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Home/New Zealand/North Island/Taupo/Lake Taupo

Lake Taupo: Adventure & Scenic Wonders Await

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Lake Taupo, New Zealand's breathtaking volcanic heart. Discover awe-inspiring geothermal wonders, witness the powerful Huka Falls, and explore ancient Maori Rock Carvings via scenic boat cruises. Whether you are seeking adrenaline-fueled adventures, sustainable sailing under golden sunsets, or immersive cultural tours, our curated experiences offer something for every traveler. From tranquil lake views to world-class sightseeing, start planning your dream Taupo getaway today and experience the very best of New Zealand's natural beauty.

4.78/5 avg ratingFrom $15.29 per person21 unique experiencesFree cancellation available

At a glance

Tour Price

Tour Price

$34–$104 typical

Wide range from $15 to $625

Rating

Rating

4.78★ average

Based on 4,151 pooled reviews

Tour Length

Tour Length

2.5 hours median

Typically ranges from 1.5 to 10.3 hours

Best For

Best For

Nature & Cruises

Nature themes (86%) and cruises (62%) are most common

Languages

Languages

8 languages offered

Includes English, French, Japanese, and more

Special Features

Special Features

Eco-friendly & Private options

29% are eco-friendly, 14% are private tours

27 Products

Lake Taupo: Classical Sailing to the Māori Rock Carvings

Lake Taupo: Classical Sailing to the Māori Rock Carvings

2.5 hrs
4.81 (1,465 reviews)
GetYourGuide
$35
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Lake Taupo: Classical Sailing to the Māori Rock Carvings
Summary

Set sail on a timeless journey to see the Māori Rock Carvings aboard a beautiful classical sailing boat. Experience the best way to explore Lake Taupo with this environmentally-friendly sailing tour.

Lake Taupo: Maori Rock Carvings 1.5-Hour Cruise

Lake Taupo: Maori Rock Carvings 1.5-Hour Cruise

1.5 hrs
4.59 (680 reviews)
GetYourGuide
$38
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Lake Taupo: Maori Rock Carvings 1.5-Hour Cruise
Summary

Lake Taupō scenic cruise aboard a spacious catamaran. See the famous Māori Rock Carvings and enjoy spectacular views of Tongariro National Park and its snow-capped volcanic peaks.

Lake Taupo: Luxury Sailing Catamaran to Māori Rock Carvings

Lake Taupo: Luxury Sailing Catamaran to Māori Rock Carvings

2.5 hrsEco-Friendly
4.85 (292 reviews)
GetYourGuide
$40
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Lake Taupo: Luxury Sailing Catamaran to Māori Rock Carvings
Summary

Step aboard Tiua and combine an eco friendly sailing experience on Lake Taupo with the comfort of an all-weather boat. Admire the magnificent Māori Rock Carvings and stop for a swim along the way.

Daily Scenic Maori Rock Carving Cruise Taupo

Daily Scenic Maori Rock Carving Cruise Taupo

1.5 hrsFree cancellation
4.59 (611 reviews)
90.59%
9.41%
muffinamazingworth it
Viator
$39
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Daily Scenic Maori Rock Carving Cruise Taupo
Summary

Daily Scenic Cruises – Maori Rock Carvings Please note we are changing our afternoon departure time from 1.30pm to 1.00pm from 1st November 2024. Our Daily Scenic Cruises depart from Berth #4 at the Taupo Boat Harbour on Cruise Cat. You’ll love cruising in comfort and style with fabulous views fr...

Inclusions
  • Live commentary on board
Exclusions
  • Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Itinerary
  • Lake Taupo
  • Maori Rock Carvings
Good to know
  • Wheelchair accessible, Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Service animals allowed, Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Children must be accompanied by an adult
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Luxury Sailing - Māori Rock Carvings - Taupo Sailing Adventures

Luxury Sailing - Māori Rock Carvings - Taupo Sailing Adventures

2.5 hrsEco-FriendlyFree cancellation
4.86 (185 reviews)
96.23%
3.77%
AMAZINGfantastic sailingrelaxed
Viator
$41
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Luxury Sailing - Māori Rock Carvings - Taupo Sailing Adventures
Summary

Step aboard Tiua, Taupō Sailing Adventures’ luxurious sailing catamaran and cruise Great Lake Taupo in comfort and style.. Our sailing experience offers a quiet and gentle way to connect with the natural beauty of Lake Taupō. With her stable twin-hull design, Tiua provides a smooth ride and plenty ...

