We Rank The 12 Best Tours In Franz Josef and Fox Glacier

Why Franz Josef and Fox Glacier Are Perfect for Tours

Few places on Earth combine raw power with breathtaking scenery quite like the glaciers of Franz Josef and Fox Glacier. These giants carve through the landscape, inviting travelers to explore them in myriad ways. Whether you’re after adrenaline-pumping adventures like off-road quad biking or prefer peaceful walks alongside ancient ice, this region offers it all. For example, the Off Road Quad Bike Adventure (more details here) lets you get up close to the lush valleys and roaring rivers, while the Franz Josef Nature Tour (see it in action) offers a gentle, immersive experience into the local forest and glacier surroundings. No matter your interest or fitness level, this area caters to every kind of explorer.

Quick Overview

Our list covers a broad spectrum of tours available in Franz Josef and Fox Glacier. From adventure activities like quad biking and helicopter snow landings, to nature walks and scenic drives, each experience offers something special. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Off Road Quad Bike Adventure and Grand Tour helicopter flight stand out. If you prefer exploring on foot, the Fox Glacier Nature Tour and Lake Matheson Nature Tour give a detailed look at the area’s natural beauty. For multi-day options, the small-group scenic tour from Franz Josef to Queenstown combines glaciers with stunning coastal scenery.

1. Off Road Quad Bike Adventure Tour in Franz Josef

For around $105.50, this 2-hour quad bike tour (more info here) takes you on a ride through Westland Tai Poutini National Park, a place shaped by glaciers, rivers, and lush rainforest. It’s perfect for first-timers, as your guide will teach you how to operate your vehicle, making it accessible for nearly everyone. The landscape varies from dense forest to riverbeds, often with dramatic weather adding a different character to each trip—rainy days turn streams into rushing rivers, while clear days showcase stunning mountain views. Wet weather gear is provided, so no need to worry about getting soaked.

What makes this tour stand out is its balance of fun and safety, with reviews praising Brooklyn and Justin for their excellent hosting. Many mention how the varied scenery and the sense of exploring off the beaten track make it memorable, rain or shine. The expert guidance and the chance to take incredible photos—some guides email you the best shots—add genuine value. The bottom line? If you want a thrilling outdoor activity that’s beginner-friendly, this quad tour hits the mark.

2. Franz Josef Nature Tour

At just $68.26, the Franz Josef Nature Tour (details here) offers a relaxed way to connect with the local environment. This small group excursion typically lasts about 3 hours and is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Your guide will pick you up from your accommodation and take you into the forest, with plenty of opportunities for photos and stories about the area’s legends. Walks extend up to 2000 meters from the glacier terminal face, with interpretive commentary about glaciology and native flora and fauna.

Guests consistently rate this tour highly—calling it “interesting,” “relaxing,” and “informative.” The guide Cliff, with his local knowledge and quirky humor, makes the experience engaging. The highlight is the chance to get close to the glacier’s edge without the crowds, plus learn about the area’s history and legends. The included wet weather clothing and boots ensure comfort, even if the weather turns. For travelers wanting a combination of gentle adventure and cultural insight, this is a solid pick.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a laid-back, educational nature experience with personal attention.

3. Fox Glacier Nature Tour

For about $68.26, the Fox Glacier Nature Tour (more details here) takes you on a 3 to 4-hour guided hike deep into the Fox Glacier Valley. This tour is a favorite for avoiding the crowds and exploring beyond the typical viewpoints. Walk alongside a local guide through lush rainforest and native bush, learning about glaciology, geology, and local plants and animals. The walk includes views of the ice and surrounding mountains, with an included afternoon tea to warm up after your trek.

Reviewers love the personalized attention of small-group journeys and mention guides like Bella and Cliff for their knowledge and friendly manner. The walk is not difficult, and the scenery—rivers, moss-covered trees, and distant glacier views—is spectacular. The included wet-weather gear and hiking poles make it comfortable regardless of weather, adding to its value. If you want a more immersive, off-the-beaten-path experience of one of New Zealand’s most famous glaciers, this tour delivers.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those who enjoy guided hikes with a focus on geology and wildlife.

4. Lake Matheson Nature Tour

For $68.26, the Lake Matheson Nature Tour (see the details here) offers a 3 to 4-hour easy walk around the iconic lake famous for its perfect reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. This guided walk includes snacks and tea or coffee, ensuring you stay refreshed as you take in the mirror-like scenery. Evening departures are especially scenic, with calm conditions that enhance the reflections.

Guests highlight the personalized guidance of Louis and Jerome, with many noting the stunning photos they captured of the mountains reflected in the still water. The walk is suitable for most fitness levels, and the included round-trip transfers make it hassle-free. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a relaxing, scenic experience that’s both easy and memorable.

Bottom Line: Perfect for photography enthusiasts and those seeking a serene, nature-focused walk.

5. Fox Glacier to Queenstown Small Group Tour

For $179.97, this 12-hour scenic journey (details here) combines glacier sights with a stunning drive along the West Coast, through rainforests, and over the Haast Pass. It includes a visit to Lake Matheson, Hokitika, and stops at places like Ship Creek, Thunder Creek Falls, and picturesque beaches. The tour offers a relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunities for photos and local stories.

Guests rave about the expert guides and the variety of stops. Many mention how the weather adds drama—raging waterfalls and misty forests—and that the trip offers excellent value for its length and scope. This tour is best suited for travelers with a full day to appreciate the diverse landscapes and who like a mix of walking, sightseeing, and storytelling.

Bottom Line: A superb choice for those wanting to see a broad slice of the West Coast’s natural beauty in one day.

