Heli-Hiking
4 hours
Free cancellation
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Recommended by 96% of travellers
96% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$673
per adult
Fox Glacier Guiding
Fox Glacier Guiding
5
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Full view
About
It's our privilege to guide you on the West Coast's largest and less crowded glacier. It is one of New Zealand's truly natural wonders. Whether you are walking, heli-hiking or ice-climbing with us in this incredible environment, we can promise you a memory you'll cherish. We have a long guiding history on the glacier (guided walks first started in 1928). Those years of accumulated knowledge and experience mean we are able to guide you with complete confidence. You can rest assured we take your safety and comfort very seriously. Come and enjoy our friendly West Coast hospitality, experience the mighty Fox Glacier with us and create a lifetime memory. We have glacier trips suitable for most fitness levels and ages including children from 9 yrs.
Tours and Tickets by Fox Glacier Guiding
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5.0
1,735 reviews
Excellent
1,450
Very good
191
Average
59
Poor
21
Terrible
14
simon d
Fort Lauderdale, FL39 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
We are so glad we chose the Heli Hike in Fox Glacier instead of Franks Joseph! Only one company in this town versus several in FJ. Beautiful glacier, ice caves, uncrowded!
Amazing staff. Friendly and they make sure you are safe at all times. Probably or best experience in our NZ trip.
Amazing staff. Friendly and they make sure you are safe at all times. Probably or best experience in our NZ trip.
Written 5 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
FoxGlacierGuiding
Awesome! We are so pleased that you enjoyed your experience with us on our Heli hike. Wishing you safe travels.
Written 8 December 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Josh
24 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
We were quite disappointed with our experience, and had very high expectations especially given the promotion about this tour winning a big TripAdvisor award in 2021. We were shocked that we were in a group of 24 (2 x groups of 12 on the glacier). From the initial safety briefing and introduction we felt we were being shepherded around, right up to and including the glacier hike. When we spent $655 per head we expected a more personalised/intimate experience. The helicopter pilot seemed disinterested and the flight just felt like a four-minute shuttle service. The tour on the ice with our guide Cam was very good, and a unique experience, but we really didn’t feel that we got value for money, so wouldn’t recommend the tour for the cost.
Written 12 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
FoxGlacierGuiding
Thank you for sharing your feedback with us. We appreciate your insights, and we are sorry to hear that your experience fell short of expectations. We're glad you enjoyed the tour on the glacier with Cam. Your comments are invaluable and we will use them to enhance our trips for the future. We hope to have the opportunity to welcome you again and provide an improved experience.
Kind regards,
The Fox Glacier Guiding Team
Written 24 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jtan1212
Singapore, Singapore134 contributions
An awesome experience - first time on a helicopter and then up close and personal on the glacier itself, something I wanted to do many years ago!
The folks at Fox Glacier were very professional, friendly, responsive to my enquiries and calls even before I started the tour.
On the day of tour, it was an equally great experience. The guides gave clear safety instructions, provided all the gear we needed though I had my own and ensured we had a great experience up at the glacier. The guides were friendly, accommodating and helped me take photos being solo. I thoroughly enjoyed it and wished it could be longer.
The folks at Fox Glacier were very professional, friendly, responsive to my enquiries and calls even before I started the tour.
On the day of tour, it was an equally great experience. The guides gave clear safety instructions, provided all the gear we needed though I had my own and ensured we had a great experience up at the glacier. The guides were friendly, accommodating and helped me take photos being solo. I thoroughly enjoyed it and wished it could be longer.
Written 7 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AID
Singapore, Singapore59 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
I did the heli-hike (flying fox version) with my family (wife and 2 boys, ages 9 and 12).
From start to finish, it was clear that this was a professionally run experience. The experience began with detailed instructions, followed by gear load-up.
A quick trip to the take off zone and off we went on the helicopter for a quick ride to the drop off zone on the glacier.
From there, our guide took over (Sophie in our case) and took us on a 2-3 hours hike to explore different aspects of the glacier.
It was a unique and memorable experience!
From start to finish, it was clear that this was a professionally run experience. The experience began with detailed instructions, followed by gear load-up.
A quick trip to the take off zone and off we went on the helicopter for a quick ride to the drop off zone on the glacier.
From there, our guide took over (Sophie in our case) and took us on a 2-3 hours hike to explore different aspects of the glacier.
It was a unique and memorable experience!
