West Coast

Franz Josef Glacier was named after the Emperor of the Austro-Hungarian Empire by explorer Julius von Haast. There are many glaciers in the Southern Alps, but Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier are the only two that almost reach the coast. The terminal face of the glacier is currently only 19 kilometres from the sea.

Viewing & Climbing Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef glaciers carpark is only 5km from Franz Josef township, a 10 minute drive. The Glacier Valley Walk from the car park to the face of the glacier is about 1 hour 20 minutes return. If you want to climb on to the glacier you must go with a guided tour. There are guided tour options to suit all ages and abilities. Guiding companies provide all equipment necessary to climbing the glacier, and transfer to and from the glacier. Scenic flights and Heli-hikes (helicopter ride up glacier and short hike with a guide) are also available.

Franz Josef Accommodation & Tourist Information.

There is a range of quality motel and backpacker accommodation in Franz Josef, there is also a number of bed and breakfast, hotels, and lodges located in the township. When it comes to dining in Franz Josef there are a handful of cafes and restaurants. Franz Josef is a good place to stock up on supplies or to pick up some souvenirs of your trip to the West Coast. There is a very good Visitor Centre at Franz Josef which is open 7 days a week. It possible to get money from the ATM on the main street, and there is an internet cafe also on the main street.

Activities To In Franz Josef

While most people visiting Franz Josef come to view the glacier, there many other activities including hiking, horse trekking, fishing, kayaking, White Heron tours, jet boat safaris and rafting.