Top Things to do in Franz Josef
Top 10 Helicopter Tours in Franz Josef, South Island
The quaint West Coast, South Island town of Franz Josef is named after the Franz Josef Glacier. Which in turn, legend has it, is named for a girl whose lover died in a fatal fall. She cried so much that her tears pooled, eventually freezing into a block of ice. The magic of this fable isn’t lost on the town or the tourists who flock to the tragically romantic site.
Restaurants in Franz Josef
1. 55-Minute Grand Circle Helicopter
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 6 reviews
Soar through the sky on this 55-minute scenic Helicopter experience through the Mt Cook and Westland National Parks flying over the Fox, Franz Josef and Tasman Glacier, included a glacier landing (10-15 minutes). The ultimate way to see the Southern Alps and a bucket list flight. Check in closes 45 minutes prior to the flight time.
Inclusions: Headsets to hear the guide clearly, Live commentary on board
Exclusions: Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Reviewed By amandasargeant
For me this was a chance to tick off two of my bucket list items all in one - ride in a helicopter and stand on a glacier. What an incredible experience. Andrew (the pilot) made sure he told us all we needed to know (both in terms of helicopter safety and what we were seeing). We had a good amount of time on the glacier where things were pointed out to us around the area. The team on the ground were so helpful and cheerful on what was obviously a busy day. I had an epic time and I cannot recommend this experience more ... definitely worth it ... the views are amazing. Thank you team.
2. 5 Day South Island Circut: Trains, Glaciers and Milford Sound from Christchurch
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Discover the highlights of New Zealand's South Island, from stunning glaciers to vast National Parks there's plenty to explore! Tour highlights include the world-famous TranzAlpine Scenic Train, a glacier Heli Hike, Glacier Hot Pools and an unforgettable day trip to Fiordland for a Milford Sound Nature Cruise. The perfect way to fit the best of the South Island into five day! This is an Independent coach tour, where you travel on a combination of touring coaches and sightseeing services with commentary and/or point to point coaches which may not have commentary. You will be with different people on each part of the tour and different drivers. You have free time to explore on your own and are free to choose where and when to eat, meals are not included unless specified.
Inclusions: Lunch, Air-conditioned vehicles, Return coach transport from Christchurch, Breif commentary on board coaches and tours, 4 nights accommodation, TranzApline Scenic Train, Franz Josef Heli Hike, Glacier Hot Pools, Milford Sound Nature Cruise
Exclusions: Meals unless specified, Pre and post tour accommodation, Gratuities, Travel insurance. We recommend travel insurance for all tours
3. Fox or Franz Josef Glacier including snow landing (allow 20 minutes)
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 29 reviews
Fox or Franz Josef Glacier including snow landing (allow 20 minutes) Fly from our Franz Josef or Fox Glacier Heliport to the top of the Fox or Franz Josef icefall and land on the snow for a fantastic photographic opportunity. This entry level flight will show you why so many are impressed by the sheer crevasses and pinicles that form the ice scapes of the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers. Be sure to book from the correct departure location (Fox or Franz Josef) - book for a Franz Josef departure if you are overnighting at Franz Josef OR book for a Fox Glacier departure if you are overnighting at Fox Glacier.
Inclusions: Snow landing for 20 minutes
Exclusions: Transportation to/from attractions
Reviewed By victoriabO2792YC
This has been on my bucket list for a long time and it did not disappoint. Rachel (pilot) was outstanding, knowledgeable and passionate about the area. We did the 20 minute Franz Joseph glacier trip. We were lucky enough to land on fresh snow and spend some time taking photos. Absolutely buzzing afterwards. Highly recommend and really the only way to appreciate the glaciers.
4. Glacier Heli-Hike
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 15 reviews
The one-hour fixed-wing flight from Queenstown to Franz Josef or Tasman Glacier is certainly spectacular, but the highlight of this trip is the glacier Heli Hike. The experienced guides will take you into a deep part of the glacier via a scenic helicopter flight. The helicopter passes over the deep crevasses of the icefalls and waterfalls to land on the upper Franz Josef icefall or on the Tasman glacier itself. From there you’ll be fitted with crampons for the two hours on the ice, exploring caves and seeing the natural, ever-changing wonder of the glacier in the South Island of New Zealand.
Inclusions: Hiking boots and crampons are provided, Air-conditioned vehicle
Exclusions:
Reviewed By Julianlee45
Amazing experience flying over the misty mountains. Elliot is a great pilot and took great care of us.
5. Franz Josef Mountain Scenic Helicopter Flight
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 22 reviews
Experience two of New Zealand's finest National Parks, divided by the imposing Southern Alps. Discover the gigantic expanse of the Franz Josef and Fox Glacier snowfields with a helicopter landing at around 2134 meters (7000 feet). Learn about the stunning landscape as your professional pilot delivers an informative commentary en route. You'll walk along the Main Divide for fantastic views of the Tasman Glacier and Aoraki (Mount Cook) before heading back down towards the lush rainforests at the edge of the Tasman Sea.
