Heli Hike - Franz Helicopter Line Franz Josef
About
Description
The rugged West Coast is hemmed between the Tasman Sea and the imposing Southern Alps, making for spectacular contrasts in the surrounding scenery.
Franz Josef Glacier, found in the stunning Westland National Park, is one of the most spectacular glaciers in this region. Combine an awesome scenic helicopter flight over the glacier with a unique guided walk amongst the ice caves, pinnacles and seracs of this pristine, alpine environment. You'll see the extraordinary colours of the ice-flow from above and then up close, on an unforgettable guided walk.
Your Glacier Guide
The Helicopter line offers the Franz Josef Heli Hike in conjunction with Franz Josef Glacier Guides who have been operating since 1990 and can trace their heritage back 100 years. Your professional guide will lead you into the most spectacular icefall terrain that is usually seen only by experienced mountaineers. With a spotless safety record, rigid assessments, and using exclusive quality equipment, your safety and enjoyment is taken care of.
Heli hike and Kayak Combo
Combine a morning Franz Josef heli hike with an afternoon guided kayak tour with Glacier Kayaks. See Glacier Kayak Tours listing for information.
Trip Includes
- 10 minute helicopter flight to Franz Josef icefall
- Glacier landing and pickup
- 2 hour hike amongst glacial ice formation with Franz Josef Glacier Guides
- Professional and experienced guides
- All equipment provided (glacier boots, socks, ice crampons, an ice axe, waterproof jacket)
Duration
- Allow 3 hours (inlcudes 2 hours hiking on the glacier)
Departures
- 9.30am, 12 noon and 2.30pm (October to April)
- 11am and 1.30pm (May to September)
- Your Heli Hike departs from The Helicopter Line's Franz Josef Glacier base, situated on the main road of Franz Josef Glacier
Other Information
- Moderate fitness required
- Minimum age is 10 years
- Our Heli Hike trips are weather-dependent. We will do our best to accommodate you, but occasionally cancellation may be unavoidable (fully refunded)
- Please BRING THESE: warm upper body clothing (preferably 3 to 4 layers), leggings or light trousers (although shorts are acceptable), sunglasses, sunscreen, waterproof jacket (one will be provided if you don't have one), a sense of fun and adventure!