Iris Burn Falls
A beautiful waterfall nestled in Fiordland's lush rainforest, perfect for a refreshing dip and a scenic detour on the Kepler Track.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for photos & swims
Iris Burn Falls
Best Time
Best light for photos & swims
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautiful waterfall nestled in Fiordland's lush rainforest, perfect for a refreshing dip and a scenic detour on the Kepler Track.
"Worth the walk from Iris Burn hut if you have 40 minutes to spare. Quite flat all the way and suitable for a quick swim."
🦟 Sandfly Repellent is Key
Don't forget bug spray! Sandflies are prevalent, especially near the falls and water.
🥾 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The walk to the falls is relatively flat and suitable for a quick swim.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.9 · 8 reviews
Type
Point of interest
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iris Burn Falls
Short walk from Iris Burn Hut
A decent-sized waterfall perfect for a refreshing dip or a moment of natural beauty.
Temperate Rainforest Trail
Path to Iris Burn Falls
Wander through lush, moss-covered trees and experience the unique flora of Fiordland.
Stargazing at Iris Burn Hut
Iris Burn Hut campsite
On clear nights, the stars above Iris Burn Hut are astonishingly bright.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Rainforest & Sandflies
Timing Your Visit to Iris Burn Falls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦟 Sandfly Repellent is Key
Don't forget bug spray! Sandflies are prevalent, especially near the falls and water. +1
🥾 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The walk to the falls is relatively flat and suitable for a quick swim.
💧 Pack for Damp Conditions
Fiordland's rainforest is often wet; waterproofs are recommended.
📸 Capture the Rainforest
The lush greenery and moss-covered trees make for stunning photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🦟 Sandfly Repellent is Key
Don't forget bug spray! Sandflies are prevalent, especially near the falls and water. +1
🥾 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The walk to the falls is relatively flat and suitable for a quick swim.
💧 Pack for Damp Conditions
Fiordland's rainforest is often wet; waterproofs are recommended.
📸 Capture the Rainforest
The lush greenery and moss-covered trees make for stunning photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Iris Burn Falls to be a lovely, worthwhile stop with a decent-sized waterfall perfect for a quick swim. The short, flat walk from Iris Burn Hut makes it easily accessible. However, be prepared for sandflies, which can be bothersome, and the water is quite cold. +2
"Lovely waterfall! It's about a 20- or 30-minute walk from the Iris Burn Hut. If you're hoping to relax among the rocks, just make sure to bring some bug spray as there are sand flies."
Leilani Osmundson
"Short little walk from Iris Burn hut. Quite a decent size waterfall, recommend some sandfly repellant. Stars are astonishing on a clear night but fun In the wet regardless. Definitely worth a visit"
Liam Dowd
"Worth the walk from Iris Burn hut if you have 40 minutes to spare. Quite flat all the way and suitable for a quick swim."
Sasha Gerasimov
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Iris Burn Falls is accessible via a short walk from the Iris Burn Hut, which is part of the Kepler Track. Reaching the Kepler Track typically involves driving or taking a bus to the Kepler Track car park.
While the falls are a short walk from the hut, reaching the hut itself requires hiking a significant portion of the Kepler Track. Day hikes to the falls are best combined with an overnight stay at Iris Burn Hut.
The Kepler Track is one of New Zealand's Great Walks, a multi-day hike through Fiordland National Park, offering diverse landscapes from rainforests to alpine views.
Direct access without hiking is not possible. The falls are located within the Kepler Track route, requiring a hike to reach them.
You can drive to the Kepler Track car park near Te Anau. Shuttle services are also available from Te Anau to the track start points.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no specific tickets for Iris Burn Falls. However, if you plan to stay at Iris Burn Hut, booking your campsite or hut space through the Department of Conservation (DOC) is mandatory.
Iris Burn Falls and the surrounding Kepler Track are accessible year-round. There are no set opening hours, but daylight hours are best for visiting.
Fiordland National Park itself does not have an entrance fee. However, fees apply for booking DOC huts and campsites along the Kepler Track.
It is highly recommended to book accommodation well in advance, especially during peak season (summer months), as spots fill up quickly.
No specific permits are required for day visitors to hike to Iris Burn Falls, provided you are not using the hut facilities.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The walk from Iris Burn Hut to the falls is a short, relatively flat, and easy 20-30 minute stroll through the rainforest. +1
Yes, swimming is possible at Iris Burn Falls. The water can be cold, but it's a popular spot for a refreshing dip.
You might encounter native birds like the fantail or tui in the rainforest. Keep an eye out for insects, including the infamous sandflies.
Basic facilities like toilets are available at Iris Burn Hut. The falls themselves are a natural feature with no dedicated facilities.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, waterproof clothing, and bring insect repellent. Layers are advisable due to changing weather conditions.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light, but the falls are impressive in various conditions. The surrounding rainforest is also a great subject.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the falls and the rainforest. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water.
Focus on the textures of moss and ferns, use leading lines from tree trunks, and experiment with capturing the misty atmosphere.
The area around the base of the falls offers great perspectives. The trail leading to it also provides scenic forest views.
The damp environment can be a challenge for gear. Be mindful of water spray from the falls and the potential for low light in the dense forest.
Social
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