Franz Josef: 2.5 Hour Glacier Hike with Helicopter Transfer

Top rated
4.7453704 out of 5 stars
4.7
4.7453704 out of 5 stars
216 reviews
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Franz Josef: 2.5 Hour Glacier Hike with Helicopter Transfer
Likely to sell out
Top rated
4.7453704 out of 5 stars
4.7
4.7453704 out of 5 stars
216 reviews

Combine an exhilarating helicopter ride, jaw-dropping scenery, and a hike through spectacular glacier features on the Franz Josef Glacier for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

About this activity

Free cancellation
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Duration 4 hours
Check availability to see starting times
Live tour guide
English

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

S
Sheree – Australia

Our guide Ryan was amazing. He made the whole experience fantastic. Thank you, Sheree and David

J
Jason – United States

A must do activity when visiting the NZ South Island.. It was a crystal cear day for our helicopter flights and the guided hike on the Glacier. The views were stunning.. The hike was a great balance of terrain (up & down) side steps or crawling through passages..Our guide "Ryan" was close by to help if needed. Can't recommend this activity enough.

Select participants and date

Highlights

  • Soar high above Franz Josef Glacier on a scenic helicopter flight
  • Explore key glacier features and see ice formations up-close on a hike
  • Learn about the region, glaciology, local history and Maori legends
  • Enjoy photo opportunities and stories of the region from your experienced guide
  • Enjoy Exclusive access to Franz Josef Glacier - only we can take you there

Full description

Enjoy one of the most iconic experiences in New Zealand with a unique glacier hike on Franz Josef Glacier.

Start your journey at the glacier base in Franz Josef Town, where you will be provided all essential gear and listen to a safety briefing. Follow your guide on a short walk through the native forest to the helipad.

After a thrilling scenic flight high above rainforest, coast and rugged terrain, land on Franz Josef Glacier and set off on a 2-hour 30-minute guided glacier hike, exploring spectacular glacier features. Your guide will lead you through some of the most awe-inspiring glacier scenery New Zealand has to offer.

During the hike, your guide will tell you stories about the local area and share their knowledge of the glacier and surrounding terrain. The glacier's features are constantly changing, so no two trips are the same!

Includes

  • Return helicopter transfers
  • Glacier tour
  • Live guide
  • Overtrousers
  • Jacket
  • Socks
  • Sturdy boots
  • Crampons
  • Hat and gloves (if required)
  • Food and drinks
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

Not suitable for

  • Children under 10 years
  • Pregnant women
  • People with back problems
  • People over 254 lbs (115 kg)

Meeting point

Meet at Glacier Base Building, 63 Cron Street, Franz Josef. Check-in 15 minutes before your selected time. Please ensure that you arrive on time.

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Important information

What to bring

  • Warm clothing
  • Sunglasses
  • Camera
  • Sunscreen
  • Long pants
  • Reusable water bottle

Not allowed

  • Luggage or large bags
  • Drones
  • Selfie sticks
  • Vaping

Know before you go

  • Please check-in 15 mins prior to your trip time. Check-in closes 15 minutes prior to your tour departure
  • All trips are subject to favorable weather conditions. It is recommended to book for your first available day in Franz Josef so that you have maximum flexibility
  • A reasonable level of fitness and agility is required as the glacier terrain is variable and reasonably challenging
  • The helicopter transfers between the valley and the glacier are around 4 minutes each way
  • Children must be least 10 years old, weight at least 35 kg, and be at least 137 cm tall to participate in this tour
  • For your safety, participation is not permitted for those over the weight of 115 kg or pregnant women
  • Please advise of any previous medical conditions or injuries. If you have any doubts, consult your medical practitioner prior to booking

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.7 /5

based on 216 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.9/5
  • Transportation
    4.9/5
  • Value for money
    4.5/5

Customer photos

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Recommended
S
Sheree – AustraliaMay 9, 2025 – Verified booking
Our guide Ryan was amazing. He made the whole experience fantastic. Thank you, Sheree and David
J
Jason – United StatesMay 4, 2025 – Verified booking
A must do activity when visiting the NZ South Island.. It was a crystal cear day for our helicopter flights and the guided hike on the Glacier. The views were stunning.. The hike was a great balance of terrain (up & down) side steps or crawling through passages..Our guide "Ryan" was close by to help if needed. Can't recommend this activity enough.
B
Belinda – AustraliaMay 1, 2025 – Verified booking
An amazing bucket list activity!! Thoroughly enjoyed every second. From briefing, ‘majestical’ walk to heli, heli to glacier, our guide (pocket rocket, Ruby), shimming through crevasses, crawling through pockets in the ice and fellow travellers an awe inspiring experience.

Product ID: 188016

Activity provider:Franz Josef Glacier Guides

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