In short
- Franz Josef is one of the steepest glaciers in the world.
- Foot access to the ice is closed for both glaciers.
- You can fly over both glaciers on a single scenic flight.
In this article
Franz Josef and Fox are the two main glaciers on the West Coast. Since foot access to the ice is closed for both, your experience depends on your budget and the weather.
Which is better Fox Glacier or Franz Josef?
Franz Josef is known for its steep descent and fast-moving ice, which creates dramatic ice caves.
Franz Josef drops from the Southern Alps to just 300 meters above sea level. The ice reaches up to 300 meters thick in parts of the valley. Because it flows up to 4 meters per day, the formations change constantly.
How do you access the glaciers?
You must book a helicopter flight to walk on the ice at either glacier.
In 2019, foot access onto the lower Franz Josef glacier closed due to severe rockfalls. You can walk the Glacier Valley trail for free. The 1.5 to 2-hour return walk keeps you behind safety barriers far from the ice.
What types of ice formations will you see?
Franz Josef features deep crevasses, towering seracs, and vivid blue ice caves.
The steep descent creates extreme pressure on the ice. Meltwater carves tunnels through the moving glacier. The ice appears bluest during the colder winter months from June to August.
Can you visit both glaciers in one day?
Yes, you can book a 35-minute scenic flight that covers both Franz Josef and Fox glaciers.
A combined flight shows you the massive scale of the Southern Alps. You get a brief 10-minute snow landing on the upper neve. It is a great option if you lack the time for a full hike.
How do the costs compare?
Valley walks are free, while helicopter tours start around $233 NZD and exceed $500 NZD for heli-hikes.
Pricing for scenic flights and guided hikes is similar at both locations. Your exact cost depends on your time on the ice.
How does weather affect your visit?
The West Coast receives heavy rain, leading to a 30% to 50% flight cancellation rate.
The glacier base receives around 5 meters of rain annually. Book your helicopter tour early in your stay. If your flight is canceled, you can explore the lower valley trails instead.
Questions travellers ask
Which is better Fox Glacier or Franz Josef?
Franz Josef offers incredibly steep icefalls and fast-moving ice. Both locations require a helicopter flight to walk directly on the glacier.
Can you walk on Franz Josef Glacier for free?
No. You can hike the valley trail for free to see the glacier from a distance, but walking on the ice requires a paid helicopter transfer.
Are helicopters the only way to get on Franz Josef Glacier?
Yes. Foot access to the lower ice was permanently closed in 2019 due to dangerous rockfalls and unstable ice conditions.
