Explore the Natural Wonder of Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand’s Spectacular Southern Alps Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier is a spectacular glacier located in Westland Tai Poutini National Park on the South Island of New Zealand. The glacier is around 12 kilometers long and descends from the Southern Alps to just 240 meters above sea level, making it one of the most accessible glaciers in the world.

Visitors to Franz Josef Glacier can take guided walks or heli-hikes to explore the glacier’s stunning ice formations and learn about its geological history. The glacier is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including forests, rivers, and waterfalls, making it a popular destination for photographers and nature lovers.

In addition to exploring the glacier, visitors can also take part in a range of other activities in the area, including hiking, mountain biking, and scenic flights over the glacier and the surrounding area. There are also several hot pools and spas in the area, offering visitors the chance to relax and unwind after a day of exploring.

The town of Franz Josef is a charming and welcoming destination, with a range of accommodation options and dining choices. It is also located near other popular attractions, including the Fox Glacier and the West Coast Wildlife Centre, making it an excellent base for exploring the region. Overall, Franz Josef Glacier is a unique and breathtaking destination that offers visitors the opportunity to experience one of nature’s most incredible wonders.

Things to do in Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier is a stunning natural wonder located on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island. Here are some of the top things to do in Franz Josef Glacier:

1. Heli-hiking: One of the best ways to experience Franz Josef Glacier is by taking a heli-hiking tour. You’ll take a helicopter ride to the top of the glacier and then hike on the ice with a guide. It’s an incredible experience to walk on the glacier and see the stunning ice formations up close.
2. Glacier hot pools: After a long day of hiking, relax in the glacier hot pools, which are fed by the hot springs in the area. The hot pools offer stunning views of the glacier and surrounding mountains.
3. Glacier valley walk: Take a guided walk through the Franz Josef Glacier Valley and learn about the history and geology of the area. You’ll see stunning waterfalls and scenic vistas along the way.
4. Kayaking: Kayak on the glacial lakes and rivers of the area and enjoy the stunning scenery. You can choose from a guided or self-guided tour and explore the area at your own pace.
5. Skydiving: For those who are adventurous, skydiving over Franz Josef Glacier is an experience not to be missed. You’ll have a birds-eye view of the glacier and surrounding mountains.
6. Scenic flights: Take a scenic flight over Franz Josef Glacier and get a unique perspective of the area from above. You can choose from a helicopter or fixed-wing plane and see the glacier, mountains, and surrounding rainforest.
7. Hiking trails: There are several hiking trails in the area that offer stunning views of the glacier and surrounding mountains. The trails range from easy to difficult, so there’s something for everyone.
8. Horseback riding: Explore the area on horseback and see the stunning scenery of the glacier and surrounding mountains. You can choose from a guided or self-guided tour and enjoy the area at a leisurely pace.
9. Ice climbing: For those who are experienced climbers, ice climbing on Franz Josef Glacier is a challenging and rewarding experience. You’ll climb up the ice formations and enjoy the stunning views from the top.
10. Visit the West Coast Wildlife Centre: The West Coast Wildlife Centre is home to the world’s rarest kiwi bird, the rowi. You can take a guided tour and learn about the conservation efforts to save this endangered species.

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