Experience
one of New Zealand’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders with our
Franz Joseph Glacier Tours. Located on the country’s South Island,
the Glacier is a frozen wonderland of incredible beauty, unbelievable
landscapes, and climbs fit for extreme sports lovers and hardcore
adventurers. It is one of the most challenging weather conditions you
will encounter in New Zealand, but all efforts will be rewarded with
an absolutely amazing experience that will change you for the rest of
your life.
While
the European name for the glacier is a tribute to King Franz Joseph I
of Austria, the Maori name for it, “Ka Roimata o Hinehukatere”
reflects its melancholic beauty. “The tears of Hinehukatere” is
the story of a girl who invites her lover to climb the mountains and
tragically loses him to an avalanche. Hinehukatere’s infinite tears
froze and formed the stunning glacier we can appreciate today. The
story has even more significance when you witness with your own eyes
the icefalls that permeate the landscape, like frozen tears stopped
in time.
For
the safety of visitors, the Glacier can only be reached by
helicopter, and special equipment is required to be able to climb and
tour around it. Luckily, our Franz Joseph Glacier tours provide all
the equipment you need to experience the amazing landscape in safety.
Walk through ice tunnels, go deep inside ice caves, and stand in awe
of how the static ice seems to be flowing. End the day at the Franz
Joseph township, which sits at the entrance of the valley. In this
tiny glaciar town you will find cozy walls that will welcome you, hot
drinks, delicious food, and friendly locals.
With
our Franz Joseph Glacier tours, you can be sure you won’t miss out
on one of the most extreme adventures New Zealand has to offer.