Mou Waho Island
Discover Mou Waho Island, a geological marvel in Lake Wanaka featuring an island within a lake on another island. Experience unique landscapes and bre...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Mou Waho Island
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Mou Waho Island, a geological marvel in Lake Wanaka featuring an island within a lake on another island. Experience unique landscapes and breathtaking views.
"It's an island in a lake, on an island in a lake, on an island in the ocean – truly mind-blowing!"
🚢 Book Boat Tours Early
Secure your spot on a boat tour to Mou Waho Island in advance, especially during peak season.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
The walk to the island's lake can be steep; good footwear is essential for a comfortable climb.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Island in a Lake
Mou Waho Island
Experience the unique geological wonder of an island within a lake, situated on another island within a lake, all within the ocean. It's a mind-bending natural marvel.
+1
Arethusa Pool Hike
Summit of Mou Waho Island
A moderately challenging but rewarding hike leads to a stunning lake atop the island, offering breathtaking views and a sense of discovery.
Native Flora and Fauna
Mou Waho Island Scenic Reserve
Explore the island's native bush and enjoy the tranquility. It's a peaceful escape from the mainland bustle, perfect for nature lovers.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Boat Trip in Advance
+1Prepare for the Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Book Boat Tours Early
Secure your spot on a boat tour to Mou Waho Island in advance, especially during peak season.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
The walk to the island's lake can be steep; good footwear is essential for a comfortable climb.
🧥 Pack a Wind Jacket
Conditions on the lake and island can be windy and change quickly.
🧺 Bring a Picnic Lunch
There are no facilities on the island, so pack your own food and drinks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Book Boat Tours Early
Secure your spot on a boat tour to Mou Waho Island in advance, especially during peak season.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
The walk to the island's lake can be steep; good footwear is essential for a comfortable climb.
🧥 Pack a Wind Jacket
Conditions on the lake and island can be windy and change quickly.
🧺 Bring a Picnic Lunch
There are no facilities on the island, so pack your own food and drinks.
🧠 Consider a Guided Tour
Guides offer valuable historical and ecological insights about the island.
📸 Capture the Unique Landscape
The 'island in a lake on an island' is a photographer's dream.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Mou Waho Island for its unique geological wonder and spectacular views, calling it a 'magic' and 'incredible' place. The hike to the island's lake is considered rewarding, though some note it's steeper than expected. The lack of facilities and the need for sturdy footwear are common points of advice.
"Loved the island. The walk is good and I think definate worth anyone stopping in Wanaka to do. The walk is moderately challenging. I think we spent at least 2.5 hours including the time to get there.
We did a guided tour but not sure it is required as the paths are clear but it is useful to get the additional info."
Kishan Patel
"What an incredible place
The views are spectacular and it kinda feels like you’ve stepped back in time.
You have to take a boat to get to the island. If I was to go again I would choose a guide with a lot of knowledge about the island and it’s history.
The walk up to the top isn’t as easy as some might want you to think.
There are some quite steep parts and no hand rails
There are no facilities apart from two composting toilets on the island
I’m glad I wore my hiking boots and had a wind jacket. That wind was intense."
Jo Muirhead
"Loved this view - the islands in the lake in the island in the lake in the island! And more engaging and interesting than that tree… 🤣"
Alvin Liau
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mou Waho Island is located in Lake Wanaka and is only accessible by boat. You'll need to take a boat tour or hire a private boat from the town of Wanaka. Several tour operators, like Wanaka Water Taxi and Eco Wanaka Adventures, offer trips to the island.
The boat ride from Wanaka town to Mou Waho Island typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on the operator and boat speed.
Yes, it is possible to rent a boat to take yourself to Mou Waho Island, though many visitors opt for guided tours for convenience and historical information.
Many visitors recommend taking a guided tour that includes a walk up to the island's lake, as it provides historical context and ensures you don't miss the key sights.
Mou Waho Island is generally accessible year-round, but boat tours are weather-dependent. It's always best to check with tour operators for current operating schedules and conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you will need to book a boat tour or charter a boat to reach Mou Waho Island. There isn't a separate entry fee for the island itself, but the cost of the boat transport is required.
