What is the difference between a helicopter tour and a heli-hike?

Helicopter tours give you a 20-minute aerial tour of the Souther Alps, covering attractions like the Fox and Franz Josef Glacier, Mt. Tasman, and Mt. Cook, and a 10-minute snow landing on the glacier. You can upgrade your tour to 30/40-minutes, which covers a larger area. Heli-hike tours will take you on a helicopter, to the face of the glacier. From here, you can hike through blue ice caves and crevasses of the glacier for 2/4 hours. There is a return flight back to base, once the hike is completed.

How expensive is the Franz Josef Glacier tour?

Both heli-hikes and helicopter tours are expensive to begin with. Helicopter tours are comparatively cheaper, starting at NZ$330 for a 20-minute tour, going up to NZ$575 for a 40-minute tour. Heli-hike tours start at NZ$655. They come with an expert hiking guide who will lead you through the tricky surface of the glacier, adding to the premium experience.

Which glacier should I choose for my heli-hike tour?

While both glaciers are stunning in their own right, Franz Josef Glacier is the steeper of the two, making it a good choice for expert or intermediate hikers. Fox Glacier is less steep, but is longer than Franz Josef. This is a good option for intermediate and beginner hikers.

What can I expect on a helicopter tour?

Helicopter tours will take you on a 20-minute, guided aerial tour of the Southern Alps, and will cover either the Fox or Franz Josef Glacier (based on your selection), and nearby mountains like Mt. Cook and Mt. Tasman. Feel free to upgrade your tour for up to 40-minutes to include the other glacier. There is a 10-minute snow landing included in helicopter tours, which is subject to weather conditions.

Can you see the glacier without the tour?

Yes, you can view the glaciers from free viewing points in the valley, but visibility may be poor during the summer months. Additionally, the only way you can access both glaciers is via helicopter.

Is it worth going on a glacier heli-hike?

It depends on whether you have ever hiked on a glacier, and if you are willing to pay the premium. The experience is surreal, especially if it is your first time. Walking through the blue ice caves and waterfalls, being surrounded by lush trees, will transport you to a different universe, one which is pristine and makes you appreciate nature.

Are there any age restrictions for the Franz Josef heli-hike?

Both Fox and Franz Josef Glacier heli-hike tours require children to be a minimum age of 10 years.

Are there any weight restrictions for the heli-hike?

Guests must weigh at least 35kgs and less than 116kgs in order to participate in a heli-hike tour.

How hard is the Franz Josef Glacier heli-hike?

The heli-hike tours on both Franz Josef and Fox Glacier are physically demanding. Both experiences are not recommended for young kids, pregnant women, and guests with health risks such as heart or lung conditions.

What else can I do at Franz Josef Glacier?

There are plenty of things to do around Franz Josef Glacier. Try your hand at skydiving in Franz Josef or go on a Fox Glacier valley tour. You can also explore the nearby Lake Matheson and Lake Mapourika. If you want to indulge in retail therapy, there are plenty of shopping and dining options in the Franz Josef Glacier town.

What is the best time to go on a Franz Josef Glacier tour?

Summers (between December and February) are the busiest months of the year, with the glaciers in their active phase. You will see the glacier in motion as you hike! Winters (between June and August) are when the glaciers are more stable. Chances of seeing blue ice are larger during this period, not to mention, the crowds will be lesser. Mornings are the best time to go on your glacier tour, since the skies get cloudier as the day goes on.

Franz Josef Glacier Tours | Guided Heli-Hikes & More

From happy customers

Loved by 47 million+

Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5

Sylvie-eve

New Zealand

Jan 2026

‌

A truly fabulous scenic flight with breathtaking views of the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, Mount Cook, and the Tasman Glacier. Everything was incredibly impressive, and the flight itself was super smooth. We absolutely loved it!

Michelle

United States

Jan 2026

‌

+1 more

Highly Recommend this Tour Operator. Check in was a breeze. Ran on time and everyone was very pleasant. We were extremely lucky to have a beautiful morning for a 40min multi glacier helicopter ride. Our pilot Jordy was great and the snow landing was a treat.

Ian

United Kingdom

Jan 2026

‌

+1 more

It was a day for firsts for me, flying in a helicopter and walking on a glacier. Both where very exciting. The whole day is well run, from the people getting your kit sorted to the guides on the glacier. Highly recommend this activity. The views from the helicopter are breathtaking and from the glacier are stunning.

Alec

United Kingdom

Jan 2026

Can't recommend this trip enough. What an experience. From helicopter ride through to fully exploring the glacier. Ice climbing, absailing your way up and down. Without the crowds 😀.

