Franz Josef Glacier Guided Heli Hike – The Ultimate Adventure
Guided Glacier Tours – Franz Josef Heli Hike Adventures
Scenic Helicopter Flight & Guided Ice Walk on Franz Josef Glacier
New Zealand’s Most Iconic Heli-Hike Experience
Lift off over rainforest and icefalls before landing high on Franz Josef Glacier for a guided hike through towering blue ice, crevasses and frozen formations. Your expert guide equips you with crampons and glacier gear, leading you across the sculpted ice in one of New Zealand’s most unforgettable alpine adventures.
Explore New Zealand's Most Spectacular Glacier - Franz Josef Glacier
Discover the ultimate alpine adventure with our Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hikes — a once-in-a-lifetime experience combining a scenic helicopter flight with a guided hike through one of New Zealand’s most dynamic glaciers.
Your journey begins with a breathtaking flight over the lush rainforest of Westland Tai Poutini National Park. Touching down high on the glacier, your guide equips you with crampons and glacier gear before leading you across the ever-changing ice.
Navigate towering pinnacles, weave through deep blue crevasses and venture into shimmering ice caves carved by nature. With Franz Josef Glacier moving faster than any other commercially guided glacier, no two trips are ever the same — every heli-hike is unique.
Whether squeezing through narrow ice passages or stopping to admire the constantly shifting frozen landscape, a Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike is a must-do for nature lovers, photographers and thrill-seekers alike.
Experience the Thrill of a Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike:
Exhilarating Franz Josef Helicopter Flight
Start with a spectacular helicopter ride over Franz Josef Glacier. Enjoy panoramic views across the Southern Alps, rainforest valleys and the dramatic icefall before landing high on the glacier.
Guided Franz Josef Glacier Hike
Explore the glacier safely with expert guides trained to navigate its dynamic terrain. They’ll point out key features, explain the glacier’s formation and select the best routes through the icy landscape.
Unforgettable Franz Josef Glacier Scenery
See glittering blue ice caves, deep crevasses, seracs and sculpted formations. Franz Josef Glacier’s constantly moving ice ensures no two adventures are ever alike — perfect for photography.
Why Choose Franz Josef Glacier Guides?
- World-Renowned Adventure: One of New Zealand’s most iconic glacier experiences.
- Expert, Highly Trained Guides: Professionals who prioritise safety and share deep knowledge of glacier geology.
- A Dynamic, Ever-Changing Landscape: Fastest-moving guided glacier in NZ ensures a unique experience each visit.
- Safety First: All gear provided, comprehensive briefing, and strict safety protocols.
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
Your experience begins at the Glacier Base Building for check-in, gear fitting and a full safety briefing.
Helicopter Flight Over Franz Josef Glacier
Walk to the heli-pad, meet your pilot and take off over Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere (Franz Josef Glacier). The flight offers incredible views across the glacier’s main icefall and surrounding peaks.
Landing on the Glacier
Touch down in a remote alpine environment high on the glacier. Your guide will ensure you’re fully equipped and ready to explore.
Guided Glacier Hike
Follow your guide through ice pinnacles, crevasses and blue caves, learning how the glacier evolves every day. Due to its rapid movement, the terrain changes constantly, meaning every heli-hike is truly one of a kind.
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.
