Franz Josef Glacier Tours






























































From happy customers

Loved by 35 million+
Aditi Kumar
QA

Aditi

Qatar
Mar 2025
5/5
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There were road closures and we were not going to make it on time to Franz Josef. We called them and they rescheduled our trip to next day. Thank fully there was an open spot. It is recommended to book the ride for the day you reach Franz Josef so that u have some flexibility in can of any issues. Smooth check in and a memorable trip. We took 1 glacier 20 min ride. The pilot was excellent and took pictures for us .. we stopped for a good 7 mins even though it was supposed to be a 2 min stop. Definitely worth the money.
Denise Fall
GB

Denise

United Kingdom
Mar 2025
5/5
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The Franz Josef / Fox Glacier helicopter tour has honesyly been the best experience of our 4 week holiday. The booking was easy & confirmed quickly,, location was easy to find, booking in & safety talk was enjoyable, everything just flowed , all customer advisers were knowledgaeble & reassuring, pilot was phenomenal & truly made this whole experience wonderful. The scenery is jaw droppingly beautiful, really takes your breath away - as does so much in NZ. However this trip was so humbling & peaceful , it truly has been the cherry on the trifle ♥️
Rohan Ingalgaonkar
AU

Rohan

Australia
Nov 2024
5/5
I booked the HeliHike in Franz Josef through Headout. Unfortunately, the hike had to be cancelled due to bad weather, but they offered an amazing 15-minute scenic helicopter ride with a snow landing instead. The views were stunning! Headout was also very prompt in refunding the partial amount for the cancelled hike, which I really appreciated. While it was disappointing the hike couldn’t happen, the experience was still fantastic, and the service through Headout was excellent. Highly recommend!
Carmen Vera Rodrigues de Souza
BR

Carmen

Brazil
Oct 2024
5/5
An incredible experience. In addition to the lush nature, which I already knew from the photos, the great difference was the staff. From the day of the cancellation due to the weather, the kindness and security that the attendant provided when rescheduling for the next day. Everyone was very engaged, the reception, safety instructions, the pilot, absolutely everyone. The highlight was the professionalism of Rosa, and the other guide who was with her, who I couldn't spell her name. She cared about everyone the whole way, more than being kind and fun, she showed great experience in being a guide, she was a true leader. Without her I would never have been able to complete the trail, she literally held my hand. It was clear that Rosa really knows what she does, and loves what she does. She expresses this passion in every gesture.
Tilo Hellinger
DE

Tilo

Germany
Dec 2024
4/5
The Heli flight (unfortunately very short) was fantastic. The guide was funny and friendly. But we spent most of der time in small area of the glacier - just on a altitude of 700 m - lots of talks and doing ice holes crossing again and again. We expected more ice walking, hiking and seeing more of the glacier including the upper part. The price - performance ratio was not what we expected. You should offer more options for people, who are used to mountains and have experience. At least you should better inform, about the things in advance.
Headout Guest

Headout Guest

Sep 2024
5/5
An amazing trip. The company has twin objectives of safety and providing an experience to stay with you for a lifetime. We’re an older couple and coped well. Stretch was a great guide - and very tall! The company offers a no questions asked if you arrive and realise there is a chance of not being able to be airlifted from the glacier that day. Bear in mind that this trip is weather dependent. Play it safe and spend an extra night in either Fox or Franz Josef townships.
Headout Guest

Headout Guest

Nov 2024
5/5
Absolutely outstanding & a must do. Every staff member was exceptional. And this experience I feel is a must do. We were incredibly lucky with the weather. This goes down as one of the experiences I’ve lived to date. Chris and Dee you are awesome
Headout Guest

Headout Guest

Nov 2024
5/5
I wish I could give more than five Stars. Our helicopter departed from Franz Josef early in the morning before the clouds rolled in. It was a perfectly clear sky. We flew around Mt. Cook, Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier and did a snow landing. The ride was smooth and the views were spectacular. I strongly encourage everyone to take the Grand Tour.

Get 360-degree glacial views on a Franz Josef Glacier helicopter tour!  

Soar above Franz Josef Glacier and find yourself smack in the middle of the beauty of New Zealand's Southern Alps. On a guided helicopter tour, you'll glide over the glacier's blue icy expanse, with views of lush rainforests and towering peaks – like Mt. Tasman and Mt. Cook! As your pilot shares local legends of Te Wähipounamu, you'll experience the magic of this World Heritage Site firsthand.

Why take a helicopter tour of Franz Josef Glacier?

Franz Josef Heli-Tour
Franz Josef Heli-Tour
Franz Josef Heli-Tour
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Unparalleled views of Franz Josef Glacier

Glide over the rugged landscape of Franz Josef Glacier, where the icy blue crevasses meet lush green rainforests. From the sky, you'll get an expansive view of this glacier, which is a rare sight, as it's one of the few that descends into a rainforest. If you’ve never seen a glacier before, prepare to have your mind blown!

Experience a snow landing on the glacier

Land directly on the glacier, where the ice is pristine, untouched, and surreal. The thrill of stepping out onto the ice, surrounded by towering ice cliffs and frozen pinnacles, is an experience you won’t forget. Feel the crisp air and hear the crunch of snow underfoot as you explore a landscape that few get to walk on.

Expert guided tours

Your pilot, a seasoned guide, provides live commentary as you fly. Hear about the glacier’s fascinating history, its significance to the local Māori people, and the geological forces that have shaped this icy marvel over thousands of years.