Marc

Canada

Nov 2025

Incredible ATV tour in Franz Josef! Justin was an amazing guide. friendly, funny, and made everyone feel safe and confident. Awesome mix of adventure, mud, and stunning views of the mountains and glacier. Highly recommend

Jennifer

United Kingdom

Oct 2025

A truly spectacular experience and a highlight of our New Zealand adventure, being able to land on the glacier and be on fresh snow made it even more fabulous. The Franz Josef team were super friendly, well informed and very professional.

Experience New Zealand's pristine charm at Franz Josef Glacier

Take in the clean air, lush rainforests, and the majestic Southern Alps of the New Zealand outbacks at Te Wähipounamu, the World Heritage Site which houses the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers. Explore all the things to do at Franz Josef, including glacier hikes and aerial tours, and take your pick!

Navigate your Franz Josef Glacier tours guide

Why go on a Franz Josef Glacier tour
Franz Josef Glacier tour options
Your Franz Josef tour experience
When to go on a glacier tour
Tips for planning your Franz Josef Glacier tour
Other things to do nearby
Frequently asked questions

Top reasons to go on a Franz Josef Glacier tour

1/4

Tour a World Heritage Site

The South West Coast of the South Island is fondly known as Glacier Country, and is part of the Te Wähipounamu World Heritage Site. The area is filled with national parks, mountains, lakes, and some of the most active glaciers in the world, including the Fox and Franz Josef Glacier. See it all on a guided helicopter tour!

Watch nature in action

The Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers are some of the fastest moving glaciers in the world. During summers, you can see the ice moving right in front of your eyes!

Heli-hike on a glacier

While you may be able to see the glacier from afar by hiking up free walking trails, the only way you can actually set foot on the glacier is via a heli tour or heli-hike. And trust us, the experience is hugely different!

Staycation haven

The towns of Franz Josef and Fox Glacier have plenty of stay options for you to choose from. Stay and explore the Westland Tai Poutini National Park. Go skydiving, hiking, and soak in hot pools, while you're there.

All your Franz Josef Glacier tour options

Helicopter tours and heli-hikes are the best way to explore the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, and lucky for you, we have both options for you to choose from! Don't worry about missing out on either one of the glaciers; Franz Josef and Fox Glacier are located just 25 minutes away from each other, and you always have the option of upgrading your tickets to see them both.

Helicopter tours

Starting point: Franz Josef Glacier & Fox Glacier
Duration: 20 minutes (can be upgraded to 30/40 minutes)

Get a birds eye view of the Southern Alps on this 20-minute helicopter ride, including detailed commentary by the pilot, and a snow walk on the glacier.

Recommended experience:

From Franz Josef: Scenic Helicopter Flight Tour with Snow Landing
From Fox Glacier: Scenic Helicopter Flight Tour with Snow Landing

Heli-hike tours

Starting point: Franz Josef Glacier & Fox Glacier
Duration: 2/4 hours (can be upgraded to 8 hours for Fox Glacier)

Fly up to the glacier on a helicopter and hike through the ice, rocks, and secret caves, all the while listening to your expert hiking guide and taking in the breathtaking scenery around you.

Recommended experience:

From Franz Josef: Expert Guided Heli-Hike in Franz Josef Glacier
From Fox Glacier: Expert Guided Heli-Hike in Fox Glacier

Heli-hike vs helicopter tours: Which one should you book?

Based on budget: Helicopter tours are a great budget option to sightsee the glaciers, with prices starting at NZ$330. Heli-hike tours are comparatively more expensive, with prices starting at NZ$655; the experience of hiking on a glacier makes it worth the higher price.
Traveler type: Heli-hike tours are a great option for seasoned hikers or adventurers who enjoy the great outdoors and physical exercise. Helicopter tours on the other hand, are a great option for folks of any age and physical fitness. You just have to buckle in and take in the scenery from the comfort of the helicopter.
Duration: Heli-hike tours will require a larger time commitment, with hikes starting at 2 hours, going up to 8 hours in a day. Given that the glacier hike is the main activity, the helicopter ride to the starting point will be a short one — around 10 minutes. Make sure to assess your stamina if you are considering a heli-hike. Helicopter tours are a good option to consider if you have less time to spare — the standard heli tour lasts 20 minutes, and you can choose to upgrade it up to 40-minutes.
Sights and inclusions: Helicopter tours give you stunning aerial views of the Southern Alps, including the glaciers (depending on the glacier you start from), Mt. Cook, Mt. Tasman, and the surrounding rainforests. You also get a 10-minute snow landing on the glacier, during which you can get out and explore nearby. If you want a more comprehensive and personal tour of the glacier, go for the heli-hike, which is like the best of both worlds. Not only do you get a quick but gorgeous glimpse of Glacier Country from the sky, you also get a 2/4-hour, expert-guided hike through the Fox/Franz Josef Glacier, complete set of mountain hiking gear, and a round-trip helicopter flight back to base.
Traveling with kids: Helicopter tours are a great option if you plan to visit Franz Josef Glacier with kids. Given the physically demanding nature of the heli-hike tours, this experience is not recommended for children below 10 years, and guests weighing over 115kg.

