Eco Tours
4 hours
Free cancellation
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from
$486
per adult
Franz Josef Glacier Guides
Franz Josef Glacier Guides
4.5
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Full view
About
The magnificent Franz Josef Glacier is widely regarded as the gem of New Zealand’s West Coast Glaciers. Franz Josef Glacier Guides gives you the opportunity to experience the most spectacular glacier environment available to the general public anywhere in the world, offering a range of glacier hiking tours to suit all levels of fitness and ability. Glacier Encounter: express option for those short on time. Heli Hike: our most popular option. Spend time exploring the glacier with our experienced guide team. Ice Climb: Under expert tuition you'll learn to ice climb! Trips tailored to all skill levels. Glacier Adventure: unique, bespoke adventure for those looking for longer time on the glacier. We make a clear commitment to you that our trip is the most spectacular and rewarding available.
Tours and Tickets by Franz Josef Glacier Guides
Full-day Tours
7–8 hours
Free cancellation
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from
$852
per adult
Extreme Sports
6+ hours
Free cancellation
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from
$669
per adult
Travelers talk about
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
2,227 reviews
Excellent
1,662
Very good
320
Average
106
Poor
68
Terrible
71
Tarak P
Chicago, IL99 contributions
Aug 2019
Starting with the helicopter ride to the glacier and then navigating the crevices, caves, and tight spots to gain amazing views of the glacier and valley. Well worth the cost. The price includes time in their hot spring which was nice as we went during the winter season. Guides are very knowledgeable and ensure safety throughout the time on the glacier.
Written January 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kia Ora tpatel1975,
Thank you for your review.
I am pleased to hear you had an enjoyable experience on the Glacier Heli Hike and in the Glacier Hot Pools afterwards, it sure is a once in a life time experience.
Thank you again and we hope to welcome you back to Franz Josef Glacier one day soon.
Ngā mihi (Kind Regards),
Aimee
Written January 11, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
hugh m
5 contributions
Feb 2020
As a scene setter I need to say this is our only helihike so we only went by tge videos etc.
Tge preview days had rained and the trips had not run. As a consequence tgs track was washed away and a new track cut that morning . But that morning was sunny!!
The walk was interesting along with the guide but the new route was low on the glacier and was being tweaked as we walked. We only seemed to walk half a kilometer in our time, only 11 in the group but a lot of waiting round etc. Walking was okay once acclimitisec to the surface and the boots etc. Didnt need gloves but suit kept you dry.
The company were helpful in rearranging our date from the previous week so we could avoid that tropical storm.
Tge preview days had rained and the trips had not run. As a consequence tgs track was washed away and a new track cut that morning . But that morning was sunny!!
The walk was interesting along with the guide but the new route was low on the glacier and was being tweaked as we walked. We only seemed to walk half a kilometer in our time, only 11 in the group but a lot of waiting round etc. Walking was okay once acclimitisec to the surface and the boots etc. Didnt need gloves but suit kept you dry.
The company were helpful in rearranging our date from the previous week so we could avoid that tropical storm.
Written March 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kia Ora Hugh m,
Thank you for your review.
It is great to hear you had a nice sunny day and that you thought the trip was interesting!
We are sorry to hear however that you thought the walk was a little slow due to the track work. Unfortunately after heavy rain we often have to rebuild the track as it is constantly changing to make it usable and safe, therefore making the walking sometimes a little slower but this is for the safety of all guests and staff as it is our number one priority.
Thank you again for your feedback.
Ngā mihi,
Aimee
Written March 14, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
JJALMS
1 contribution
Feb 2020
Our 3 hour guided walk had to be re-routed due to recent landslides, after very heavy rain, so the original plan to walk up to the glacier was not possible. However, given these constraints, our guide took us on a very interesting "nature walk", illustrating some of NZ's flora and fauna. He was very knowledgeable. We ended up viewing the glacier from afar, along with all the other visitors who had parked in the public carpark. It was disappointing not to be able to go to the glacier, but they offered an alternative itinerary for us to follow.
Written March 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kia Ora JJALMS,
Thank you for taking the time to write your review.
Unfortunately we have had bad weather recently resulting in track damage. We are sorry that you were unable to go fully to the base of the Glacier,however I am pleased to hear the guide managed to do an alternate route with you and your group.
Thanks again.
