Franz Josef Quad Bike Tours – Off-Road Adventure on the West Coast
Updated: 28 th June 2026
Franz Josef Quad Bike Tours – Off-Road Adventure
Experience Franz Josef quad bike tours on New Zealand’s rugged West Coast, riding through glacier-fed riverbeds, rainforest trails and ancient glacial terrain just minutes from Franz Josef township.
Whether you’re a first-time rider or an experienced adventurer, these guided off-road tours are designed to be safe, exciting and accessible. Ride powerful quad bikes while expert local guides take you through landscapes you simply can’t reach on foot.
With multiple daily departures and small group sizes, Franz Josef quad biking tours are one of the most popular things to do in Franz Josef— advance booking is recommended.
Quad bike tours from Adult $249 (singe) – $349 (2 person)
✔ 2-hour guided off-road adventure
✔ Multiple daily departures — secure your spot in advance
Thrilling Franz Josef Quad Bike Tours
Discover Franz Josef’s spectacular wilderness on a 2-hour guided quad bike tour through rainforest trails, glacier-fed riverbeds and rugged West Coast terrain. Every ride is led by experienced local guides and suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
Why Choose Franz Josef Quad Biking?
- Ride through riverbeds & rainforest tracks
- Incredible glacier and mountain views
- Beginner-friendly with full guidance
- Single, double & buggy options available
- Operates in all weather conditions
- Small guided groups
Is This Franz Josef Quad Bike Tour Suitable for Beginners?
Yes. No previous quad biking experience is required, making this one of the best adventure activities in Franz Josef for first-time riders. Before setting off, your experienced guide provides a comprehensive safety briefing and demonstrates how to safely operate the fully automatic quad bikes.
The tour begins at a comfortable pace, allowing everyone to build confidence before heading onto the rainforest trails, riverbeds and off-road tracks. Throughout the ride, your guide adapts the pace to suit the group’s experience, ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure for both beginners and more experienced riders.
If you’re looking for an exciting way to experience Franz Josef’s rugged West Coast landscapes without needing previous off-road experience, this guided quad bike tour is an excellent choice.
Franz Josef Quad Bike Tours – Prices & Booking
Price: Adult: $249 (Single Rider)
Two-Person Quad: $349
“2-person quad bikes available — great value for couples or friends”
Departs: Multiple daily departures – Select time when booking
Tour Duration: 2 Hours
What to Expect on Your Quad Bike Tour
Your 2-hour guided quad bike adventure showcases some of Franz Josef’s most spectacular off-road scenery, combining rainforest trails, glacier-fed riverbeds and rugged glacial landscapes into one unforgettable experience.
- Explore ancient glacial terrain and moraine landscapes
- Take in views of Franz Josef Glacier and the Southern Alps
- Optional mud sections for extra adrenaline
- Guided throughout with full safety briefing
Your guide provides full instruction and commentary throughout, making this one of the most unique off-road experiences on the West Coast
Quad Bike Tours Franz Josef: Frequently Asked Questions
Is this Franz Josef quad bike tour suitable for beginners?
Yes. No previous quad biking experience is required. Before setting off, your experienced guide provides a full safety briefing and demonstrates how to safely operate the fully automatic quad bikes. The tour begins at a comfortable pace, with your guide adapting the ride to suit the group’s confidence and experience level, making it an enjoyable adventure for both first-time riders and experienced quad bikers.
What will I see on the quad bike tour?
You’ll explore some of Franz Josef’s spectacular West Coast landscapes, riding through native rainforest, glacier-fed riverbeds, ancient glacial terrain and rugged off-road trails. Along the way you’ll enjoy views of the surrounding Southern Alps and experience areas that can’t be reached by ordinary vehicles.
What should I wear for quad biking in Franz Josef?
Wear comfortable outdoor clothing and sturdy closed-toe footwear. As West Coast weather can change quickly, it’s a good idea to bring a warm layer. Waterproof clothing, helmets and all required safety equipment are provided, so you can enjoy the tour in comfort regardless of the conditions.
Does the quad bike tour operate in wet weather?
Yes. Franz Josef quad bike tours operate in most weather conditions, and rain often makes the off-road tracks even more exciting. Tours are only cancelled if weather conditions are considered unsafe by the operator.
Can two people ride the same quad bike?
Yes. Two-person quad bikes are available, making them a great option for couples, friends or family members who would like to share the ride. Single-rider quad bikes are also available for those who prefer to drive their own.
Why choose quad biking in Franz Josef?
Quad biking is one of the most exciting things to do in Franz Josef, offering a completely different experience from glacier walks, scenic flights or lake cruises. You’ll venture into private off-road areas, crossing riverbeds, rainforest trails and rugged West Coast terrain while enjoying a fun, guided adventure suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities.
Discover More Franz Josef Wilderness Adventures
If you’re spending more than a day in Franz Josef, why not experience the West Coast from a different perspective? Alongside their popular quad bike tours, Franz Josef Wilderness Tours also offers guided kayaking adventures and relaxing scenic boat cruises on beautiful Lake Mapourika.
Lake Mapourika Kayaking Tours
Paddle across the calm waters of Lake Mapourika, surrounded by ancient rainforest with spectacular reflections of the Southern Alps and Franz Josef Glacier. Suitable for beginners, these guided kayak tours are one of the West Coast’s most scenic outdoor experiences.
Lake Mapourika Scenic Boat Cruises
Prefer a more relaxed adventure? Enjoy a scenic cruise across Lake Mapourika while your local guide shares stories about the area’s history, native birdlife and rainforest. It’s a fantastic option for families, photographers and anyone wanting to experience the beauty of Glacier Country without the physical effort of kayaking.
Whether you choose an off-road quad bike adventure, a peaceful kayak tour or a scenic boat cruise, Franz Josef Wilderness Tours offers unforgettable ways to experience the spectacular landscapes of New Zealand’s West Coast.