Franz Josef vs Fox Glacier: Choosing the best heli-hike tour

The Franz Josef Glacier is a steeper ascent, spanning 10.5 kms. This would make it a good choice for medium to expert climbers. Please note: you only have a 2-hour hike option, excluding the flight to the starting point.
The Fox Glacier is less steeper than Franz Josef, but spans a larger area, at 12 kms. The easier hike makes it a good choice for beginner to intermediate climbers. The hike is for 4 hours, excluding the flight to the starting point, but you can choose to upgrade your tour to an 8-hour version.

What to expect on your Franz Josef Glacier tour

Stunning aerial views of the Southern Alps

Both the helicopter tour and the heli-hike will take you over Mt. Cook and Mt. Tasman, so you can enjoy the icy peaks interspersed with the trees of the rainforest.

Best time to go on a Franz Josef Glacier tour

The weather and time of day plays huge roles in deciding the best time to visit Franz Josef Glacier. We've broken it down for you, so you can plan your visit better; take a look!

Helicopter tours

Peak season vs low season:

Helicopter tours of the Franz Josef and Fox Glacier are available throughout the year, but December to February are the busiest period. Being summer, you can expect a lot more movement in the glacier through the day.
If you prefer a less crowded tour, visit during the shoulder season, between March and May, and September and November. You can see waterfalls and a thriving rainforest on your aerial tour! Fair warning, there is a high chance of flights being cancelled in the last minute, during this season.

Best time of day:

Generally speaking, mornings are the best time to go on a Franz Josef Glacier helicopter tour. It gets cloudier as the day goes on, so it is best to book your tour for the first slot of the day. If you visit during the summer, you can afford to book for a slot later in the day since the sun is out longer.

Heli-hike tours

Peak season vs low season:

Franz Josef heli-hike tours are available year round, so visit whenever you please. Peak season, between December and February, is when the glacier is in its active phase, so you can see the glacier in motion as you hike! FYI, this is the busiest time of year to go on a heli-hike.
If you want to see the famous blue ice of the glacier, the best time to visit is during Winter, between June and August. The glacier is the most stable during this time, and ice caves and crevasses last for days. It is also less crowded during this time, given the colder temperatures.

Best time of day:

Mornings are the best time to go on a Franz Josef Glacier heli-hike. The skies are most clear up until noon, which is the best time to click some gorgeous pictures on the glacier. Pro-tip: starting your heli-hike in the morning is great when you have a longer hike planned for the day.

Final verdict: Whether you decide to go on a heli-hike or a heli tour of Franz Josef Glacier, mornings are the best time of day, no matter the time of the year. Choose the time of year based on your tolerance to the cold, seasonal sights, and peak season rush. That being said, the South West Coast is one of the rainiest places in the country, and the weather can be overcast irrespective of the time of year, especially during shoulder season, so be prepared for last minute flight cancelations and delays.

Visitor tips to help plan your Franz Josef Glacier tour

Heli-hike tours will require special, waterproof boots, pants, and equipment like crampons, which will all be available as part of the tour. You can choose to carry your own boots, but it is not required.
The helicopter ride to the starting point of the heli-hike will be a short one — generally around 5-10 minutes. But you will still be able to enjoy great views of the mountains and rainforest along the way.
Irrespective of when you visit, always dress in layers — you are visiting a glacier after all! If you hike during the summers, you may be able to take off a few layers, if the sun is out. Avoid wearing jeans; they are very uncomfortable when wet, and will make you feel cold.
The summer months mean that the glaciers are in their active state. Expect hikes to be more tricky, since you will need to navigate through shifting ice and rocks to move up the glacier.
The snow landing that is part of the helicopter tour, is subject to weather conditions. The pilot can decide against the landing in case conditions look unsafe.
Carry a spare bottle with you to collect fresh glacier water. It comes straight from the mountains, and is some of the cleanest water you will ever drink!
If you want stunning pictures, visit in the mornings; clear skies make for the best backdrop. That being said, you cannot predict the weather, and the pictures will look great, even with a slightly overcast background.
The heli-hike tour generally lasts at least 2 hours, so carrying water is a must. Feel free to bring other refreshments, too — just be mindful about disposing trash.
Franz Josef and Fox Glacier are located in the rainiest region of New Zealand, so there is a decent probability of helicopter flights being cancelled or delayed due to unfavorable weather. Pro-tip: in case you want to view the glacier from a viewpoint, check out the Glacier Country's daily updates on weather and track conditions before you start your hike to the viewpoint.
Both the Franz Josef Glacier town and Fox Glacier town have plenty of dining and stay options to choose from, but Franz Josef has a lot more to choose from, making it the busier of the two. Both towns are close enough that you can easily stay in Franz Josef and go for the Fox Glacier tour, or vice versa.