Ngā mihi,
Aimee
Written March 6, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
annedunne24
Dublin, Ireland32 contributions
Mar 2020
The helihike was simply amazing. The Franz Joseph Guide Comnpnay were so professional, safety conscience and covered every aspect of the tour. We well kitted out with gloves, jackets beanie hats and cripons for our shoes. I could not recommend Chris our guide highly enough, he ticked all the boxes, he was super, meticulous regarding our safety and made a fun and informative guide. The helicoptor trip was awesome and the walk on the glaciers was truly incredible. One of the high lights of our trip to New Zealand. We also got free entrance to the thermal baths after our hike which was so relaxing and enjoyable.
Written March 30, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kia Ora annedunne24,
Thank you for taking the time to place your review on TripAdvisor.
We are extremely pleased to hear you thoroughly enjoyed the Glacier Heli Hike with your guide Chris! I will be sure to pass on your lovely review to him.
We hope to welcome you back to the stunning Franz Josef area one day soon!
Stay Safe.
Nga Mihi,
Aimee
Written April 3, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
janice1335
1 contribution
Feb 2020
For me a hike unlike any other. It was thrilling to take a helicopter up to the huge glacier. Our guide, Elliot, was helpful in many ways. He gave us historic, cultural and scientific information during the hike and ensured everyone was safe and having a great time.
Written March 4, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kia Ora janice1335,
Thank you for your review.
We are pleased that you thought the Heli Hike was an amazing experience and you though Elliot was awesome!
We will be sure to pass on your kind comments to him.
Safe Travels.
Ngā mihi,
Aimee
Written March 5, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
PaulandChris86
Knaresborough, UK14 contributions
Feb 2020
Could not fault the whole experience and would definitely recommend. Parking was no problem, booked in and introduced to the hike guide who showed us through all aspects of the hike and what to expect from walking to the helicopter, the flight itself and the hike. The hike is stunning and was especially so because of the perfectly clear day. The guide was very informative about the glacier and we learnt so much. Could not fault anything about the whole trip.
Written March 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kia Ora PaulandChris86,
Thank you for your review.
It is wonderful to hear you enjoyed the trip from start to finish, as this is what we endeavour to do! It is also great to hear you had perfect weather for the Glacier Heli Hike and you enjoyed the information the guide shared about the beautiful Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere (Franz Josef Glacier).
Ngā Mihi
Aimee
Written March 19, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
sally b
north somerset4 contributions
Feb 2020
In 7 weeks away from home, this was the highlight. So lucky to get a weather window - trip was interesting as well as exciting, Rebekah the guide was knowledgeable and the whole company felt organised and reliable. Good size group (11). All equipment provided such as boots and crampons, overtrousers and jackets.
Written March 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kia Ora Sally B,
Thank you for your review on TripAdvisor.
We are extremely pleased to hear you thought the Glacier Heli Hike was the highlight of your travels in the beautiful New Zealand.
I will pass on your lovely words to Rebekah your guide.
Safe Travels.
Ngā Mihi,
Aimee
Written March 19, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
dianaliveshere2018
London, UK1 contribution
Feb 2020
The glacier walking tour we went on was really good. there were 3 levels of fitness offer. Fast medium and slower which were all great (as we had one walker in each tour from our group). Staff were very friendly and informative. Unfortunately the admin process before our walk caused concern. We arrived 20 min early and were not told that we needed to complete additional info via an iPad before we could leave. This caused some anxiety not only for ourselves but a number of other people on our tour group who were older who did not know how to use them. Resulting In The tour starting late with at least 5 of us anxious about having delayed the whole group despite arriving early. The tour itself once it was kicked off was great and things improved from there onwards. Thank goodness. A small thing which created a ripple impact to all. Easily solved if taken on board moving forward.
Written March 4, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kia Ora dianaliveshere2018,
Thank you for placing your review on TripAdvisor.
It is wonderful to here that despite the worrying start you all enjoyed the tour! I will pass on your concerns about the medical waiver to our team.
Thank you for your feedback, we really appreciate it.
Ngā mihi,
Aimee
Written March 6, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
JPN
Walnut Creek, CA15 contributions
Jan 2024 • Friends
We took a guided tour of the Franz Joseph Glacier with Maya. She was an excellent guide with a good sense of humor. She knew about the glacier and the flora and fauna of the area. She is of Maori descent and had a delivery which included comments about her heritage. When we first got to the area, it was clouded over, so she took us through the rain forest first and then by the time we got to the glacier the clouds had lifted. We highly recommend this tour and Maya.
Written January 16, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ngā mihi nui for taking the time to write about your experience and we are thrilled you enjoyed it! How lucky that you had Maya for your guide. She is wonderful!
Safe travels wherever you go next. Noho ora mai.
