Fox Glacier Tours and Activities

Fox Glacier featuring a river or creek, mountains and mist or fog
Fox Glacier showing mountains, a cascade and mist or fog
Fox Glacier which includes mist or fog, mountains and a waterfall
Fox Glacier
Fox Glacier showing forests, mist or fog and mountains


Discover the spectacular caves, ice fields and valleys of this enormous glacier on guided hiking, climbing and helicopter excursions.

Gear up for adventures of a lifetime at Fox Glacier. Viewing this huge mass of ice on hiking and helicopter tours is an awe-inspiring visual treat. Fox Glacier is a 2,600-metre (8,500-foot) tall and 13-kilometre (8-mile) long glacier. It cuts through the temperate rainforests of Fox Valley from the tallest peaks of New Zealand’s Southern Alps. The glacier forms part of the Westland Tai Poutini National Park, a breathtaking expanse of glacial lakes, mountains and rivers.

Gaze in awe at the imposing terminal face that greets you upon arrival at the glacier. See where the ice ends its journey after travelling from the Southern Alps. Listen as ice blocks break free and collapse into Fox River. The glacier’s face is accessible via a leisurely 2-hour walk from the nearby village.

Sign up for a glacier trekking and climbing tour during which you will use specialist equipment such as crampon boots and ice picks. Tours start with an exhilarating helicopter flight, which presents unbeatable views of ice caves, pinnacles and rainforests. Experience the unique thrill of the helicopter landing right on the glacier.

Follow your guide to naturally formed arches and tunnels. Trek to a large snow shelf below Chancellor Dome and admire the views of Gillespies Beach and Mount Tasman. Spot alpine flowers, mountain antelope and mountain parrot. Land on Victoria Flat and then have fun forging your own trail and dropping down into ice holes.

For the ultimate adrenalin rush, take an ice-climbing tour. Work with a trained instructor and use climbing gear to ascend and descend overhanging walls and pinnacles. Alternatively, join an overnight trekking adventure. Spend the night at Chancellor Hut, a historic alpine house built around 1930. Visit alpine gardens and waterfalls, dine right on the glacier and enjoy superb sunsets over the Tasman Sea.

Fox Glacier is just 5 kilometres (3 miles) from its namesake village, on New Zealand’s South Island. The village has numerous tour operators that run excursions to the glacier year-round, subject to weather conditions. Wear suitable cold-weather clothing and remember to bring your camera the glacier is constantly moving and its appearance can change while you are walking on it.

Plan a trip to see Fox Glacier

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Top Fox Glacier Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Fox Glacier Lodge

Fox Glacier Lodge

4 out of 5
41 Sullivan Road, Fox Glacier
Fox Glacier Lodge
Rainforest Motel

Rainforest Motel

3.5 out of 5
15 Cook Flat Road, Fox Glacier
Rainforest Motel
Sunset Motel

Sunset Motel

3 out of 5
93 Cook Flat Road, Fox Glacier
Sunset Motel
Mt Cook View Motel - Fox Glacier

Mt Cook View Motel - Fox Glacier

4 out of 5
209 Cook Flat Road, Fox Glacier
Mt Cook View Motel - Fox Glacier
Bella Vista Motel Fox Glacier

Bella Vista Motel Fox Glacier

4 out of 5
55 Main Road SH6, Fox Glacier
Bella Vista Motel Fox Glacier
Fox Glacier Jade Hotel

Fox Glacier Jade Hotel

2 out of 5
39 Sullivan Rd, Fox Glacier
Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
The Westhaven Motel

The Westhaven Motel

3 out of 5
29 Main Road, State Highway 6, Fox Glacier
The Westhaven Motel
Te Weheka Hotel Fox Glacier

Te Weheka Hotel Fox Glacier

4.5 out of 5
Main Road, State Highway 6, Fox Glacier, South Westland
Te Weheka Hotel Fox Glacier
Lake Matheson Motel

Lake Matheson Motel

4 out of 5
Cnr Cook Flat Road & Pekanga Drive, Fox Glacier
Lake Matheson Motel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Fox Glacier

Fox Glacier offers a range of exciting activities for visitors, including stunning hiking trails and guided walks that showcase the breathtaking scenery. Experience glacier tours and thrilling glacier adventures, led by knowledgeable tour guides who enhance your exploration. Whether you're an avid hiker or just looking for a unique experience, Fox Glacier has something for everyone to enjoy amidst its natural beauty.

