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Offered languages
- English
Explore the stunning West Coast on this one-way small group tour from Greymouth to Franz Josef.
Franz Josef sits in the heart of New Zealand’s wild West Coast Glacier Country, one of only two places on earth where ancient ice meets lush native forest. Steeped in Māori legend and surrounded by dramatic scenery, it is a destination that feels both powerful and poetic. This one way small group tour from Greymouth showcases the very best of the coast, from black sand beaches to turquoise gorges and serene glacier carved lakes. Led by our fun and knowledgeable guides and travelling in comfort, this journey is designed to be as unforgettable as the landscapes themselves.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Please be ready 5 minutes prior to pick up outside the train station entrance
Upon arriving in Franz Josef Village, there are two options. You can either be dropped off directly at your accommodation, or continue through to walk towards the famous Franz Josef Glacier and be dropped off after. Please let our guide know on the day which option you would prefer.**
Itinerary
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Greymouth (Pass by)
We start by leaving Māwhera Greymouth Train Station/Visitor Centre. As we head south down State Highway 6, our knowledgeable guide will share insights into the local area.
Admission ticket free -
1Hokitika
Hokitika is our first stop on our adventure. This ‘Cool Little Town’ is famous for its rugged black sand and driftwood laden coastline. After a brief photo stop at the beach to take in the surf and views of the Tasman Sea, you have the option to again explore the local shops or join the group on a trip to the Hokitika Gorge.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2Hokitika Gorge Walk
Perhaps one of the West Coast’s most iconic and photographed spots, on a fine day, its striking turquoise waters frame a distinct contrast from the mature native podocarp forest that borders it. With various lookout points offering different angles of the enchanting river, it is an incredibly popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. The track itself is easy and undulating.
1 hour • Admission ticket included -
3Lake Ianthe
Surrounded by hills and native podocarp forests with a large flax swamp at its southern end, the lake is an important home for endangered wetland species such as the Great Crested Grebe. Situated in a former glacial trough, the lake is surrounded by a moraine and flows into the Wanganui River via Ianthe Creek. We make a brief stop here for photos before continuing through to Franz Josef.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4Franz Josef
Finally we arrive in Franz Josef. Sit back and relax after a wonderful day exploring the Southern Alps and West Coast. With your camera roll full, this trip will definitely be something to brag about! Drop off to central Franz Josef accommodations only.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. You can hire seats ($20NZD per seat) or you can provide your own
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. You can hire seats ($20NZD per seat) or you can provide your own
- Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
- The tour duration includes travel time between attractions
- Drop off in Fox Glacier not available - we reccomend booking accommodation in central Franz Josef
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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