Outdoor Activities in Franz Josef & Fox Glacier

One of the most protected natural sites in New Zealand, the Franz Joseph Glacier is a wilderness of deep crevasses and frozen ice. On this round-trip eco-tour from Franz Joseph, travel lightly through the native rainforest with all equipment provided and admire uninterrupted views over the Waiho River and the Franz Josef Glacier. Enjoy personal attention from your guide on this small-group tour - limited to six people.

Take a 3-hour guided hike to the terminal face of Franz Josef Glacier, scrambling along an exclusive pathway over the riverbed of the mighty Waiho. During the interpretive valley walk to the glacier, your guide covers the geographical features of this magnificent alpine landscape. Upon reaching the viewpoint, you're treated to an up-close look at the advancing glacier. Numbers are limited to 13 people per group for a more personal experience.

On this Franz Josef Glacier helicopter tour and hike, you'll land atop the glacier and explore ice caves and pinnacles with a small group. Soar above New Zealand's Southern Alps during a scenic flight, then grab your crampons and make your way through dramatic ice formations during a moderately difficult 3-hour hike. After your return flight, rejuvenate with a complimentary blissful soak at Glacier Hot Pools. Numbers are limited to 11 to ensure personalized attention from your expert guide.

Experience a Franz Josef Glacier heli-hike as you explore ice caves and other glacial terrain with a professional guide.  Then don provided boots, jacket and ice axe for a 2-hour guided hike past deep crevasses and towering ice-blue pinnacles before the return chopper ride down. Choose from seasonal departure times to suit your schedule.

Explore the landscape around the Franz Josef glacier and New Zealand's rugged West Coast on a 2-hour ATV tour from Franz Josef village. Take in the mountains and rainforest of the Southern Alps as you go offroad and follow paths carved by ancient glaciers paths in the wilderness. Your guide leads you through the rainforest, riverbeds, grasslands, and mud on a thrilling tour that includes use of ATV equipment and wet weather gear.