Franz Josef Glacier Guides

Photo #1 of 3 . Swipe for more photos. Glacier Valley Walk Hike the ancient path of where the glacier once stood; through lush rainforest and alongside the Waiho river. Discover the legends and history of the glacier and learn all about the flora and fauna you encounter along the way. Your guide will lead you on an informative journey through this unique valley, with plenty of opportunities to explore the remarkable landscape and see what the glacier has left behind. Experience pristine waterfalls, ancient temperate rainforest and the dynamic Waiho river. After a brief climb you will be rewarded with views of the glacier’s constantly changing terminal face and enjoy a well-deserved hot drink. An ideal option for those who prefer to stay off the ice, our Franz Josef Glacier Valley Walk can be tailored to suit groups of most abilities and interests. Photo copyright Franz Josef Glacier Guides.

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Franz Josef Glacier Guides Glacier Valley Walk

Overview

Franz Josef Glacier Guides are an internationally recognized guiding operation, established in 1990, that prides itself on providing the most incredible glacier experience.

Our Team
We are well qualified as well as passionate about our region.
We choose passionate staff from all walks of life, although most of our team have extensive outdoors experience or an adventure tourism background and bring a lot of skills with them.

Our rigorous guide training programme takes several weeks before our new guides begin an apprenticeship with senior staff. Training, reviews and assessment are on going for all staff, no mater how long they've been in their role. All of our guides complete first aid training before they are able to lead a group, and carry a first aid kit with them on each trip.

All our guides hold their HIG ( Hard Ice Guiding) certification or are working towards it. This certification is conducted through the internationally recognised New Zealand Mountain Guides Association (NZMGA). Our business along with other New Zealand glacier guiding companies were key drivers in developing the glacier guiding qualifications pathway, in collaboration with the NZMGA.

Each day prior to the first commercial tour, our guides inspect the glacier and cut large step-lines and walking tracks. As you pass through the unique terrain and impressive ice formations our experienced guides will be monitoring your movements carefully, ensuring that you are always safe on the ice.

Providing for Visitors
All our visitors and guides are equipped with the best quality equipment to ensure your warmth, comfort and safety on all our trips.

As part of your pre-departure briefing we will kit you out with the following:

Waterproof and breathable rain jacket
Waterproof over-trousers (if required)
Socks and sturdy boots (or you have the option to wear your own hiking boots)
Crampons for ice-based trips (with a small waist bag)
Woollen hats and gloves
Trekking poles