Other things to explore nearby

Skydive in Franz Josef

Skydiving over the Southern Alps, surrounded by mountains, lush trees, and the Tasman sea — it feels as surreal as it sounds! This is a must-try experience for all adrenaline junkies visiting Franz Josef.

Explore Fox Glacier valley

Ride through the rainforest trails on an e-bike and hike through a walking trail to reach the Fox Glacier viewpoint. Your tour guide will breakdown the history of the glacier and nearby attractions.

Trek through Tatare Tunnels

If you're in the Franz Josef town, go on this 3.6km hike through dark water tunnels, passing by the Tatare Gorge. Visibility can get low, so carry a flashlight. Try spotting the glowworms while you're there!

Visit the lakes of Glacier Country

Lake Matheson is the small but beautiful glacial lake near Fox Glacier, and Lake Mapourika is the third largest lake in the West Coast of the country. Both unmissable, while in Glacier Country.

Things to do at Franz Josef & Fox Glacier

Frequently asked questions about Franz Josef Glacier tours

There are two main types of tours starting from the Franz Josef & Fox Glacier: heli-hike tours and helicopter tours. Given that they are located close by, you can upgrade your ticket and visit both glaciers on the helicopter tour.

Fly over glaciers & mountains, land on snow, & soak in alpine views in one trip.

Everything you get: Enjoy a 20–minute helicopter flight over rainforests, mountains, and Franz Josef Glacier, ending with a snow landing for photos and short exploration. Includes live commentary from your pilot.
Why choose this: This helicopter tour lets you combine glacier views with lush rainforest valleys and rugged alpine peaks, plus a memorable snow landing — perfect for travellers wanting a shorter, highly scenic adventure with a mix of glacier and mountain landscapes.
Upgrades: Extend your flight to see both Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, or choose the longer aerial option to include panoramic views of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman for an even more spectacular glacier and mountain experience.

Inclusions #

20-min Franz Josef helicopter tour
Snow landing on Franz Josef
Pilot guide
30-min Franz Josef & Fox Glacier helicopter tour (as per option selected)
40-min Glaciers & Mt. Cook helicopter tour (as per option selected)

What to bring

Bring along your warm upper-body clothing (preferably 3-4 layers), leggings or light trousers, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

What's not allowed

Selfie sticks and drones are not allowed on this experience.
Please avoid using iPads for photography during flights as they can obstruct views. Feel free to use phones, cameras, or GoPros instead.
Jeans are not recommended for this experience as they become very heavy, cold and uncomfortable to wear when wet.

Additional information

Snow landings are subject to weather conditions and are at the pilot’s discretion.
Infants under 3 years weighing less than 15 kg will fly for free, sitting on an adult's lap. Infants under 3 years weighing above 15 kg must be charged at the child fare.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Bucket-list Fox Glacier heli-hike—fly in, land on the ice & explore on foot.

Everything you get: Enjoy a half-day heli-hike over Fox Glacier with round-trip helicopter flights and an expert-guided walk on the glacier ice, including specialist glacier gear such as boots, crampons and waterproof clothing, plus expert guidance throughout the experience.
Why choose this: This experience offers the perfect mix of aerial views and up-close exploration, letting you safely experience the ice formations and ever-changing beauty of Fox Glacier in just half a day.

Inclusions #

4-hour guided Fox Glacier hike
Round-trip helicopter ride
Expert mountaineering guide
Leather boots, crampons, hats, gloves & backpack
Waterproof jacket & overtrousers

What to bring

Bring along your warm upper-body clothing (preferably 3-4 layers), leggings or light trousers, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
You can also bring your own water bottle, drinks and snacks.

What's not allowed

Jeans are not recommended for this experience as they become very heavy, cold and uncomfortable to wear when wet.
This experience is restricted for guests under the age of 9 years and weighing more than 116kg.
Large bags and drones are not allowed.
There is a 3 kg limit per passenger for carry-on baggage.

Additional information

This experience requires a good fitness level, sufficient to ascend and descend 1000m+ over 8 hours or more carrying a pack 12kg.
In alpine conditions, rapid weather changes may occasionally prevent helicopter access to the ice with groups already present. In such instances, the tour operator will strive for safe access during weather breaks; if not feasible, emergency supplies (tents, sleeping bags, food) are available on the glacier. Guides are trained to set up campsites if overnight stays become necessary.
Leather boots, socks, crampons, walking poles, a waterproof jacket, overtrousers, and a backpack will be provided.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Full-day Fox Glacier adventure with round-trip helicopter flight & glacier hike.

