SOUTHERN LAKES / THE EXPERIENCE
Fox Glacier Nature Tour
BEFORE YOU GO
Your day, at a glance.
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Group size
- Up to 10 people
- Guide
- English
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Our take
The Fox Glacier version of the guided nature walk runs in the afternoon. Glacier Valley Eco Tours checks you in at 20 Main Road in Franz Josef for a 1:30pm start; if you're staying in Fox, the pickup comes around 2:00 to 2:15pm instead. The walk on the south side of the glacier takes about 2 hours, inside a 3 to 4 hour trip. Wet weather gear, umbrellas, walking poles and a baby carrier are supplied, and there's afternoon tea.
Around 96 reviews average around 4.8. On our Franz Josef tours page it pairs with the morning Franz Josef walk, so you can do both glaciers on foot in a day. It runs in all weather, and if poor weather cancels it you're offered another date or a refund. Minimum numbers apply. Lunch and water are listed, but one reviewer had no water, so pack your own. Reviewers mention stream crossings.
Good for
- Fox stays who want a guided walk without a helicopter
- An afternoon plan after a morning flight or heli hike
Think twice if
- You need wheelchair access, which the listing rules out
- You'd mind a cancellation if the minimum group isn't reached
Written by Southern Lakes Tours from the listing, traveller reviews and the videos behind our comparison pages. Checked November 2026. How we review tours.
From the operator
This scenic trail meanders through the lush, historic glaciated rainforest of Westland Tai Poutini National Park, where you'll encounter magnificent rata & rimu trees, vibrant mosses & breathtaking views of the upper Fox Glacier, the Fox Neve & Mt Tasman, one of New Zealand's tallest peaks.
Along the way, our knowledgeable guides will share fascinating insights into the area's geology, glaciation & thermology & its diverse flora and fauna. Discover the rich history & local stories that make this region so unique. Join us for an educational & memorable hike that blends natural beauty with deep environmental understanding.
Book your adventure today & explore one of New Zealand’s most remarkable treasures!
- Please note this tour does not get close to the terminal face of the glacier/walk on the glacier due to safety reasons.
- Some tracks on this tour are public. Contact us for a list to avoid walking them on your own.
- We go in all weather please ring us if you are wanting to discuss.
From the listing by Glacier Valley Eco Tours on Viator.
The tour, stop by stop
- View the Fox Neve and surrounding mountains while walking through lush historic rainforest. Stop for a cup of tea break and a chat with your guide, with a view. Please note we cannot get near or see the terminal face of the glacier due to safety reasons (NZ's largest active landslide is currently stopping us!). Learn about glaciology, geology, geothermology (inc a tiny hot pool/spring), native flora & fauna, native moss About 120 min.
What's included
- Umbrellas
- Walking poles
- Baby Backpack/carrier
- Wet weather gear
Not included
- Lunch
- Water
Meeting point
Glacier Valley Eco Tours, in The Helicopter Line building Franz Josef (next to Glacier Motors) check in is 15 mins prior to the departure time
If you are staying in Fox Glacier, then the pick up time from your hotel is 30 AFTER the tour departure time.
Please allow an extra 15 minutes on top of this for road delays, check in delays in our office as well as other pick ups in Fox Glacier. So we aim to pick you up between 2:00 pm and 2:15 pm.
Checking in
- Dress code: Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers.
- Dress suitably for the conditions - bring extra top layer (long sleeved)
Where it ends
Glacier Valley Eco Tours, in The Helicopter Line building Franz Josef (next to Glacier Motors) check in is 15 mins prior to the departure time
Your Viator voucher confirms the exact spot and time.
Good to know
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund
- Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
Cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
How refunds and weather cancellations work is on our booking help page.
How it compares
We compare this tour with the other options on our franz josef glacier tours page, with what each one includes and where it leaves from. How we choose tours.
KEEP YOUR OPTIONS OPEN
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