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Top things to do in Franz Josef

Franz Josef Glacier Tours

Experience the thrill of a combined helicopter and hiking adventure on Franz Josef Glacier. Witness breathtaking aerial views and guided treks on this Expert Heli-Hike. Book your mobile tickets for this unforgettable journey now.

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Franz Josef Glacier Tours
Group hiking on a glacier with ice formations and rocky mountain backdrop.
Guide explaining glacier hiking techniques to group on ice.
Hikers with guide navigating icy glacier path under bright sun.
Group of hikers with a guide on a glacier trek.
People exploring an ice cave during a glacier hike.
People hiking on a snowy glacier with sunlit mountains in the background.
People in a helicopter viewing a glacier through the window.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
4 hr
  • Take a scenic helicopter ride with stunning views of the Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere (Franz Josef Glacier).
  • Explore the fastest-moving commercially guided glacier in the world for up to 2.5 hours, walking through ice formations, crevasses, and pinnacles.
  • Enjoy a small group experience with a guide-to-guest ratio of 1:11 for a more personal adventure. The Heli Hike provides access to the glacier that is otherwise unreachable, ensuring a truly immersive experience.
  • Stay safe and comfortable with all necessary gear provided, including boots, crampons, and helmets. Learn about the region, glaciology, local history and Maori legends.
  • Fun fact: The glacier moves up to 10 times faster than most glaciers in the world, creating ever-changing ice formations.

More details

  • Take a scenic helicopter ride with stunning views of the Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere (Franz Josef Glacier).
  • Explore the fastest-moving commercially guided glacier in the world for up to 2.5 hours, walking through ice formations, crevasses, and pinnacles.
  • Enjoy a small group experience with a guide-to-guest ratio of 1:11 for a more personal adventure. The Heli Hike provides access to the glacier that is otherwise unreachable, ensuring a truly immersive experience.
  • Stay safe and comfortable with all necessary gear provided, including boots, crampons, and helmets. Learn about the region, glaciology, local history and Maori legends.
  • Fun fact: The glacier moves up to 10 times faster than most glaciers in the world, creating ever-changing ice formations.
from
NZ$795
Family playing with snow on Franz Josef Glacier tour.
Helicopter passengers viewing scenic mountain landscape through windows.
Helicopter flying over snowy mountain landscape with rugged peaks.
Helicopter landing on snowy glacier with passengers disembarking, surrounded by mountains.
Guide leading a glacier tour with snowy mountains in the background.
Franz Josef Glacier snow-covered peaks and ice formations under clear sky.
Two women sitting on Franz Josef Glacier with a scenic mountain and ocean view.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
1 hr
  • Swap your hiking boots for a helicopter seat and embark on a 20-minute flight, over lush rainforests before making a touchdown at Franz Josef Glacier.

  • Explore Fox Glacier with its shimmering crevasses carved from ice before a gentle snow landing.

  • Upgrade your journey to catch a glimpse of Mt. Cook, New Zealand’s tallest peak and spot the occasional iceberg drifting near the Tasman Glacier.

  • Touch down in a winter wonderland where you can capture endless scenic views. Watch out for the commentary on the region, glaciology, local history, and Māori legends from your expert guide.

  • Fun fact: The ice on Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers can be over 1,000 years old, making it a great place to walk on frozen history!

More details

  • Swap your hiking boots for a helicopter seat and embark on a 20-minute flight, over lush rainforests before making a touchdown at Franz Josef Glacier.

  • Explore Fox Glacier with its shimmering crevasses carved from ice before a gentle snow landing.

  • Upgrade your journey to catch a glimpse of Mt. Cook, New Zealand’s tallest peak and spot the occasional iceberg drifting near the Tasman Glacier.

  • Touch down in a winter wonderland where you can capture endless scenic views. Watch out for the commentary on the region, glaciology, local history, and Māori legends from your expert guide.

  • Fun fact: The ice on Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers can be over 1,000 years old, making it a great place to walk on frozen history!

from
NZ$595
Helicopter flying near snow-covered Mt Cook with Lake Pukaki in the background.
Lady photographing Mt Cook from helicopter during scenic flight tour.
Helicopter approaching Franz Josef Glacier on scenic flight tour.
Helicopter landing with people on Fox Glacier, New Zealand, during scenic tour.
Group posing for a photo on Franz Josef Glacier with a helicopter in the background.
People enjoying snow on Franz Josef Glacier with a helicopter in the background.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
20 min
  • Trade hiking boots for a helicopter seat and set off on a 20/30/40-min ride as you soar above rainforest and brace for a snow landing at Franz Josef Glacier.