Everything you get: Full-day guided heli-hike with round-trip helicopter flights and ground transport. Explore the glacier with expert guides, equipped with all gear including socks, climbing boots, crampons, gloves, hats, waterproof jacket, backpack, and over-trousers.
Why choose this: Experience Fox Glacier like few ever can — a full-day adventure with scenic helicopter flights, glacier landing, and guided ice exploration.

Inclusions #

Full-day tour of Fox Glacier
Round-trip helicopter ride
Expert guides
Ground transport
Socks, climbing boots, crampons, gloves & hats
Waterproof jacket, backpack & over trousers

What to bring

Bring along your warm, breathable base layers, suitable long pants for walking in (tracksuits and leggings are fine).
You can also bring your own water bottle, drinks, sunglasses, sunblock and snacks.

What's not allowed

Jeans are not recommended for this experience as they become very heavy, cold and uncomfortable to wear when wet.
Drones, valuables, portable chargers and spare batteries are not allowed on this experience.
This experience is restricted for guests above 116kg and under the age of 13.
There is a 3kg limit per person for carry-on baggage.

Additional information

Please note that guests must be very good in English in order to participate in this experience as the instructions will be given by the guide in English.
A good fitness requirement is needed for this tour. Good fitness for this trip is a level of fitness sufficient to ascend and descend 1000m+ over 8 hours or more carrying a pack 12kg (26lb) or more over multiple days.
A minimum of 2 guests are required for this tour.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Like intrepid explorers of old, get whisked away on a helicopter ride towards Fox Glacier donning your crampons and gear, as you prepare to climb the glistening glaciers.
You will master ice climbing with a low 1:4 guide-to-guest ratio, as you get instructions tailored to your skill level, whether you're a newcomer or an experienced climber.
Advance on the steep glacial pitches as you pierce your axes on the frozen crevasses and icy overhangs while strung to a harness, against a backdrop of towering Mt. Cook.
Navigate the blue landscape without worries as all the necessary technical gear and waterproof clothing will be provided for you to master ice climbing techniques.
Propel towards Fox Glacier Township in a heli-ride over the Southern Alps as you reflect on the vistas conquered amidst the untamed wilderness of Fox Glacier.

Inclusions #

Ice climbing at Fox Glacier
Expert mountaineering guide
Round-trip helicopter transfer
Socks & climbing boots
Crampons
Waterproof jacket & trousers
Gloves & hats
All technical & safety gear
Backpacks

Tip: Use ice tools and the front points of your crampons to climb overhanging ice walls and pinnacles and always keep your top rope attached to your harness.
Please note that guests must be very good in English in order to participate in this experience as the instructions will be given by the guide in English.
Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted to guests under the age of 13 years and weighing more than 116kg.
Large bags, and drones are not allowed.
A good fitness requirement is needed for this tour. Good fitness for this trip is a level of fitness sufficient to ascend and descend 1000m+ over 8 hours or more carrying a pack 12kg (26lb) or more over multiple days.
There is a 3kg limit per person for carry-on baggage.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

While New Zealand is full of scenic overlooks, nothing compares to exploring the ancient podocarp rainforest at Fox Glacier Valley on a guided E-bike and hiking tour.
Beginning in Fox Glacier Village, pedal along the cycleway before parking your e-bikes to ascend hills on foot in leather boots while your guide shares the region's finest tales.
Start a picturesque hike through lush foliage, passing Cone Rock and New Zealand’s largest active landslip, leading to the viewpoint of the Fox Glacier's terminal face.
You’re in for a day full of adventure with the necessary gear such as a helmet, boot, waterproof jacket, and backpack, to make your hike one to remember!

Inclusions #

Tour of Fox Glacier Valley
Expert guide
E-bike
Bike helmet
Leather boots
Waterproof jacket
Backpack

Tip: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. It's not uncommon to spot various bird species in the rainforest.
Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted to guests under the age of 13 years and weighing more than 116kg.
Large bags, and drones are not allowed.
A moderate level of fitness is required for this tour which is sufficient to ascend and descend 500-800m over 4-6 hours carrying a light pack of 10kg (22lb).
There is a 3 kg or 6.6 lbs limit per passenger for carry-on baggage.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Tip: When you snow land on Fox Glacier, do not miss out on creating insta-worthy reels of the Victoria Falls descending from the Victoria Glacier,
Selfie sticks and drones are not allowed on this experience.
Please avoid using iPads for photography during flights as they can obstruct views. Feel free to use phones, cameras, or GoPros instead.

Inclusions #

20-min Fox Glacier helicopter tour
Snow landing
Pilot guide
30-min Franz Josef & Fox Glacier helicopter tour (optional)
30-min Fox Glacier & Mt.Cook helicopter tour (optional)
40-min Glaciers, Mt.Cook & Mt.Tasman helicopter tour (optional)

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Fly over glaciers & mountains, land on snow, & soak in alpine views in one trip.