Written 22 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Will S
9 contributions
Sep 2023 • Couples
Wow, what a day! We got lucky with the weather - we woke up to blue skies and beautiful views of the glacier from the town. Fox Glacier Guides provides all the gear to make you comfortable on the ice. We walked around the ice in a group of about a dozen with our guide, Ang, for about 4 hours. It was amazing. Very leisurely walking, wearing crampons. Because Fox Glacier is relatively flat, we didn't have to wear a harness or follow a fixed line (though you're following the guide's route). There weren't any ice caves when we were there - we ducked through a little ice overhang which was very cool - but it changes every day.
The guides pointed out different features, told the history of the glacier, and tailored the trips to the guests interests. It was my first time taking a helicopter, but we both found the ride very quick and comfortable.
The guides pointed out different features, told the history of the glacier, and tailored the trips to the guests interests. It was my first time taking a helicopter, but we both found the ride very quick and comfortable.
Written 15 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Journey07162906885
5 contributions
Sep 2023 • Family
We hired e-bikes from Fox Glacier Guiding. We had to change the date due to weather and found the communication from the shop very confusing. No one answered the phone for a whole day. 2 of the 5 bikes weren't working well but we managed. E-biking is fun but it was expensive for the time we had them for
Written 12 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ShirishParanjape
Christchurch, New Zealand864 contributions
A unique once-in-a-lifetime experience!
My wife and I did the 11.50 am heli-hike with our guide Flavia on Saturday 2 Sep 2023. What a day it turned out to be.
Sarah had been very helpful and courteous when we did the booking on phone. It was nice to meet her in person.
From checking onwards, everything went well and smooth- done in a friendly but professional way. They provide everything which is needed - socks, shoes, jackets, trousers…..even sunglasses!! Too good.
The weather God was kind too - it was actually warm on the glacier and we had bright sunshine all through.
It will certainly be one of the memorable days of my life. Thanks to the excellent team at Fox Glacier Guiding Company.
I would highly recommend this experience to anyone.
My wife and I did the 11.50 am heli-hike with our guide Flavia on Saturday 2 Sep 2023. What a day it turned out to be.
Sarah had been very helpful and courteous when we did the booking on phone. It was nice to meet her in person.
From checking onwards, everything went well and smooth- done in a friendly but professional way. They provide everything which is needed - socks, shoes, jackets, trousers…..even sunglasses!! Too good.
The weather God was kind too - it was actually warm on the glacier and we had bright sunshine all through.
It will certainly be one of the memorable days of my life. Thanks to the excellent team at Fox Glacier Guiding Company.
I would highly recommend this experience to anyone.
Written 3 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
FoxGlacierGuiding
Thank you so much for your great review! we are so glad you enjoyed your trip heli hiking with us.
Safe Travels.
Written 15 September 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jaujin
Taipei, Taiwan7 contributions
Aug 2023 • Solo
I booked my tour at the last minute and I’m glade that I did it. My guide is super friendly and professional. I had an amazing experience!!!
Written 25 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
David B
1 contribution
Jul 2023 • Family
Perfect trip for the family. We were well looked after in a beautiful and safe experience. Looking forward to coming back to do the extreme heli hike when the kids are old enough! Carter the guide was a star. A hot drink and biscuit at the top would have made this a 6* experience.
Written 24 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Departure19074899843
1 contribution
Aug 2023 • Friends
The ice climbing was an amazing experience and the tour guide incredibly knowledgeable! We felt safe the entire time and I would highly recommend the tour to others.
Written 23 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
azharyatim
Singapore11 contributions
Hi, is it safe to wear sneaker shoes for the heli hike tour?
FussyFoodie
Greasby, UK60 contributions
They provide mountain boots for the tour.
ILoveTrip5
Tokyo, Japan1 contribution
マウントクックビレッジから飛んでフォックス氷河のヘリハイクができるツアーは存在するのでしょうか？
テカポ湖観光の後、フォックス氷河のヘリハイクをしたいと思っていますが、
やはり、テカポ湖→クイーンズタウン→フォックス氷河という二日かけて陸移動が必須になりますでしょうか？
もし、マウントクック側からフォックス氷河のヘリハイクができるツアーがありましたら、教えていただけると旅程を短縮することができ大変嬉しく、情報お持ちの方いらっしゃいましたら、教えてください！！！
Fox Glacier Guiding
Fox Glacier, New Zealand5 contributions
Hello there,
You would have to charter a private flight to fly over the Southern Alps and do the Fox Glacier Heli Hike from Aoraki/Mt Cook, otherwise it is a 7-8 hour drive.
