Reiserouten für Ihre Franz Josef & Fox-Gletscher-Reise
Wie man 3 Tage in Franz Josef verbringt
In the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island, where grand natural landscapes dominate, Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier stand out as the icy jewels in the crown of wonders. However much this landscape is being affected by climate change—and it’s a lot—there are still many ways to experience the glaciers, forests, lakes, and mountains of this wild area. Despite being a popular tourist destination, this part of the country is still very rugged and untouched—so much so that it makes my small South Island hometown of Nelson seem like a metropolis. (I get reverse culture shock when I return home from every visit.) Wherever you’re from, a visit to Franz Josef is sure to amaze.
The West Coast of the South Island is notoriously wet; expect rain at any time of year, and research road accessibility before driving because flooding often closes the roads.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a walk or a hike to a lookout point where you can see the glacier.
Start with a morning walk to a viewpoint that offers a view of Franz Josef Glacier. From the Glacier Car Park (a short drive from Franz Josef town), you can take a short stroll through native forest to the closest lookout point or opt for a longer walk along routes like Callery Gorge or Canavans Knob.
In the afternoon, embark on a sightseeing flight into the mountains on a small plane or helicopter. You’ll get a much better view of the glaciers than you can from the ground. Heli-tours are particularly ideal because, in addition to the thrill of riding a helicopter, they also usually offer a glacier-top landing.
Learn more about the West Coast’s geology, wildlife, and natural history today at the central West Coast Wildlife Centre. You’ll be able to see the extremely rare rowi kiwi as well as tuataras, large New Zealand lizards that have been in this region since the time of the dinosaurs.
In the afternoon, drive over the hill to nearby Fox Glacier. Head to Lake Matheson for picture-perfect views of the glacier and of Aoraki Mount Cook (New Zealand’s highest peak) reflected in the glassy surface of the lake. The easy walk takes about 90 minutes.
On your last day, head up to Okarito, a tiny settlement beside the roaring ocean where you can take a lovely walk to a lookout over the coast. The estuary here is a great place to kayak, and in nesting season (September–February) you can take tours to see elegant white herons. Nearby Lake Mapourika, located between Franz Josef and the turnoff to Okarito, is another top kayaking spot.
Alternatively, if adrenaline-inducing sports are more your thing, take an off-road quad bike adventure. Ride along rugged paths in the Westland Tai Poutini National Park—and don’t forget to look up at the mountains as you go.
