How to Plan Your Fox Glacier 4 Hour Hike and Scenic Helicopter Experience

Are you an adventure seeker interested in exploring the stunning Fox Glacier? Then, the Fox Glacier 4 Hour Hike and Scenic Helicopter Experience is just what you need. This tour is perfect for those looking to explore the glaciers and enjoy a unique adventure experience. Here’s how to plan your tour:

Step 1: Book Your Tour

The first step to planning your Fox Glacier 4 Hour Hike and Scenic Helicopter Experience is to book your tour. The tour is offered by a third-party company and you can book online through GetYourGuide. Ensure that you book your tour in advance to avoid disappointments.

Step 2: Prepare for Your Tour

Once you have booked your tour, it’s time to prepare for the adventure. Here are some essential things to keep in mind:

What to Wear

The tour provider recommends that you wear warm clothes and dress appropriately for the weather. You will be provided with leather boots, socks, crampons, walking poles, and wet weather jacket and overtrousers.

Who Can Participate

The tour is not suitable for children under 9 years, wheelchair users, and people over 254 lbs (115 kg). If you have any medical conditions, it’s important to consult your doctor before booking the tour.

Step 3: Participate in the Tour

Now that you have booked your tour and prepared for the adventure, it’s time to participate in the tour. Here’s what you can expect:

The Experience

The Fox Glacier 4 Hour Hike and Scenic Helicopter Experience offers a unique scenic flight over Fox Glacier. You will marvel at dramatic landscapes from above, including spectacular ice caves, icefalls, and Victoria Falls, which is the melted river from the hidden Victoria glacier. You will also experience a 3-hour hike over the ice and marvel at ever-changing ice formations. And all this while learning informative commentary from an expert local guide.

Inclusions

The tour includes two helicopter flights, expert guide, ground transport, leather boots and socks, crampons, walking poles, wet weather jacket and overtrousers, hotel pickup and drop-off. Please note that food and drinks are not included.

What to expect

Please note that weather conditions can impact the availability of helicopter flights, and it’s important to adhere to safety protocols for the tour. You’ll be provided with safety instruction before the tour.

Book Your Tour Now

In conclusion, the Fox Glacier 4 Hour Hike and Scenic Helicopter Experience offers a unique, thrilling experience that’s perfect for adventure seekers. Be sure to book your tour in advance, prepare for the adventure, and adhere to safety protocols during the tour. With an experienced guide, you’re in for an unforgettable experience you won’t forget in a hurry.

Everything You Need to Know About Fox Glacier: A Detailed FAQ

If you’re planning to visit New Zealand’s South Island, the town of Fox Glacier should definitely be on your list. This small town is home to one of the country’s most famous glaciers – the Fox Glacier. But before you head out to explore this natural wonder, here are some frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip.

1. What is Fox Glacier?

Fox Glacier is a glacier located in the Westland Tai Poutini National Park on the South Island of New Zealand. It is one of the few glaciers that descends from the Southern Alps down to a temperate rainforest, making it a unique and popular tourist destination.

2. How big is Fox Glacier?

The total length of Fox Glacier is around 13.6 km (8.45 miles). However, due to climate change and other factors, the glacier has been retreating for several years. In 2008, the terminal face of the glacier was around 5 km (3.1 miles) from the coast, while in 2015 it was around 1.2 km (0.75 miles) from the coast.

3. How can I get to Fox Glacier?

The nearest major town to Fox Glacier is Franz Josef, which is around 23 km (14.2 miles) away. The closest airport is Hokitika Airport, which is around 135 km (83.8 miles) away. From there, you can take a bus or rent a car to reach Fox Glacier.

4. When is the best time to visit Fox Glacier?

The best time to visit Fox Glacier is during the summer months, from November to February. During this time, the weather is generally warm and mild, and the glacier is more accessible. However, be prepared for crowds, as this is the peak tourist season. If you prefer a quieter experience with fewer tourists, you can also visit during the autumn and spring months.

5. Do I need a guide to visit Fox Glacier?

For safety reasons, it is recommended to take a guided tour to explore Fox Glacier. The ice can be unstable, and the weather conditions can change quickly, so it’s best to have an experienced guide to show you around. There are several tour operators in the area, offering guided hikes, helicopter tours, and more.

6. What should I wear and bring for a visit to Fox Glacier?

If you’re planning to hike on the glacier, make sure you dress appropriately. Wear warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy hiking boots. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are also recommended, as the glacier reflects a lot of sunlight. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water and food, as there are no stores or restaurants on the glacier.