Everything you get: Enjoy a 20–minute helicopter flight over rainforests, mountains, and Franz Josef Glacier, ending with a snow landing for photos and short exploration. Includes live commentary from your pilot.
Why choose this: This helicopter tour lets you combine glacier views with lush rainforest valleys and rugged alpine peaks, plus a memorable snow landing — perfect for travellers wanting a shorter, highly scenic adventure with a mix of glacier and mountain landscapes.
Upgrades: Extend your flight to see both Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, or choose the longer aerial option to include panoramic views of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman for an even more spectacular glacier and mountain experience.

Inclusions #

20-min Franz Josef helicopter tour
Snow landing on Franz Josef
Pilot guide
30-min Franz Josef & Fox Glacier helicopter tour (as per option selected)
40-min Glaciers & Mt. Cook helicopter tour (as per option selected)

What to bring

Bring along your warm upper-body clothing (preferably 3-4 layers), leggings or light trousers, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

What's not allowed

Selfie sticks and drones are not allowed on this experience.
Please avoid using iPads for photography during flights as they can obstruct views. Feel free to use phones, cameras, or GoPros instead.
Jeans are not recommended for this experience as they become very heavy, cold and uncomfortable to wear when wet.

Additional information

Snow landings are subject to weather conditions and are at the pilot’s discretion.
Infants under 3 years weighing less than 15 kg will fly for free, sitting on an adult's lap. Infants under 3 years weighing above 15 kg must be charged at the child fare.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Bucket-list Fox Glacier heli-hike—fly in, land on the ice & explore on foot.

Everything you get: Enjoy a half-day heli-hike over Fox Glacier with round-trip helicopter flights and an expert-guided walk on the glacier ice, including specialist glacier gear such as boots, crampons and waterproof clothing, plus expert guidance throughout the experience.
Why choose this: This experience offers the perfect mix of aerial views and up-close exploration, letting you safely experience the ice formations and ever-changing beauty of Fox Glacier in just half a day.

Inclusions #

4-hour guided Fox Glacier hike
Round-trip helicopter ride
Expert mountaineering guide
Leather boots, crampons, hats, gloves & backpack
Waterproof jacket & overtrousers

What to bring

Bring along your warm upper-body clothing (preferably 3-4 layers), leggings or light trousers, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
You can also bring your own water bottle, drinks and snacks.

What's not allowed

Jeans are not recommended for this experience as they become very heavy, cold and uncomfortable to wear when wet.
This experience is restricted for guests under the age of 9 years and weighing more than 116kg.
Large bags and drones are not allowed.
There is a 3 kg limit per passenger for carry-on baggage.

Additional information

This experience requires a good fitness level, sufficient to ascend and descend 1000m+ over 8 hours or more carrying a pack 12kg.
In alpine conditions, rapid weather changes may occasionally prevent helicopter access to the ice with groups already present. In such instances, the tour operator will strive for safe access during weather breaks; if not feasible, emergency supplies (tents, sleeping bags, food) are available on the glacier. Guides are trained to set up campsites if overnight stays become necessary.
Leather boots, socks, crampons, walking poles, a waterproof jacket, overtrousers, and a backpack will be provided.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Full-day Fox Glacier adventure with round-trip helicopter flight & glacier hike.

Everything you get: Full-day guided heli-hike with round-trip helicopter flights and ground transport. Explore the glacier with expert guides, equipped with all gear including socks, climbing boots, crampons, gloves, hats, waterproof jacket, backpack, and over-trousers.
Why choose this: Experience Fox Glacier like few ever can — a full-day adventure with scenic helicopter flights, glacier landing, and guided ice exploration.

Inclusions #

Full-day tour of Fox Glacier
Round-trip helicopter ride
Expert guides
Ground transport
Socks, climbing boots, crampons, gloves & hats
Waterproof jacket, backpack & over trousers

What to bring

Bring along your warm, breathable base layers, suitable long pants for walking in (tracksuits and leggings are fine).
You can also bring your own water bottle, drinks, sunglasses, sunblock and snacks.

What's not allowed

Jeans are not recommended for this experience as they become very heavy, cold and uncomfortable to wear when wet.
Drones, valuables, portable chargers and spare batteries are not allowed on this experience.
This experience is restricted for guests above 116kg and under the age of 13.
There is a 3kg limit per person for carry-on baggage.

