PRIVATE GUIDED TOURS
TAILORED TOURS
We offer tailor-made guided adventure tours, designed to cater to your unique fitness level and interests. You can customise every aspect of your journey. Let us take the thinking out of it for you and design the ultimate day out in Glacier Country.
Our experienced guides will lead you through breathtaking landscapes, immersing you in the wonders of the glacier region. From leisurely strolls to challenging hikes, our team will craft an itinerary that showcases the best of glacier country, tailored just for you.
But it doesn't end there! We go above and beyond to make your experience truly exceptional. Along with the captivating walks, we offer a variety of food and drink options to satisfy your taste buds. Imagine indulging in gourmet picnics amidst stunning vistas or savouring local delicacies at charming eateries along the way. We believe that culinary delights complement the natural wonders, enhancing your overall journey.
Furthermore, we understand that a day out in Glacier Country is about more than just walking. That's why we collaborate with local providers to offer additional activities that can be seamlessly integrated into your adventure. From boat trips to wildlife encounters, spa therapy and hot tubs, we ensure you have a truly unforgettable experience in every aspect.
So, whether you seek tranquillity, adventure, or a combination of both, Glacier Valley Eco Tours is here to bring your dreams to life. Let us guide you through the awe-inspiring beauty of glacier country, providing you with an unforgettable day out filled with stunning landscapes, delicious food, and exciting activities. Get ready to embark on the ultimate eco-adventure with us!
FRANZ JOSEF FULL DAY PRIVATE TOUR
This exclusive private tour guides you as close as you can currently get to the Franz Josef Glacier on foot. Soak up the incredible views of Franz Josef Glacier (Ka Roimata O Hine Hukatere) in Westland Tai Poutini National Park. Experience amazing glacier, waterfall and mountain views. Depending on the weather, and level of ability there are two track options which both offer incredible views and currently the best views accessible on foot of the glacier. These are advanced tracks and you can complete this safely with our experienced guide. Walk in the footsteps of the old glacier guides and chat with your guide about the history of the glacier and guiding.
-
A good amount of fitness is required; moderate-experienced hikers.
-
Track subject to weather and availability
DIFFICULTY: Advanced
DURATION: 8 hours
DISTANCE: 12-17.2km
Lunch included
$240.00 per adult
$120.00 per child (12-15 years)
Not suitable for children under 12
Minimum numbers apply
OKARITO PENGUIN PRIVATE TOUR
Ōkārito is a small coastal village bounded by the ocean, estuary, sea cliffs, lush forest and unsurpassed views of the Southern Alps around a 20-minute drive from the heart of Franz Josef Glacier and shows testament to the environmental and natural diversity that exists in South Westland. This is your opportunity to explore Ōkārito and gain fascinating knowledge about its history, not only in gold mining and early settlement but also in the lay of the land. Soak up views of New Zealand's tallest peaks, Aoraki/Mt Cook and Mt Tasman as well as Franz Josef Glacier on a clear day, the most mystical and breathtaking rainforest and 70 odd species of birds, lagoon and wetlands, beach and amazing sunsets; this is one of New Zealand's hidden gems. Ōkārito lagoon is New Zealand's largest natural wetland and is famous for the white heron – Kotuku, which is their feeding ground. This area is also home to ruru (owl), royal spoonbills, banded dotterels, long-tailed bats, kea, bar-tailed godwits, Ōkārito forest gecko, little blue penguins, fur seals, hectors dolphins and the occasional southern right whale while migrating!
On this private tour, you will arrive at a remote lagoon along the rugged West Coast beach, past the marine reserve and watch Korora (Little Blue Penguin) come up the beach at dusk. Hear night bird calls such as Ruru (morepork) and Rowi Kiwi – New Zealand's most endangered kiwi species.
The tour price includes your donation of $10pp to the West Coast Penguin Trust.
-
Average fitness level required
-
Weather dependant
-
10km return walk - a reasonable level of fitness required
-
Walking in the dark - torches provided
DIFFICULTY: Moderate track + beach
DURATION: 6-7 hours
DISTANCE: 10km
$199.00 per adult
$100.00 per child (12-15 years)
Not suitable for children under 12 years.
Available July - Nov only
Minimum numbers apply
PRIVATE LAKE GAULT OR TWIN LAKES TOUR
Embark on a private guided walking tour to Lake Gault, a hidden gem nestled in pristine natural surroundings. Our experienced guide will lead you through breathtaking trails, unveiling the beauty of this serene lake. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of nature as you explore this picturesque destination. Join us for an unforgettable journey to Lake Gault, where beauty and serenity await.
DIFFICULTY: Intermediate
DURATION: 6 - 7 hours
DISTANCE: 9km
From $199.00 per adult
From $100.00 per child (12-15 years)
Not suitable for children under 12
Minimum numbers apply
TOUR INCLUSIONS
All of our tours include:
-
FREE hot drinks (tea/coffee/hot chocolate) and biscuits.
-
Raincoats, over-trousers and large quality umbrellas to keep you dry if it rains
-
Walking poles and sunscreen
-
Knowledgeable and experienced New Zealand, local guide
-
FREE use of Macpac baby carrier for under 3 years.
-
Tramping boots are available upon request.
PLEASE NOTE THAT OUR TOURS DO NOT CLIMB ON THE GLACIER.
IF BOOKING ON THE SAME DAY PLEASE CALL US.
PRIVATE TOURS
Private tours are available upon request, please enquire.
CANCELLATION POLICY
All of our tours offer a 12 hr cancellation and full refund policy. All tours depart from our Franz Josef Glacier office unless otherwise organised. If you require transport please contact Glacier Country Shuttles & Charters Franz Josef. Please note that tour departure times may vary depending on the time of year and daylight savings, call us to confirm. Your tour departure time will be confirmed at the time of booking.
WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT OUR FULL-DAY TOURS
Trip Advisor Review (Shari208)
An amazing day with all gear that was needed fully supplied as part of the deal. I can't believe that one man could hold such interesting in-depth glacial, bushcraft and local knowledge. Then deliver it back to our group in such a fun way. As a family, we thoroughly enjoyed our adventures off the beaten path. We had the most fantastic day and are eager to come back and enjoy more adventures with Cliff and the awesome team, we seriously can't recommend them enough." - Franz Josef Glacier + Fox Glacier Combo Tour
Patricia
Cliff our guide was the very best.
Very knowledgable, relaxed and friendly.
It was a fantastic day and well worth doing, 5*!!! - Franz Josef, Fox Glacier & Lake Matheson Combination Tour.
Rustbell
If you don't book this tour you are missing out. I was lucky enough to spend an entire day with Cliff seeing both glaciers and the lake. The tour was fantastic, Cliff was full of knowledge and passion for the area. His expertise was almost endless on the glaciers, trees, moss, fungi and even rocks. Cliff managed our group well and discretely assessed our individual needs. He was kind to me when I felt I was going slow. I couldn't recommend this tour highly enough. You will learn so much and have a great relaxed walking day. 5*!!! - Franz Josef, Fox Glacier & Lake Matheson Combo Tour