New Zealand · FRANZ JOSEF & FOX GLACIER TOURS

The 15 Best Franz Josef & Fox Glacier Tours

22 tours  ·  from $65 a head

The ice has retreated past walking distance, so getting onto it means a helicopter. These 15 compare heli-hikes, flightseeing and the valley walks, priced, with the weather cancellation rates spelled out.

Franz Josef Glacier: Helicopter Flight & Alpine Landing - From 10 Main Road to the helicopter
Franz Josef & Fox Glacier Tours, Helicopter Tours, Scenic Helicopter Flights, Scenic Helicopter Flights in Franz Josef, Tour Reviews, Tours in Franz Josef

Franz Josef Glacier: Helicopter Flight & Alpine Landing

1.Franz Josef Glacier: Helicopter Flight & Alpine Landing

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 619 reviews · 25 min · from $230Our pick

Take a 25-minute helicopter flight from Franz Josef over glacier crevasses and ice pinnacles, with guided commentary through your headset. The flight includes a 10-minute snow landing, or an alpine landing in summer when snow is absent. Pilots such as Mike, Poppy, Mark, and Sam have been praised for clear commentary, but weather can cancel the route.

“This was one of the highlights of our 4 week trip to New Zealand, well organised and a fabulous experience. We got a call a day or two before to move our flight to an earlier time as the weather would be better and it certainly was. 25 min flight including plenty of time on the top to have photos hear some commentary from the pilot any so snow angels in the snow. Absolutely brilliant and highly recommend”

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Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike - The 10-minute helicopter flight
Franz Josef & Fox Glacier Tours, Hiking & Trekking, Scenic Helicopter Flights, Scenic Helicopter Flights in Franz Josef, Tour Reviews, Tours in Franz Josef

Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike

2.Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 618 reviews · from $506

Fly from Franz Josef village to the glacier, then spend about 2 hours 15 minutes walking among crevasses, ice caves, pinnacles, and seracs with a small group. Guides such as Sarah, Maya, Angus, and Abby combine glacier science with Maori stories. Gear is supplied, but you need good fitness and flexible plans for weather.

“Absolutely loved this trip. From start to finish so well organised. Our tour guides Tom and Hannah were great and kept us all safe. Very knowledgeable. Would definitely do this experience again! Thank you”

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Heli Hike Fox Glacier - Fox Glacier Guiding at 44 Main Road
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Heli Hike Fox Glacier

3.Heli Hike Fox Glacier

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 563 reviews · from $477Top rated

Fly by helicopter from Fox Glacier onto Te Moeka o Tuawe, then spend up to three hours walking through ice caves, crevasses, arches, and blue ice. Guides such as Charlie, Serena, Henry, and Billy lead the route and cut fresh steps as the glacier changes. Gear is supplied, but warm layers, balance, and flexible plans are essential.

“It is spectacular, we had an amazing experience. Would absolutely recommend and do it again! I normally get motion sickness, but was completely fine on the helicopter ride. I felt very safe the entire time and really enjoyed the heli ride and the hike. Make sure you dress warm and you’ll love it! They provide wet weather gear, shoes, crampons - they are very organised and the quality is excellent. The staff are all amazing, cannot recommend this experience and guiding company more highly.”

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Franz Josef: 35min Helicopter Trip over Two Glaciers - First views: rainforest, rivers, and Franz Josef Glacier
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Franz Josef: 35min Helicopter Trip over Two Glaciers

4.35min Helicopter Trip over Two Glaciers

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 451 reviews · 35 min · from $289

You’ll fly with Glacier Country Helicopters over Franz Josef and either Fox or Tasman Glacier, with live commentary from your pilot and a 10-minute snow landing. Pilots including Mike, Poppy, Mark, and Gus have been praised for calm flying and clear local insight. Routes and landings depend on weather.

“Amazing Glacier landing - don't miss out on a lifetime experience!”

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Small-Group Kayak Adventure from Franz Josef Glacier - Entering the rainforest and kiwi conservation area
Canoes & Kayaks, Franz Josef & Fox Glacier Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours in Franz Josef

Small-Group Kayak Adventure from Franz Josef Glacier

5.Small-Group Kayak Adventure from Franz Josef Glacier

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 393 reviews · from $92

Spend about three hours kayaking Lake Mapourika with a local guide such as Max, Ollie, or Dani. Expect calm water, rainforest, native birds, conservation stories, and possible views of the Southern Alps. Kayaks, safety gear, transport, instruction, and digital photos are included.

“Danny was our guide, she is wonderful. The kayak was one of the best that we have done in years. We have done a few but this one was unique. It was raining that day a I thought this was not going to be good, but then the water is warmer and as we reached the mirror river, things began to clear up, and it was so calm and beautiful. Because of the rain, the chopper were not flying so it was clam, quiet and beautiful. It was memorable. Thank you Dani for this experience.”

