Franz Josef, New Zealand 
- Enjoy a spectacular helicopter flight over rugged terrain
- Two short 5-minute transfer flights to and from the glacier
- Embark on a two hour guided hike on the ice
- Discover New Zealand's famous Franz Josef glacier
- Explore the area with a professional, experienced guide
- Enjoy exclusive access to the glacier
- Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains
What's Included
Why do we love this
"We love this tour because it ticks off two major New Zealand activities. A scenic helicopter flight AND a glacier exploration! These are must-do experiences in New Zealand!"
WHAT TO EXPECT
Are you ready for a day on the ice? Discover New Zealand's famous glacier landscape, explore Franz Josef Glacier and embark on a hike through the snow and ice.
This Franz Josef Glacier helicopter tour is a once in a lifetime experience that you simply can't miss. Combining a helicopter ride with a hike means you get to see the best of Franz Josef, from the sky and the land! You'll enjoy views of wild, icy terrain and the towering mountains around you.
Franz Josef Glacier is considered the gem of New Zealand's West Coast Glaciers. There are very few glaciers left in the world which are accessible to the public so what you'll see on this tour is really special!
Your journey starts at the glacier base in Franz Josef Village where the friendly team will check you in, get you kitted out with the essential gear and give you a pre-trip briefing.
From here, your guide will lead you on a short walk through native forest to the helipad. From the moment you step on board the chopper, the excitement begins. Sit back as your experienced and highly trained pilot whisks you away, up and over the jaw-dropping landscape.
You'll have the opportunity to take in the full panoramic majesty of Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere nestled within the surrounding mountains.
After a thrilling flight, it's time for a glacier landing. Take some time to check out the views before you begin your 3-hour glacier hike. Accompanied by a professional guide, you'll learn about this incredible landscape as you go. Get ready to see some of the most pristine and awe-inspiring glacier scenery in the world!
Your guide will choose your route carefully as you go, making sure you see all the highlights of this beautiful place. Keep an eye out for spectacular ice formations as you make your way through the towering peaks and glistening blue ice. It's a changing landscape here, and you might find yourself sliding through narrow crevasses, between towering walls of ice, crawling through blue ice tunnels and hanging out in ice caves.
You'll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and have plenty of photo opportunities along the way. During your hike your guide will also tell the story of Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere and will share their knowledge of the glacier and surrounding area. You'll learn why Franz Josef is so unique and will come away from your trip with a new understanding of why this landmark is so special.
And don't worry if the weather is bad - if your trip is cancelled due to weather, Franz Josef Glacier Guides can transfer you onto the Glacier Valley Walk on the same day. There's no obligation to participate and you can cancel at any time!
Please come prepared for chilly temperatures. Wear 2-4 warm upper body layers, ideally woollen or polypro (not cotton), quick drying trousers or shorts (no jeans). You'll also need to bring food and drink for the day and sunglasses, sunscreen and a camera.
What is provided:
Crampons
Suitable walking boots and socks
Trekking poles
Waterproof jackets
Waterproof over-pants
A small waist pack to carry your crampons and essentials
A warm hat and gloves
Please bring with you:
Warm, breathable base layers such as merino or polypropylene
Suitable long pants for walking in (jeans are not suitable, tracksuits and leggings are fine)
Sunglasses (these are essential - if you don't have any with you we have a selection available for purchase at our front desk)
Sunblock
Your own warm hat and gloves if you prefer
Your camera or phone
A small water bottle and snack if you need one
Please leave the following items behind:
Your valuables such as passport, wallet and car keys (we have lockers available for hire)
Please note that the bookings are processed manually. Please chat to us before making the booking as your booking will be confirmed only once confirmed by the tour operator.
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