Inclusions
  • 12.30pm: complimentary beer, wine or non-alcoholic drink.
  • 10am: complimentary hot drink & biscuit
  • Blankets
  • Restrooms/Changing rooms on board
  • Sunset Sail (times vary):complimentary pizza snack (1/2 pizza) & 1 beer, wine or non-alcoholic drink
  • Beanbags
  • Live commentary on board
  • 3.30pm: complimentary beer, wine or non-alcoholic drink.
  • Longest swim stop out of any company on the lake (weather dependent)
  • Fully licensed bar onboard (drinks & snacks)
Exclusions
  • Accommodation pickup and drop-off
Itinerary
  • Lake Taupo
  • Maori Rock Carvings
Good to know
  • Wheelchair accessible, Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Service animals allowed, Public transportation options are available nearby, Specialized infant seats are available, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Sailing trips are subject to minimum numbers, lake and weather conditions., Departs from Taupo Marina. (Redoubt St), Check-in at Berth # 16/17, 30 minutes before scheduled departure. Check-in closes 15 minutes before scheduled departure. Boarding time 10 minutes before scheduled departure, People failing to show up for check in will not be refunded., In the event of quickly changing bad weather and lake conditions, it may not be possible to view the Maori Rock Carvings, this decision is made at the discretion of the skipper for the health and safety of all on board the vessel, Please let us know in advance if you have medical issues. The skipper has the last call on check in to decide if the trip is suitable regarding medical issues due to health and safety regulations.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Taupō: Sail Barbary Eco Sailing to the Maori Rock Carvings

Taupō: Sail Barbary Eco Sailing to the Maori Rock Carvings

2.5 hrsEco-Friendly
4.82 (189 reviews)
GetYourGuide
$35
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Taupō: Sail Barbary Eco Sailing to the Maori Rock Carvings
Summary

Explore Lake Taupō on an eco-friendly electric sailboat Sail Barbary. Enjoy stunning views as you set sail to explore the Māori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay.

Taupo: Maori Rock Carvings Kayaking Tour

Taupo: Maori Rock Carvings Kayaking Tour

4 hrsEco-Friendly
4.82 (156 reviews)
GetYourGuide
$85
Book now
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Taupo: Maori Rock Carvings Kayaking Tour
Summary

Glide your kayak over Lake Taupo’s crystal-clear waters as you paddle to the awe-inspiring Maori rock carvings. Soak in views of live volcanos on your guided tour and learn about local legends.

Classical Sailing - Māori Rock Carvings -Taupo Sailing Adventures

Classical Sailing - Māori Rock Carvings -Taupo Sailing Adventures

2.5 hrsEco-FriendlyFree cancellation
4.82 (149 reviews)
93.08%
6.92%
Awesomeenjoyable experiencebeautiful sunset sail
Viator
$35
Book now
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Classical Sailing - Māori Rock Carvings -Taupo Sailing Adventures
Summary

Escape the hectic life and enjoy your sailing experience on our classical sailing yacht Fearless for timeless charm and authentic sailing. Explore the Māori Rock Carvings, one of the most extraordinary contemporary carvings in the world. Only view-able from the water, the likeness of Ngātoroirangi ...

Inclusions
  • Additional drinks can be purchased on board
  • Blankets
  • 9.30am: complimentary hot drink & biscuit.
  • Sunset Cruise (times vary throughout the year): 1 glass of beer, wine or non-alcoholic drinks.
  • 3.30pm: complimentary tea, coffee or refreshing soft drink.
  • 12.30pm: complimentary tea, coffee or refreshing soft drink.
  • Live commentary on board
  • BYO
  • Longest swim stop out of any company on the lake (weather dependent)
Exclusions
  • Accommodation pickup and drop-off
  • Food
Itinerary
  • Lake Taupo
  • Maori Rock Carvings
Good to know
  • Service animals allowed, Public transportation options are available nearby, Specialized infant seats are available, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Sailing trips are subject to minimum numbers, lake and weather conditions., Departs from Taupo Marina. (Redoubt St), Check-in at Berth # 16/17, 30 minutes before scheduled departure. Check-in closes 15 minutes before scheduled departure. Boarding time 10 minutes before scheduled departure, For the 9.30am trip customers can arrive 10-15min before departure for check-in. An earlier arrival is not required. However they need to be there before the departure time at 9.30am!, People failing to show up for check in will not be refunded., We reserve the right to upgrade passengers to our other sailing yacht Tiua should weather conditions, demand or other circumstances require it. No extra costs will apply. The trip at 9.30am might be postponed by 30min in such circumstances. If you don't agree to a free upgrade please leave a note in your booking or contact us in advance., In the event of quickly changing bad weather and lake conditions, it may not be possible to view the Maori Rock Carvings, this decision is made at the discretion of the skipper for the health and safety of all on board the vessel, Please let us know in advance if you have medical issues. The skipper has the last call on check in to decide if the trip is suitable regarding medical issues due to health and safety regulations.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Taupo Day Trip with Orakei Korako or Waiotapu from Rotorua

