Due to the unimaginable blue ice formations going viral on social media, the heli-hike in Franz Josef has turn into the last 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 likely 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. Having the ability to stroll by these magnificent pure wonders and fly in a helicopter is actually 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 could be a fairly wet place!), you’ve already heli-hiked and have some extra free time or possibly it’s a bluebird day however you simply don’t fancy it… regardless of the cause, listed here are some alternative routes 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 a part of the superior group at Glacier Nation Kayaks and head to the magical Lake Mapourika. You’ll see the snowcapped peaks mirrored within the water as you paddle throughout the lake, hearken to enjoyable commentary out of your information and even enter protected kiwi chook habitat through the water. Transport, splash jackets, dry luggage and pictures of your journey are all supplied freed from cost! You’ll be able to kayak alone or with a pal… simply attempt to not fall in 😉
Heat-up within the sizzling swimming pools
While a ticket to the recent swimming pools is included in your heli-hike journey, you may at all times select to take pleasure in a full day’s value of pampering as a substitute. Head to the Glacier Sizzling Swimming pools the place you may chill out within the many swimming pools (all with differing temperatures) and even get a therapeutic massage when you’re feeling fancy. Take a gaggle of mates and even only a good e-book and relaxation these muscle 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, by the rainforest cover, to Peter’s Pool or possibly even alongside the seaside in Okarito.
Observe: Rainforest Retreat hostel gives shuttles to the primary automotive park the place a lot of the hikes start – this can prevent from strolling an additional 5km every approach! Additionally, the Stray bus will cease at Lake Matheson on the way in which to Fox Glacier/Wanaka, so no want to fret about discovering transport there!
Go for a quad bike trip
All the time enjoyable come rain or shine, quad biking is an ideal various for when the helicopters and planes aren’t flying resulting from unhealthy climate. You’ll be able to take a 1, 2 or 4 hour journey by rainforests, riverbeds, lagoons and seashores – exploring all the good 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 may simply be the right choice for you. It’s fairly an costly exercise, so may not be inside the typical ‘backpacker funds’, however if you wish to spend that hard-earned money on one thing completely magical then you definately’ll haven’t any regrets right here. Soar over the glaciers, oceans and close by mountain ranges in a ski aircraft or helicopter then marvel on the views as you land immediately on high of Franz Josef Glacier. You’ll have an opportunity to play within the snow and snap some Insta-worthy pictures 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 may select to leap over neighbouring Fox Glacier for a change of surroundings. (Ebook this by your driver information – all transport to and from the leap is included within the worth!) The most effective factor about skydiving is that you just 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 haven’t 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 study extra about Franz Josef? Try the Stray Vacation spot Information!