Discover the mesmerizing twin glaciers of New Zealand’s stunning landscape with Glacier Valley Eco Tours. This guided day trip combines breathtaking ice vistas with expert insights — a perfect adventure for nature lovers.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition, comfortable walking on ice and uneven terrain for extended periods.
Wildlife
History
The glaciers are remnants of the last Ice Age, with their retreat revealing insights into climate change over thousands of years.
Conservation
The tour emphasizes Leave No Trace principles, ensuring minimal impact on this sensitive environment.
Glacier Valley Eco Tours
Discover the mesmerizing twin glaciers of New Zealand’s stunning landscape with Glacier Valley Eco Tours. This guided day trip combines breathtaking ice vistas with expert insights — a perfect adventure for nature lovers.
Glacier Valley Eco Tours is a Franz Josef–based eco-tour operator offering guided experiences across the West Coast's most iconic natural sites. The company operates tours that showcase Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier, Lake Matheson and the Okarito Lagoon, providing visitors with opportunities to learn about glacier landscapes, native forests and coastal wetlands.
Guides deliver informative, safety-focused commentary and supply essential gear and complimentary hot drinks on several tours. Glacier Valley Eco Tours arranges convenient pick-up for many departures and structures itineraries to highlight scenic viewpoints, wildlife, and cultural context.
Tour options include half-day and full-day outings, combo itineraries that connect multiple sites in a single day, and specialized eco-boat and walk packages at Okarito Lagoon. The operator emphasizes low-impact travel and supports local conservation efforts through guided interpretation and responsible route choices.
Visitors can expect professionally guided walks, opportunities for photography, and practical inclusions such as warm beverages and necessary protective equipment on selected tours. Glacier Valley Eco Tours serves travelers seeking immersive nature experiences near Franz Josef Glacier and neighbouring attractions, delivering clear information, reliable logistics, and guided access to some of New Zealand’s most striking glacial and wetland landscapes.
Location
Franz Josef
Base of Franz Josef Glacier
Tours Offered
9
Glacier and nature experiences
Tour Durations
5–12 hours
Half-day to full-day options
Included Amenities
Hot drinks & gear
Complimentary on many tours
Reserve a guided glacier or nature tour with Glacier Valley Eco Tours — limited spots on full-day and combo tours.
Dress in layers
The weather can change quickly; pack warm, moisture-wicking clothing and windproof outer layers.
Carry a water bottle
Stay hydrated during the hike to keep energy levels high in the cold environment.
Bring sunglasses and sunscreen
UV exposure is intense on the ice; protect your eyes and skin from glare and sunburn.
Be prepared for uneven terrain
Wear sturdy, comfortable boots suitable for ice and rocky surfaces.
Warm waterproof jacket
Provides protection against wind and cold while exploring the glaciers.
winter
Hiking boots with grip
Ensures safety and stability on varied icy and rocky surfaces.
Hat and gloves
Keeps extremities warm during the glacier trek.
winter
Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from the intense reflection off the ice and snow.
summer|winter