Because of the unbelievable blue ice formations going viral on social media, the heli-hike in Franz Josef has turn into the last word factor to do. However do not be fooled, the heli-hike isn’t all this nice metropolis has to supply. To have a look at!
Franz Josef is likely one of the most talked about Stray stops and there is not any secret why. It’s the land the place glaciers meet rainforest. With the ability to stroll by means of these stunning pure wonders and fly in a helicopter is unquestionably a once-in-a-lifetime expertise. However there’s extra, way more to do in Franz Josef.
Perhaps the climate is not in your favor (Glacier Nation may be fairly a wet place!), you have already taken a helicopter stroll and have just a little extra free time or possibly it is a bluebird day however you simply do not feel prefer it … regardless of the motive, listed here are some alternative routes to spend your time in Franz Josef.
Kayak to a kiwi sanctuary
I am beginning this record with my favourite exercise within the space: kayaking! Be a part of the good crew at Glacier Country Kayaks and head to the magical Lake Mapourika. As you paddle throughout the lake, see the snow-capped peaks mirrored within the water, hearken to entertaining commentary out of your information, and even enter the protected habitat of the kiwi birds by means of the water. Transport, splash jackets, dry baggage and pictures of your journey are all supplied freed from cost! You possibly can kayak alone or with a good friend… simply strive to not fall in 
Heat up within the sizzling baths
Whereas a ticket to the new swimming pools is included in your heli-hike journey, you possibly can at all times choose to take pleasure in a full day of pampering as a substitute. Head to the Glacier Sizzling Swimming pools the place you possibly can chill out within the many swimming pools (all with totally different temperatures) and even get a therapeutic massage should you really feel prefer it. Deliver a bunch of buddies and even only a good e book and provides these muscle mass a relaxation after that lengthy Stray bus journey!
Hit the mountain climbing trails
The beauty of New Zealand is that there are at all times loads of strolling excursions… they usually’re free! Whereas it’s a lot nicer to stroll lengthy distances within the solar, a wet or foggy day may give Franz Josef a complete new vibe. Seize your cameras, mountain climbing boots and your fellow Stray passengers and set out on an journey to the glacier wall, by means of the rainforest cover, to Peter’s Pool or possibly even alongside the seashore in Okarito.
Comment: Retreat in the rainforest hostel provides shuttles to the principle automobile park the place most hikes begin – saving you an additional 5km of strolling every approach! Additionally, the Stray bus stops at Lake Matheson on the way in which to Fox Glacier/Wanaka, so you do not have to fret about discovering transportation there!
Take a quad bike journey
All the time enjoyable come rain or shine, quad biking is an ideal different when the helicopters and planes do not fly on account of unhealthy climate. You possibly can take a 1, 2 or 4 hour journey by means of rainforests, riverbeds, lagoons and seashores – and uncover all of the superb surroundings that Franz Josef has to supply!
See NZ from above on a scenic flight
Need the view with out the mountain climbing? a scenic flight stands out as the excellent possibility for you. It is fairly an costly exercise, so it won’t fall throughout the typical ‘backpackers’ funds, however should you’re seeking to spend that hard-earned cash on one thing completely magical, you will not remorse it. Glide over the glaciers, oceans, and close by mountain ranges in a ski airplane or helicopter, then admire the views as you land instantly on the Franz Josef Glacier. You may have an opportunity to play within the snow and take some Insta-worthy pictures earlier than hopping again on board 
Skydive over the Southern Alps
Get monetary savings for a skydive? That is the right Stray cease for falling from the sky. There are opportunities to jump over the Franz Josef Glacier or you possibly can select to leap over the adjoining glacier Fox Glacier for a change of surroundings. (Guide this by means of your driver information – all transportation to and from the leap is included within the value!) The very best factor about skydiving is that not solely are you participating in a once-in-a-lifetime adrenaline rush, however you additionally get the advantages upfront of a sightseeing flight!
So that you formally don’t have any excuses… Whether or not it is a sizzling summer time day or a wet, cloudy afternoon, there’s at all times one thing to do right here! Need to know extra about Franz Josef? take a look at the Lost destination guide!
