Find hotels in Franz Josef Glacier from NT$1,231

Top reasons to visit Franz Josef Glacier

• Stunning Glacial Landscapes: Experience breathtaking views of the Franz Josef Glacier and nearby Fox Glacier, perfect for photography and exploration.
• Adventure Activities: Engage in thrilling ice feature tours, exhilarating air safaris, and Waiatoto River safaris for an adrenaline rush.
• Charming Village Atmosphere: Enjoy the warm hospitality of the picturesque Franz Josef Glacier village, serving as an ideal base for your adventures.
• Relaxing Hot Springs: Unwind in rejuvenating hot springs, providing a tranquil escape amidst stunning natural beauty.
• Scenic Hiking Trails: Explore a variety of scenic trails that cater to all skill levels, showcasing the region's stunning flora and fauna.

Find great hotels in Franz Josef Glacier

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef Glacier with a range of accommodation options that cater to every traveler. From eco-certified motels to scenic hotels, you'll find the perfect spot for your family vacation or adventure getaway. Explore the best hotels in Franz Josef Glacier, offering top-notch amenities and stunning views to make your stay unforgettable.

• Rainforest Retreat: Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Franz Josef Glacier, Rainforest Retreat offers a unique holiday park experience with a cozy atmosphere. Rated 4 stars and boasting a guest rating of 8.8, this property is ideal for pet-friendly travelers, allowing pets to accompany you on your adventure. The retreat provides essential amenities such as free pet policies and a welcoming environment for service animals. Guests appreciate the tranquil surroundings and the chance to connect with nature while enjoying comfortable accommodations.
• Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier: With a focus on adventure and eco-friendliness, Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier is a 4-star accommodation rated at 8.2. This hotel caters to thrill-seekers, offering various outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and skydiving nearby. It’s eco-certified, making it a great choice for environmentally conscious travelers. Guests can partake in exciting recreation options both onsite and in the surrounding area, ensuring an exhilarating stay while enjoying the stunning views of the glacier.
• Franz Josef Oasis: Offering a blend of comfort and convenience, Franz Josef Oasis is a highly rated 4-star hotel with an impressive guest rating of 9.4. This property features complimentary breakfast options and an on-site restaurant, making it easy to start your day off right. Guests can enjoy various recreational activities such as fishing and horse riding nearby. The hotel provides modern entertainment options, including flat-screen TVs, and boasts picturesque views of the nearby mountains and national park, enhancing your stay in this breathtaking region.

Where to stay near Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier offers an unforgettable adventure for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Nestled in the heart of nature, the charming Franz Josef Glacier village serves as a convenient base for exploring stunning landscapes and embarking on thrilling road trips. Experience the romance of glacier hikes, the warmth of friendly locals, and the excitement of various outdoor activities. Whether you're seeking adventure or simply enjoying the breathtaking scenery, Franz Josef Glacier promises a memorable vacation.

• Westland Tai Poutini National Park: Nestled approximately 13km from Franz Josef Glacier, Westland Tai Poutini National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. This stunning park offers breathtaking scenery, including majestic mountains and serene lakes, making it a perfect spot for hiking and exploring nature. The area is popular year-round, with peak visitor numbers in January, March, and November. Travelers can enjoy recreational activities, access well-maintained hiking trails, and immerse themselves in the beauty of this national state park, ensuring a memorable travel experience.
• Waiho: Located about 14km from Franz Josef Glacier, Waiho is a charming suburb that attracts visitors with its picturesque landscapes and adventurous spirit. The area sees a moderate seasonal influx of travelers, particularly from December to February. Visitors flock to Waiho for outdoor activities and stunning scenery, with highlights that include access to rejuvenating body treatments and serene spa experiences. The proximity to the glacier, park, and lake offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature while enjoying a tranquil getaway.
• Okarito: Situated around 18km from Franz Josef Glacier, Okarito is a captivating suburb that combines natural beauty with a romantic atmosphere. The area experiences a steady flow of visitors, peaking from January to February and November. Okarito is an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor adventures, offering skiing opportunities and scenic hiking trails. With its stunning lake and glacier views, along with lush parks, Okarito presents a delightful escape for couples and nature lovers looking to explore the West Coast's enchanting landscapes.