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Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch - The early start through Canterbury
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Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch

6.Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 353 reviews · from $155

Travel from Christchurch to Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki, and Aoraki Mount Cook National Park in a small group of up to 20. Your guide handles the long drive, commentary, snacks, and photo stops, while you choose how to spend free time near the Tasman Glacier. Anuj and AJ are among the guides named in guest feedback.

“Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki were absolutely breathtaking. Clear skies, turquoise waters, and perfect reflections. Each stop offered peaceful surroundings and incredible photo opportunities. The beauty of these lakes was unforgettable. Mount Cook and the Tasman Glacier were a different experience. The weather was cloudy, giving the mountains a dramatic, moody atmosphere. Even so, the scenery was impressive, and the glacier views were truly memorable. Our guide was excellent: knowledgeable, friendly, and made the whole journey even more enjoyable. He offered us so many snacks!! The drive itself was a highlight, with stunning landscapes unfolding at every turn. Overall, a fantastic experience ...”

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Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers Helicopter Flight & Snow Landing - Seeing Fox and Franz Josef from above
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Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers Helicopter Flight & Snow Landing

7.Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers Helicopter Flight & Snow Landing

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 342 reviews · 35 min · from $289

From Franz Josef township, fly above Fox and Franz Josef glaciers with an English-speaking pilot, then land on the snow for photos and mountain views. The flight lasts about 30 minutes, with 35 minutes total for check-in, flight, and landing. Weather can change the route, so keep your schedule flexible.

“the setup was excellent, the staff welcoming and knowledgeable and made the experience so enjoyable”

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Pilot’s Choice: 2 Glaciers & Snow Landing – 35min - The second glacier is the pilot’s choice
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Pilot’s Choice: 2 Glaciers & Snow Landing – 35min

8.Pilot’s Choice: 2 Glaciers & Snow Landing – 35min

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 336 reviews · from $300

Fly from Franz Josef over Franz Josef Glacier and, conditions permitting, Fox or Tasman Glacier. Your pilot chooses the route and snow landing site, with about 10 minutes on the ice for photos. Pilots such as Gus, Mike, Mark, Aaron, and Eddy are praised for clear commentary. Allow about 1 hour 20 minutes in all.

“The company has been very proactive in informing guests of flight probabilities as impacted by impending weather. Communication was excellent and there was a high degree of flexibility in adapting flight schedules according to customers’ needs and weather.”

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Franz Josef: 2.5 Hour Glacier Hike with Helicopter Transfer - The four-minute flight is short, but scenic
Airport Transfers, Franz Josef & Fox Glacier Tours, Helicopter Tours, Hiking & Trekking, Scenic Helicopter Flights, Scenic Helicopter Flights in Franz Josef, Tour Reviews, Tours in Franz Josef

Franz Josef: 2.5 Hour Glacier Hike with Helicopter Transfer

9.2.5 Hour Glacier Hike with Helicopter Transfer

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 322 reviews · 4 - 8 hours · from $475

Fly from Franz Josef town to the ice, then spend about 2.5 hours hiking across changing glacier terrain with a trained English-speaking guide. Expect crevasses, blue ice, ropes, and possible ice caves. Guides such as Ryan, Sarah, Abbey, and Tom add local stories and glaciology, while all key gear is provided.

“After a rain out before the day began, them a second rain out after we arrived the next day for attempt 2, the third time was the charm for us, though sadly our hike was cut short again due to weather. However the helicopter rides were smooth, the views gorgeous, and the hiking an absolute blast for all ages. Rosa, our guide, was excellent.”

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Fox Glacier: Up to 3 Hours Hike with Helicopter Transfer - From 44 Main Road to the glacier
3-Hour Experiences, Airport Transfers, Franz Josef & Fox Glacier Tours, Helicopter Tours, Hiking & Trekking, Scenic Helicopter Flights, Scenic Helicopter Flights in Franz Josef, Tour Reviews, Tours in Franz Josef

Fox Glacier: Up to 3 Hours Hike with Helicopter Transfer

10.Fox Glacier: Up to 3 Hours Hike with Helicopter Transfer

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 309 reviews · 4 hours · from $448

Fly onto Fox Glacier, fit crampons, and follow a local guide through ice caves, arches, crevasses, and meltwater channels for up to three hours. Guides such as Kate, Billy, Keeley, and Toa are praised for clear glacier explanations and steady support. Weather controls the schedule, so book early in your Fox Glacier stay.

“The Heli-Hiking was the highlight of our New Zealand vacation and truly one of the best experiences in my life ! Definitely a Must Do in any trip to New Zealand. You get insights into the life of the glacier, see characteristic elements of the compression zone and have the opportunity to take marvelous pictures. Our guide Kate was awesome! She was highly motivated, enthusiastic and extremely qualified even though being quite young - made it even more impressive ! Don’t miss this experience, it’s amazing !”