7. Can I see Fox Glacier without hiking?

Yes, you can still see Fox Glacier without hiking. There are several viewpoints from where you can get a good view of the glacier. The most popular viewpoint is the Glacier Viewpoint, which can be reached by a short walk from the car park. You can also take a scenic flight over the glacier for a bird’s-eye view.

8. Are there any other attractions near Fox Glacier?

Yes, there are several other attractions near Fox Glacier that are worth visiting. The nearby Lake Matheson is a beautiful mirror lake that offers stunning views of the Southern Alps. The West Coast Wildlife Centre is a great place to learn about the native wildlife of New Zealand, including the endangered kiwi bird. You can also visit the Franz Josef Glacier, which is located just 23 km (14.2 miles) away from Fox Glacier.

9. Can I stay overnight in Fox Glacier?

Yes, there are several accommodation options in Fox Glacier, ranging from budget hostels to luxury resorts. It’s recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

10. Is it safe to visit Fox Glacier?

Yes, it is generally safe to visit Fox Glacier. However, as mentioned earlier, it’s recommended to take a guided tour and follow all safety instructions. The weather can be unpredictable, so make sure you check the weather forecast before heading out. Also, be aware of the signs of hypothermia and take appropriate precautions.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Fox Glacier

Fox Glacier is a stunningly beautiful region situated on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island. It is home to one of the world’s most accessible glaciers, the Fox Glacier. If you’re planning to visit Fox Glacier as a tourist, below is a step-by-step guide on how to spend your time in this serene location.

1. Hike the Fox Glacier

One of the primary activities to do in Fox Glacier is to hike the Fox Glacier itself. The glacier has been retreating slowly over the years, but it is still the longest of the West Coast glaciers. The best way to enjoy the glacier is to book a guided tour with a local guide. The tours offer a range of options, including half and full-day hikes. As part of the tour, you will experience ice formations, stunning scenery, and crevasses. Always remember to dress appropriately for the hike, including warm clothing, good hiking boots, sunglasses, and sun protection gear.

2. Visit the Glacier Hot Pools.

After a long day of hiking or exploring, there’s nothing better than relaxing in a hot pool. The Glacier Hot Pools are one of the popular attractions in Fox Glacier. The pools are heated using water from the nearby hot spring and provide a stunning view of the Southern Alps. The facilities are family-friendly and offer something for everyone, including kids’ pools, adult-only pools, and private pools. The pools are open till late, making it perfect for a relaxing evening after a long day of exploring.

3. Explore Lake Matheson.

A visit to Fox Glacier isn’t complete without a visit to Lake Matheson. The lake is famous for offering a mirror-like reflection of the Southern Alps on a calm day. Its scenic walking tracks provide ample opportunities for nature photography, bird-watching, and platypus spotting. There’s also a cafe located near the car park that serves delicious meals, tea, and coffee.

4. Take a scenic flight.

A scenic flight is an excellent way to see the region from a bird’s eye view. The flight takes you over the Fox Glacier, Mount Cook, and Tasman Glacier. You will also get to experience the region’s stunning wilderness, including the Southern Alps and rainforests. The flights range from 20 minutes to an hour, allowing you to choose the option that best suits your budget and interests.

5. Visit the West Coast Wildlife Centre.

The West Coast Wildlife Centre is home to the rarest kiwi bird in the world, the rowi. The center also serves as the base for a Department of Conservation breeding program for the rowi. Visitors to the center will get a chance to see the Kiwi hatchery and learn about this endangered species’ conservation efforts. The center also has informative exhibits on the region’s flora and fauna, including native birds, giant snails, and tuatara.

6. Walk the many trails.

Fox Glacier is famous for its hiking trails, and there is a trail to suit almost every level of fitness. Some of the popular trails include Chalet Lookout, Sentinel Rock Walk, and Lake Gault Walk. Each trail offers an opportunity to see the region’s stunning natural wonders, including snow-capped mountains, rushing rivers, and verdant rainforests. Always remember to follow the trail’s rules, including staying on the designated trail, packing out your rubbish, and respecting the natural habitat.

7. Experience the Taste of The West Coast.

Exploring a place’s local cuisine is one of the best ways to experience its culture. Fox Glacier boasts a variety of food and beverage options, including cafes, restaurants, and iconic pubs. Some popular places to eat include Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon, Blue Ice Cafe, and Corks Wine Bar & Woodfire Pizza. Always remember to try the local delicacies such as venison steak, whitebait, and West Coast seafood.

Book Your Tour Now

Fox Glacier is a beautiful destination that is full of stunning scenery and exciting activities. Whether you’re looking to relax or get your adrenaline pumping, there’s something for everyone. I hope this guide has provided you with the necessary information to plan your visit to Fox Glacier. Remember to keep an open mind, respect the local culture, and enjoy your stay in this stunning location.