Franz Josef Nature Tour
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
This eco-tour is ideal for nature enthusiasts of all ages and abilities, providing opportunities for off-track adventures and a profound insight into the intricate workings of the ecosystem. This unforgettable journey unveils the hidden wonders of the Franz Josef Glacier Valley. Meander through ancient native podocarp rainforest, stroll along a pristine glacial-fed river and marvel at the mirror-like reflections of the snow-capped mountains on an ancient kettle lake. Join us for an experience that blends serene natural beauty with educational exploration.
Your knowledgeable guide will enhance your experience with fascinating stories and insights about the local history, flora, fauna, glaciology and geology.
Wander at your own pace through glacial rivers, streams and native podocarp rainforest, discovering hidden treasures like wild mushrooms and dozens of orchid species.
Please note we cannot get close to the terminal face or walk on the glacier due to safety reasons.
Additional Info
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Franz Josef Glacier
Your guide will pick you up from your accommodation or meeting point in Franz Josef, and drive you to the glacier carpark. From there, you will walk with your small group tour and guide to about 2000m from the Franz Josef Glacier terminal face, at the end of the forest walk.
What‘s Included
Wet weather clothing
Umbrellas
Boots if required - please enquire as stock is limited
Walking poles if required
Lunch
water
Options
summer 24/25
Reviews
100 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Fox Glacier Trail
Philip P,,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00A wonderful three hours exploring the bush and all the amazing plants and trees there. Also the walks to the glacier lookouts were great, including the ‘Private’ side tracks we followed down to the water edge. Sophia was an amazing guide and kept us entertained with her Kiwi humour. We were glad that we did this trip. In addition, Sophia took great care of my wife over the tricky parts of the trail, which I would hasten to add was fairly easy on the whole.
Wonderful discower of mountain forest
A55OJ ,,Dec 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A wonderful experience of learning about nature, exotic and mysterious plants. Our guide Sophias showed us not only the grandeur of the glaciers, but also the little secrets of the forest. This is a journey for those who truly love nature
A great way to see the Franz Joseph Glacier with someone with local experience
appullar,,Nov 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A very informative and enjoyable walk. Louis was a great tour guide and we learned a great deal. The unique walking tracks used by this company were excellent.
Good experience despite the weather.
davidaN3303SR,,Nov 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Louis was very engaging, informative and pleasant, and made our experience as good as possible, noting we couldn't see the glacier because of the low clouds. The local flora in particular was explained in great detail, as were the other topics of discussion surrounding the Franz Joseph glacier. Strongly recommend.
Great nature walk and glacier views
Craig D,,Nov 11, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Really interesting nature walk with birds and plants as well as glacier information. Their special were great and enjoyed the glacier views.
Awesome tour with Cliff and Louie
zitavskeho,,Nov 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Lovely walk off the beaten track in the rainforest with fantastic explanations on the history of the glacier, the many different plants and trees. Very informative and pleasant.
An awesome and informative experience
trazee73,,Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Cliff was our guide and he was such a great chap, taking us off the busy track, through the beautiful trees and scub to show us flowers and birds. He was so knowledgeable, sharing his stories with the perfect balance of info with humour mixed with personal stories which kept us entertained. It was so cool to see the glacier and hear all about the natural environment, seeing it all through the eyes of a local. Thank you Cliff
Quirkily Kiwi
Ross H,,Nov 3, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00A really good trip with an excellent local guide. Cliff is your quintessential Kiwi with plenty of local knowledge and the requisite amount of quirky humour. Well recommended.
Informative and fun tour
Alison7780,,Oct 31, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This tour is amazing. Cliff and Louie were both incredibly knowledgeable about the plants and animals that call the Franz Josef Glacier and surrounding area home. The company was also very accommodating in changing our tour day when the weather was truly awful. As a result we managed a tour with less rain and even a bit of sun! If you are passionate about knowing more about the delicate ecosystem of this magical area and have a passion for conservation and sustainability, this is the tour for you.
Learning exercise with cookies
KEVNAD1992AU,,Oct 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Mel is the best cookie provider and guide. Amazed by both Mel and Cliffs knowledge and the ability to take us off the main tracks. Cliff made the day fun even through his waffling. Thoroughly enjoyed it. Thanks guys.
From NZ$110.00
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Operated by Glacier Valley Eco Tours