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Mt Cook & Tasman Glacier lookout Small Group Tour from Queenstown - Leaving Queenstown through Kawarau Gorge
Franz Josef & Fox Glacier Tours, Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Mount Cook

Mt Cook & Tasman Glacier lookout Small Group Tour from Queenstown

11.Mt Cook & Tasman Glacier lookout Small Group Tour from Queenstown

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 296 reviews · from $164

Travel from Queenstown to Aoraki Mount Cook in a small group of up to 15, with guides such as Felix, Lynette, Jason, and Mairi sharing local stories along the way. Expect Lindis Pass, Lake Pukaki, the Tasman Glacier viewpoint walk, salmon tasting, and seasonal fruit or ice cream stops.

“Jason was very good. I like the trip very much. Good if you’re a foodie and like short hikes with good views.”

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Off Road Quad Bike Adventure Tour in Franz Josef - The briefing and practice ride
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Off Road Quad Bike Adventure Tour in Franz Josef

12.Off Road Quad Bike Adventure Tour in Franz Josef

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 285 reviews · from $105

Spend about two hours riding a quad bike, buggy, or double quad through rainforest, shallow rivers, and an old glacier riverbed near Franz Josef. Guides such as Jason, Brooklyn, Benji, and Justin teach beginners, split riders by ability, share Māori legends, and may capture free photos for you.

“It was a great afternoon. While with the money. Recommended for anyone. It's was a funny afternoon. Would do it again”

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Mount Cook: Ski Plane and Helicopter Glacier Combo Flight - What the ski plane adds
Franz Josef & Fox Glacier Tours, Helicopter Tours, Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Tours, Scenic Helicopter Flights, Scenic Helicopter Flights in Mount Cook, Skiing, Tour Reviews, Tours in Mount Cook

Mount Cook: Ski Plane and Helicopter Glacier Combo Flight

13.Ski Plane and Helicopter Glacier Combo Flight

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 271 reviews · 45 min · from $328

Take a ski plane and helicopter over Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, flying up the Tasman Valley to the Tasman Glacier. Land on the upper snowfields, step into the alpine silence, then return to Mount Cook Airport by the other aircraft. Pilots provide English commentary, with weather-based changes possible.

“Amazing, once in a lifetime experience. Inflite Mt Cook were so easy to deal with & our pilot Ben was awesome - thanks guys.”

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Mount Cook: 3-Hour Tasman Glacier Helicopter Ride and Hike - Starting at Mount Cook Airport
3-Hour Experiences, Franz Josef & Fox Glacier Tours, Helicopter Tours, Hiking & Trekking, Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Tours, Scenic Helicopter Flights, Scenic Helicopter Flights in Mount Cook, Tour Reviews, Tours in Mount Cook

Mount Cook: 3-Hour Tasman Glacier Helicopter Ride and Hike

14.3-Hour Tasman Glacier Helicopter Ride and Hike

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 235 reviews · 3 hours · from $537

Fly from Mount Cook Airport to a remote Tasman Glacier landing, then spend up to two hours walking through ice caves, moulins, and changing blue ice with a trained guide. Leather boots, socks, crampons, poles, and jackets are supplied. Guides such as Hunter, Anna, and Tori are praised for safety and photos. Weather controls the schedule.

“Well organised, everyone had a view either there or back. Guide was knowledgeable and the scenery spectacular”

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Mount Cook: 3 Hour Heli Hike to the Tasman Glacier - Check-in at Mount Cook Airport
3-Hour Experiences, Franz Josef & Fox Glacier Tours, Hiking & Trekking, Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Tours, Scenic Helicopter Flights, Scenic Helicopter Flights in Mount Cook, Tour Reviews, Tours in Mount Cook

Mount Cook: 3 Hour Heli Hike to the Tasman Glacier

15.3 Hour Heli Hike to the Tasman Glacier

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 218 reviews · 3 hours · from $564

Fly from Mount Cook Airport over Tasman Glacier Lake, land on the ice, and spend two hours hiking with a professional guide. You’ll wear glacier boots and crampons, explore changing ice formations, and fly near Aoraki’s 1,000-meter Hochstetter Icefall on the return. Small groups are limited to 10.

“Scott the guide was amazing, ton of knowledge and fun, he also was a professional guide and photographer at the same time. The crew was also excellent fast check-in and provided very clear instruction Very worth of money”

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New in Franz Josef & Fox Glacier Tours

★ 4.8Tasman Glacier & National Park Scenic FlightFrom $37920 reviews

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Scenic Helicopter Flights34Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Tours19Hiking & Trekking35National Parks15
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