Inclusions: Scenic helicopter flight with snow landing (5 - 10 minutes), Live commentary on board, Pilot guide, GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Exclusions: Items of a personal nature
Reviewed By heatherfs2019
Helicopter Line had great reviews compared to their competitors sp we chose them for the heli hike at Franz Josef. Everything was well orgabised and we got in the helicopter in no time. The sky was blue and made for a magnificent flight up the glacier. We got underway and got to experience and see some beautiful scenery. Pictures do not do it justice! Highly recommend!
6. Twin Glacier Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier including snow landing (allow 30 minutes)
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 30 reviews
Twin Glacier Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier including snow landing (allow 30 minutes) This flight gives you the opportunity to discover the scenic wonders of both the Fox and Franz Josef Glacier's. With departures available from Franz Josef or Fox (separate schedules), you will be amazed by the wonderful blue ice of these two beauties as you soar across the snow covered pinnacles onto the snowfields of the Fox or Franz Josef glacier. These catchment areas, or Neve's, accumulate years of Winter snow which over time descends into the lower valley's as the Fox and Franz Josef glaciers.
Inclusions: Certified guide
Exclusions: Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Reviewed By Stay819648
What an amazing experience! The scenery is stunning and the close up view of the glacier is extremely special. We landed on the snow and saw the sheer beauty of the glacier and surrounds. The pilot was very professional.
7. Mount Cook and The Glaciers Helicopter Flight
Overall Ratings
4.8 based on 90 reviews
Our premier flight over the Mt Cook National Park and its vast glaciers and snowfields. See the ancient waters of the Tasman Glacier lake before flying the length of the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s longest glacier. Experience what it feels like to stand in snow amongst the mountains as you take in a spectacular view of New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook during your snow landing. Cross to the West Coast and view the formidable Franz Josef and Fox glaciers before completing your journey with uninterrupted views of the summit ridge of Aoraki/Mt Cook.
Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop off, Scenic helicopter flight with snow landing (5 - 10 minutes), Pilot guide, GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Exclusions: Items of a personal nature
Reviewed By rishayals
A truly magical and unforgettable experience! We did the heli hike with Scott who was the best guide we could have asked for. He was extremely knowledgeable and took the time to explain everything and show us how to use the crampons and walk on the glacier. We were lucky enough to see some amazing ice caves which Scott took us through. One of us got a bit claustrophobic so Scott took her in separately afterwards so she could see as well. The helicopter pilot was also amazing with a super smooth ride. We were the only ones on the tour as well. Absolute value for money, you won’t regret it. Highly recommend!!
8. Twin Glacier Helicopter Flight departing Fox Glacier
Overall Ratings
4.7 based on 15 reviews
Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers are two of New Zealand largest glaciers. From above you can view and appreciate the incredible natural phenomenon, towering ice formations and vast size of the glaciers. Top it off with a snow landing and standing on the ancient ice of the glaciers. You’ll also fly over the Tasman Glacier on the eastern side of the Southern Alps and close to Mount Cook/Aoraki, New Zealand’s highest peak.
Inclusions: Scenic helicopter flight with snow landing (5-10 minutes), Live commentary on board, Professional guide, GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Exclusions: Items of a personal nature
Reviewed By heatherfs2019
Helicopter Line had great reviews compared to their competitors sp we chose them for the heli hike at Franz Josef. Everything was well orgabised and we got in the helicopter in no time. The sky was blue and made for a magnificent flight up the glacier. We got underway and got to experience and see some beautiful scenery. Pictures do not do it justice! Highly recommend!
9. Franz Josef Neve Discoverer Helicopter Flight
Overall Ratings
4.7 based on 29 reviews
The perfect opportunity to get up close to the glacier and touch snow. You'll be captivated as you lift off and fly up and over Fox Glacier and experience the solitude of landing in this wonderful natural alpine environment.
Inclusions: Scenic helicopter flight with snow landing (5 - 10 minutes), Pilot guide, Live commentary on board
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities
Reviewed By heatherfs2019
Helicopter Line had great reviews compared to their competitors sp we chose them for the heli hike at Franz Josef. Everything was well orgabised and we got in the helicopter in no time. The sky was blue and made for a magnificent flight up the glacier. We got underway and got to experience and see some beautiful scenery. Pictures do not do it justice! Highly recommend!
10. Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 457 reviews
Discover the best of New Zealand’s natural beauty on this small-group 3 hour 15 minute ( approx) Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike. Travel by helicopter to the Pinnacles area of the glacier with your guide. Navigate your way through the maze of ice on your moderately difficult hike. Learn of the dramatic environmental changes affecting the glacier and gain insight into the geological forces at play. Afterwards, take a soak in the hot pools to warm up and soothe your muscles (complimentary). Group size is limited to 11 to ensure a personalized experience.
Inclusions: Round-trip helicopter flights to Franz Josef Glacier, 2-hours 15 minutes (approx.) guided glacier walk, Glacier Hot Pools, All hiking equipment (Gore-tex jackets, over trousers, woolen hats and gloves, leather boots, crampons)
Exclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Gratuities
Reviewed By cunnington97
This was a fantastic experience for our family of 5. Our guide, Jack, was very knowledgeable and engaging. We had around 2 hours on the glacier, and Jack added in features such as crawling through an ice cave which our kids loved.