  • Craving double the adventure? Opt for a twin glacier package and see Fox Glacier as you get close to crevasses made of iridescent ice before you snow land.

  • Level up your experience with an upgrade to catch sight of Mt.Cook–New Zealand's highest peak, and spot the occasional icebergs near the Tasman Glacier.

  • Arrive at a stunning snowy touchdown in a winter wonderland. Take out your camera to capture the endless scenery, or build a snowman while you're at it!

  • Fun fact: One of the most remarkable facts about Mount Cook is that it still grows with an average of 7 millimeters (0.28 inches) each year.

More details

  • Trade hiking boots for a helicopter seat and set off on a 20/30/40-min ride as you soar above rainforest and brace for a snow landing at Franz Josef Glacier.

  • Craving double the adventure? Opt for a twin glacier package and see Fox Glacier as you get close to crevasses made of iridescent ice before you snow land.

  • Level up your experience with an upgrade to catch sight of Mt.Cook–New Zealand's highest peak, and spot the occasional icebergs near the Tasman Glacier.

  • Arrive at a stunning snowy touchdown in a winter wonderland. Take out your camera to capture the endless scenery, or build a snowman while you're at it!

  • Fun fact: One of the most remarkable facts about Mount Cook is that it still grows with an average of 7 millimeters (0.28 inches) each year.

from
NZ$330
Tourists viewing Fox Glacier Valley landscape in New Zealand.
Tour guide leading group on e-bikes through Fox Glacier Valley forest trail.
Cyclists on a guided e-bike tour through Fox Glacier Valley forest trail.
Tour group biking through lush forest trail in Fox Glacier Valley.
Tour group biking on a bridge in Fox Glacier Valley, surrounded by lush greenery.
Tour group viewing Fox Glacier Valley on guided e-bike and hiking tour.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
4 hr
  • Immerse yourself in the untamed wilderness during this E-bike and hiking tour and uncover the natural wonders and rich history of Fox Glacier in just one day!

  • Harness the power of E-bikes to effortlessly traverse ancient podocarp rainforest terrain, before venturing on foot to witness New Zealand's largest active landslip.

  • Enjoy the added advantage of an expert guide who not only shares intriguing local historical insights but also equips you with a waterproof jacket and backpack for a hike.

  • The adventure doesn’t end even on high points, you'll get to marvel at the closest views of the terminal face of the fast-moving Fox Glacier.

  • Fun fact: Despite its name, Sir William Fox, an early New Zealand Prime Minister, never actually visited Fox Glacier, one of the world's fastest-moving glaciers!

More details

  • Immerse yourself in the untamed wilderness during this E-bike and hiking tour and uncover the natural wonders and rich history of Fox Glacier in just one day!

  • Harness the power of E-bikes to effortlessly traverse ancient podocarp rainforest terrain, before venturing on foot to witness New Zealand's largest active landslip.

  • Enjoy the added advantage of an expert guide who not only shares intriguing local historical insights but also equips you with a waterproof jacket and backpack for a hike.

  • The adventure doesn’t end even on high points, you'll get to marvel at the closest views of the terminal face of the fast-moving Fox Glacier.

  • Fun fact: Despite its name, Sir William Fox, an early New Zealand Prime Minister, never actually visited Fox Glacier, one of the world's fastest-moving glaciers!

from
NZ$170
Group hiking on Fox Glacier during guided helicopter tour in New Zealand.
Helicopter and tourists on Fox Glacier, New Zealand.
Tourists hiking on Fox Glacier with a helicopter overhead, New Zealand.
Group hiking on Fox Glacier during guided helicopter tour in New Zealand.
Tour group hiking on Fox Glacier, New Zealand with a waterfall in the background.
Hikers taking photos on Fox Glacier, New Zealand.
Person hiking through ice cave on Fox Glacier, New Zealand, during guided helicopter tour.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
4 hr
  • Forget heli-skiing; it's all about heli-hiking now! Take a helicopter over the Fox Glacier, followed by a 3-hour guided hike, offering vivid blue glacial landscape views!

  • Be amazed by the stellar view of Mt. Tasman and the rainforest from your chopper as it glides over the glacier, and then lands at lower ice falls.

  • Gear up with crampons and walking poles as your guide leads the way! You may squeeze through frosty blue crevasses, crawl through ice tunnels, and pass by towering seracs.

