Clearwater Wildlife - Small Guided Tours (10 max) Otago Peninsula Fewer People. More Wildlife.
4.9
104 Ratings
Dunedin
Discover rare wildlife on a secluded beach tour at Otago Peninsula. Join us for an intimate, guided experience with Yellow-eyed Penguins, Albatross, and more.
Duration: 4 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Otago Peninsula - The journey to Cape Saunders takes you through the beautiful backcountry and inlets of the Otago Peninsula where you will see a variety of wetland and wading birds amid breath-taking scenery.

Arrive at Cape Saunders farm and experience a uniquely secluded breeding colony of NZ fur seals and a variety of sea birds from two stunning viewing locations overlooking the wild and rugged Pacific Ocean.

We then journey to our native conservation reserve where our knowledgeable and experienced staff will guide you to vital breeding grounds for yellow-eyed penguins and New Zealand sea lions.

Witness this special place from several viewing hides and secluded locations while exploring one of NZ’s most beautiful untouched natural beaches.

After embarking on a spectacular wildlife experience and witnessing unforgettable vistas and breathtaking coastal beach and shore environments we complete the journey back to your pick up location.

What's Included
  • Complimentary Warm and Waterproof Jackets
  • Complimentary High Quality Binoculars
  • Goods and Services Tax (GST)
  • In-vehicle air conditioning
  • No off-route pick-ups during the tour
  • Toilet facilities at the farm
What's Not Included
  • Snacks
Additional Information

Fewer People. More Wildlife.

A chance to see Yellow-eyed Penguins, NZ sealions, NZ fur seals, Albatross and a wide variety of birdlife, in their natural habitat.

Your small, guided tour, of no more than 10 people, will take you to our spectacular, secluded beach.

Our private conservation reserve area is on our historic family farm, at Cape Saunders, on the Otago Peninsula.

A wild, and untamed, dramatic environment that we are lucky enough to share with some of New Zealand’s rarest species.

The Clearwater family has deep roots here and is devoted to preserving and enhancing its pristine beauty. Become a part of our shared commitment to protect its natural wildlife habitats.

One of the most beautiful coastal headlands and beaches in NZ”
Ahipara Luxury Travel NZ

  • Level of fitness: This tour requires a moderate level of fitness. There are some hills to walk up and down and the beach walk also includes walking on sand and uneven ground. There are also several sets of steps and stairs therefore the terrain visited is not suitable for persons with walking disabilities and wheelchairs.
  • Clothing: Our tours are an outdoor activity in a land where maritime weather prevails, the weather can change very quickly, regardless of the season. Always bring warm and waterproof clothes. For those that are unprepared we provide wind and rain proof jackets.
  • Footwear: Walking shoes/boots with good tread are recommended and necessary if conditions are wet or muddy.
  • Food: Tours are 4 hours in duration, so guests are welcome to bring pre-packed food and drink as there are no opportunities to stop for food during our tours. However, food is not allowed out of the van in the wildlife viewing areas.
  • Children: Small children might have difficulty keeping up on the trails - we recommend bringing a front pack or carrier for small children. Travelers must bring their own car seats for small children. For safety reasons children are not able to sit on an adult’s lap.
  • Medicines: Personal medicines etc. should be carried if required on all tours. Any medical condition which could potentially be a problem should be communicated to your guide at the start of a tour.
  • Photography: There will be some amazing photo opportunities during our tours, but we do not allow close up flash photography of wildlife as this may startle or injure them. Please ensure that you are familiar with your camera options or ask one of our friendly team for advice.
  • Cancellation Policy: To receive a full refund, travelers may cancel up to 24 hours before the experience start time in the local time zone. No refunds will be given after that time period.
  • Cruise Ship Passengers - Please advise us of the name of the cruise ship you are arriving on.
  • Not recommended for travelers with mobility issues.
Location
50 The Octagon
The Octagon
Please wait outside the Dunedin i-Site Visitor Information Centre, located at 50 The Octagon in Central Dunedin. Please look out for our Clearwater Wildlife Tours 10 seater mini van. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your departure time and allow plenty of time for parking.
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
4.9
(104 Ratings)
5 stars
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1 star
Heather_m
Jun 10, 2024
Remote setting felt very unique! - Rachel was very knowledgeable and the area was beautiful! We got to see a lot of penguins, sea lions and fur seals! Truly beautiful day!
Review provided by Viator
Discover58609854773
May 20, 2024
Thoroughly recommend this tour. - Fantastic trip, viewing wildlife so close to Dunedin city. And such a great commentary from our knowledgable guide, thank you Rachel. World class!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Grandtour59388872438
May 19, 2024
Great sightseeing - Had a great sightseeing trip with Clearwater Wildlife Guided Tours, trip over private property onto the beach to see the seals , sea lions and yellow eye penguins coming ashore was amazing , our guid Will was very knowledgeable and a great laugh to be had by all
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Nealmorgan1
May 12, 2024
10 out of 10 - Everything The best tour we’ve been on since we got to Australia and New Zealand It’s a must tour Was on a beach with 40 Sea Lions Saw so many Seals Got dropped at a Great Italian restaurant after the tour called Promenade
Review provided by Viator
Abbie_a
May 10, 2024
Hoiho - Will was our guide. Wildlife showing au natural. The farm has the prime location of seeing wildlife. We saw fur seals swimming and slamming against the rock. A lone sea lion was chilling on the trail to the beach then we tried to go a different way, he followed and tried to mark his territory. There were multiple sea lions on the beach. The highlight of the tour was sightings of the yellow Eyed Penguin also known as hoiho. We were given enough time to observe the hoiho from afar. Thanks WIll!
Review provided by Viator
John_t
May 6, 2024
Clearwater Tour was absolutely worth it! - This experience was homely write amazing. We got to see the penguins, sea lions, plenty of other birds, and the landscape was awe-inspiring. The attached pictures were taken with my iPhone and the supplier binoculars. The private Clearwater estate has a rich history, is well-maintained, and supports conservation efforts. I only got to spend a few days in Dunedin, and I am glad I spent one with the Clearwater tours.
Review provided by Viator
Felixrodrigosaucedo
Apr 28, 2024
Great tour - The tour was amazing, Eric the tour guide was very knowledgeable and patient. I was able to see Albatros, seals, sea lions, pūkekos and was so lucky to see the yellow eyed penguins, the tour was very nice and people so kind. I highly recommended as the shuttle was very punctual and well equipped.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Peelemma1
Apr 22, 2024
Fabulous wildlife experience - A fabulous afternoon out with Craig, even though I am from Dunedin I learnt a lot. The views were spectacular on the drive there and return, and the commentary was interesting and varied. The wildlife was amazing and we were very lucky to see 5 yellow eyed penguins returning after a day out feeding, many seals/seal pups, and sea lions. Craig was very respectful and knowledgeable about the wildlife, and aware of creating minimal disturbance with our viewing. Lots of photographic opportunities. Highly recommended.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
920dd
Apr 19, 2024
Amazing wildlife tour with beautiful Peninsula views - Our whole family really enjoyed the tour! Saw so many beautiful wildlife species - Yellow Eyed Penguins, Seals and their Pups, Sealions and lots of beautiful birds! We all felt well looked after and really loved our time out on the Peninsula. Would highly recommend!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Judy
Apr 18, 2024
Nice wildlife tour with reasonable activity required - Will was a great trip leader. We saw yellow eyed penguins fur seals and sea lions. His knowledge of the animals’ behavior was very helpful.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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up to 10 guests
1 Adult
June 2024
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