Additional information

Please note that guests must be very good in English in order to participate in this experience as the instructions will be given by the guide in English.
A good fitness requirement is needed for this tour. Good fitness for this trip is a level of fitness sufficient to ascend and descend 1000m+ over 8 hours or more carrying a pack 12kg (26lb) or more over multiple days.
A minimum of 2 guests are required for this tour.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Like intrepid explorers of old, get whisked away on a helicopter ride towards Fox Glacier donning your crampons and gear, as you prepare to climb the glistening glaciers.
You will master ice climbing with a low 1:4 guide-to-guest ratio, as you get instructions tailored to your skill level, whether you're a newcomer or an experienced climber.
Advance on the steep glacial pitches as you pierce your axes on the frozen crevasses and icy overhangs while strung to a harness, against a backdrop of towering Mt. Cook.
Navigate the blue landscape without worries as all the necessary technical gear and waterproof clothing will be provided for you to master ice climbing techniques.
Propel towards Fox Glacier Township in a heli-ride over the Southern Alps as you reflect on the vistas conquered amidst the untamed wilderness of Fox Glacier.

Inclusions #

Ice climbing at Fox Glacier
Expert mountaineering guide
Round-trip helicopter transfer
Socks & climbing boots
Crampons
Waterproof jacket & trousers
Gloves & hats
All technical & safety gear
Backpacks

Tip: Use ice tools and the front points of your crampons to climb overhanging ice walls and pinnacles and always keep your top rope attached to your harness.
Please note that guests must be very good in English in order to participate in this experience as the instructions will be given by the guide in English.
Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted to guests under the age of 13 years and weighing more than 116kg.
Large bags, and drones are not allowed.
A good fitness requirement is needed for this tour. Good fitness for this trip is a level of fitness sufficient to ascend and descend 1000m+ over 8 hours or more carrying a pack 12kg (26lb) or more over multiple days.
There is a 3kg limit per person for carry-on baggage.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

While New Zealand is full of scenic overlooks, nothing compares to exploring the ancient podocarp rainforest at Fox Glacier Valley on a guided E-bike and hiking tour.
Beginning in Fox Glacier Village, pedal along the cycleway before parking your e-bikes to ascend hills on foot in leather boots while your guide shares the region's finest tales.
Start a picturesque hike through lush foliage, passing Cone Rock and New Zealand’s largest active landslip, leading to the viewpoint of the Fox Glacier's terminal face.
You’re in for a day full of adventure with the necessary gear such as a helmet, boot, waterproof jacket, and backpack, to make your hike one to remember!

Inclusions #

Tour of Fox Glacier Valley
Expert guide
E-bike
Bike helmet
Leather boots
Waterproof jacket
Backpack

Tip: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. It's not uncommon to spot various bird species in the rainforest.
Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted to guests under the age of 13 years and weighing more than 116kg.
Large bags, and drones are not allowed.
A moderate level of fitness is required for this tour which is sufficient to ascend and descend 500-800m over 4-6 hours carrying a light pack of 10kg (22lb).
There is a 3 kg or 6.6 lbs limit per passenger for carry-on baggage.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Tip: When you snow land on Fox Glacier, do not miss out on creating insta-worthy reels of the Victoria Falls descending from the Victoria Glacier,
Selfie sticks and drones are not allowed on this experience.
Please avoid using iPads for photography during flights as they can obstruct views. Feel free to use phones, cameras, or GoPros instead.

Inclusions #

20-min Fox Glacier helicopter tour
Snow landing
Pilot guide
30-min Franz Josef & Fox Glacier helicopter tour (optional)
30-min Fox Glacier & Mt.Cook helicopter tour (optional)
40-min Glaciers, Mt.Cook & Mt.Tasman helicopter tour (optional)

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Helicopter Tours

From Franz Josef: Scenic Helicopter Flight Tour with Snow Landing

Fly over glaciers & mountains, land on snow, & soak in alpine views in one trip.

Everything you get: Enjoy a 20–minute helicopter flight over rainforests, mountains, and Franz Josef Glacier, ending with a snow landing for photos and short exploration. Includes live commentary from your pilot.
Why choose this: This helicopter tour lets you combine glacier views with lush rainforest valleys and rugged alpine peaks, plus a memorable snow landing — perfect for travellers wanting a shorter, highly scenic adventure with a mix of glacier and mountain landscapes.
Upgrades: Extend your flight to see both Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, or choose the longer aerial option to include panoramic views of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman for an even more spectacular glacier and mountain experience.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

20 min. - 40 min.

Helicopter Tours

From Fox Glacier: Expert Guided Heli-Hike Tour

Bucket-list Fox Glacier heli-hike—fly in, land on the ice & explore on foot.

Everything you get: Enjoy a half-day heli-hike over Fox Glacier with round-trip helicopter flights and an expert-guided walk on the glacier ice, including specialist glacier gear such as boots, crampons and waterproof clothing, plus expert guidance throughout the experience.
Why choose this: This experience offers the perfect mix of aerial views and up-close exploration, letting you safely experience the ice formations and ever-changing beauty of Fox Glacier in just half a day.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

4 hr.

