Fox Glacier Heli Hike in New Zealand
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Fox Glacier Heli Hike in New Zealand
Next available dates
Sat
6 Dec
Sun
7 Dec
Mon
8 Dec
Bestseller
8:50am Departure
Instant confirmation
Free cancellation
- 8:50am: This fly-in, fly-out heli hike runs for up to four hours and blends a thrilling helicopter flight with a guided walk on Fox Glacier. Expect up to three hours on the ice.
From
NZD 776
11:50am Departure
Instant confirmation
Free cancellation
- 11:50am: This fly-in, fly-out heli hike runs for up to four hours and blends a thrilling helicopter flight with a guided walk on Fox Glacier. Expect up to three hours on the ice.
From
NZD 776
Also consider
Highlights
Hop on a Helicopter Ride to Fox Glacier, New Zealand!
Sitting prettily in Westland Tai Poutini National Park is one of the must-see sights of the South Island. Right in the heart of New Zealand's West Coast lies Fox Glacier township, a village home to one of the most accessible glaciers in the world. Also known as Te Moeka o Tuawe in Māori (which translates to "the bed of Tuawe"), here you can stroll on impressive ice formations after taking a scenic helicopter flight, with spectacular scenery of crevasses, icefalls, and blue ice, and the surrounding Southern Alps.
Get ready for an action-packed day that'll see you embarking on a glacier hike. Soak in the surrounding landscape as you enjoy unique views of Victoria Falls, the melted river of the Victoria Glacier, obscured by high walls and steep cliffs. Experience Fox Glacier in style as you take a scenic flight right to your starting destination. That's how you'll explore a part of the glacier inaccessible to the public, and where you'll find magical ice caves and arches that look right out of a Frozen movie. A must-add to any New Zealand trip, hike and learn about the river of ice that flows 12 kilometres from New Zealand's highest peaks to the rainforest.
- New Zealand’s Top Glacier Experience: Join a Fox Glacier heli hike that takes travellers straight onto one of New Zealand’s most accessible glaciers.
- Decades of Glacier Guiding Expertise: With 50+ years of experience, guides lead you across ever-changing ice formations and striking blue ice terrain.
- More Flying Days, Fewer Weather Delays: Lower-altitude operations mean better flying conditions for glacier helicopters and smoother bookings year-round.
- Explore Ice Caves and Hidden Formations: A helicopter landing takes travellers into areas filled with ice caves, arches, and deep crevasses - perfect for your social feed.
- Perfect for Any Itinerary: Do it as a day trip or add it to a wider South Island New Zealand itinerary - the choice is yours!
Itinerary
- Fox Glacier
- Spend up to three hours hiking on Fox Glacier, located in Westland Tai Poutini National Park. This fly-in, fly-out heli-hike combines the excitement of walking on an actual glacier with the thrill and epic views from ultra-scenic helicopter flights. By flying in, you can easily access a part of the glacier not available to the public. There, you'll witness the forces of Mother Nature create spectacular ice caves and arches. Tour operators will outfit you with boots and crampons specially designed for these icy conditions. Highly experienced guides will also safely lead you through pre-cut ice steps, so you can admire the awesome formations and panoramic views with peace of mind. Please note that this is a natural and ever-changing environment. Ice features change constantly, and no guarantee can be given that specific features will be seen on your trek. This is a weather-dependent trip, and a clear day might not be guaranteed.
- Before joining the tour, all travellers must review and sign the operator’s Risk Disclosure Statement, which outlines important details about hiking Fox Glacier.
Itinerary
Fox Glacier
Spend up to 3 hours hiking on the Fox Glacier, The fly-in, fly-out heli hike combines the excitement of walking on the Te Moeka o Tuawe/Fox Glacier with the thrill of helicopter flights. By flying in you can access and explore a part of the glacier where its forces work hardest and often create spectacular ice caves and arches. You will be outfitted with boots and crampons specially designed for these ice conditions. You follow the ice steps cut by your guide as you explore the amazing formations. Please note that this is a natural and ever-changing environment. Ice features change constantly and no guarantee can be given that specific features will be seen. This is a weather dependent trip. A Risk Disclosure Statement must be signed before Departure https://www.foxguides.co.nz/risk-disclosure-statement/
What's included
INCLUDED
Leather boots and socks
Wet Weather Jacket and Over trousers (if required)
Crampons and walking poles
Professional Guide
Two helicopter transfers
NOT INCLUDED
Bring 3 - 4 layers of warm upper body clothing
Sunglasses and sun protection
Jeans are not recommended - Hiking pants or trackpants are more suitable
Drinks and snacks
Customer reviews
Additional information
Must Know
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Good To Know
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travellers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Minimum Age is 9 years
- Child Age is 9-16 years inclusive
- Minimum numbers apply
- The tour is subject to favourable weather conditions. A weather call will be made 10 minutes prior to check-in, so do maintain flexibility in your itinerary if possible.