You can do a Heli Hike in Mt Cook though -please look here on the website of Mt Cook Glacier Guiding = mtcookguides
Kind Regards
Jo
Fox Glacier Guiding and Mt Cook Glacier Guiding
Amron C
Orlando, FL1 contribution
We are visiting during February How is fox glacier or franz joseph in the summer. How should we explore the area?
fabfoura
Banff, Canada7 contributions
P.S. We are from Florida. I don't know why it says Canada. It must have been when I signed up I was researching Canada and put something in the wrong slot.
TravelAddictToo
Potchefstroom, South Africa277 contributions
1. How was the weather in December at Fox Glacier? 2. Did you have the opportunity to walk in the ice tunnels? 3. What level of fitness is required to do this excursion?
titwo
Geneva, Switzerland56 contributions
Hi there,
1. We were there in early January. Weather was good enough to allow us to do the excursion but you never know until the last moment if up there is good enough for the helicopter to land;
2) I did have the opportunity to walk in the ice tunnels. Great experience!
3). Minimum fitness is required. If you chose the walking tour (and not the climbing one) you will be fine. Just a minor adjustment to learn to walk with crampons, but the guides are great and with you at all times.
Hope it is useful and that you enjoy that excursion as much as I did!
Geoffrey_Chapman
McCracken, Australia128 contributions
We will be at Franz Joseph & Fox Glacier on 6th & 7th Oct. We are in our 70's and cant walk great distances. Can you drive a car close enough to see the glacier from a car park or will you be required to walk some distance. From other answers it appears that the Fox Glacier used to be the best option- is that still the case?
HanFlamez
Belgium, Gullegem17 contributions
Hi, when i visited around end of February, both the road & the track to Fox Glacier was closed due to the cyclone. So i'm not sure if that hike is open at this point. The only hike available i know off is the Franz Jozef trail and that's about a 2 to 3 hours hike ( return included ). You might want to consider a helicopter flight to see either or both glaciers.
Hope this helps.
Australian2000
Sydney, Australia130 contributions
Can I do the walk to the glacier face on my own or do I need to join the guided group?
Also, how long is the walk from the car park?
Is there signage along the way?
Chris S
Market Harborough, UK52 contributions
We did the helicopter hike so I can’t really comment. The heli hike was brilliant though.
Jli1006
Sydney, Australia3 contributions
Hi
We are going Fox Glacier in mid April and thinking to join the Heli Hike tour. We travel with 2 kids (9 & 12 yr old) & a bit concerned 2～3 hours hiking on the glacier will be to much/ difficult for my 9 years old.
Has anyone taken the their children to the Heli hike tour? Could you please give us some advices.
Thanks
H D
Amsterdam, The Netherlands87 contributions
Would not be concerned about that. Easy hike adapted to the group young or old. 9 years is a great age ti explore and will love it going through the 'caves'. More challenging for 50+ than for 9 years ...do take different clothing options and decide last minute what to wear. They provide water proof boots,socks, pant,jackets... you might want to check sizes for the kids. Enjoy and no worries its fun and relaxing not intensive hiking...more walk talk..
fay m
103 contributions
Hello, we will be there in February. Is there an age limit for the heli hike? We have 9 and 2 year old children. If we are unable to take the heli hike, does the guided hike include access to glaciers and ice caves? Much appreciated for any info available!
Gardenguru15
Needham Market, UK96 contributions
In my opinion it would not be appropriate for a 2 year old. It is a pretty good hike.
jan d
London, UK5 contributions
Hi, we are staying in Fox Glacier in February and will be doing some of the valley walks there and in Franz Josef. We won't be going on a guided walk on the ice but hope to walk as far as possible to reach the glaciers. Will we need full mountain gear e.g. warm fleece plus jacket plus waterproof top and trousers? We aren't sure of the possible temperatures at this time of year. Any advice would be welcome!
Thanks
Jan Dryden
SingLai
Singapore, Singapore303 contributions
For fox glacier, the end of the self walk is up a slope which is still very much far away from the glacier. Though the view along the way is great.
If it rains, the path may be closed. I experienced that due to fallen trees after a night of heavy rain and strong wind, in Nov 17.