Discover the Majestic Franz Josef Glacier
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef Glacier, a must-visit destination in New Zealand's stunning West Coast.
Franz Josef Glacier, a stunning natural wonder in New Zealand's West Coast, offers breathtaking views and a unique experience for adventurous tourists. Explore this magnificent glacier and immerse yourself in its beauty amidst lush rainforests and towering mountains.
A brief summary to Franz Josef Glacier
- West Coast, NZ
Local tips
- Book your glacier tours in advance during peak seasons to secure your spot.
- Dress in layers and bring waterproof gear as weather conditions can change quickly.
- Take a guided tour for the best insights and safety when exploring the glacier.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning views of the glacier and surrounding mountains.
Getting There
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Car
From Fox Glacier, head north on State Highway 6 (SH6). The drive to Franz Josef Glacier is approximately 25 kilometers and will take around 30 minutes. Follow the signs to Franz Josef Glacier. The road is well-maintained, and you will enjoy scenic views of the surrounding mountains and rainforest along the way. Upon arrival, there are several parking areas near the glacier access points. Parking fees may apply, so ensure you have some cash or a card ready.
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Public Transportation
If you prefer public transport, check the local bus services that operate between Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier. Services like the 'Franz Josef Glacier Shuttle' run regularly and provide a convenient option for travelers. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. You can purchase tickets at the Fox Glacier visitor center or online in advance. Be sure to confirm the schedule as it may vary seasonally.
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Walking
For those who are adventurous and fit, you can also walk from Fox Glacier to Franz Josef Glacier. The walk is about 25 kilometers and will take approximately 6 hours one way. Start at the Fox Glacier township and follow the signs leading towards the glacier. Ensure you wear proper hiking shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks. This option is not recommended for those who are not accustomed to long walks, and it’s essential to check the weather conditions before you set off.
Discover more about Franz Josef Glacier
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Glacier Country Heliport Car Park
8.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef with convenient access to glacier adventures from Glacier Country Heliport Car Park, your gateway to stunning landscapes.
Victoria Falls
8.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and thrilling adventures at Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Empress Hut
15.8 km
Discover the tranquility and breathtaking beauty of Empress Hut in Aoraki-Mount Cook National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and hikers.
Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak
16.9 km
Discover the majestic Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak, New Zealand's highest mountain, a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Ball Hut
18.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Ball Hut in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park—your perfect mountain retreat amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Copland Shelter
22.7 km
Discover the serenity of Copland Shelter, a mountain retreat in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, perfect for nature lovers and hikers seeking adventure.
Hooker Lake
24.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Hooker Lake, a glacial gem nestled in Mount Cook National Park, offering stunning views and serene adventures.
Douglas Rock Hut
25.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Douglas Rock Hut, your perfect lodge in Westland Tai Poutini National Park for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
Tasman Glacier Car Park
26.5 km
Discover the stunning Tasman Glacier Car Park in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, your gateway to breathtaking glacier views and unforgettable hiking adventures.
Sefton Bivouac
26.8 km
Discover Sefton Bivouac in Aoraki-Mount Cook National Park, a serene mountain cabin perfect for hikers seeking adventure and breathtaking alpine views.
The Second Swing Bridge
28.1 km
Discover the scenic beauty of Mount Cook National Park while crossing the iconic Second Swing Bridge, a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Mueller Lake
28.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mueller Lake in Canterbury, New Zealand, where glacial waters meet majestic mountain landscapes.
White Horse Hill Campground
29.7 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at White Horse Hill Campground in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a true gem for nature lovers.
Mt Cook Chalets
31.1 km
Experience the tranquility and stunning beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park while staying at the cozy Mt Cook Chalets, your perfect alpine getaway.
Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar
31.1 km
Discover culinary delights and stunning views at Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand.