- Individual passenger weight limit is 116 kg or less due to weight and balance calculations of the aircraft
- A Risk Disclosure Statement must be signed before Departure - please read it before your trip.
Location
Address
Fox Glacier, West Coast 7886, New Zealand
Provider
Fox Glacier Guiding - Glacier Tours & Adventures
Frequently asked questions
Which is better - the Fox Glacier or Franz Josef Glacier heli hike?
Both are great for different reasons, but one may be better for you depending on your priorities. Fox Glacier gives you a longer time on the ice, and the terrain is beginner-friendly, which some may appreciate.
The ascent is less steep, for example, so an average fitness level is more than enough. On the flip side, the Franz Josef heli hike has more impressive ice features (think jaw-droppingly gorgeous blue ice and caves, especially in winter), and it is nearer to a larger town with more amenities.
That said, both glaciers are located in a region with high rainfall. That means helicopter flights can be easily cancelled due to weather. So keep that in mind when planning your itinerary and set aside some flexibility in your plans.
The ascent is less steep, for example, so an average fitness level is more than enough. On the flip side, the Franz Josef heli hike has more impressive ice features (think jaw-droppingly gorgeous blue ice and caves, especially in winter), and it is nearer to a larger town with more amenities.
That said, both glaciers are located in a region with high rainfall. That means helicopter flights can be easily cancelled due to weather. So keep that in mind when planning your itinerary and set aside some flexibility in your plans.
What is the best time to visit Fox Glacier?
It really depends on your preferences. Generally, though, winter (June to August) is superb for breathtaking views of ice formations, plus there are fewer crowds too as a nice bonus. Naturally, it is colder being winter; warm clothing is a must. If you also have a low cold tolerance, this season might not be for you.
Late summer (February to March) is excellent as well. This season strikes a nice balance of warmer weather and fewer people. Not to mention, you have more options for outdoor activities, like checking out hiking and walking trails like the Lake Matheson Walk or the Fox Glacier South Side Walkway.
That said, for the most icy features, winter is superior by far.
Late summer (February to March) is excellent as well. This season strikes a nice balance of warmer weather and fewer people. Not to mention, you have more options for outdoor activities, like checking out hiking and walking trails like the Lake Matheson Walk or the Fox Glacier South Side Walkway.
That said, for the most icy features, winter is superior by far.
What does the Fox Glacier heli hike cost, and are there any discounts?
The Fox Glacier heli hike price starts from USD 441 for both adults and children, although prices may be different across Pelago and other third-party platforms. However, if you book your heli-hike on Pelago, you'll be able to earn up to 3 KrisFlyer miles per dollar spent.
Or if you're flying to New Zealand on Singapore Airlines, you may be able to use your flight booking reference number as a promo code to get a discount off the tour. You can check out more in our full Pelago promo code guide.
Or if you're flying to New Zealand on Singapore Airlines, you may be able to use your flight booking reference number as a promo code to get a discount off the tour. You can check out more in our full Pelago promo code guide.
How long is the Fox Glacier heli hike experience?
Generally, the heli-hike experience will take roughly four hours in total. This includes your helicopter flight. As for the guided hiking bit, that will take up to three hours on the glacier. But of course, this duration is only an estimation and can be affected by factors like weather."
Is the Fox Glacier heli hike worth it?
Yes, the hike is totally worth it. And it's pretty much a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Think about it. You get incredible views of Glacier Country, flying in a helicopter, with landscapes and formations ranging from icefalls and crevasses to towering mountains in the Southern Alps. Not to mention the lush rainforest that surrounds the glacier's base.
