Glacier Valley Eco Tours

Glacier Valley Eco Tours

Glacier Valley Eco Tours offers a diverse range of small-group, guided nature walks for all ages and abilities. Located in Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier and Okarito on the West Coast of New Zealand.

Glacier Country is abundant with exceptional hiking trails, wildlife and history. In the company of your experienced and very knowledgeable guide, embark on your choice of a half or full-day adventure. This will leave you enriched with new-found knowledge about the local flora and fauna, geology, glaciology, conservation and wildlife. Reconnect with Mother Nature and experience the best of Glacier Country in safe hands. Private and tailored tours are available on request.

Family Business

Locally family-owned and operated, Glacier Valley Eco Tours is intensely focused on providing an authentic, valuable and memorable experience.

Glacier Valley Eco Tours – Half Day Walking Tour Options

Franz Josef Nature Tour

Explore the majestic West Coast temperate rainforest. Discover the Franz Josef Glacier valley- one of the lowest-lying and most unusual glaciers in the world. At your own pace, wander past gorgeous glacial rivers, and streams and through beautiful podocarp forests. Discover hidden natural treasures such as wild mushrooms and dozens of species of orchids. Relish the sound of the native bird songs and waterfalls.

DIFFICULTY: Easy

DURATION: 3 hours

DISTANCE: 1.7-3.7km

Fox Glacier Nature Tour

You will be driven to Fox Glacier (30 mins from Franz Josef, 5 mins from Fox Glacier township). This beautiful trail runs through the lush historic glaciated rainforest in Westland Tai Poutini National Park. Focal points of huge rata, rimu trees and moss and views of upper Fox Glacier, the Fox neve and Mt Tasman – one of New Zealand’s highest peaks.

DIFFICULTY: Easy

DURATION: 3.5 hours

DISTANCE: 6.4km

Lake Matheson Nature Tour

Lake Matheson is nestled in an ancient forest and is famous for mirror views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. This Great Short Walk gently meanders and undulates around the lake on a well-formed track. Cross gorgeous bridges and boardwalks over a kaleidoscope of natural mountain streams, suitable for all ages and abilities. Learn all about the history, the special ingredients that cultivate spectacular mirror reflections and so much more with your knowledgeable guide.

DIFFICULTY: Easy

DURATION: 3.5 hours

DISTANCE: 4.4km

Okarito Nature Tour

The best bird-watching tour. This tour is suitable for all ages and abilities and is your opportunity to explore Ōkārito and gain fascinating knowledge about its history, not only in gold mining and early settlement but also in the lay of the land. There are various walks in this area that offer views of New Zealand’s tallest peaks

DIFFICULTY: Easy

DURATION: 3.5 hours

DISTANCE: 4.2km

Opportunity to combo tours up for full day experience.