Exclusive views of the Southern Alps

Beyond the glacier, the tour offers views of New Zealand’s highest peaks, including Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. These towering giants of the Southern Alps are stunning to see, their snow-capped summits piercing the sky. Keep your eyes peeled and ask about these mountains as you spot them, for an extra tidbit of history!

Your Franz Josef Glacier helicopter tour options explained

Franz Josef Heli-Tour

Starting point: Franz Josef Glacier
Duration: 20 minutes (upgrade to 30/40 minutes)

Get a 360-degree view of the Franz Josef Glacier on this 20-minute helicopter tour, complete with detailed commentary from the pilot. You can upgrade your experience (for a nominal cost) to a 30 or 40 minute tour as well – with extra views of Mt. Tasman, Mt. Cook, Franz Josef & Fox Glacier!

Recommended experience: 

Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Tour

Plan your visit to the Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Heli-Tour

A helicopter tour of the Franz Josef Glacier lasts about 20-50 minutes, depending on the experience you choose. We’d recommend choosing the longer ones for a more interactive and educational experience!

Best time to visit the glacier: The best time to visit Franz Josef Glacier is during winter (June to August) for fewer crowds, stable weather, and enhanced blue ice features. But if you like warmer weather and don’t mind the crowds, summer (December to February) is perfect!

  • Address: Franz Josef Glacier, Westland Tai Poutini National Park, New Zealand 
    Find on map
  • InterCity Bus: Daily services from Christchurch, Queenstown, and Greymouth. The journey takes 5-8 hours depending on the starting point.  
  • By car: Drive via State Highway 6, with ample parking available near the glacier. It’s a scenic 5-6 hour drive from Christchurch.
  • By train: Take the TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Greymouth, then transfer to a bus or shuttle service to Franz Josef Glacier.
  • By taxi: Taxis are available but can be expensive. Best for groups or travelers with heavy luggage.
Franz Josef Heli-Tour
  • Ski-chair: Enables mobility on the glacier after landing.
  • Modified helicopter: Accommodates a ski-chair with a ski basket.
  • Assistance from staff: For transfers to and from the helicopter.
  • Weight limit: 95kg for those needing help boarding.
  • Accessible bathroom: Available at the Helicopter Line office.
  • Storage: For wheelchairs during the flight.
Franz Josef Heli-Tour
  • Warm, breathable base layers: Preferably made of merino wool or polypropylene.
  • Suitable long pants: Avoid jeans; opt for tracksuits or leggings.
  • Sunglasses: Essential for protecting your eyes from the intense glare off the ice.
  • Sunblock: Even in colder climates, UV exposure can be high.
  • Warm hat and gloves: If you prefer your own over the provided gear.
Franz Josef Heli-Tour
  • Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier: A popular 4-star hotel with mountain views and flexible room options.
  • Franz Josef Oasis: A luxury boutique hotel offering ground-floor rooms with stunning mountain and forest views.
  • Alpine Glacier Motel: Provides cozy self-contained units with views of the glacier and surrounding mountains.
  • Rainforest Retreat: Offers a range of accommodations from budget to luxury amidst lush rainforest.
  • The Terrace: Centrally located with spacious rooms and close proximity to local attractions.
  • Glacier View Motel: Self-catering units with beautiful views of the glacier and surrounding landscape.
  • Chateau Backpackers & Motels: A budget-friendly option with communal facilities and a friendly atmosphere​. 

Weather and safety at Franz Josef Glacier

  • The Franz Josef Glacier area gets a lot of rain, which can make conditions slippery. Wear waterproof gear and be aware of strong winds that can make it feel colder.
  • Temperatures can drop quickly. Dress in layers: moisture-wicking base layers, an insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Bring a warm hat and gloves.
  • Check sites like MetService for real-time updates on temperature changes. Watch for shifts in precipitation and wind speed, as these can affect your plans.
  • Ice can make the glacier terrain hazardous. Wear sturdy, grippy footwear. If you're hiking or climbing, use crampons and an ice ax, and always go with a certified guide.

Frequently asked questions about Franz Josef Glacier helicopter tours

Is it safe to take a helicopter tour of Franz Josef Glacier?

Helicopter tours of Franz Josef Glacier are operated by experienced pilots who are familiar with the terrain and weather conditions. Safety briefings are provided before the flight, and the helicopters are equipped with modern safety features.

How long does a helicopter tour last?

Helicopter tours typically last 20, 30, or 40 minutes, depending on the experience you choose. These tours include breathtaking views of the glacier, the Southern Alps, and sometimes even snow landings.

Is the glacier accessible year-round?

Franz Josef Glacier is accessible year-round, but weather conditions can affect access to certain areas. We’d recommend checking weather updates and trail conditions before visiting.

What should I wear for a helicopter tour of Franz Josef Glacier?

We’d recommend wearing warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy hiking shoes. Weather can change rapidly, so make sure to layer up!

Can I visit both Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers in one day?

Yes, you can visit both glaciers in one day as they are only about a 30-minute drive apart. However, to fully experience both glaciers, we’d recommend spending at least an hour or two at each location.

Can I walk to Franz Josef Glacier?

Yes, there are walking tracks that lead to viewing points for the glacier. The main track is about a 5 km round trip and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete.

Franz Josef Glacier Tours
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