Tickets & tours
Helicopter access is required to walk on the glacier. Ground tours explore the rainforest, nearby lakes, and ancient riverbeds.
Most bookedDiscover the best of New Zealand’s natural beauty on this small-group 2 hour 30 minute Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike. Travel by helicopter to the Pinnacles area of the...
Best valueThis eco-tour is ideal for nature enthusiasts of all ages and abilities, providing opportunities for off-track adventures & a profound insight into the intricate...
Top ratedA unique kayak adventure, only minutes from Franz Josef Glacier! Set out across Lake Mapourika's mirror-like water and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Southern...
Drive a Quad Bike along the ancient glacial pathways of Westland Tai Poutini National Park, carved into the landscape by ice and water over thousands of years. Admire...
Fly from Franz Josef to see two of the biggest glaciers in New Zealand before a snow landing with our family owned and operated helicopter company. We are locally...
From sea level rising to the heart of the magnificent Southern Alps, this 25-minute helicopter flight explores the awe-inspiring ice falls of the Franz Josef Glacier....
Prices are starting rates in NZD and change based on the season and provider.
Enter your group and compare totals on both platforms. From-prices; children are priced as adults unless the listing gives a child rate.
Compare durations and activities for the top glacier experiences.
| Option | Duration | Viator from | GetYourGuide from | Rating | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| glacier heli-hike | 4 h | $531 | Compare | 4.6 (662) | active glacier explorers |
| nature tour | 3 h | $66 | Compare | 4.9 (116) | budget-conscious nature lovers |
| small-group kayak adventure | 3 h | $92 | Compare | 4.9 (412) | paddlers and scenery lovers |
| quad bike adventure | 2 h | $104 | Compare | 4.9 (369) | thrill seekers |
| 2 glaciers heli flight | 35 min | $285 | Compare | 4.8 (403) | seeing the most ice |
| 25-min helicopter flight | 25 min | $233 | Compare | 4.9 (247) | a quick sky-high view |
Helicopter flights have a cancellation rate of 30% to 50% due to unpredictable weather. If your operator cancels, they will offer a reschedule or a full refund. Book your flight for your first morning in town to maximize your chances of rebooking.
The valley walk is completely free. Guided tours and helicopter flights cost roughly $300 to $800+ NZD. A 25-minute scenic flight is around $320 NZD, while a full 3-hour heli-hike exceeds $500 NZD.
Yes. Foot access onto the lower glacier was permanently closed in 2019 due to significant rockfalls and instability. You cannot physically walk on the ice without flying in via helicopter first.
From Viator
662 reviews of the glacier heli-hike on Viator
This is truly a bucket list experience. Being on the ice is otherworldly. The colour, sights and sounds are unlike anywhere else. This is something that you will remember for the rest of your life. Must do, and I cannot recommend more highly.
A once in a lifetime experience. Sarah was our guide and she was incredibly knowledgeable about the glacier, and made sure to take us on a fun and beautiful adventure across the glacier. The company was very honest about potential weather cancellations, and handled a surprise cloud cover with very practiced calm. Highly recommend doing this tour!
Cliff was a great guide . We had a beautiful day everything was perfect
