Franz Josef

While Franz Josef glacier is almost unique in the world for its ease of access we recommend that because of the changeable and difficult conditions and the difficulty of getting beyond the glacier face, and how cool it is on the glacier –you do one of the guided trips which are on offer.

If you want to actually make contact with the glacier, take a guided ice walk or a heli-hike. Aerial sightseeing is another option. There's a range of natural attractions in close proximity to Franz Josef Glacier Village. Lose yourself in the rainforests, waterfalls, and lakes. In the town you’ll find plenty of places to stay and eat, or relax at the glacier hot pools or explore the wildlife centre. At nearby Lake Mapourika there are kayaks for hire.

Franz Joseph is a 5 hour drive from both Christchurch and Queenstown. The drive from Hokitika in the north is only 2 hours from or just over 2 hours from Greymouth. From the South Haast is approximately 2 hours away and Wanaka   is a 4 hour drive

Fox Glacier can be visited throughout the year but late summer and winter are the most settled.

The West Coast is known for precipitation and Glacier Country is no exception. Weather patterns move through quickly—keep an eye on the conditions and plan activities accordingly. The mornings are often crisp and clear but afternoon fog rolls in quickly. If possible, spend a couple of days in Glacier Country to increase the likelihood of good views.