Franz Josef Glacier is one of New Zealand’s most dramatic sights, famous for its towering ice formations and the stunning rainforest that surrounds it. What makes this glacier particularly special for tours and experiences is the variety of ways you can get up close and personal—whether soaring above on a helicopter, motoring along rugged trails on a quad bike, or exploring its ice and forest on foot. We’re especially fans of the helicopter flight with a snow landing because it offers breathtaking panoramic views and a rare chance to step onto snow in the middle of a rainforest environment. Meanwhile, our top pick for a fun-day adventure is the Quad Bike Tour, perfect for those craving adrenaline and scenic exploration. And for travelers who want a more personal, quiet moment in nature, the guided walk to the Franz Josef Glacier Lookout delivers serenity and stunning views.
If you’re planning your trip, know that each of these experiences offers something unique—from high-flying adventures to grounded immersion in the rainforest and glacier valleys. All are highly rated and provide different ways to connect with this remarkable landscape. Check out the full list below to find the experience that suits your style and interests.
Quick Overview
Our list includes three top-rated tours that showcase the glacier’s beauty in different ways:
- A helicopter flight with a snow landing that delivers spectacular aerial views and a rare experience walking on snow. Learn more here.
- An adventure-filled Quad Bike Tour that takes you through rainforest trails and past the glacier, combining adrenaline with scenic beauty. Find out more here.
- A guided walk to the Franz Josef Glacier Lookout that offers a chance to explore the lush rainforest and get close to the glacier’s edge with expert guidance. Details here.
Now, let’s look at each experience in detail.
1. Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers Helicopter Flight & Snow Landing
At number one, this 35-minute helicopter flight offers an unforgettable way to see both the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers from the air. The flight is one of the most popular experiences on the South Island because it combines stunning panoramic views of the Southern Alps with the thrill of a snow landing. The pilot provides engaging commentary, helping you identify features of the glaciers, surrounding peaks, and ice formations.
What makes this tour stand out is the snow landing—an incredible opportunity to step onto a patch of snow on the glacier itself, despite being in the middle of lush rainforests. The landscape from the helicopter is breathtaking; you’ll see glacial crevasses, icefalls, and towering ice walls that are otherwise inaccessible. The flight also offers flexibility, with most trips lasting around 35 minutes total, including the snow landing, making it a great choice for travelers who want a big visual impact in a short time.
Reviewers rate this experience 4.7/5 based on 319 reviews, praising the professional pilots and the spectacular views. One reviewer said, “This was a highlight of my trip—seeing the glaciers from above and walking on the snow is something I’ll never forget.”
Bottom Line: This helicopter and snow landing tour is perfect if you want a quick, exhilarating experience with outstanding views and a touch of adventure on the snow. It’s ideal for those short on time but eager for a dramatic photo opportunity.
2. Franz Josef Town: Scenic Glacier Quad Bike Tour with Gear
For around $146 per person, the Quad Bike Tour is an action-packed way to explore the rugged West Coast terrain. Lasting about 2 hours, this adventure takes you along ancient pathways carved by glaciers and through dense rainforest, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the landscape that shaped the glaciers.
What makes this tour particularly appealing is the combination of adrenaline and scenery. Driving a Quad Bike over dirt trails allows you to get close to the terrain and enjoy views of the magnificent Franz Josef Glacier and surrounding mountains. The trails are well-maintained but rugged enough to give you a real sense of adventure. Plus, you’ll receive free photos of your ride, so you can remember the experience.
The tour is rated 4.8/5 from 205 reviews, with many travelers praising the friendly guides and thrilling ride. One reviewer commented, “I’ve never driven a Quad Bike before, but the guides made it easy and fun. The views of the glacier made it all worthwhile.” It’s a fantastic choice for active travelers, families, or anyone wanting a taste of off-road exploration.
Bottom Line: The Quad Bike Tour offers a fun, high-energy experience that pairs well with sightseeing. It’s excellent for those seeking adventure and a different perspective on Franz Josef’s stunning landscape.
3. Franz Josef: Franz Josef Glacier Lookout Guided Walk
For travelers who prefer walking and a more intimate encounter with nature, the 3-hour guided walk to the Franz Josef Glacier Lookout is a wonderful choice. This tour takes you through lush rainforest and along the glacier valley, offering personalized insights due to a 1:10 guide-to-guest ratio.
The walk is flexible, enjoyable in both clear skies with stellar views or in misty rain, which adds an element of magic to the experience. The guide will point out native bird songs, cascading waterfalls, wild mushrooms, and native orchids, making it a rich sensory experience. You might even spot Chamois or Tahr on the surrounding snow-capped mountains, adding a wildlife viewing element.
Reviews note the relaxing pace and the chance to enjoy native flora and fauna. One reviewer mentioned, “The walk was peaceful and the perfect way to connect with nature. The guide’s stories made the landscape come alive.” The experience is ideal for those who enjoy gentle walks and want a deeper, less rushed experience of the glacier region.
Bottom Line: This guided walk is perfect if you want to explore the rainforest and glacier valley at a leisurely pace, gaining insights from an expert while soaking in the scenery.
How to Choose
When deciding between these incredible options, consider your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. If aerial views and a snow landing excite you, the helicopter flight is unbeatable. For a hands-on adventure that gets your heart pumping, the Quad Bike Tour is fantastic. And if you prefer a peaceful, scenic walk with expert narration, the guided walk fits the bill.
Think about your budget as well: the helicopter flight offers a spectacular experience in about 35 minutes, while the quad bike trip offers a longer, more active adventure for a similar price per person. The guided walk is a good option for those who enjoy nature without needing to be physically demanding.
Booking early is recommended, especially in summer, as these tours tend to fill up quickly during peak season. For the best experience, check weather conditions and plan your choice accordingly—clear days will give you the most spectacular views, especially for the helicopter and walk.
Final Thoughts
From high-flying aerial adventures to grounded exploration, Franz Josef Glacier offers a variety of ways to experience its stunning beauty. If you want a quick but breathtaking glimpse from the sky, the heli-tour with snow landing is hard to beat. For those seeking an active day immersed in nature, the Quad Bike Tour delivers excitement and scenery. And for a more relaxed, intimate encounter, the guided walk provides a peaceful way to appreciate the glacier and rainforest.
No matter which you choose, these experiences promise memorable moments on New Zealand’s West Coast. Book early, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare for a trip you’ll never forget.