Explore the stunning Franz Josef Glacier
Franz Josef, New Zealand • 
Must Do
Must DoFranz Josef, New Zealand
Must Do
Best months to visit
Jan, Feb, Nov
9°C – 16°C, january in franz josef glacier features warm temperatures ranging from 9°c to 16°c, with an average of 12, high crowds, peak season
9°C – 16°C, january in franz josef glacier features warm temperatures ranging from 9°c to 16°c, with an average of 12, high crowds, peak season
Walking required
Yes
Hiking on uneven terrain; not wheelchair accessible.
Hiking on uneven terrain; not wheelchair accessible.
Value for money
Medium
Pricey, but the experience is generally considered worthwhile.
Pricey, but the experience is generally considered worthwhile.
Highlights we curated for you
See what similar travellers think of this activity
C
Reviews from other travelers
Summarised by AI
Stunning Views
Couples raved about the breathtaking scenery and unique ice formations. Romantic and memorable!
Heli-Hike Worth
Couples found the heli-hike an unforgettable experience. Guides were professional and knowledgeable.
Magical Experience
Visitors felt it was a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. The blue ice was truly magical.
Weather Dependent
Couples were disappointed by weather-related tour cancellations. Plan for flexibility!
High Price
Travelers felt the heli-hikes and scenic flights were expensive. Budget accordingly for this.
Glacier Retreat
Couples noted the walk to the glacier face is now distant, impacting the experience.
Hours of operation
Monday
open - open
Tuesday
open - open
Wednesday
open - open
Thursday
open - open
Friday
open - open
Saturday
open - open
Sunday
open - open
In-depth experience
May contain spoilers
Watch curated videos from fellow travellers for a glimpse of what to expect.
Discover the scenic Franz Josef Glacier
Embark on a exploration of Franz Josef Glacier in this captivating video
When to visit
We've analysed user reviews and geographical data, and identified the best and worst months to visit.
Month
Crowd Level
Weather
Availability
Our recommendation
February
HIGH
9-16°C
February continues the warm summer trend with temperatures between 9°C and 16°C, averaging 12.5°C. Rainfall is slightly lower than January, averaging around 222 mm over approximately 11 days.
February continues the warm summer trend with temperatures between 9°C and 16°C, averaging 12.5°C. Rainfall is slightly lower than January, averaging around 222 mm over approximately 11 days.
Open
High demand necessitates early bookings for tours and accommodations.
High demand necessitates early bookings for tours and accommodations.
Recommended
February's warm weather and slightly reduced rainfall make it a favorable time for glacier activities. However, expect high prices and the need for advance planning due to peak season crowds.
February's warm weather and slightly reduced rainfall make it a favorable time for glacier activities. However, expect high prices and the need for advance planning due to peak season crowds.
March
MEDIUM
7-14°C
March marks the transition to autumn with temperatures ranging from 7°C to 14°C, averaging 10.5°C. Rainfall increases to around 252 mm over approximately 11 days.
March marks the transition to autumn with temperatures ranging from 7°C to 14°C, averaging 10.5°C. Rainfall increases to around 252 mm over approximately 11 days.
Open
Some tours may have reduced schedules as the season changes.
Some tours may have reduced schedules as the season changes.
Recommended
March offers cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a good time for those seeking a more relaxed experience. Be prepared for increased rainfall and check for any seasonal changes in tour operations.
March offers cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a good time for those seeking a more relaxed experience. Be prepared for increased rainfall and check for any seasonal changes in tour operations.
April
LOW
6-13°C
April experiences cooler temperatures between 6°C and 13°C, averaging 9.5°C. Rainfall remains high, averaging around 302 mm over approximately 15 days.
April experiences cooler temperatures between 6°C and 13°C, averaging 9.5°C. Rainfall remains high, averaging around 302 mm over approximately 15 days.
Open
Some activities may be limited due to weather conditions and reduced demand.
Some activities may be limited due to weather conditions and reduced demand.
Recommended
April's cooler temperatures and low crowds provide a tranquil experience. However, the higher chance of rain and potential for limited activity options should be considered when planning your visit.
April's cooler temperatures and low crowds provide a tranquil experience. However, the higher chance of rain and potential for limited activity options should be considered when planning your visit.
May
MEDIUM
7-14°C
Cool temperatures with moderate rainfall; valley temperatures range from 7°C to 14°C.
Cool temperatures with moderate rainfall; valley temperatures range from 7°C to 14°C.
Open
Some tours may have limited availability due to weather conditions.
Some tours may have limited availability due to weather conditions.
Recommended
May offers cooler temperatures and moderate rainfall, making it a good time to visit with fewer crowds and reasonable prices.
May offers cooler temperatures and moderate rainfall, making it a good time to visit with fewer crowds and reasonable prices.
How to get there
Bus
Recommended
Shuttle
Recommended
Walking
Recommended
Bike
Car
Taxi
Train
Additional info
Here's what you need to know about this experience
Mobility
Wheelchair Accessible
Walking Required
Stairs Present
Seating Available
Flat Terrain
Hiking Required
Elevator Available
Mobility Scooter Friendly
Ramps Available
Pregnancy
Not suitable for pregnancy
Not allowed during pregnancy
Pets
Pets not allowed
Driving
Driving License Required
Idp Required