Helicopter Tours

Full-Day Guided Fox Glacier Heli Hike Tour

Full-day Fox Glacier adventure with round-trip helicopter flight & glacier hike.

Everything you get: Full-day guided heli-hike with round-trip helicopter flights and ground transport. Explore the glacier with expert guides, equipped with all gear including socks, climbing boots, crampons, gloves, hats, waterproof jacket, backpack, and over-trousers.
Why choose this: Experience Fox Glacier like few ever can — a full-day adventure with scenic helicopter flights, glacier landing, and guided ice exploration.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

8 hr.

Guided tour

Climbing

Fox Glacier Heli Ice Climbing Experience

Like intrepid explorers of old, get whisked away on a helicopter ride towards Fox Glacier donning your crampons and gear, as you prepare to climb the glistening glaciers.
You will master ice climbing with a low 1:4 guide-to-guest ratio, as you get instructions tailored to your skill level, whether you're a newcomer or an experienced climber.
Advance on the steep glacial pitches as you pierce your axes on the frozen crevasses and icy overhangs while strung to a harness, against a backdrop of towering Mt. Cook.
Navigate the blue landscape without worries as all the necessary technical gear and waterproof clothing will be provided for you to master ice climbing techniques.
Propel towards Fox Glacier Township in a heli-ride over the Southern Alps as you reflect on the vistas conquered amidst the untamed wilderness of Fox Glacier.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

8 hr.

Transfers available

Walking Tours

Guided E-Bike & Hiking Tour of Fox Glacier Valley

While New Zealand is full of scenic overlooks, nothing compares to exploring the ancient podocarp rainforest at Fox Glacier Valley on a guided E-bike and hiking tour.
Beginning in Fox Glacier Village, pedal along the cycleway before parking your e-bikes to ascend hills on foot in leather boots while your guide shares the region's finest tales.
Start a picturesque hike through lush foliage, passing Cone Rock and New Zealand’s largest active landslip, leading to the viewpoint of the Fox Glacier's terminal face.
You’re in for a day full of adventure with the necessary gear such as a helmet, boot, waterproof jacket, and backpack, to make your hike one to remember!

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

4 hr.

Guided tour

Helicopter Tours

From Fox Glacier: Scenic Helicopter Flight Tour with Snow Landing

Tip: When you snow land on Fox Glacier, do not miss out on creating insta-worthy reels of the Victoria Falls descending from the Victoria Glacier,
Selfie sticks and drones are not allowed on this experience.
Please avoid using iPads for photography during flights as they can obstruct views. Feel free to use phones, cameras, or GoPros instead.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

20 min. - 40 min.

From happy customers

Experience New Zealand's pristine charm at Franz Josef Glacier

Navigate your Franz Josef Glacier tours guide

Top reasons to go on a Franz Josef Glacier tour

Tour a World Heritage Site

Watch nature in action

Heli-hike on a glacier

Staycation haven

All your Franz Josef Glacier tour options

Helicopter tours

Heli-hike tours

Heli-hike vs helicopter tours: Which one should you book?

Franz Josef vs Fox Glacier: Choosing the best heli-hike tour

What to expect on your Franz Josef Glacier tour

Stunning aerial views of the Southern Alps

Best time to go on a Franz Josef Glacier tour

Helicopter tours

Heli-hike tours

Visitor tips to help plan your Franz Josef Glacier tour

Other things to explore nearby

Skydive in Franz Josef

Explore Fox Glacier valley

Trek through Tatare Tunnels

Visit the lakes of Glacier Country

Frequently asked questions about Franz Josef Glacier tours

What are the different types of Franz Josef Glacier tours available?

What is the difference between a helicopter tour and a heli-hike?

How expensive is the Franz Josef Glacier tour?

Which glacier should I choose for my heli-hike tour?

What can I expect on a helicopter tour?

Can you see the glacier without the tour?

Is it worth going on a glacier heli-hike?

Are there any age restrictions for the Franz Josef heli-hike?

Are there any weight restrictions for the heli-hike?

How hard is the Franz Josef Glacier heli-hike?

What else can I do at Franz Josef Glacier?

What is the best time to go on a Franz Josef Glacier tour?

What to bring

What's not allowed

Additional information

What to bring

What's not allowed

Additional information

What to bring

What's not allowed

Additional information

What to bring

What's not allowed

Additional information

What to bring

What's not allowed

Additional information

What to bring

What's not allowed

Additional information

From Franz Josef: Scenic Helicopter Flight Tour with Snow Landing

From Fox Glacier: Expert Guided Heli-Hike Tour

Full-Day Guided Fox Glacier Heli Hike Tour

Fox Glacier Heli Ice Climbing Experience

Guided E-Bike & Hiking Tour of Fox Glacier Valley

From Fox Glacier: Scenic Helicopter Flight Tour with Snow Landing