Taupo’s top tours deliver big rewards for smart travelers. The Great Lake Trail mountain biking excursion stands out for its well-marked paths and spectacular lake views – perfect for both beginners and experienced riders. For culture seekers, the Māori Rock Carvings tours by boat or kayak offer an authentic look at New Zealand’s indigenous art and stories. These water trips run year-round and provide excellent photo opportunities of the 46-foot-high carvings.
We especially love the kayak option to the carvings for its peaceful approach and up-close views. The mountain biking tours earn high marks for their professional guides and top-quality gear.
Let’s explore the best tour options in Taupo.
Key Points
- The Great Lake Trail Mountain Biking Tour offers an exceptional 5-star mountain biking experience with bike rental, transport, snacks, and access fees included.
- The Māori Rock Carvings Sailing Tour provides a 2.5-hour cruise on Lake Taupo aboard a luxury 53ft catamaran with an eco-friendly sailing option and a licensed bar.
- The Māori Rock Carvings Kayaking Tour is a 4-hour kayaking experience on Lake Taupo, featuring live volcano spotting, Maori legends, and optional swimming and rock jumping.
- All tours in Taupo are designed for a range of skill levels, with safety equipment provided, and most travelers can participate, except for the Great Lake Trail which is not wheelchair accessible.
- The tours in Taupo offer stunning landscapes, opportunities to learn about New Zealand’s rich cultural heritage, close encounters with Māori rock carvings, and experiences with local legends and natural wonders.
Great Lake Trail Lake Taupo 2-Day Mountain Biking Tour
The Great Lake Trail Lake Taupo 2-Day Mountain Biking Tour offers an exhilarating adventure through the stunning landscapes surrounding Lake Taupo in New Zealand.
Priced from $91.45 per person, this guided tour includes bike rental, transport, snacks, and access fees. With a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 6 participants, the tour departs from Taupo Kayaking Adventures.
Highlights include beautiful scenery, a professional guide, and delicious lunches. While not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.
Cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance. Based on a 5-star review, this tour offers an exceptional experience for mountain biking enthusiasts visiting Taupo.
Read our full review: Great Lake Trail Lake Taupo 2-Day Mountain Biking Tour Review
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Taupo: Māori Rock Carvings Lake Taupo Sailing Tour
One of the must-do activities in Taupo is the Māori Rock Carvings Lake Taupo Sailing Tour.
This 2.5-hour cruise allows you to get up close to the stunning Māori rock carvings while sailing on a luxury 53ft catamaran.
You’ll enjoy the comfort of the spacious saloon, covered cockpit, blankets, and beanbag chairs as you take in the crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings.
The eco-friendly sailing trip includes a local guide and the option to purchase food and drinks from the licensed bar.
With an overall rating of 4.8/5 from 92 reviews, this tour isn’t to be missed when visiting Taupo.
Read our full review: Taupo: Māori Rock Carvings Lake Taupo Sailing Tour Review
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Taupo: Maori Rock Carvings Kayaking Tour
This 4-hour kayaking tour allows visitors to glide over the crystal-clear waters of Lake Taupo and witness the stunning Maori rock carvings up close.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour is limited to just 8 participants, ensuring an intimate experience.
Highlights include spotting live volcanoes and learning Maori legends. Optional activities like swimming and rock jumping add to the adventure.
Gear like kayaks, safety equipment, and waterproof jackets are provided, and hotel pickup and drop-off are included.
With a 4.8/5 overall rating based on 29 reviews, this tour offers excellent value for money and a chance to connect with New Zealand’s rich cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Taupo: Maori Rock Carvings Kayaking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Taupo offers a range of immersive outdoor experiences. The Great Lake Trail provides a 2-day mountain biking adventure, while sailing and kayaking tours allow visitors to explore the Maori rock carvings along Lake Taupo’s shores. These diverse activities showcase Taupo’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, making it an appealing destination for adventure-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.