Also, as unfortunate as it is, global warming is a threat. And as the glacier recedes, the view you'll get will be different, and no visit is ever truly the same.
That said, manage your expectations. The stunning blue ice formations are not always present and are more common in winter.
Think about it. You get incredible views of Glacier Country, flying in a helicopter, with landscapes and formations ranging from icefalls and crevasses to towering mountains in the Southern Alps. Not to mention the lush rainforest that surrounds the glacier's base.
Also, as unfortunate as it is, global warming is a threat. And as the glacier recedes, the view you'll get will be different, and no visit is ever truly the same.
That said, manage your expectations. The stunning blue ice formations are not always present and are more common in winter.
What do you wear to the heli hike on the Fox Glacier walking tour?
The key is layering. Conditions on the glacier hike can change quickly and unpredictably, and it's best to be well-prepared. Pack a light shirt, a fleece, and a windproof/waterproof jacket (roughly 3–4 layers would be safe). Add to your luggage quick-drying pants, a warm hat, gloves, and sunglasses to protect your eyes from the UV rays that bounce off the ice.
Avoid cotton as it absorbs moisture like sweat or rain, making you feel colder than you should. And skip jeans and go for hiking pants instead. The tour operator will provide crampons, walking poles, and waterproof outerwear if you require.
Avoid cotton as it absorbs moisture like sweat or rain, making you feel colder than you should. And skip jeans and go for hiking pants instead. The tour operator will provide crampons, walking poles, and waterproof outerwear if you require.
Can you walk on Fox Glacier without a helicopter?
No, you cannot reach Fox Glacier without a helicopter. In fact, riding a helicopter to reach the glacier is mandatory. The reason is that the glacier has retreated significantly. As a result, the lower sections are unstable. And to get from the valley floor to the ice terminal face is a journey that's too dangerous.
An alternative is heading to a walk-up viewpoint called Te Kopikopiko o te Waka. It's basically a cultural heritage site with panoramic views of the Southern Alps and Fox Glacier. Getting there is easy: simply access the viewpoint via walkways from a car park south of the Fox Glacier township.
The catch is that you can only see the glacier from afar and not actually physically walk on it.
An alternative is heading to a walk-up viewpoint called Te Kopikopiko o te Waka. It's basically a cultural heritage site with panoramic views of the Southern Alps and Fox Glacier. Getting there is easy: simply access the viewpoint via walkways from a car park south of the Fox Glacier township.
The catch is that you can only see the glacier from afar and not actually physically walk on it.
What is the weight limit for the Fox Glacier heli hike guided walk?
Visitors that weigh more than 116 kg or 256 lbs may face restrictions. The reason is for the safety and balance of the helicopter ride portion of the tour.
How far is the walk to Fox Glacier?
The walk to the Fox Glacier viewpoint is roughly a 2.6-kilometre return trip from the township, which takes about one hour on foot. Just take note this is the walk to the viewpoint and not the glacier hike itself, which can only be accessed by helicopter. Also, roads might be closed due to rockfalls or floods. Just be prepared and check for current conditions before heading out.
What are some accommodation options in Fox Glacier village, New Zealand?
There are some amazing accommodation options in and around the village. For a luxe stay, Distinction Hotel Fox Glacier is a superb pick - perfect for exploring the nearby glaciers or Lake Matheson, and just a 20-minute drive from Franz Josef Glacier.
Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier is another solid choice right in the centre of the village, while High Peaks Hotel and Bella Vista Motel offer more affordable, budget-friendly stays. Heartland Hotel sits a short 5-minute walk from the Fox Glacier Glow Worm Forest, and Bella Vista is right next to the Minnehaha Walk, home to the Minnehaha Track & Glow Worm Grotto.
If you're more of a homestay person, Reflection Lodge Homestay is ideal. Expect a cosy lounge with a large open fire and spectacular views of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman.
Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier is another solid choice right in the centre of the village, while High Peaks Hotel and Bella Vista Motel offer more affordable, budget-friendly stays. Heartland Hotel sits a short 5-minute walk from the Fox Glacier Glow Worm Forest, and Bella Vista is right next to the Minnehaha Walk, home to the Minnehaha Track & Glow Worm Grotto.
If you're more of a homestay person, Reflection Lodge Homestay is ideal. Expect a cosy lounge with a large open fire and spectacular views of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman.
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