Franz Josef Glacier Valley Walk

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Highlights

  • Follow the path of the glacial retreat up a scenic valley

  • Learn about the glacier’s history and Maori legends

  • Come as you are: all hiking equipment is provided

Summary

Make your way to the Franz Josef hiking base camp, get suited up with equipment for the day’s conditions, then take a short bus ride to the trailhead. Set out along the glacier valley, following the Waiho River that marks the glacier’s retreat. As you walk, the guide shares the story of Ka Roimata o Hinehukatere, as well as the natural history of the Franz Josef Glacier. Once you near the terminal face, you get to cross over the public barrier for a brief climb to a viewpoint over the glacier. After the return hike down the glacier valley, this tour concludes with a transfer back to the base camp; since you have tickets to the Glacier Hot Pools that are attached to the hiking base camp, you can soak tired muscles in warm water following the trek.

Tour info

Duration
3 hours
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

Hike to Franz Josef Glacier along the Waiho River on a half-day guided hiking tour that explores local ecology, history, and the terminal face of the glacier itself. Since the hiking tour includes equipment, from boots to waterproof clothing, you don’t need specialized gear to explore Franz Josef Glacier, and group size is limited to 13 hikers to ensure personal service from the guide.

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What’s included?

  • 3-hour guided glacier tour

  • Professional guide

  • All equipment

  • Gratuities

  • Food and drinks, unless specified

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

Things to know

Before you book

  • Duration: 3h

Cancellation Policy

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
Operator Website

Operated by:

Franz Josef Glacier Guides

About operator:

The magnificent Franz Josef Glacier is widely regarded as the gem of New Zealand’s West Coast Glaciers.Franz Josef Glacier Guides gives you the opportunity to experience the most spectacular glacier environment available to the general public anywhere in the world, offering a range of glacier hiking tours to suit all levels of fitness and ability. We make a clear commitment to you that our trip is the most spectacular and rewarding available.

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