Shopping

In Fox Glacier, you’ll find a few quaint shops offering local crafts, gifts, and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to Franz Josef, about 25 km away, where you can explore more extensive shopping options, including outdoor gear and unique New Zealand products.

Recreation

At Waiho Hot Tubs, located 16.1km from Fox Glacier, you can immerse yourself in soothing hot tubs surrounded by nature. Experience the ultimate relaxation with stunning views, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration in the breathtaking West Coast landscape.

Adventure

The Hooker Valley Track, located 19.3km from Fox Glacier, offers stunning views and an exhilarating hiking experience. For a unique perspective, take a scenic flight with Air Safaris, just 6.4km away, where you'll marvel at breathtaking landscapes. Additionally, the Roberts Point Track, 9.7km from Fox Glacier, provides adventurous outdoor exploration.

Nightlife

Fox Glacier offers a relaxed nightlife atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure. Enjoy a drink at the Fox Glacier Inn, where friendly locals gather, or head to the Alpine Glacier Restaurant for a laid-back dining experience under a starlit sky.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Fox Glacier

Fox Glacier, located in the stunning Westland Tai Poutini National Park, offers a range of attractions for all types of travellers. You can explore the magnificent glacier, beautiful lakes, and scenic landscapes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy a night in Fox Glacier, unwind at local resorts, and discover the charm of Glacier Country. With its breathtaking scenery and beach experiences, your visit to Fox Glacier promises to be an unforgettable adventure.

  • Aoraki / Mount Cook: Aoraki / Mount Cook is a stunning national park located 11.3km from Fox Glacier. Known for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures, this park is perfect for hiking, mountaineering, and soaking in the majestic views of New Zealand's highest peak.
  • Franz Josef Glacier: Situated 9.7km away, Franz Josef Glacier offers a unique opportunity to witness a dynamic glacier. The scenic beauty here is captivating, with striking blue ice formations and the chance for guided ice walks or helicopter tours for a bird's-eye view.
  • Lake Matheson: Just 11.3km from Fox Glacier, Lake Matheson is renowned for its mirror-like reflections of the surrounding mountains. This tranquil spot is ideal for leisurely walks, romantic picnics, and capturing stunning photographs, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Best time to go to Fox Glacier

The best time to visit Fox Glacier can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Fox Glacier falls in February and February. February has moderately high visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather. The coolest average temperature around Fox Glacier falls in July and July. July has moderately low visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January45.9°F (7.7°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
January45.9°F (7.7°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
February46.2°F (7.9°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
February46.2°F (7.9°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
March43.2°F (6.2°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March43.2°F (6.2°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April38.1°F (3.4°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April38.1°F (3.4°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May32.4°F (0.2°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
May32.4°F (0.2°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
June27.1°F (-2.7°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
June27.1°F (-2.7°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
July25.0°F (-3.9°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
July25.0°F (-3.9°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
August26.4°F (-3.1°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
August26.4°F (-3.1°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
September28.9°F (-1.7°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
September28.9°F (-1.7°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October32.5°F (0.3°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
October32.5°F (0.3°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November38.1°F (3.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November38.1°F (3.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December43.5°F (6.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High
December43.5°F (6.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Fox Glacier

To save money on your trip to Fox Glacier, consider visiting during the cheaper months of May and August to September. Booking your accommodation about a month in advance can yield the best prices, while Saturday stays are the least expensive. Use Expedia to find last-minute deals and package discounts that combine flights and activities. Don’t forget to filter your search by price to uncover great deals. Additionally, explore free activities in the stunning national park to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Fox Glacier are May and August to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Fox Glacier about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Fox Glacier is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Fox Glacier is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, preferred location, and desired type of accommodation. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Fox Glacier accommodation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.