3–4 Days in Franz Josef & Fox Glacier

Discover Aotearoa New Zealand's Glacier Country, known for its dramatic scenery of glaciers, rainforests and coastline. 

In a place where you can fly above the Southern Alps to explore glaciers, wander quiet lake trails, and kayak through the wetlands, Glacier Country needs to be on your bucket list.

Choose Your Base

Both Franz Josef and Fox Glacier are remote villages located just 30 minutes apart by road, and each has its own unique charm. Franz Josef is more developed and has a broader range of accommodation, restaurants, and shops. Fox Glacier is quieter, with a feeling like you're off the beaten track. Fox Glacier is also home to the famous Lake Matheson. Both are hubs at the doorstep of Westland Tai Poutini National Park.  

Here's how to make the most of your visit.

Day 1: Franz Josef

Start your journey in Franz Josef Village, where snow-capped peaks tower over fern-filled rainforest. Ease into your trip with a walk. Here are a few of our short walk recommendations with beautiful views:

• Callery Gorge Walk
• Canavans Knob 
• Douglas Walk
• Franz Josef Glacier Walk  
• Tatare Tunnels
• Te Ara Waiau Walkway/Cycleway  
•  Lake Wombat 

For a longer, more advanced and adventurous walk, try the 17.2km Alex Knob Track. This challenging hike rewards you with the best views of Franz Josef Glacier without a helicopter flight. Local tip: Start this trek early in the day to avoid afternoon cloud.  

Later, relax at the Waiho Hot Pools, surrounded by native bush. The perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.  

Day 2: See it all from Above

Today is your big adventure day. Book a scenic flight or heli hike with a local operator. Our top picks are The Helicopter Line or Glacier Helicopters. Soar above the rainforest, glacial ice and land high in the mountains and explore the glacier either with a short scenic flight landing or longer glacier hike with expert guides. A truly unforgettable way to experience the scale and beauty of the world renowned Glacier Country region.

If time allows, visit the West Coast Wildlife Centre, a working conservation facility. Take a self-guided tour to see the Rowi, New Zealand’s rarest kiwi, and tuatara and be on the lookout for their newest West Coast Penguin Encounter.  

Day 3: Fox Glacier & Lake Matheson 
Take a short drive to Fox Glacier Village and walk the Fox Glacier South Side Track, which follows a river valley to a spectacular glacier viewpoint. Head to Lake Matheson is known for its perfect reflections of Aoraki / Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. Walk the easy loop track and don't forget to bring your camera. It's one of New Zealand's most photographed spots for a reason, and you won't want to miss it. Stop at the Matheson Café to refuel after your scenic walk.

Day 4 (Optional): Discover Ōkārito 
Have extra time? Make your way to the quiet coastal village of Ōkārito. Kayak through Ōkārito Lagoon, walk along the beach, spot native birds, or hike to the Ōkārito Trig for panoramic views of the Southern Alps, Ōkārito Lagoon and the Tasman Sea.  
 
No matter how long you're here for, you'll quickly see why the locals don’t tire of these views.  
 
For more information about things to do, head to glaciercountry.co.nz