Taupo Day Trip with Orakei Korako or Waiotapu from Rotorua

7 hrsFree cancellation
4.86 (28 reviews)
100%
0%
wonderfulenjoyedgood guide
Viator
$171
Book now
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Taupo Day Trip with Orakei Korako or Waiotapu from Rotorua
Summary

Choose between Waiotapu or Oarakei Korako geothermal areas for your first stop on this 7-hour day trip. Then see Huka Falls, Lake Taupo and the surrounding areas. Admission fees to the thermal area of your choice are included, but lunch is at your own expense. This guided small-group tour operates w...

Inclusions
  • Local guide
  • GST (Goods and Services Tax)
  • Transport by airconditoned minibus
  • Hotel pickup and drop off - central hotels/hostels
  • Driver/guide
  • Admission fees to either Waiotapu or Orakei Korako
  • Live commentary on board
Exclusions
  • Food and drinks
Itinerary
  • Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
  • Orakei Korako Cave & Thermal Park
  • Lake Taupo
  • Huka Falls Tracks
Good to know
  • Specialized infant seats are available, Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Public transportation options are available nearby, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, A maximum of 10 people per booking - minimum 2 people needed for tour to run, Children must be accompanied by an adult, Minimum age is 18 years (if traveling on own), All ages accepted if traveling with at least one adult, Please note that this tour is not suitable for children under 2 years, as part of the group - It can be booked as a private group tour - please ask TripAdvisor/Viator to contact us for the custom price
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

From Rotorua: Taupo Day Trip with Orakei Korako or Waiotapu

From Rotorua: Taupo Day Trip with Orakei Korako or Waiotapu

7 hrs
4.74 (61 reviews)
GetYourGuide
$153
Book now
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From Rotorua: Taupo Day Trip with Orakei Korako or Waiotapu
Summary

Visit one of the least-known but most spectacular thermal parks, Orakei Korako or Waiotapu. Enjoy a short hike in the area and admire the colors, then explore Huka Falls and the Taupo region.

Pairs well with

Landmarks travelers visit on the same route as Lake Taupo.

Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings
Learn more

Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings

9.6 km away • from $30

Craters of the Moon
Learn more

Craters of the Moon

20 km away • from $175

Huka Falls
Learn more

Huka Falls

21 km away • from $87

Tongariro River
Learn more

Tongariro River

23 km away • from $111

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions travelers ask before visiting.

Across the 24 options we compare, prices generally range from $30–$236. The median price for these experiences is approximately $41.

The options we compare offer a wide variety of durations, typically lasting between 1.5–8 hours, with a median of about 2.5 hours. Reviewers frequently describe their time on the lake as relaxing and amazing, often highlighting fantastic sailing and great overall experiences.

Yes, a significant portion of the listings, roughly 38%, are tagged as eco-friendly. This makes it easy to find activities that align with sustainable travel preferences.

The feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Among the 4,941 pooled reviews across booking platforms, the activities hold an impressive average rating of 4.62★. In our analysis of the top products, about 91% of the sentiment was positive.

While many options offer instant confirmation, we found that a small number, about 8% of the tours we compare, are flagged as likely to sell out. It is often worth booking ahead to secure your preferred time slot.

Yes, there is a great deal of variety for international travellers. The tours we compare are offered in 8 different languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, Japanese, Italian, Portuguese, and Chinese.

Flexibility varies depending on the provider, but roughly half (46%) of the options we compare offer free cancellation, allowing you to adjust your plans if needed.

Wear sturdy walking shoes. The paths can be slippery, and the spray from the falls makes the walkways quite wet.

Visit Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. It offers diverse colored pools and geysers, making it a top choice for travelers.

The water is quite cold even in summer. It is best to wear a wetsuit if you plan on spending long periods in the water.

Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings9.6kmTaupo Museum16.7kmCraters of the Moon20kmHuka Falls21kmTongariro River23.3kmAratiatia Rapids26.4kmOrakei Korako39.1kmTongariro National Park53.9kmWai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland61kmLady Knox Geyser62.1kmWaimangu Volcanic Valley68.2kmTe Pā Tū (Tamaki Māori Village)68.9km
Lake Taupo CruiseLake Taupo Maori Rock Carvings CruiseHuka Falls Jet Boat RideTongariro River Rafting