Franz Josef Glacier Guides

Our guided trips provide exclusive access to the glacier under the careful watch of our award-winning guiding team. We offer a range of glacier hiking trips and experiences that will allow you to see ice formations firsthand, with options for all levels of adventurers.

Take in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, capture stunning memories, and seize the opportunity to learn more about this magnificent ice giant. A unique adventure that will almost certainly be your most memorable New Zealand experience.

Heli Hike

Your experience combines a short, exhilarating helicopter ride, jaw-dropping scenery and a two- and half-hour hike through the most spectacular glacier features.

It's no wonder our guests often label their Glacier Heli Hike as the highlight of their visit to Aotearoa (New Zealand).

Franz Josef Glacier is the fastest moving commercially guided glacier in the world. As a result, its features are constantly changing and no two trips are ever quite the same. You might find yourself sliding through narrow crevasses, navigating between staggering ice towers, squeezing through ice caves or if you are lucky, all three!

Glacier Encounter

Short on time but want to have a real glacier experience? This experience is for you. Fly high on a stunning scenic helicopter flight, taking in views from the Southern Alps to the Tasman Sea. With exclusive landing rights onto the hard ice of the Franz Josef Glacier, you will get 15 minutes to take in your surroundings with a glacier guide to answer all your questions and take some epic photos. No special gear needed, and all abilities and most ages.

Glacier Heli Hike This world-renowned Glacier Heli Hike is not to be missed. Departing multiple times a day, from early morning to afternoon. Explore the Franz Glacier with an exhilarating scenic helicopter transfer onto the ice, and begin your two and a half hour hike exploring the wonder of the glacier with your highly knowledgeable Glacier Guides. Suitable for moderate abilities, and all gear is included.

Glacier Ice Climb

The Heli Ice Climb trip is designed with the most curious explorer at its core. With 5.5 hours on the ice with one of our most expert guides, you can climb and hike at your own pace. Small tailored groups, all the technical gear provided, and it doesn’t matter if you are a novice or expert – we will ensure an epic day on ice and happy to give all training required! Test yourself today with this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Glacier Adventure

The Glacier Adventure is perfect for those seeking a unique and bespoke experience. With a longer scenic flight, lunch and drinks included, you’ll spend more time on the glacier, exploring exclusive trails and glacial features with one of our expert guides. Traverse the Franz Josef Glacier from one side to the other, going where no-one else has been before in this unforgettable experience. Expect to see the best ice-formations and deepest crevasse the glacier has to offer, and why not attempt an abseil or ice climb while your there!

Glacier Overnighter

Immerse yourself in an unforgettable blend of adventure, luxury, and nature’s wonders with this exclusive experience that takes you deep into the heart of Ka Roimata O Hine Hukatere.

Enjoy a scenic flight and afternoon exploring the glacier’s pristine landscape before heading to your camp, where your guide will set up your alpine tent and prepare a delicious dinner while you watch the sun set over the Tasman Sea and enjoy a stargazing experience under some of the clearest skies in the world. A two night experience with stay at Te Waonui Forest Retreat included, the ultimate way to experience the Franz Josef Glacier.