Unmissable attractions to see
Trident Creek Falls
3.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Trident Creek Falls, a hidden oasis in New Zealand's West Coast, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Franz Josef Glacier Walk
4.4 km
Discover the breathtaking Franz Josef Glacier Walk, an unforgettable hiking experience in New Zealand's stunning Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
Westland Tai Poutini National Park
4.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Westland Tai Poutini National Park, where glaciers meet rainforests, and adventure awaits at every turn.
Robert's Point Track
4.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Robert's Point Track, a must-visit hiking trail in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, New Zealand.
Start Alex Knob Trail
5.4 km
Experience the breathtaking Alex Knob Trail in Westland National Park, where stunning views and rich biodiversity await the adventurous traveler.
Alex knob track
5.5 km
Experience the majestic beauty of the Alex Knob Track, a premier hiking destination in New Zealand's Westland Tai Poutini National Park, perfect for adventure seekers.
Terrace Walk
7.8 km
Explore the enchanting Terrace Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, where breathtaking landscapes and serene hiking trails await every adventurer.
Glacier Country Helicopters
7.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand's glaciers with unforgettable helicopter tours over Franz Josef.
The Helicopter Line Franz Josef Heli Hike
8.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef Glacier with The Helicopter Line - an unforgettable helicopter and hiking adventure in New Zealand's stunning Southern Alps.
The Helicopter Line Franz Josef Glacier
8.0 km
Experience breathtaking aerial views of the Franz Josef Glacier with The Helicopter Line, an unforgettable adventure in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Tatare Tunnels Walk
8.1 km
Experience the natural beauty and historical intrigue of Tatare Tunnels Walk in New Zealand's stunning Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
Callery Gorge Walk
8.1 km
Discover the breathtaking Callery Gorge Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park – a perfect hiking escape for nature lovers and adventurers.
Canavans Knob
8.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Canavans Knob, a premier hiking destination in New Zealand's Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
Franz Josef Cinema featuring "Westland Wonderland" 40 minute HELIMAX movie of SouthWestand
8.1 km
Discover stunning landscapes of South Westland through the immersive HELIMAX movie experience at Franz Josef Cinema.
Franz Josef Wilderness Tours
8.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Franz Josef Wilderness Tours, where glaciers meet lush rainforests in New Zealand's stunning landscape.
Essential places to dine
Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar
7.9 km
Experience exquisite dining at Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef—where local flavors meet international culinary excellence.
SnakeBite Brewery
8.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors at SnakeBite Brewery in Franz Josef - where Asian cuisine meets local brews in a charming setting.
The Landing Restaurant & Bar
8.1 km
Experience the best of New Zealand's cuisine at The Landing Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef – where fresh flavors meet breathtaking views.
Alice May Restaurant, Franz Josef
8.2 km
Discover exquisite local cuisine and breathtaking glacier views at Alice May Restaurant in Franz Josef.
Monsoon Restaurant
8.3 km
Discover the flavors of New Zealand at Monsoon Restaurant in Franz Josef – where local ingredients meet exquisite culinary artistry.
Rainforest Retreat
8.3 km
Experience unparalleled hospitality at Rainforest Retreat – where nature meets comfort in Franz Josef's stunning landscapes.
King Tiger
8.5 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at King Tiger in Franz Josef – where local flavors meet international cuisine.
Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar
13.6 km
Experience exceptional New Zealand cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar in Fox Glacier.
The Last Kitchen
13.6 km
Experience exceptional dining at The Last Kitchen - where local flavors meet stunning views in Fox Glacier.
The White Pub Cafe & Bar
13.7 km
Experience delightful local flavors at The White Pub Cafe & Bar in Fox Glacier—your perfect dining retreat amidst breathtaking scenery.
Breakfast Restaurant
13.7 km
Experience a delightful breakfast at this cozy restaurant in Fox Glacier, offering delicious dishes and warm hospitality amidst stunning scenery.
Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar
13.9 km
Experience exceptional local cuisine at Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar in Fox Glacier—where every meal is a celebration of New Zealand's finest flavors.
