Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of Fox Glacier. A gentle, gradual climb awaits, making this adventure accessible to all ages and fitness levels. Discover the rich history and local stories that make this region so unique. Join us for an educational and memorable hike that blends natural beauty with deep environmental understanding.
What you will be doing
We'll drive you to Fox Glacier from Franz Josef Glacier (a 30-minute drive), or if you are staying in Fox Glacier, we'll pick you up from our meeting point in the Fox Glacier
This scenic trail meanders through the lush, historic glaciated rainforest of Westland Tai Poutini National Park, where you'll encounter magnificent rata and rimu trees, vibrant mosses, and breathtaking views of the upper Fox Glacier, the Fox Neve and Mt Tasman - one of New Zealand's tallest peaks. Along the way, our knowledgeable guides will share fascinating insights into the area's geology, glaciation, and thermology (including a chance to dip your hand in a geothermal spring) and its diverse flora and fauna.
Where we'll meet
🧭 Meeting/pick-up point: 20 Main Road SH6 Franz Josef Glacier, Franz Josef / Waiau 7886, New Zealand
🗺️ Instructions: Meet at the Glacier Valley Eco Tours base in the township of Franz Josef Glacier, or we’ll pick you up from your accommodation or agreed meeting point if you are staying in Fox Glacier
Things to know
Accessibility:
Children friendly
Fitness requirement
Any fitness level
Tour Language
English
License requirement
None
Additional information:
Bring outdoor clothing for the day’s weather conditions: comfortable walking shoes, a sun hat, sunblock, lip balm, sunglasses, a camera, and lots of energy
Free use of Macpac Baby Carrier for under 3-year-olds
Raincoats, over-trousers and large heavy-duty umbrellas are included to keep you dry
Total distance is 6.4 km
Inclusion ✅
Refreshments
Snack
Hiking pole
Tour guide
Pick up and drop off transport
Exclusion ❌
Pick up and drop off transport
Gratuities
About your host
Glacier Valley Eco ToursWe are passionate about conservation, and we do what we can to ensure our business has minimal to no impact on the environment. We are consciously involved in community volunteer programs such as the Okarito Native Plant Nursery and are founding members of the Okarito Plant Project to help restore the native forests on our land and Project Early Bird. The Ōkārito Plant Project was founded by the Ōkārito Native Plants Trust as an innovative solution, empowering communities and businesses to be involved in the restoration and protection of natural ecosystems. Working together towards a sustainable future, fostering biodiversity and regenerating vital forests, waterways, and wetlands. Glacier Valley Eco Tours is a proud founding member of the Ōkārito Plant Project and invites you to join us on our mission to preserve and restore biodiversity and the natural environment in South Westland. Operating under a circular model, this innovative initiative encourages both local and international businesses to become members, contribute financially and physically (by participating in planting activities), and promote the project through their business operations. Visitors to the area are given the opportunity to learn about the project and can choose to donate, volunteer (if their visit coincides with a planting day), and/or support the collection of businesses that are official partners by booking their tours or purchasing their products. By choosing us, you are supporting the Ōkārito Plant Project.
Qualmark Silver: Qualmark works with Tourism New Zealand to help the tourism industry deliver high-quality experiences and maintain a high level of visitor satisfaction. Only businesses that deliver a quality sustainable experience, ones that have undergone an independent evaluation, and showcase true New Zealand hospitality, are recognised through a Qualmark accreditation. It has three levels: Gold, Silver and Bronze.
For every trip booked, Kodama Travel donates £1 to Just One Tree to restore our forests and the ocean.