Fox Glacier Ice Climbing
Fox Glacier Ice Climbing with helicopter transfer
Briefing
Discover one of the most spectacular experiences in New Zealand with this Fox Glacier Ice Climbing adventure, including a helicopter transfer. Known for its ever-changing landscape, the glacier features dramatic crevasses, towering blue ice formations, and vertical ice walls.
This experience combines a breathtaking scenic helicopter flight with a full day of guided ice climbing on the glacier. Throughout the day, your expert guide will teach you essential ice climbing techniques, tailored to both beginners and more experienced climbers, in the steep and striking terrain of Fox Glacier. With a maximum guide-to-guest ratio of 1:4, you’ll enjoy personalized instruction every step of the way.
Push your limits on this full-day adventure and discover the thrill of ice climbing on the spectacular upper ice walls of Fox Glacier.
Tour details
Included
- 2 helicopter flights (round trip)
- Ground transportation
- Expert guide
- Equipment: hiking boots, waterproof jacket and pants, hat and gloves, small backpack
Not included
- Pick-up and drop-off service
- Food and beverages
- Photos and videos
Important information
👤 Minimum of 3 guests required per departure (smaller groups may be combined with others, subject to availability).
🎒 Maximum carry-on weight per passenger: 6.6 lbs.
🚫 Not suitable for children under 13, guests with reduced mobility, or individuals weighing over 255 lbs.
💪 Good level of physical fitness required.
⛅ In case of adverse weather conditions, the tour may be modified or rescheduled to ensure safety and the best possible experience.
🚁 Drone use is strictly prohibited. Non-compliance may result in confiscation and/or a fine.
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation!
If you cancel at least 48 hours before the tour starts, you will receive 100% of the amount paid. After this time, or in case of no-show, no refunds will be given.
Tour itinerary
Fox Glacier Ice Climbing
Total duration: Up to 8 hours
Time on ice: Up to 7 hours
Fitness Level: good
Previous experience required: none
Office check-in - Fox Glacier
The starting point for this experience is Fox Glacier Township*, a small town located on New Zealand’s West Coast, very close to the glacier that shares its name.
Please check in at the operator’s office on the main street (44 Main Road) of the township 20 minutes before the start of your activity. At check-in, you will register, review your documentation, and be provided with all the technical equipment required for the experience.
*Getting to Fox Glacier Township from your accommodation is not included. However, if you are staying within Fox Glacier, the office is just a 2–10 minute walk away. If you are staying further out, you can reach the township by car or via regular intercity bus services.
Transfer to the heliport and flight preparation
From the office, your guide team will transfer you by vehicle to the heliport, located just a few minutes from the town center.
Once there, you will receive a short safety briefing, your group will be organized, and you will be assigned to your helicopter before departing on your flight to Fox Glacier.
Guided Fox Glacier Ice Climbing
After landing directly on the ice by helicopter, your adventure begins.
Using ice tools and the front points of your crampons, you’ll ascend steep and vertical ice walls and pinnacles, always secured by a top rope anchored to your harness.
You may also have the chance to climb and abseil down ice walls, cross crevasses, or tackle more technical sections using ice axes and crampons. The experience is fully adapted to the conditions of Fox Glacier and the ability level of your group, ensuring a safe, dynamic, and highly exciting adventure.
Helicopter flight to the Fox Glacier
Before heading onto the glacier, you will be equipped with specialized hiking boots, crampons, ice axes, and all the necessary technical gear.
You’ll then enjoy an exciting helicopter flight of around 5 minutes, offering spectacular, up-close views of the glacier from the air.
💡 HOWLANDERS TIP: Don’t forget your sunglasses—the reflection off the ice can be very intense, even on cloudy days.
Return Flight & End of Tour
Once the activity on the ice is over, you will return to the landing point to board the helicopter for the return flight. During the return flight, you will once again enjoy spectacular views of the glacier, its melting waterfalls and the lush temperate rainforest that surrounds it.
In a few minutes you will land back at Fox Glacier, where this unforgettable tour to Fox Glacier will come to an end.
What to bring to Fox Glacier Ice Climbing tour
To fully enjoy this experience at Fox Glacier, it’s important to come well prepared, as the area is mountainous and weather conditions can change quickly. Temperatures can range from 32°F to 77°F (0°C to 25°C), and New Zealand’s West Coast is known for its wild, wet weather. Here´s a list of what to bring to Fox Glacier:
- Identity card / passport
- Essential medication (in case of prolonged activity)
- 3-4 layers of warm clothing for the upper body
- Sunglasses and sun protection
- Drink and snacks
- Food to take with you
- Cell phone with camera/camcorder
Not allowed:
- Drones
- Jeans
- Valuables
- Portable chargers or spare batteries
- Your backpack or bulky luggage
- Vapes, electronic cigarettes and lighters
Where does the tour Fox Glacier Ice Climbing start
The meeting point for this tour is Fox Glacier Township, at the operator’s office located at 44 Main Road. Private transfers from accommodation are not included; however, most properties within Fox Glacier are just a 2–10 minute walk from the office.
For accommodations outside the township, you can reach Fox Glacier by car or via the regular intercity bus services connecting the main towns in the region.
Questions & Answers
What is the check-in time for my Fox Glacier Ice Climbing?
Check-in is at the Fox Glacier office 20 minutes before your scheduled helicopter departure, which is at 8:15 AM. This means check-in time is 7:55 AM.
Do I need previous experience?
No prior experience is required for this excursion. Our professional guides will provide you with all the necessary instructions and ensure you feel comfortable and confident throughout the activity.
What does “a good fitness level is required” mean?
Good fitness for this trip is a level of fitness sufficient to ascend and descend 1000m+ over 8 hours or more carrying a pack 12kg (26lb) or more over multiple days.
How much can I carry in my backpack?
There is a maximum limit of 6.6 lbs per passenger for carry-on items.
Traveling light will make your experience more comfortable and also helps reduce helicopter fuel consumption, making the trip more environmentally friendly.
Please only bring the essentials for your glacier experience: a camera or phone, some snacks, a water bottle, and an extra warm layer of clothing.
Is it a safe activity?
Walking on a glacier involves inherent risks. Please read the following information carefully:
Glacier and helicopter activities involve significant risks, including (but not limited to) falls, crevasses, avalanches, falling ice, rapidly changing weather, uneven terrain, exposure to cold, helicopter-related incidents, and other natural or environmental hazards. These risks may result in serious injury or death.
By participating, you acknowledge and agree that:
- You are in adequate physical condition and have disclosed any relevant medical conditions
- You voluntarily accept all risks associated with the activity
- You will follow all guide instructions and safety procedures at all times
- You may be removed from the activity without refund if you fail to comply with safety rules or behave in a dangerous manner
- Emergency medical treatment may be provided if necessary
Liability & Responsibility
- The operator is not responsible for injuries or incidents resulting from reckless behavior or failure to follow instructions
- The landowner assumes no liability for any incidents during the activity
- The customer is responsible for any damage caused to equipment or gear
Additional Conditions
- Participation under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited
- Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended
- In exceptional circumstances, an overnight stay on the glacier may be required
- By participating, you agree that photos and videos taken during the activity may be used for promotional purposes
- This is a high-risk mountain activity, and you participate entirely at your own risk
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