Franz Josef & Fox Glacier Attractions
Franz Josef and Fox Glacier are two of New Zealand’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Located on the country’s South Island, these magnificent glaciers attract tourists from all over the world with their stunning ice formations and surrounding beauty. Whether you’re an adventurous hiker or simply in awe of the remarkable power of nature, a visit to Franz Josef and Fox Glacier promises to be a truly inspiring and unforgettable experience.The journey begins in the cozy town of Franz Josef, nestled at the base of the glacier with the same name. This small town offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to charming bed and breakfasts, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing stay. As you wake up to the crisp mountain air, you’ll feel a sense of excitement and anticipation for the adventure to come.Strap on your hiking boots and head towards the Franz Josef Glacier. The hike to the glacier’s terminal face is approximately 1.5 hours each way, but the scenery will captivate you from the very beginning. As you embark on the trail, surrounded by lush rainforest and towering peaks, you can’t help but feel humbled by the magnitude of nature’s creations.As you approach the glacier, a sense of awe washes over you. The sheer size and beauty of Franz Josef Glacier is truly astonishing. Towering ice walls, bright blue crevasses, and cascading icefalls are just some of the features that make this glacier so extraordinary. Take a moment to marvel at this natural wonder, and let the magnitude of it all sink in.If you’re feeling adventurous, there are a variety of guided tours available. Strap on a pair of crampons and join an experienced guide as you explore the ice formations up close. Traverse deep crevasses, climb ice walls, and even find yourself in front of ice caves with stunning formations. These tours provide a unique and exhilarating experience, offering a closer look at the glacier’s ever-changing landscape.From Franz Josef, make your way towards Fox Glacier, located just 25 kilometers away. This journey takes you through breathtaking landscapes, as you drive through dense rainforests and navigate winding mountain roads. Along the way, make stops at picturesque lookout points, offering incredible views of the Southern Alps and the surrounding valleys.Arriving at Fox Glacier, you’ll be greeted with another incredible sight. Similar to Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier boasts towering ice formations and impressive ice caves. Take a moment to appreciate the contrast between the icy blue of the glaciers and the greenery surrounding them. It’s a truly mesmerizing sight to behold.For those looking to take their adventure to new heights, helicopter tours are available, providing a bird’s eye view of these magnificent glaciers. Soar above the icy landscape, witnessing the grandeur of these natural wonders from an entirely different perspective. It’s an experience that will leave you in awe of the power of nature and the incredible beauty it creates.As your journey comes to an end, take a moment to reflect on the incredible sights you’ve witnessed. Franz Josef and Fox Glacier are not only a testament to the power of nature but also a reminder of Earth’s boundless beauty. These glaciers serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving our planet for generations to come.So whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure or a moment of serenity in the face of awe-inspiring nature, a trip to Franz Josef and Fox Glacier will undoubtedly leave you feeling inspired and grateful for the extraordinary world we live in.
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Combine a scenic helicopter flight over Franz Josef Glacier with a 2-hour guided walk on glacial terrain during this exhilarating tour from Franz Josef. Find out why New Zealand's South Island is famous for its gorgeous landscapes as you follow an experienced guide past ice caves, crevasses and pinnacles. Learn about glacier formation and movement, and enjoy supreme panoramic views. Choose from seasonal departure times to suit your schedule.
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$238.06
Marvel at some of New Zealand’s most amazing scenery on this once-in-a-lifetime 30-minute helicopter flight over the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. Enjoy panoramic views of the glaciers’ natural beauty from your helicopter high in the sky. Listen to live commentary from your professional pilot on route and gaze over the mantle of sheet ice and snow below. Land at the head of either the Franz Josef or Fox Glacier, then hop out to experience the frozen landscape up close. Pose for photographs and capture the glacial scenery on camera.
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$187.18
From sea level rising to the heart of the magnificent Southern Alps, this 20-minute helicopter flight explores the awe-inspiring ice falls of the Franz Josef Glacier. The flight includes a snow landing, an excellent opportunity to really take in the surroundings and breathe the clean alpine air.
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$429.47
Our premier flight over the Mt Cook National Park and its vast glaciers and snowfields. See the ancient waters of the Tasman Glacier lake before flying the length of the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s longest glacier. Experience what it feels like to stand in snow amongst the mountains as you take in a spectacular view of New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook during your snow landing. Cross to the West Coast and view the formidable Franz Josef and Fox glaciers before completing your journey with uninterrupted views of the summit ridge of Aoraki/Mt Cook.