High Peaks Hotel
15.2 km
Experience comfort and adventure at High Peaks Hotel in Fox Glacier – your gateway to breathtaking natural beauty and memorable dining.
Alpine Restaurant
31.1 km
Experience exceptional buffet dining with breathtaking mountain views at the Alpine Restaurant in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Chamois Bar & Grill
31.5 km
Experience exquisite dining at Chamois Bar & Grill amidst breathtaking landscapes in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Franz Josef Glacier Car Park
4.4 km
Experience the beauty of Franz Josef Glacier Car Park, your gateway to New Zealand's stunning glacier landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Blucod
8.0 km
Discover the freshest seafood at Blucod in Franz Josef, where quality meets the beauty of New Zealand's coast.
Four Square Franz Josef
8.1 km
Visit Four Square Franz Josef for a unique grocery shopping experience, and stock up on local goods before exploring stunning glaciers and rainforests.
Fern Grove Gift & Design
8.1 km
Explore Fern Grove Gift & Design for unique NZ souvenirs, stylish apparel, and local treasures in the heart of Franz Josef.
The Glacier Shop
8.1 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at The Glacier Shop in Franz Josef, capturing the essence of New Zealand's natural beauty.
William Apiaries (Honey)
9.1 km
Discover the sweet taste of New Zealand at William Apiaries, your destination for exquisite local honey and bee products in Franz Josef.
Te Koha Gallery - Jade Carving and Gem Stones
10.0 km
Explore the art of jade carving and discover stunning gem stones at Te Koha Gallery in Franz Josef, New Zealand.
Packraft New Zealand
10.7 km
Embark on an unforgettable packrafting adventure in Franz Josef, New Zealand. Gear up at Packraft New Zealand for the ultimate outdoor experience.
Real Tin Toys
10.8 km
Explore the enchanting world of handcrafted tin toys at Real Tin Toys in Franz Josef, a delightful stop for collectors and families.
Cafe Nevé
13.6 km
Discover Café Nevé in Fox Glacier for a cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and stunning views, perfect for a relaxing break in nature.
Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon
13.6 km
Discover the culinary treasures of Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon, a must-visit restaurant in Fox Glacier, New Zealand, offering delicious local cuisine.
On the Spot Fox Glacier
13.6 km
Experience the convenience of On the Spot Fox Glacier, your go-to store for snacks, drinks, and local treasures in the heart of New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop
13.6 km
Discover the essence of New Zealand at the Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop, your destination for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
NPD Fox Glacier Motors
13.6 km
Discover the convenience of NPD Fox Glacier Motors, your essential stop for fuel and supplies in the captivating Fox Glacier region.
Experience Fox Glacier
13.6 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Fox Glacier, New Zealand, with convenient bicycle rentals for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Moa Bar
8.3 km
Discover the warmth and hospitality of Moa Bar, a unique bar experience in the heart of Franz Josef, offering local flavors and stunning views.
Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
13.5 km
Discover the beauty of New Zealand at Fox Glacier Jade Hotel, your cozy retreat amidst stunning landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures.
The Westhaven Motel
13.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at The Westhaven Motel, your gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Fox Glacier.
Bella Vista Fox Glacier
13.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Bella Vista Fox Glacier, your gateway to stunning natural wonders.
Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
13.7 km
Discover the beauty of Glacier Country at Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier, your gateway to adventure and relaxation amid stunning landscapes.
Rainforest Motel
13.8 km
Experience the beauty of Fox Glacier at Rainforest Motel, your cozy base for adventure in New Zealand's stunning nature.
Sunset Motel
14.5 km
Discover scenic beauty and comfort at Sunset Motel in Fox Glacier, your perfect base for exploring New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes.
Snowline Bar
31.2 km
Unwind at Snowline Bar in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park; a serene spot for drinks and breathtaking views amidst stunning alpine landscapes.
NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge - Private club
33.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Aoraki / Mount Cook at the NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge, an alpine retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
