Due to the unbelievable blue ice formations going viral on social media, the heli-hike in Franz Josef has turn into the final word factor to do. However don’t be fooled, the heli-hike isn’t all that this superior city has to supply. Test it out!
Franz Josef is without doubt one of the most talked-about Stray stops and there’s no secret as to why. It’s the land the place glaciers meet the rainforest. With the ability to stroll via these magnificent pure wonders and fly in a helicopter is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime expertise. However there’s extra, tons extra to do in Franz Josef.
Maybe the climate isn’t in your favour (Glacier Nation is usually a fairly wet place!), you’ve already heli-hiked and have some extra free time or perhaps it’s a bluebird day however you simply don’t fancy it… regardless of the cause, listed below are some other ways to spend your time in Franz Josef.
Kayak to a kiwi sanctuary
I’m going to start out this record with my favorite exercise within the space: kayaking! Be part of the superior staff at Glacier Nation Kayaks and head to the paranormal Lake Mapourika. You’ll see the snowcapped peaks mirrored within the water as you paddle throughout the lake, take heed to enjoyable commentary out of your information and even enter protected kiwi chook habitat by way of the water. Transport, splash jackets, dry luggage and images of your journey are all supplied freed from cost! You possibly can kayak alone or with a buddy… simply attempt to not fall in 😉
Heat-up within the scorching swimming pools
While a ticket to the recent swimming pools is included in your heli-hike journey, you’ll be able to at all times select to bask in a full day’s value of pampering as an alternative. Head to the Glacier Sizzling Swimming pools the place you’ll be able to loosen up within the many swimming pools (all with differing temperatures) and even get a therapeutic massage if you happen to’re feeling fancy. Take a gaggle of buddies and even only a good guide and relaxation these muscular tissues after that lengthy Stray bus journey!
Hit the mountaineering trails
The beauty of New Zealand is that hikes are at all times in abundance… they usually’re free! Though it’s a lot nicer to stroll lengthy distances within the sunshine, a wet or misty day can present a complete new atmosphere to Franz Josef. Seize your cameras, mountaineering boots and your fellow Stray passengers and embark on an journey to the glacier face, via the rainforest cover, to Peter’s Pool or perhaps even alongside the seashore in Okarito.
Be aware: Rainforest Retreat hostel offers shuttles to the principle automotive park the place a lot of the hikes start – this may prevent from strolling an additional 5km every method! Additionally, the Stray bus will cease at Lake Matheson on the best way to Fox Glacier/Wanaka, so no want to fret about discovering transport there!
Go for a quad bike journey
At all times enjoyable come rain or shine, quad biking is an ideal various for when the helicopters and planes aren’t flying as a result of unhealthy climate. You possibly can take a 1, 2 or 4 hour journey via rainforests, riverbeds, lagoons and seashores – exploring all the nice landscapes that Franz Josef has to supply!
See NZ from above on a scenic flight
Need the views with out the mountaineering? A scenic flight would possibly simply be the right possibility for you. It’s fairly an costly exercise, so may not be inside the typical ‘backpacker price range’, however if you wish to spend that hard-earned money on one thing completely magical then you definately’ll don’t have any regrets right here. Soar over the glaciers, oceans and close by mountain ranges in a ski airplane or helicopter then marvel on the views as you land straight on prime of Franz Josef Glacier. You’ll have an opportunity to play within the snow and snap some Insta-worthy images earlier than leaping again on board ⛄
Skydive over the Southern Alps
Saving your cash for a skydive? That is the right Stray cease to fall from the sky. There are alternatives to leap over Franz Josef Glacier or you’ll be able to select to leap over neighbouring Fox Glacier for a change of surroundings. (E book this via your driver information – all transport to and from the leap is included within the worth!) The most effective factor about skydiving is that you simply don’t simply get to partake in a once-in-a-lifetime adrenaline rush, however you additionally get the perks of a scenic flight beforehand!
So, you formally don’t have any excuses… Whether or not it’s a heat summer season’s day or a wet, overcast afternoon, there’s at all times one thing to do right here! Wish to be taught extra about Franz Josef? Take a look at the Stray Vacation spot Information!