6. Franz Josef to Christchurch Small-Group Tour via Hokitika

At $179.97, this full-day journey (more info here) offers a rich mix of landscapes. Highlights include Lake Ianthe, Hokitika’s black sand beaches, Hokitika Gorge, and a lunch stop in Greymouth. The tour showcases native forests, coastal scenery, and the rugged beauty of the South Island’s West Coast.

Reviewers are impressed with the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the carefully curated stops, especially during rainy weather which makes the waterfalls and forests more dramatic. The tour is ideal for travelers wanting a rundown of the West Coast with a relaxed pace and cultural insights.

Bottom Line: Well-suited for those interested in a comprehensive, scenic transfer with plenty of photo stops.

7. Okarito Nature Tour

This half-day eco-tour (details here) costs around $68.26 and explores the quiet coastal village of Okarito, known for its wetlands and birdlife. The tour offers close encounters with rare native birds like the white heron (kotuku) and Rowi Kiwi. You’ll travel through native bush to a lookout with panoramic views of the Southern Alps and the Tasman Sea.

Guests appreciate the slow-paced, wildlife-focused experience, with knowledgeable guides sharing insights into the area’s natural history. Visiting Okarito is perfect if you want to experience a less touristy, more authentic side of the West Coast. The drive itself is scenic, and the birdwatching opportunities are impressive.

Bottom Line: Ideal for bird lovers and those wanting a peaceful, nature-centric outing.

8. The GRAND TOUR, Snow Landing

Priced at $378.71, this helicopter flight (see it here) is the ultimate way to see both glaciers and even land on the snow for photos. It includes views of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, crossing the main divide if weather permits, and landing on the glacier itself. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for lovers of ice and snow.

Reviews highlight how the fabulous weather and expert pilots make this trip unforgettable. Many mention the spectacular scenery and the chance to step directly onto the glacier’s surface, a true highlight. It’s best suited for travelers with a budget for a luxury experience and a love of high-altitude adventure.

Bottom Line: Highly recommended for those wanting a bucket-list helicopter experience with incredible photo opportunities.

9. Franz Josef to Christchurch via Hokitika

At $179.97, this full-day tour (details here) takes you from glaciers to city in one scenic journey. It covers Lake Ianthe, Hokitika, and stops at Hokitika Gorge and Greymouth, with a flexible itinerary. The tour emphasizes scenic stops and informative commentary, making it perfect for travelers who want to see multiple highlights without rushing.

Travelers praise the friendly guides and the opportunity to see diverse landscapes in one trip. It’s a great way to break up a longer transfer and gain insights into the region’s natural and cultural history.

Bottom Line: Suitable for those with a full day to enjoy a comprehensive West Coast tour en route to Christchurch.

10. Franz Josef to Christchurch Small-Group Tour W TranzAlpine Train

Priced at $341.32, this combination tour (more info here) offers the best of both worlds: scenic drives plus the world-famous TranzAlpine train journey across the Southern Alps. The trip includes stops at Lake Ianthe, Hokitika, and Hokitika Gorge, then continues on the train through some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes, ending in Christchurch.

Reviewers highlight the seamless experience and spectacular scenery. The train ride, with its panoramic windows, is often the highlight for travelers wanting a relaxing, scenic transport option combined with local insights. Best suited for those who want to sit back and enjoy the views without the hassle of driving.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers preferring a combination of road tour and scenic rail.

11. Franz Josef to Queenstown Day Tour

At $134.66, this 8-hour day trip (see details here) includes stops at Bruce Bay, Haast, and Lake Wanaka, with scenic views along the way. It offers a mix of short stops and a relaxed pace, perfect for travelers wanting to see diverse landscapes without rushing.

People mention the entertaining driver commentary and the variety of scenery—from rugged coastlines to mountain lakes. It’s a good fit for those who want an overview of the South Island’s highlights during a full, engaging day.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a comprehensive scenic overview en route to Queenstown.

12. Franz Josef to Wanaka Small-Group Tour with Lunch

For $179.97, this 8-hour tour (details here) combines the scenic Lake Matheson walk, stops at Bruce Bay and Ship Creek, and a delightful lunch in Haast. It’s tailored for travelers who want to experience the best of the West Coast with plenty of relaxed photo stops and stories.

Guests praise the passionate guides and the authentic Kiwi experience. The trip crosses the Haast Pass, revealing a range of landscapes from rainforests to lakes, making it ideal for those who seek a comprehensive yet comfortable day.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting an immersive, scenic transfer with thoughtful stops.

How to Choose the Right Tour

Picking the best tour depends on your interests, budget, and time. If you’re after adventure, the Quad Bike Adventure or the Grand Tour helicopter are exciting options. For a relaxed, nature-focused experience, the Lake Matheson or Fox Glacier hike offer peaceful immersion. If your goal is to combine glaciers with scenic transportation, consider the TranzAlpine combo or the Queenstown day trip.

Timing also matters. The best time for reflections and calm water on Lake Matheson is in the evening, while weather conditions can influence glacier views or helicopter flights. Book early, especially for popular options like the snow landing helicopter or the small-group transfers, to secure your preferred dates.

Final Thoughts

Franz Josef and Fox Glacier are not just about staring at ice—they’re about experiencing the landscape in all its forms. For adrenaline junkies, the quad biking and helicopter snow landings offer unforgettable thrills. For those seeking serenity and learning, the nature walks and lake reflections provide peaceful moments and great photo ops. And if you want to see everything in one go, the multi-stop scenic tours are hard to beat.

No matter your style, these tours can make your visit truly memorable. Just remember to book early, dress appropriately, and keep an open mind—weather can change quickly in this part of New Zealand. Now, get out there and make some beautiful memories.