![]() Several tour operators in the area offer exciting cross-country excursions via ATVs where you’ll be able to cross glacial pathways and rivers, and easily navigate the dense forests and muddy rivers. There are other fun things to do in the area too, like the Minnehaha Walk bush path to a fern grotto to see the glow worms, and stunning Lake Matheson with its glass-like surface perfectly reflecting the surrounding mountain peaks. The Fox Glacier Valley trail is only a 1-hour hike (return) and takes you to the base of the glacier. The glacier is only about a 40-minute drive from Franz Josef Township, making it an easy day trip. If you’re craving more glacier views, head over to Fox Glacier. The pools are suitable for people of all ages. For a soak and massage, expect to pay around 100 NZD. Soak in the Glacier Hot PoolsĪfter all of the intense glacial hiking you are bound to do, head here for a soak (and maybe even a massage for good measure). Glacier Helicopters offers tours for 360 NZD. Explore the awe-inspiring ice falls of the glacier, cross the Southern Alps, and circle the top of magnificent Mount Cook. Seeing the glacier from such great heights really gives you a new perspective of the area, plus the photos you get are always stunning. Other Things to See and Do in Franz Josef 1. A stop here won’t take more than 15 minutes but it can be a good opportunity to get out and stretch your legs. There’s a nice view of the valley here, and the wobbly structure is fun for thrill seekers. On the drive toward the glacier, you can stop at the historic swinging bridge (also known as Douglas Bridge) on the Robert Points Track. For a full-day hike, try the 8-hour Alex Knob Track. The trailhead starts at the Glacier car park. The most popular walk is the Forest Walk in the Glacier Valley. The forest is lush and full of plants endemic to New Zealand. ![]() This area is home to a tropical rainforest with tons of trails and paths to explore. Admission is 32 NZD online or 34 NZD at the door. You’re guaranteed to see some kiwi birds from the observation area and they also have hatching programs for two of the rarest species of kiwis in the country. Since it opened in 2010, this wildlife center has become one of the country’s most popular attractions. You can also do a heli-raft tour, where you take a helicopter to remote rivers (these start from 450 NZD for a half-day tour). They both have Class IV & V rapids and you’ll paddle down glacial waters through lush forest and jagged gorges with experienced guides. Located just 30 kilometers (18 miles) from Franz Josef, these white-water rivers make for exciting day trips (or half-day trips) during the summer. You can also just do a scenic flight with Glacier Helicopters for 360 NZD. Expect to pay around 485 NZD for a heli-hike (it’s not cheap but it’s worth every penny). Many tour providers also throw in a complimentary soak in the Hot Pools. All the equipment you need is provided (like crampons and glacier boots), so you’ll be able to get up close to amazing ice formations. With a heli-hike, you take a scenic helicopter flight over the glacier and then land at a more remote part for a 2.5-hour guided hike. ![]() Top 5 Things to See and Do in Franz Josef
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |