EXPERIENCE UNMATCHED GUIDING EXPERTISE
Join us for a guided glacier experience you will never forget!
Franz Josef Glacier Guides are proud to offer a range of world-class experiences designed to show you the very best of New Zealand's West Coast glaciers.
Thanks to our detailed knowledge of the glacier region, you'll come away with a whole new appreciation for Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere (Franz Josef Glacier). But it's just as important that you feel safe throughout your trip.
Our guides have a great deal of experience and are highly skilled in finding the safest and most spectacular route for you, whether that's up on the ice or across the valley floor. Each trip is tailored to the ability of your group as well as the conditions of the ice and valley on the day.
Not only do we offer unmatched guiding expertise, but all our trips also come with the added bonus of complimentary access to the Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools, conveniently located right next to our guide base for the ultimate way to unwind after your glacier adventure.
Spaces are limited on our trips so be sure to book early!
Glacier Heli Hike
Our Tours
Glacier Heli Hike
Adult From$485
After an exciting brief flight over rugged terrain, you will land on Franz Josef Glacier ready for a three hour guided hike. Your guide, with an eye for the most spectacular ice formations, will lead you through some of the most awe-inspiring glacier scenery Aotearoa (New Zealand) has to offer.
Heli Transfer
Moderate Hike
Up to 2 hours ice time
Glacier Valley Walk
Adult From$82
Your Glacier Valley Walk will take you up alongside the mighty Waiho River bed following the glacier's path of retreat in this remarkable landscape. Here you will learn about the glacier's history, see what is left behind by this majestic giant, and learn the legend of Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere.
Interpretive Walk
Photo Opportunities
Rainforest valley views
Glacier Heli Ice Climb
Adult From$609
Under the expert tuition of our experienced guides, we will introduce you to the exhilarating sport of ice-climbing, whilst still enjoying the spectacular scenery of the Franz Josef Glacier. Your guide will tailor the day to challenge novices and experts alike. No experience necessary.
Heli Transfer
Challenging Climb
Up to 4 hours ice time
Glacier Overnighter
Adult From$999
The ultimate glacier adventure. Gain a whole new perspective of our majestic glacier on an authentic alpine camping expedition. Includes heli transfers, essential equipment, a 3 - 4 hour guided hike on the glacier, and overnight camping with food and drink provided. Operates summer months only (November - March).*Not operating for the remainder of the summer season.
Heli Transfer
Moderate hike
16 hours ice time
Scenic Flights
Adult From$280
Soaring high above the mountain peaks and rainforest, scenic flights with Vantage Helicopters give you a unique opportunity to catch panoramic views of Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, Southern Alps, the Tasman Sea and the majestic Aoraki Mount Cook. Three options available – all include a snow landing for the ultimate photo opportunity.
Scenic flight
Photo Opportunities
Snow Landing
NEW ZEALAND'S MOST SPECTACULAR GLACIER
An ever-changing icescape.
Franz Josef Glacier (Kā Roimata ō Hine Hukatere) is one of the steepest glaciers in New Zealand, descending from its origins high in the Southern Alps deep into the lush native rainforest of Westland's National Park. It also moves faster than your average glacier at around 50cm per day. This creates some truly incredible features in the glacier such as ice caves, tunnels, seracs and crevasses; all of which are constantly changing and evolving so no two days are ever the same.
Great experience and very unique! Great guide and very well taken care of.
Heli Hike Guest
United States of America
Knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff on a world class site, what's not to love?
Heli Hike Guest
Australia
The scenery is breathtaking and the experience completely worth the money. The guide ensures your safety and makes you feel looked after.
Heli Hike Guest
United Kingdom
Plan your visit
Franz Josef Glacier is located in the beautiful Te Tai o Poutini (West Coast), a scenic 5 hour drive from Queenstown or 2.5 hours from Greymouth.
WANNA WIN A REFUND?
Congratulations to our latest Wanna Win a Refund winner! Every month one lucky person wins a full refund of their trip. Be sure to upload your favourite trip image to our Facebook or on Instagram and use @FranzJosefGlacierGuides and #wannawinarefund to enter.
February Winner
January Winner
Dec Winner