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TRAVEL TIPS & HIGHLIGHTS -------- Best Time To Travel --------Summer (Dec - Feb) Spring (Sept - Nov) ------- How to Get Here ------- Drive: A 5-hour drive from Queenstown or a 2-hour drive from Hokitika. Book a Tour: From Queenstown or Christchurch. ------- Key Highlights ------- Heli-Hiking: Take a helicopter ride and explore Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers up close. Franz Josef Glacier Walk. Lake Matheson. Glacier Hot Pools. Lake Mapourika: Ideal for kayaking and scenic photography. Book Activities, Accommodation & Transport Below
Fox Glacier
Franz Josef
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THE SPECTACULAR FOX GLACIER & FRANZ JOSEF
Fox Glacier and Franz Josef are two of New Zealand's most spectacular glacier destinations, offering unforgettable experiences for any visitor. Is Fox Glacier worth visiting? Absolutely! This magnificent glacier is one of the few in the world that descends into a lush temperate rainforest, creating a stunning contrast of ice and greenery. What is special about Fox Glacier is its accessibility, as visitors can enjoy incredible views even from a distance. You can still walk to Fox Glacier's terminal face with a guided tour, making it a fantastic experience for all fitness levels.
Comparing the two, many ask, “Which is better, Fox or Franz Josef Glacier?” Both are stunning, but Franz Josef is often considered more popular due to its steeper icefall and wider range of activities. However, Fox Glacier offers a quieter, more serene experience, and the nearby Lake Matheson is a must-see for its mirror-like reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. Is Franz Josef Glacier worth visiting? Without a doubt! It’s one of the most accessible glaciers in the world, and you can even take guided ice walks or heli-hikes for an up-close adventure.
For those wondering, “Can you see Franz Josef Glacier without a tour?” Yes, you can enjoy impressive views from the Franz Josef Glacier Walk, which leads you close to the glacier’s terminal face. Both Fox Glacier and Franz Josef promise unforgettable experiences in New Zealand's rugged wilderness, making them must-visit destinations on your journey.