South Island
Guided Glacier Tours – Franz Josef Heli Hike Adventures
Franz Josef Glacier Guided Heli Hikes
Explore New Zealand's Most Spectacular Glacier - Franz Josef Glacier
Discover the ultimate adventure with our Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hikes—a once-in-a-lifetime experience combining the thrill of a helicopter ride with the awe-inspiring beauty of New Zealand’s most dynamic glacier.
Your journey begins with a scenic flight over the lush rainforest of Westland Tai Poutini National Park. Touching down high on the Franz Josef Glacier, you’ll be ready to explore ever-changing ice formations under the guidance of our experienced professionals.
On this unforgettable glacier hike, navigate towering ice pinnacles, weave through deep blue crevasses, and venture into shimmering ice caves. With the Franz Josef Glacier moving faster than any other commercially guided glacier, no two trips are ever the same—ensuring a truly unique adventure every time.
Whether sliding through narrow passages or marveling at the constantly shifting icy landscape, the Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike is a must-do experience for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
Experience the Thrill of a Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike:
Exhilarating Franz Josef Helicopter Flight
Start your adventure with a scenic helicopter ride over Franz Josef Glacier, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Southern Alps and the lush rainforest below.
Guided Franz Josef Glacier Hike
Explore the glacier’s dynamic and icy terrain with our expert guides, who will point out fascinating features, navigate the safest routes, and share their knowledge of this incredible landscape.
Unforgettable Franz Josef Glacier Scenery
Witness awe-inspiring ice formations, deep crevasses, and glistening blue ice caves. Franz Josef Glacier is a natural wonder like no other, offering picture-perfect views at every turn.
Why Choose Franz Josef Glacier Guides?
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- World-Renowned Adventure: Our Glacier Heli-Hike is consistently ranked as a must-do experience for visitors to New Zealand.
- Expert Guides: Led by experienced professionals passionate about the glacier, ensuring your safety and delivering an unforgettable adventure.
- Unique, Ever-Changing Landscape: The Franz Josef Glacier is one of the fastest-moving glaciers in the world, making each hike a truly unique journey.
- Safety First: Using the latest equipment and adhering to strict safety protocols, your well-being is always our top priority.
Join us for an experience that many visitors call the highlight of their New Zealand adventure!
Price: $695 per person
Departs: Choose time when booking
Duration: Upto 4 Hours
Includes up to 2.5 hours spent on the ice hiking the glacier and exploring features.
Your Day’s Franz Josef Glacier Adventure
Start at the Glacier Base Building
Begin your journey at the Glacier Base Building, where our friendly team will check you in and provide all necessary gear, along with a safety briefing to prepare you for the day.
Helicopter Flight Over Franz Josef Glacier
Take a short walk to the helicopter pad, where your pilot will whisk you away over the dramatic landscapes of Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere (Franz Josef Glacier). Soak in the panoramic majesty of the glacier and its surrounding peaks during the flight.
Landing on Franz Josef Glacier
Land high on the main icefall of Franz Josef Glacier, where your guide will ensure you’re fully equipped and ready to explore this icy wonderland.
Guided Franz Josef Glacier Hike
Navigate towering ice pinnacles, deep crevasses, and shimmering blue caves with the help of your experienced guide. Each hike offers a one-of-a-kind experience due to the glacier’s ever-changing nature.
FAQs for Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike
1. Is the heli-hike suitable for beginners?
Yes! No prior hiking experience is necessary. Our guides will ensure the pace and difficulty suit everyone’s abilities.
2. What should I wear and bring?
Wear warm, comfortable layers and sturdy footwear. We provide boots, crampons, and other essential gear. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera for photos!
3. What happens if the weather is bad?
For your safety, flights and hikes may be canceled in poor weather. In this case, we’ll work with you to reschedule or provide a refund.
4. Are there age or fitness restrictions?
Participants must be at least 8 years old and have a moderate fitness level to enjoy the hike.
5. How long do we spend on the ice?
You’ll spend up to 2.5 hours exploring the glacier’s icy terrain, with the total tour lasting around 4 hours.
Did You Know? Fascinating Franz Josef Glacier Facts
- Fastest-Moving Glacier: Franz Josef Glacier advances at a rate of up to 4 meters per day, making it one of the fastest-moving glaciers in the world!
- A Natural Wonder: The glacier descends from the Southern Alps to just 300 meters above sea level, one of the few in the world to do so.
- Named After Royalty: The glacier is named after Emperor Franz Josef I of Austria by German explorer Julius von Haast.
- A Living Landscape: Franz Josef Glacier constantly changes due to its rapid movement, meaning no two hikes are ever the same.
- Sacred to Māori: Known as Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere (The Tears of Hine Hukatere), the glacier holds deep cultural significance for the local Ngāi Tahu people.
Nearby Activities to Enhance Your Adventure
Kayaking On Lake Mapourika
Paddle through serene, reflective waters surrounded by lush rainforest. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
More information here.
Franz Josef Quad Bike Trips
Experience the thrill of riding through rugged terrain and rainforest trails on a guided quad biking adventure.
More information here.
Bird Spotting - Okarito Lagoon
Discover a birdwatcher’s paradise at New Zealand’s largest unmodified wetland, home to the rare white heron (kōtuku).
More information here.
Explore More Around Franz Josef Glacier
Make the most of your time in the region by combining your Heli-Hike with these incredible experiences. From tranquil kayaking to thrilling quad bike rides and serene birdwatching, there’s something for every adventurer.
