - 16 Sept
found 1 day ago
Return flight included
Brisbane (BNE) to Queenstown (ZQN)
9.8/10 Exceptional! (117 reviews)
Amazing hotel, excellent in every way

Reviewed on 16 May 2025

Eichardt's Private Hotel

Eichardt's Private Hotel

5 out of 5
Queenstown City Centre
per person
14 Sept - 21 Sept
found 1 day ago
Return direct flight included
Brisbane (BNE) to Queenstown (ZQN)
9.4/10 Exceptional! (70 reviews)
Azur Luxury Lodge

Azur Luxury Lodge

5 out of 5
Sunshine Bay
Save 100% on your flight
per person
14 Sept - 21 Sept
found 18 hours ago
Return direct flight included
Brisbane (BNE) to Queenstown (ZQN)
10/10 Exceptional! (82 reviews)

Tours & day trips

See all 19 activities
Milford Sound Coach & Cruise Tour

Milford Sound Coach & Cruise Tour

Activity duration is 7 hours and 30 minutes
8.8 out of 10 with 86 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is AU$206 per adult
Milford Sound Coach & Cruise TourOpens in new tab

Air, helicopter & balloon tours

See all 7 activities
Milford Sound Small Group Tour from Queenstown with Scenic Flight

Milford Sound Small Group Tour from Queenstown with Scenic Flight

Activity duration is 10 hours
10.0 out of 10 with 3 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is AU$732 per adult
Milford Sound Small Group Tour from Queenstown with Scenic FlightOpens in new tab

Adventure & outdoor

See all 4 activities
From Te Anau: Full Day Kepler Track Guided Heli-Hike

From Te Anau: Full Day Kepler Track Guided Heli-Hike

Activity duration is 8 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is AU$701 per adult
From Te Anau: Full Day Kepler Track Guided Heli-HikeOpens in new tab

Wildlife & nature

See all 3 activities
Milford Sound Coach & Nature Cruise from Te Anau with lunch

Milford Sound Coach & Nature Cruise from Te Anau with lunch

Activity duration is 7 hours
6.0 out of 10 with 2 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is AU$265 per adult
Milford Sound Coach & Nature Cruise from Te Anau with lunchOpens in new tab

Popular places to visit

Fiordland National Park showing a river or creek and mountains

Gertrude Saddle

Challenge yourself in New Zealand’s mystical Fiordland National Park to climb to this majestic mountain ridge for breathtaking vistas of Milford Sound.

Gertrude Saddle
Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre

Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre

Explore the great outdoors at Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre, a lovely green space in Te Anau. Stroll along the lakeside or seek out the local tours.

Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre
Lake Te Anau featuring a sunset, a pebble beach and mountains

Lake Te Anau

Explore a geologically active glowworm cave, relax in a lakeside town and organise a kayaking adventure when visiting this spectacular glacial lake.

Lake Te Anau
Doubtful Sound

Doubtful Sound

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Doubtful Sound during your travels in Fiordland National Park. While you're in the area, wander around the parks.

Doubtful Sound

Kepler Track

Explore the great outdoors at Kepler Track, a lovely green space in Te Anau. Stroll along the lakeside or seek out the local tours.

Kepler Track

Te Anau Golf Course

Enjoy a round of golf in Te Anau at Te Anau Golf Course. Stroll along the lakeside or seek out the local tours.

