Guided Evening Penguin Viewing Otago Peninsula, Dunedin, New Zealand

More About this Experience

Introduction

Experience the magic of the mesmerizing blue penguins on the Guided Evening Penguin Viewing tour in Otago Peninsula, Dunedin, New Zealand. This unforgettable adventure allows you to witness up to 200 blue penguins returning from their day at sea in the evening. While the number of penguins may vary depending on the season, rest assured that penguins are guaranteed every night! Delve into the Māori history of the site as you embark on a journey that offers close encounters and an exclusive "behind the scenes" look at the reserve and penguin habitat.

What to expect?

On this tour, anticipate the awe-inspiring sight of Otago Peninsula's largest penguin colony. During the summer months, you may witness the arrival of over 200 blue penguins, while in the non-breeding months of March to August, you can still expect between 20 and 100 penguins each night. We have such confidence in our penguin spotting abilities that we offer viator refunds of 70% if we see less than 5 penguins! The experience begins with an introduction to the captivating human history of the headland, which was long inhabited by the Māori before Europeans arrived. As dusk approaches, embark on a "behind the scenes" walk through the penguin reserve, immersing yourself in the nesting habitat and witnessing restoration efforts to enhance the environment for penguins and other wildlife. Finally, settle onto our purpose-built platform and marvel as the world's smallest penguin species waddle past just a few meters away. This tour provides one of the best opportunities to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Who is this for?

The Guided Evening Penguin Viewing tour is perfect for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts of all ages. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple on a romantic getaway, or a family seeking a memorable experience, this tour offers something for everyone. As the tour does not involve strenuous physical activity, it is accessible to a wide range of individuals. Embrace the opportunity to witness the wonders of nature and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of preserving these precious ecosystems.

Why book this?

Choosing this tour means embarking on an unforgettable adventure filled with exceptional experiences. As the only blue penguin evening tours that allow photography (without flash), you can capture mesmerizing moments to forever cherish. Our tours are often led by conservation experts and biologists, ensuring you receive expert insights into these remarkable creatures and their habitat. The chance to spot other wildlife, such as seals, sealions, and albatross, adds an extra touch of excitement to your journey. Moreover, being voted one of TripAdvisor's Top 10 Experiences in New Zealand 2022 is a testament to the unparalleled quality and value of our tour. Dive into the wonders of nature and create lifelong memories on this extraordinary adventure.

Good to know

During the tour, photography is allowed but without the use of flash to ensure the comfort and well-being of the penguins. The total duration of the experience is approximately 90 minutes, providing ample time to immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of the blue penguins. To participate in this tour, you will need to self-drive to the end of the Otago Peninsula, where sufficient parking is available. For a more comprehensive experience, consider joining our 'Otago Peninsula In-Depth Tour,' which offers a fully guided peninsula experience, allowing you to witness not only penguins but also other captivating wildlife.

Reviews

Travelers have consistently expressed their delight and satisfaction with the Guided Evening Penguin Viewing tour. They have marveled at the close encounters with blue penguins, praising the opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat. The informative and engaging tours, often led by conservation experts and biologists, have deepened travelers' understanding of these remarkable creatures and the efforts to preserve their habitat. The chance to spot additional wildlife, such as seals, sealions, and albatross, has added an extra element of excitement and fulfillment to the experience. Overall, travelers have praised the tour as a must-do, ranking it among the top experiences in New Zealand.