The cost varies depending on the tour operator and the type of tour you choose. Expect to pay anywhere from NZD $70 to $150+ per person for a boat trip and guided experience.
Mou Waho Island is a scenic reserve and is accessible during daylight hours. However, your access is dictated by the operating hours of the boat tour companies.
While you can technically rent a boat and go independently, many visitors find a guided tour enhances the experience with historical and ecological information.
Most tours include the boat trip to and from the island, a guided walk to the lake on the island, and often some historical commentary. Some may include picnic options.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main activities include hiking to the unique lake on the island, enjoying the spectacular views, exploring the native bush, and experiencing the tranquility.
The walk to the lake on Mou Waho Island is described as moderately challenging, with some steep sections. Sturdy footwear is recommended.
There are very limited facilities on Mou Waho Island, primarily just two composting toilets. It's essential to bring all your own food and water.
Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, and bring layers including a windproof jacket, as the weather can change quickly.
Yes, some visitors enjoy swimming in the lake on Mou Waho Island, but be prepared for potentially cold water and check conditions with your guide.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo is the 'island in a lake on an island' phenomenon. The views from the summit hike and the unique landscape offer incredible photographic potential.
Morning light often provides beautiful conditions for photography, with softer light and fewer crowds. The golden hour before sunset can also be stunning if your tour timing allows.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient to capture the beauty of Mou Waho Island. However, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive landscapes.
Drone usage is typically restricted in New Zealand scenic reserves to protect wildlife and the natural environment. It's best to check with your tour operator or local authorities before flying a drone.
You can capture wide shots from the shore of the island's lake, or from higher vantage points on the hike to show the layers of water and land.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities. Consider a guided tour for added engagement and safety. Ensure everyone wears comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for hiking. The stunning views and the unique environment make it a memorable family outing.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature lovers will appreciate the tranquility and the chance to experience a pristine natural environment. The absence of crowds, especially on weekdays, allows for a more immersive experience. Remember to pack binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching and always practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the island's beauty.
📸 Photographers
+2Early morning light often yields the best results, with softer shadows and vibrant colors. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to encompass the grand scale of the scenery. The dramatic views from the summit hike are particularly photogenic, offering sweeping vistas of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding Southern Alps.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geological Marvel of Mou Waho
+2The island itself is part of the Mou Waho Scenic Reserve, a protected area managed to preserve its natural beauty and ecological significance. Visitors can explore the native bush, which provides a habitat for various bird species. The experience of standing on an island, looking out at a lake that contains its own island, is a truly disorienting and awe-inspiring moment that highlights the intricate geological history of the region.
+1This natural wonder is not just a visual spectacle but also a testament to the powerful forces that have shaped New Zealand's landscapes over millennia. The 'island in a lake' concept is a fascinating example of how geological processes can create such unusual and memorable environments, making Mou Waho Island a must-visit for anyone interested in natural wonders.
Navigating to Mou Waho: Boat Tours and Independent Travel
+3For those seeking more independence, it is possible to rent a boat and navigate to Mou Waho Island yourself. This option offers flexibility in terms of timing and the ability to explore at your own pace. However, it requires familiarity with boating on Lake Wanaka and understanding of local navigation rules. Regardless of your chosen method, the boat trip itself offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the vastness of Lake Wanaka.
+1The journey to Mou Waho Island is an integral part of the experience. Whether you're on a guided tour listening to fascinating stories or charting your own course, the boat ride sets the stage for the unique adventure that awaits on this remarkable island.
The Arethusa Pool Hike: A Rewarding Climb
As you ascend, the landscape opens up, providing increasingly spectacular panoramic views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains. The feeling of accomplishment upon reaching the lake, nestled within the island, is immense. It's a perfect spot for a picnic lunch, allowing you to soak in the serene atmosphere and the incredible natural beauty. Remember to pack everything you need, as there are no facilities at the summit.
This hike is more than just a physical activity; it's an opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate the unique geological formations of Mou Waho Island. The combination of the challenging climb, the stunning vistas, and the ultimate reward of the hidden lake makes it an unforgettable part of any visit.
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