Franz Josef: Twin Glacier 35-Minute Helicopter Flight
Active
35m
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Twice the ice! Explore the glacial icefalls of not one but two glaciers - Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier on this 35-minute helicopter flight with a glacier landing along the way. Discover up close their neve and unusual ice formations. You will then land on the snowfields up on one of the glaciers which is a huge highlight and will make for superb photos, snowballs and memories, before heading back down to Franz Josef Township
Available options
Fox and Franz Twin Glacier Helicopter Flight from Franz Josef
What's included
Photo opportunities throughout
Scenic Helicopter Flight
Snow landing on a Glacier
Professional Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The only thing better than one glacier is two glaciers, so why not experience twice the ice. Explore the glacial ice falls of the mighty Fox Glacier and the incomparable Franz Josef Glacier on this twin 30-minute helicopter flight.
It’s an adventure you'll remember forever and is often cited as a highlight of a New Zealand trip by holidaymakers.
2
Stop 2
Each Glacier has its own different characteristics but both are magnificent and make for an unforgettable West Coast experience. You will discover up close their neve and unusual ice formations - landing on the snowfields is a highlight and will make for superb photos, snowballs and memories.
3
Stop 3
Steeper and more dramatic or epic vastness and more remote? Take our Twin Glacier flight and you don't have to choose. This trip includes a snow landing and the chance to experience two very different glacial formations. This is the perfect trip to encounter both jaw-dropping glaciers, Fox and Franz Josef.
What's not included
Food and drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
29 reviews
5★
25
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
2
Tripadvisor
4.9
91 reviews
5★
88
4★
2
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
We recommend you bring along warm clothes, sunglasses, sturdy footwear, your camera and a sense of adventure!
For safety reasons, we do not allow selfie sticks, drones, flammable liquids, lighters, iPads/ tablets and bags of any description on any of our flights.
We fly all year round, weather permitting. Please note: On Christmas, we only operate for half the day (9 am - 12 pm).
Meeting point
Please check in 30 minutes prior to your chosen departure time.
Departure Point: Main Street of Town
Address: Located in the township of Franz Josef Glacier on the Main Street though town - Main South Road, SH6
Important notes
All flight times are approximate and subject to change due to weather conditions and weight restrictions. If you are staying in the town you are flying from, the base will be no longer than a 10-minute walk from where you are staying
About Franz Josef & Fox Glacier
Franz Josef and Fox Glacier are two of New Zealand's most accessible glaciers, offering stunning natural beauty and a range of adventure activities. These glaciers are unique for their proximity to the Tasman Sea, creating a dramatic landscape where tropical rainforest meets ice fields.
Top Attractions
Franz Josef Glacier
One of New Zealand's most accessible glaciers, offering stunning views and a range of adventure activities.
Nature
Half-day to full-day
Moderate to Expensive (depending on the activity)
Fox Glacier
Another of New Zealand's famous glaciers, offering similar activities to Franz Josef but with fewer crowds.
Nature
Half-day to full-day
Moderate to Expensive (depending on the activity)
Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools
Natural hot pools fed by glacial water, offering a relaxing experience after a day of adventure.
Relaxation
1-2 hours
Moderate
Lake Matheson
A picturesque lake known for its reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the surrounding Southern Alps.
Nature
1-2 hours for a walk, longer for photography
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Hokey Pokey Ice Cream
A popular New Zealand ice cream flavor made with vanilla ice cream and honeycomb toffee pieces.
Dessert
Contains dairy and sugar
Fresh Seafood
The West Coast is known for its fresh seafood, including fish, crayfish, and oysters.
Lunch/Dinner
Varies by dish, may contain allergens
Lamb Rack
New Zealand lamb is renowned for its quality and flavor, often served as a rack with herbs and vegetables.
Dinner
Contains meat
Popular Activities
Guided glacier hikes
Helicopter tours
Kayaking
Hiking
Mountain biking
Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools
Scenic walks
Beachcombing
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
Summer offers the warmest weather and the most daylight hours, making it ideal for hiking, glacier tours, and other outdoor activities. The crowds are at their highest during this period.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Maori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12 (New Zealand Standard Time, NZST) or GMT+13 (New Zealand Daylight Time, NZDT during daylight saving)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Franz Josef and Fox Glacier are generally safe destinations, but visitors should be aware of the natural hazards associated with outdoor activities, such as glacier hikes and scenic flights.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of weather conditions and changing weather patterns
- • Follow safety guidelines for outdoor activities
- • Stay on marked trails and paths
Getting there
By air
- Christchurch International Airport • 250 km (155 miles) from Franz Josef
By bus
Christchurch, Greymouth, Wanaka
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary form of public transport in the area, with regular services to and from major cities.
Taxis
Available • Apps: No major app-based services
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Franz Josef Township
Fox Glacier Township
Day trips
Lake Matheson
25 km (15 miles) from Franz Josef • Half-day
A scenic lake known for its reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the surrounding Southern Alps.
Okarito Lagoon
50 km (31 miles) from Franz Josef • Full-day
A unique coastal lagoon known for its birdlife, including the rare kotuku (white heron).
Gillespies Beach
30 km (18 miles) from Fox Glacier • Half-day to full-day
A secluded beach with dramatic coastal scenery and access to the rainforest.
Festivals
West Coast Wildfoods Festival • Annually in March
Pro tips
- Visit Lake Matheson early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook
- Book glacier tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season
- Dress in layers for changing weather conditions, and always be prepared for rain
- Explore both Franz Josef and Fox Glacier to experience the best of both towns and their respective glaciers
- Try local specialties like Hokey Pokey ice cream and fresh seafood
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
