Adventure

Franz Josef: 2.5 Hour Glacier Hike with Helicopter Transfer

Top rated
4.7403846 out of 5 stars
4.7
4.7403846 out of 5 stars
208 reviews
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Adventure
Franz Josef: 2.5 Hour Glacier Hike with Helicopter Transfer
Likely to sell out
Top rated
4.7403846 out of 5 stars
4.7
4.7403846 out of 5 stars
208 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
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 4 hours
Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide
English

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

P
Peter – Australia

The most amazing experience!! Definitely a bucket list item fulfilled. Our initial booking was postponed 24hrs due to bad weather and the team were fantastic in communicating and rescheduling for us. On the day the safety briefing was clear and concise. The helicopter transfer seamless and our guide Drew was knowledgeable and amazing. What an experience!!!

K
Kimberley – Australia

Incredible bucket list experience. Fortunately we were able to reschedule without incident for the second day we were in Franz Joseph due to bad weather. Great group. Moderate hike. Spectacular views. Drew was a fantastic guide. Highly recommend!

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)

Select participants and date

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 208 reviews

Review summary

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

Customer photos

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P
Peter – AustraliaApril 19, 2025 – Verified booking
The most amazing experience!! Definitely a bucket list item fulfilled. Our initial booking was postponed 24hrs due to bad weather and the team were fantastic in communicating and rescheduling for us. On the day the safety briefing was clear and concise. The helicopter transfer seamless and our guide Drew was knowledgeable and amazing. What an experience!!!
K
Kimberley – AustraliaApril 17, 2025 – Verified booking
Incredible bucket list experience. Fortunately we were able to reschedule without incident for the second day we were in Franz Joseph due to bad weather. Great group. Moderate hike. Spectacular views. Drew was a fantastic guide. Highly recommend!
M
Merry – United StatesApril 5, 2025 – Verified booking
We enjoyed the trip and guide very much. Incredible scenery and experience.

Product ID: 188016

Activity provider:Franz Josef Glacier Guides

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