Things to do in Franz Josef Glacier

Shopping

In Franz Josef Glacier, you can explore local shops offering unique souvenirs and gifts, such as handmade crafts and regional products. If you're up for a drive, visit Hokitika, about 48km away, known for its jade shops and artisan galleries showcasing West Coast craftsmanship.

Recreation

The Glacier Hot Pools offer a rejuvenating experience with natural thermal pools surrounded by lush rainforest, ideal for relaxation. For an active retreat, explore guided glacier hikes that immerse you in stunning landscapes while providing physical challenges and unforgettable views of the majestic Franz Josef Glacier.

Adventure

Experience a thrilling helicopter tour over Franz Josef Glacier, offering breathtaking aerial views of the ice formations. For an unforgettable adventure, try guided glacier hikes that allow you to explore the stunning ice caves and crevasses up close, immersing yourself in the unique glacial landscape.

Nightlife

In Franz Josef Glacier, the Glow Worm Caves offer a unique nighttime adventure, while the local taverns feature live music and a cozy atmosphere. The scenic landscape adds to the charm, inviting you to unwind after a day of exploration.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Franz Josef Glacier

To save money during your visit to Franz Josef Glacier, consider traveling in the off-peak months of May and August to September when accommodation prices drop. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, and check Expedia for last-minute deals and discounts. Staying on a Saturday can also reduce your lodging costs. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter options by your budget and preferences, and consider booking a package deal to combine flights, hotels, and activities for additional savings. Look for Eco-certified hotels for a sustainable stay.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Franz Josef Glacier are May and August to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Franz Josef Glacier is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Franz Josef Glacier is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Franz Josef Glacier is Wednesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and various other preferences. You can arrange your results to display hotel prices in ascending order, helping you find the most affordable options right away. Additionally, you have the ability to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Franz Josef Glacier with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering stunning scenery and romantic experiences. Visitors can explore impressive attractions like the Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier, local churches, and rejuvenating hot springs. With a range of activities tailored for nature lovers, this West Coast gem promises unforgettable experiences amidst breathtaking landscapes in New Zealand.

• Franz Josef Glacier: This stunning glacier, located 10km from the township, offers breathtaking views of ice formations and rugged landscapes. Visitors can embark on guided walks or helicopter tours to appreciate its majestic beauty up close.
• Glacier Hot Pools: Nestled within the lush rainforest, the Glacier Hot Pools provide a serene retreat for relaxation. Enjoy the outdoor thermal pools surrounded by nature, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
• Our Lady of the Alps: This charming church is a serene spot that reflects the local culture and spirituality. Its unique architecture and tranquil setting make it a peaceful place for reflection amidst the stunning alpine backdrop.

Best time to go to Franz Josef Glacier

The best time to visit Franz Josef Glacier is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. February is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with frequent rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	46.2°F (7.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
March	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
April	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	32.4°F (0.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	27.1°F (-2.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
July	25.0°F (-3.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	26.4°F (-3.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
September	28.9°F (-1.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	32.5°F (0.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Franz Josef Glacier

Accessing Franz Josef Glacier is convenient via two major airports. Hokitika Airport (HKK) is approximately 100km away and offers nearby accommodations such as the 5-star Rimu Lodge, located 6km from the airport, with limited hours for airport shuttle services. Another option is the 4.5-star Awatuna Sunset Lodge, situated 11km away. Timaru Airport (TIU-Richard Pearse) is about 132km from the glacier, with hotel selections including the 4.5-star Aspen on King Motel, 11km from the airport, and the 4-star Ashbury Park Motel, 8km away. Each airport provides various transportation options to ensure a smooth journey.