Walking Franz Josef Glacier Alone: Can you do it without a guide?
Craig Mackinlay
| Last Updated: October 2023 Did you know that there are folks out there trying to crack the mystery of Franz Josef Glacier all by themselves? No guides, just raw bravery. And probably a little bit of madness.
Why do we say that? Because these very same people often come to us asking this question: Is it possible to walk Franz Josef Glacier without a guide?
Can you walk Franz Josef Glacier without a guide?
You can’t walk on Franz Josef Glacier without a guide since there are many hazards such as crevasses and falling ice. However, you have the freedom to walk the base of Franz Josef Glacier independently through the Franz Josef Glacier Walk.
Safe Solutions for Exploring Franz Josef Glacier: Guided Tours
For those seeking a more immersive experience, several guided tours are available, each offering unique perspectives on this natural wonder. We listed our favorites below!
Glacier Heli Hike
Website: https://www.franzjosefglacier.com/choose-your-experience/glacier-heli-hike/
Pricing: $695
Your experience combines a short, exhilarating helicopter ride, jaw-dropping scenery, and a two-and-a-half-hour hike through the most spectacular glacier features.
The journey commences at the Glacier Base Building, where a friendly team will provide necessary gear and detailed pre-trip briefings. After a short walk to the helicopter pad, you’ll embark on a thrilling helicopter ride over the glacier’s panoramic landscape.
Upon landing high up on the main icefall, your expert guide will assist you in making final preparations for your adventure.
The two-and-a-half-hour hike takes you through the glacier’s most spectacular features, offering an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature in its rawest form.
Glacier Heli Ice Climb
Website: https://www.franzjosefglacier.com/choose-your-experience/glacier-heli-ice-climb/
Pricing: $999
Your day starts at the Glacier Base Building, where your guide equips you with all the necessary ice-climbing gear. Then, a scenic helicopter transfer takes you onto the glacier, providing breathtaking views of the glacier and its surrounding mountains.
With your gear in place, you’re set to conquer the glacier’s peaks under the guidance of your expert.
Your guide will lead you through the exhilarating ice climbing experience, ensuring your safety and making this adventure one to remember.
Self-Guided Franz Josef Glacier Adventure
If you’d rather experience Franz Josef Glacier without a guide, the Franz Josef Glacier Walk is your ticket to adventure. Remember, you’re allowed to walk the base on your own – at least through this way!
This 4-kilometre return hike, taking around 1.5 hours, starts at the Franz Josef Glacier Visitor Center. Meandering through lush rainforest, the trail provides mesmerizing glimpses of the glacier and the surrounding mountains.
While the initial part of the trail is easy, the proximity to the glacier brings rocky paths and steep climbs. Yet the panoramic views make every step worthwhile.
The trail culminates at a viewing platform offering up-close encounters with the glacier. This showcases captivating moments like glacier calving, where colossal chunks of ice plunge into the river below.
Tips for Staying Safe on the Franz Josef Glacier Walk
Before you set off, be mindful of these safety precautions.
- Commence your hike early in the morning, when the weather is cooler and the glacier is less active.
- Keep an eye out for danger signs, such as fresh snow, ice cracks, and falling ice.
- Follow the marked trail and avoid venturing into unclear areas.
- Be ready for changing weather; pack suitable clothing; and carry water and snacks.
- Wear sturdy shoes for grip and stability on varying terrains.
- If you encounter hazards, don’t hesitate to turn back. Safety always comes first.