Ruby
Written January 18, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
MinnesotaLaurie
Edina, MN7 contributions
Feb 2020
The entire experience was great from the check in, prep with the guide, helicopter transfer, hike in glacier, guide insights and return flight. Also, we had very good weather. Would highly recommend to anyone in fairly good physical condition.
Written March 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kia Ora MinnesotaLaurie,
Thank you for placing your review on TripAdvisor.
It is great to hear you enjoyed your Glacier Heli Hike and that you had a good experience from start to finish as this is what we strive for!
Thank you again and Safe Travels.
Nga mihi,
Aimee
Written March 13, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hello there, do you also offer the Heli ice climb? Or just the Heli hike please? thanks very much
Written October 8, 2023
Hello there, do you also offer the Heli ice climb? Or just the heli hike please? thanks very much
Written October 8, 2023
We are cpnsidering the glacier valley walk when we visit on the 18th Jan. We will have my 11 year old austistic son. Is it possible to stop independend of the group along the way? should we just do our own walk instead of a group? He may get distracted and not want to do as a guide says,
Written January 2, 2020
Hi, we did the glacier heli hike which is different from the valley walk. For the glacier heli hike I would recommend doing it with a guide since the conditions change drastically. I do not have much idea on the valley walk. But overall the guides were very friendly and supportive and waited for all of us.
Written January 2, 2020
Hello! We are honeymooning in NZ this coming February and plan to do the Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hike during our trip! I’d love to know about typical weather conditions, skill/fitness level required to enjoy the hike, and if there’s any truth to the strong sulfur smells during the tour! Much appreciated, Sharon
Written December 12, 2019
Well, no sulfur smels in the way to see the glaciar. The whether is very changeable. Perhaps in the morning it is sunny and in 3/4 hours there are many clouds. Have a good and clear day when you stay in Franz Josef. And enjoy the termal water.
Written December 15, 2019
Hello I have booked a heli-hike trip on 30/11 morning 9:30am
I’d like to know if the weather is unsatisfactory would it be deferred to a later time of the day? If yes what would be the latest time slot?
Coz I’m thinking of a sunset kayak on the same day which would start at 5pm...hope I’m lucky enuf to do both XD
Written November 17, 2018
Thanks!
Ya I well understand it can be cancelled as the weather is really unpredictable there so I want to know if they would try to defer the Heli Hike to afternoon and if yes what would be the latest time slot becoz I plan to arrange other activities in late afternoon and need to know if the two activities would clash.
Of coz my top priority goes to Heli Hike XD
Written November 18, 2018
Hi we will be joining the heli hike at Franz Josef glacier in end November. Do i need to wear a few layers of wool/warm jerseys underneath? Or just 1-2 think long sleeves + one warm layer is OK?
Written November 8, 2018
kia ora ikihappy,
Yes we recommend to bring 2-3 warm upper layers and leggings or track pants down below. We will provide extra layers and waterproofs at no extra costs if we believe you do not have the sufficient gear. Please do not wear jeans. We look forward to welcoming you.
Written November 10, 2018
When walking on the Glacier is it relatively flat or are there any parts which have a steep decline ?
Written October 18, 2018
Some parts are up and down, but it's not so rough. Enjoy!
Written October 19, 2018
Hi. Two questions! 1. Which is the better way to get to Franz Josef from Nelson - driving a car through the whole 6 hrs or plane to Hokataki and driving 2 more hrs? If driving 6 hrs I'll prolly depart afternoon, and if choosing airplane I'll take the morning flight of the next day. 2. For those who took helicopters - was it worth it? Thanks xx
Written February 22, 2018
We always drive. BEAUTIFUL drive. BUT, I would take the morning help up to the Glacier. Say - 10AM - so the fog has burned off.......
We loved it.
Written February 26, 2018
Hi! I am wondering about the physical fitness level necessary for the heli ice climb of Franz Joseph. My husband and I are in our late twenties and we have done plenty of mountain hiking, but we have never done an ice climb. Is this something that someone who can jog for 40min can do without a problem, or is greater physical endurance recommended? Thank you!
Written January 28, 2018
Hi Anna, the heli hike is fine if you’re in like a regular good shape, it’s quite easy. The heli CLIMB i’m not quite sure. The heli hike and the heli climb are two different tours to Franz Josefs glacier :) anyhow, enjoy your trip to Franz Josefs, it’s magnificent!
Written February 4, 2018
Where does everyone lodge to arrive at the location? Is driving to the glacier the only way to get to the tour location?
Written November 28, 2017
They have 600 residents but 4000 motel rooms. Driving is the only way of getting there. There are bus tours that will take you there.
Written December 4, 2017
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