Adventure

Franz Josef: Franz Josef Glacier Lookout Guided Walk

Adventure

Franz Josef: Franz Josef Glacier Lookout Guided Walk

Likely to sell out

From US$ 56.27 per person

Likely to sell out

Visit the world-famous Franz Josef Glacier valley and walk through glacial rainforest, with waterfalls, rivers, and mountain views. Discover the local nature and Maori legends with a local guide.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
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Covid-19 precautions
Special health and safety measures are in place. Check your activity voucher once you book for full details.
Duration 3 hours
Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide
English
Pickup included
Pickup is available in Franz Josef Glacier township only. Please wait in the main reception area of your hotel.
Small group
Limited to 10 participants

Experience

Highlights
  • Take in panoramic views of the Franz Josef Glacier
  • Learn about the geology of the area and how the glacier was formed
  • Walkthrough picturesque creeks and discover hidden waterfalls
  • See the rich and diverse flora and fauna found in the tepid rainforest
Full description
Enjoy a relaxing small-group walking tour in the glacier valley to view the Franz Josef Glacier with an experienced local guide where you will learn about glaciers and the local nature, history, local stories & Maori legends. Get picked up from your accommodation and drive to the glacier carpark to begin your guided tour. Stroll through the tepid rainforest full of creeks, beautiful flora, fauna, and native trees. Discover hidden gems such as native snails, mushrooms, orchids, and birds, waterfalls & glowworms. During the walk, enjoy a cup of tea with a view, listen to the songs of the forest birds & chat with your guide.
Includes
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Use of walking poles (if required)
  • Use of rain gear (if required)
  • Use of walking boots (if required)
  • Walking on the Franz Josef Glacier
  • Touching the ice/glacier
  • Lunch
Not suitable for
  • People with mobility impairments
  • Wheelchair users

Select participants and date

Participants

Date

Important information

What to bring

  • Warm clothing
  • Hiking shoes
  • Water

Not allowed

  • Sandals or flip flops
  • Drones
  • Boots

Know before you go

  • This tour will take place rain or shine
Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.8 /5

based on 19 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    5/5
  • Transportation
    4.7/5
  • Value for money
    4.7/5
  • Service
    5/5

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Star rating:

This walk was different to what we expected. We thought that we would be closer to the glacier, but were not disappointed as our guide Kath was very well informed regarding all aspects of the landscape and vegetation. She took us into areas that tourists without a guide were unable to go. Our safety was a priority. A big thanks to Kath and the company.

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March 29, 2023

Had a great time. Fun walking off the main trails. Our guide, Sophie was friendly, knowledgeable, pointing out interesting things we would never have noticed and always pointed out where to step when on rocky/stoney areas so we were safe too. I didn't realise it was no longer possible to walk closer to the glacier though. Still had a good time.

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March 29, 2023

We first visited Franz Josef in 2009 and were able to climb the glacier from the bottom. It has changed so much. As we now have youngish kids, we didn’t want to do a helicopter flight and instead opted for a guided walk of the surrounding area. Our guide, Cliff was interesting, engaging, funny and relatable. He welcomed us and invited us to really explore his environment. We were able to touch the plantlife, water and chuck rocks in the river (kids favourite bit) and were properly emerged. Cliff knew his stuff. We asked all sorts of questions and he didn’t make us feel silly or ignorant. His knowledge of the local folklore and the conservation work performed in the area and his family’s contribution was interesting and commendable. We will 100% recommend his company to our traveller friends and anyone else who wants to listen. Thank you for a memorable experience. We’ll see you again in another 10 years.

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March 29, 2023

Product ID: 387909