Nestled in New Zealand’s breathtaking West Coast region, Glacier Country is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With majestic glaciers, lush rainforests, thrilling hikes, and relaxing hot pools, the Franz Josef and Fox Glacier areas offer an unforgettable wilderness experience. This carefully curated 2-day itinerary lets you explore the highlights while basing yourself in Greymouth, providing the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation in one of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes.

Getting there

Greymouth serves as your starting point on Day 0, providing convenient access to the glaciers. You can reach Greymouth via road or rail; it’s situated along the scenic West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island. From here, the drive to Franz Josef Glacier Car Park takes about 2.5 hours, making it easy to reach your first destination early on Day 1. The location also offers a calm, restful environment to prepare for the exciting days ahead.

If you're heading from Christchurch to Greymouth, consider exploring our detailed Christchurch itinerary to make the most of your visit. Our Christchurch 2-day itinerary below covers top attractions like the International Antarctic Centre, Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, and the iconic Christchurch Tram, offering a perfect city introduction before you venture to Glacier Country.

Top Things to Do in Christchurch: 2-Day Itinerary
with Antarctic Encounters, Tram Tour & More

After arriving in Greymouth, take the afternoon to check in to your hotel and unwind from your journey. Have a nourishing dinner at one of the local eateries, soaking in the relaxed vibe of this charming town. Rest well to recharge for the adventure waiting in the coming days.

Start early by checking out from your hotel in Greymouth. Embark on the scenic 2.5-hour drive to Franz Josef Glacier Car Park, where your Glacier Country adventure officially begins. This morning drive promises stunning coastal views, setting the perfect tone for your day!

Embark on the Franz Josef Valley Walk, a mostly flat and leisurely trail that takes about 30 minutes return from the carpark, perfect for those seeking an easy stroll through dramatic glacier-carved landscapes. This route guides you close to the terminal face of Franz Josef Glacier, where ancient ice formations gleam beneath the southern sky. During some visits, the glacier might be shrouded in mist or cloud, adding an ethereal ambiance to your walk—just as we experienced. Fortunately, the clouds often shift and retreat as the day goes on, revealing spectacular views; during our journey, the glacier finally emerged from the clouds as we returned to the carpark, offering unforgettable photo opportunities.

For a different vantage point, tackle the Sentinel Rock Walk — a 20-minute uphill return walk from the carpark that rewards you with sweeping views over the glacier valley. Although short, this section is a bit of a climb, but the elevated lookout is well worth the effort, especially when the skies clear. Remember to bring a packed lunch so you can pause and take in the tranquil environment. Together, these walks offer a truly immersive experience of Franz Josef’s unique scenery, whether the glacier is blanketed in clouds or revealed in its full icy glory.

After completing your hikes at Franz Josef, make the short drive to the Fox Glacier Viewpoint (Te Kopikopiko o te Waka), a top-rated location for experiencing Fox Glacier’s breathtaking vistas without the need for a strenuous walk.

Situated close to Fox Glacier Village, this purpose-built area is designed to be accessible for all visitors, including those with wheelchairs or prams. The viewpoint provides landscaped grounds, a picnic area ideal for a relaxing meal with loved ones, and interpretive signs sharing the rich Māori cultural heritage and geological significance of the glacier. One feature not to miss is the brief 10-minute bushwalk adjacent to the carpark — a short stroll that quickly immerses you in lush native forest, adding another layer of enjoyment to your visit. Although the glacier was largely cloaked in clouds during our visit, this spot is renowned locally for offering the region’s most spectacular panoramic perspectives of Fox Glacier and the Southern Alps, especially when the skies do clear. According to local advice, the views from the lookout surpass those from Fox Glacier Valley Walk, giving you the very best vantage point while keeping the experience accessible and low-effort for any type of traveller!

After soaking in the sweeping vistas at Fox Glacier Viewpoint, head to Fox Glacier Township and check into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely dinner and take some time to relax, preparing yourself for a memorable evening activity in Glacier Country.

Around 30 minutes before sunset, set out on the scenic Minnehaha walk, located just a short drive or walk from your accommodation, depending on where you stay in the township.

This peaceful 600m (15-min) rainforest walk is truly enchanting! Complete the easy loop in daylight, and for an extra-special treat, return after dark to spot the fascinating glowworms that illuminate the track edges, transforming the surroundings into a twinkling wonderland. This unique glowworm encounter is one of Glacier Country’s hidden gems and provides a magical way to conclude your day, before heading back to your hotel to relax and reflect on the adventures.

Begin your morning by arriving at the Franz Josef or Fox Glacier township and checking in with your chosen heli-hike tour operator—readying yourself for a day of unforgettable adventure. The heli-hike experience, which lasts up to 4 hours from check-in to the end, starts with a safety briefing and gearing up for the journey ahead. Soon, you’ll board a thrilling helicopter flight, soaring high above the Southern Alps with breathtaking aerial views of glacier-carved landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and vast ice fields—a truly one-of-a-kind perspective that highlights the wild beauty of New Zealand’s West Coast.

After the scenic flight, your helicopter lands atop the glacier, where an expert guide leads you on an immersive ice hike. Over the next 2.5 to 3 hours, you’ll traverse spectacular natural features—towering crevasses, dazzling blue ice caves, and dramatic frozen pinnacles—while learning about the glacier’s shifting environment and unique geology. When the trek concludes, your helicopter transports you back to the base. Reward your efforts with a warming lunch at a local café, reflecting on your once-in-a-lifetime adventure and sharing stories with fellow travellers.

Reserve your Glacier Heli Hike spot via the link below:

Conclude your Glacier Country trip with a soothing soak in the Glacier Hot Pools in Franz Josef or Fox Glacier Township, renowned for their warm, mineral-rich waters. Alternatively, unwind at your accommodation and enjoy a quiet evening, reflecting on the remarkable experiences of the past two days!

This 2-day Glacier Country itinerary offers the perfect balance of adventure, nature, and relaxation, showcasing the best of what New Zealand’s glaciers and surrounding landscapes have to offer. From scenic hikes and mesmerizing helicopter rides to tranquil hot pools, your Glacier Country journey promises memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re an avid adventurer or simply seeking the awe of glacier beauty, this itinerary maximizes your time for an unforgettable South Island experience.

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