Te Anau Golf Course

Top Lake Manapouri Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Possum Lodge

Possum Lodge

2.5 out of 5
13 Murrell Ave, Manapouri, Southland
Possum Lodge
Tui Retreat | Lake Manapouri

Tui Retreat | Lake Manapouri

Manapouri
Tui Retreat | Lake Manapouri
Manapouri Holiday Park

Manapouri Holiday Park

2 out of 5
86 Cathedral Dr, Manapouri, Southland
Manapouri Holiday Park
Murrell's Grand View House

Murrell's Grand View House

4 out of 5
7 Murrell Avenue, Manapouri
Murrell's Grand View House
Te Anau Manapouri Lake Hotel

Te Anau Manapouri Lake Hotel

3 out of 5
68 Catherdral Drive, Manapouri
Te Anau Manapouri Lake Hotel
GLENDALE RIVER VIEW HOLIDAY HOUSE

GLENDALE RIVER VIEW HOLIDAY HOUSE

Manapouri
GLENDALE RIVER VIEW HOLIDAY HOUSE
Cosy Lakeside - Manapouri Holiday Home

Cosy Lakeside - Manapouri Holiday Home

Manapouri
Cosy Lakeside - Manapouri Holiday Home
Cabot Lodge

Cabot Lodge

5 out of 5
268 Hillside-Manapouri Rd, Manapouri, Southland
Cabot Lodge
Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels

Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels

4.5 out of 5
77 Manapouri - Te Anau Highway, Te Anau
Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels
See all 122 properties in Lake Manapouri
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Lake Manapouri

Lake Manapouri offers a range of activities for tourists, including scenic walks, guided tours, and exhilarating safaris. Travel tips for your visit include considering overnight trips to fully explore the area. Boat tours are a must to experience the stunning waters, while various water activities provide adventure for all. Be sure to check out the top attractions to make the most of your stay in this picturesque Southland destination.

Shopping

In Lake Manapouri, you can find charming local shops offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to Te Anau, about 16.1km away, where you’ll discover a range of boutiques, cafes, and a lovely market showcasing local artisans.

Recreation

Enjoy a round at Te Anau Golf Course, located 12.9km from Lake Manapouri, where you can immerse yourself in the outdoors while playing on beautifully maintained greens. The vibrant atmosphere is perfect for relaxation and socialising after a day on the course.

Adventure

The Kepler Track, located 12.9km from Lake Manapouri, offers breathtaking scenery and an exhilarating hiking experience through lush landscapes. For a more challenging adventure, trek to Gertrude Saddle, situated 24.1km away, where stunning vistas await amidst rugged terrain and alpine beauty.

Nightlife

At Lake Manapouri, the nearby Fiordland Cinema offers a charming escape with its family-friendly and romantic atmosphere. Located 16.1km away, it's perfect for enjoying a film after a day of adventure, making it a great spot to unwind and experience local entertainment vibes.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Lake Manapouri

Lake Manapouri offers a stunning blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the serene beaches, family-friendly parks, and the picturesque reserves. Must-see attractions include the breathtaking Lake Manapouri itself and the impressive Manapouri Power Station. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, this region provides a perfect backdrop for a memorable holiday experience in New Zealand.

  • Frasers Beach: Located 6.4km from Lake Manapouri, Frasers Beach offers a stunning coastal escape with its tranquil beach vibes. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores or simply relax while soaking in the picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Ivon Wilson Park: This reserve, situated 14.5km from Lake Manapouri, is perfect for excursions and picnics. With its friendly atmosphere and diverse flora, it’s an ideal spot for families and nature lovers to unwind and explore.
  • Ivon Wilson Scenic Reserve: Just 14.5km away, this urban park combines family-friendly activities with outdoor adventures. Enjoy walking trails and scenic spots amidst the natural beauty, all while being close to the conveniences of the city.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Lake Manapouri

For a budget-friendly trip to Lake Manapouri, consider visiting during the off-peak months of May to June or August when accommodation prices drop. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can yield better deals, and Saturdays are typically the cheapest days to stay. To save more, check Expedia for last-minute offers, package deals combining flights and stays, and use their price filter to find the lowest rates. Exploring the area through free activities and utilising public transport can also keep your costs down while enjoying the stunning surroundings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Lake Manapouri are May to June and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Lake Manapouri is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Lake Manapouri is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Lake Manapouri is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and ideal hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Lake Manapouri hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.