  • Fun fact: Fox Glacier moves 10 times faster than most glaciers worldwide, creating an ever-evolving landscape of icy wonders, an intriguing aspect of this adventure.

More details

  • Forget heli-skiing; it's all about heli-hiking now! Take a helicopter over the Fox Glacier, followed by a 3-hour guided hike, offering vivid blue glacial landscape views!

  • Be amazed by the stellar view of Mt. Tasman and the rainforest from your chopper as it glides over the glacier, and then lands at lower ice falls.

  • Gear up with crampons and walking poles as your guide leads the way! You may squeeze through frosty blue crevasses, crawl through ice tunnels, and pass by towering seracs.

  • Fun fact: Fox Glacier moves 10 times faster than most glaciers worldwide, creating an ever-evolving landscape of icy wonders, an intriguing aspect of this adventure.

from
NZ$699
Helicopter on snow at Fox Glacier with mountain backdrop, Franz Josef tour.
Helicopter flying over snow-covered peaks near Fox Glacier, New Zealand.
Lady photographing Mt Cook from helicopter during scenic flight tour.
Helicopter approaching Franz Josef Glacier on scenic flight tour.
Group posing for a photo on Franz Josef Glacier with a helicopter in the background.
People enjoying snow activities near a helicopter on Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand.
Helicopter landing with people on Fox Glacier, New Zealand, during scenic tour.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
20 min
  • Soar above the emerald rainforests and trade the hiking trails for a snow landing atop Fox Glacier, where icy blue seracs contrast the black mountains with white peaks.

  • Craving comfort and dazzling views? Upgrade your experience to include the Franz Josef Glacier - a mosaic of crevasses with a frozen river carving through mountains.

  • Adventure seekers, this is your ultimate upgrade! The chopper takes you to a viewpoint of Mt.Cook, New Zealand's highest peak, a giant playing peek-a-boo with the clouds.

  • Don't just see the Southern Alps, conquer them all! This all-inclusive package whisks you away on an epic adventure, taking in Franz Josef, Fox Glacier, Mt.Tasman, and Mt.Cook.

  • Fun fact: One of the most remarkable facts about Mount Cook is that it still grows with an average of 7 millimeters (0.28 inches) each year.

More details

  • Soar above the emerald rainforests and trade the hiking trails for a snow landing atop Fox Glacier, where icy blue seracs contrast the black mountains with white peaks.

  • Craving comfort and dazzling views? Upgrade your experience to include the Franz Josef Glacier - a mosaic of crevasses with a frozen river carving through mountains.

  • Adventure seekers, this is your ultimate upgrade! The chopper takes you to a viewpoint of Mt.Cook, New Zealand's highest peak, a giant playing peek-a-boo with the clouds.

  • Don't just see the Southern Alps, conquer them all! This all-inclusive package whisks you away on an epic adventure, taking in Franz Josef, Fox Glacier, Mt.Tasman, and Mt.Cook.

  • Fun fact: One of the most remarkable facts about Mount Cook is that it still grows with an average of 7 millimeters (0.28 inches) each year.

from
NZ$330
Guide and helicopter at Fox Glacier for a heli hike tour.
Group preparing for Fox Glacier heli hike with guide on snowy terrain.
Group climbing Fox Glacier with guide during heli ice climbing experience.
Climber ascending icy crevasse during Fox Glacier heli hike in New Zealand.
Guide leading tour group on Fox Glacier heli hike, pointing out ice formations.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
8 hr
  • Be captivated by the natural beauty of New Zealand in this full-day heli hiking tour, exploring the unique terrain of the Fox Glacier.

  • Soar high with 2 scenic helicopter rides, offering breathtaking views of Aoraki/Mt. Cook, Mt. Tasman, and lush rainforests.

  • This tour includes all safety gear, crampons, and expert guidance, along with picturesque ground transport from Fox Glacier township.

  • Depending on the conditions, get to climb short ice pitches, get to trail through the upper icefall, and more.

  • Fun Fact: Each year, the Fox Glacier changes due to its annual movement, creating a unique experience for every visitor.

More details

  • Be captivated by the natural beauty of New Zealand in this full-day heli hiking tour, exploring the unique terrain of the Fox Glacier.

  • Soar high with 2 scenic helicopter rides, offering breathtaking views of Aoraki/Mt. Cook, Mt. Tasman, and lush rainforests.

  • This tour includes all safety gear, crampons, and expert guidance, along with picturesque ground transport from Fox Glacier township.