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$178.70
Glacier Country Helicopters is a local, family owned and operated company based in Franz Josef, on the West Coast of New Zealand. Husband and wife team Gus and Poppy started the company in January 2014 and you'll generally find one of them out flying most days.
On our Glacier Explorer flight you'll fly over the Franz Josef Glacier and then into the Southern Alps to enjoy the included 10 minute snow landing for photos. Total experience time approx. 25 minutes.
Please allow an extra 45minutes on top of your flight time to allow for checking in, transport to helicopter, loading, unloading and to return to our office.
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$239.27
Glacier Country Helicopters is a local, family owned and operated company based in Franz Josef, on the West Coast of New Zealand. Husband and wife team Gus and Poppy started the company in January 2014 and you'll generally find one of them out flying most days.
On our Pilots Choice flight you'll see two of the three "big" glaciers. You'll fly over the Franz Josef Glacier then over either the Fox Glacier or Tasman Glacier and fly into the Southern Alps to enjoy the included 10 minute snow landing for photos. Total experience time approx. 35 minutes.
Please allow an extra 45minutes on top of your flight time to allow for checking in, transport to helicopter, loading, unloading and to return to our office.
Voted one of the 12 must-see things to visit in New Zealand by Lonely Planet, the West Coast Wildlife Centre is the largest kiwi hatching facility in the South Island and the foremost indoor, all-weather attraction in Franz Josef. You are guaranteed to see live kiwi during the day inside our nocturnal house, including the world's rarest kiwis. Discover the interactive glacier attraction and West Coast storytelling areas or go behind the scenes on the “Kiwi & Tuatara Backstage Pass Tour.” Numbers are very limited on the 40-minute Backstage Pass Tour so advanced bookings are highly recommended. You'll also find the best shopping in Franz Josef inside the all-weather facility and enjoy free Wi-Fi in the café. Recommended " best Coffee" in Franz Josef by Tripadvisor customers.
If you purchase a VIP Backstage Pass Tour your general admission ticket is included in the price.
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$240.48
Twice the ice! Explore the glacial icefalls of not one but two glaciers - Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier on this 30-minute helicopter flight. Discover up close their neve and unusual ice formations. Landing on the snowfields is a highlight and will make for superb photos, snowballs and memories.
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$178.70
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$238.06
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Both Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier are popular tourist destinations on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island. While the terrain and activities in these areas can present challenges for people with disabilities and seniors, there are still opportunities to enjoy and explore these stunning natural wonders.
Franz Josef Glacier:
1. Accessibility: The base area of Franz Josef Glacier is accessible for people with disabilities and seniors. The main access road, state highways, and parking lots are properly paved and accessible.
2. Accommodation: Several hotels, motels, and lodges in Franz Josef Glacier offer accessible facilities, including wheelchair-accessible rooms with accessible bathrooms and ramps.
3. Guided Tours: There are guided tours available that cater to people with disabilities and seniors. These tours provide a unique glacier experience tailored to suit various mobility needs, including wheelchair-users.
4. Access to Glacier: Unfortunately, reaching the actual glacier’s terminal face can be challenging for people with disabilities and seniors due to the rough terrain, rocks, and slippery surfaces. However, there are lookout points with viewing platforms that offer great views of the glacier.
5. Helicopter Tours: Helicopter tours are a popular option for people with limited mobility or seniors who are unable to walk on the glacier. These tours provide a breathtaking aerial view of the glacier and surrounding areas.
Fox Glacier:
1. Accessibility: Similar to Franz Josef Glacier, the township area around Fox Glacier is accessible for people with disabilities and seniors. The main access road, state highways, and parking lots are well-maintained.
2. Accommodation: There are accommodations in Fox Glacier that provide accessible facilities, including accessible rooms and bathrooms.
3. Guided Tours: Guided tours are available in Fox Glacier specifically designed for people with disabilities and seniors. These tours offer a unique experience of the glacier, including viewing points and informative commentary.
4. Access to Glacier: Similar to Franz Josef Glacier, physically accessing the Fox Glacier can be challenging for people with disabilities and seniors due to the rugged terrain. However, there are viewpoints and walking trails that provide excellent views of the glacier from a distance. These areas are accessible for visitors with disabilities and seniors.
5. Scenic Flights: Scenic flights over Fox Glacier are a popular option for people with limited mobility or seniors. These flights allow passengers to experience the beauty of the glacier and surrounding mountains from the air.
It is important to note that the accessibility of both glaciers may vary depending on individual needs and mobility levels. It is recommended to contact the specific tour operators, visitor centers, or accommodations in advance to discuss your requirements and make necessary arrangements to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
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