  • Depending on the conditions, get to climb short ice pitches, get to trail through the upper icefall, and more.

  • Fun Fact: Each year, the Fox Glacier changes due to its annual movement, creating a unique experience for every visitor.

from
NZ$999
Climber ascending ice wall with gear on Fox Glacier, New Zealand.
Climbers preparing gear for Fox Glacier heli ice climbing experience in New Zealand.
Group climbing Fox Glacier with guide during heli ice climbing experience.
Tourist climbing Fox Glacier during Heli Ice Climbing Experience in New Zealand.
Climbing gear and ropes on harness, Fox Glacier Heli Ice Climbing Experience.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
8 hr
1 more
  • Take to the skies in a helicopter ride towards Fox Glacier for your Heli Ice Climbing escapade, a glorious challenge fit for both novice and seasoned climbers.

  • With a guide-to-guest ratio of 1:4 and armed with necessary gear, waterproof clothing and crampons, master the skill of ice-climbing with personalized attention and safety.

  • Get a taste of freedom with each swing of your ice axe as you navigate blue ice crevasses sculpted by millennia of glacial movement, as the majestic Mt. Cook looks upon you.

  • Carry home the newfound sense of wonder as you return to Fox Glacier Township in a helicopter gazing out at the vast expanse of the Southern Alps.

  • Fun fact: Fox Glacier is one of the few glaciers in the world that ends in a rainforest, making your ice climbing adventure a unique exploration of this geological marvel.

More details

  • Take to the skies in a helicopter ride towards Fox Glacier for your Heli Ice Climbing escapade, a glorious challenge fit for both novice and seasoned climbers.

  • With a guide-to-guest ratio of 1:4 and armed with necessary gear, waterproof clothing and crampons, master the skill of ice-climbing with personalized attention and safety.

  • Get a taste of freedom with each swing of your ice axe as you navigate blue ice crevasses sculpted by millennia of glacial movement, as the majestic Mt. Cook looks upon you.

  • Carry home the newfound sense of wonder as you return to Fox Glacier Township in a helicopter gazing out at the vast expanse of the Southern Alps.

  • Fun fact: Fox Glacier is one of the few glaciers in the world that ends in a rainforest, making your ice climbing adventure a unique exploration of this geological marvel.

from
NZ$999

Similar things to do in Franz Josef

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David Buchan

David

Apr 2025
5/5
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+1 more

The heli hike is an amazing experience not to be missed if you have the chance. The guide for our hike was great, very helpful, knowledgeable and experienced on the ice. Getting the chance to walk on the glacier through the ice paths and cracks is an unforgettable experience. The helicopter ride is pretty cool also.
Wendy Say
AU

Wendy

Australia
Jan 2025
5/5
The most amazing experience! Our guide Connor was an absolute LEGEND - informative, personable and worked so hard to give us the best time possible. Would highly recommend this to others.
Headout Guest

Headout Guest

Sep 2024
5/5
Fantastic experience, Fiona was very experienced and knowledgeable, the other guide ( sorry I forgot his name ) was very friendly and helpful , the glacier was fascinating and beautiful, we got to see ice caves and get great photos , the weather was perfect , you don’t need to be super fit to do it , I’m 56 and in general good health and found it totally doable , definitely a big highlight of my holiday , if you can weather permitting definitely do this adventure!
Jutta Bockelmann
DE

Jutta

Germany
Feb 2025
5/5
Our Guide was very good. He give is so many information about this area. It was very interesting We enjoyed the time very much.
Stephan Tulke
DE

Stephan

Germany
Jan 2025
5/5
The tour was awesome because of the individuality and the very good guiding. The ticketing with headout was horrible. Seven different persons always asked the same questions per email. I answered eight times using three different mail accounts to avoid spam. I used the direct and indirect chat two times and at least after six days headout finished the order.
Peter Stayte
GB

Peter

United Kingdom
Aug 2025
5/5
Great flight up, Great ground crew, great pilot and informative as well as amazing in general. Thanks for an incredible trip Bailey and Adrian!
Arlene Garman
US

Arlene

United States
Feb 2025
5/5
The scenery was beyond compare. I got to throw a snowball at my husband. Our pilot-Olivia was full of good information and operated the heli very smoothly. One of my favorite things I've done in NZ
Graham Oddell
GB

Graham

United Kingdom
Nov 2024
5/5
Experience was super but at time of writing I have not received any credit for being moved to a cheaper tour the next day .So tour was awesome but admin from headout not so good as no credit received for much cheaper tour on the following day.
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