Franz Josef Glacier Hotels

Top reasons to visit Franz Josef Glacier

• Stunning Glaciers: Explore the majestic Franz Josef Glacier, renowned for its breathtaking beauty and exhilarating glacier hikes.
• Natural Hot Springs: Unwind in the region's natural hot springs, offering a perfect blend of relaxation amidst stunning scenery.
• Adventure Activities: Engage in thrilling activities like air safaris and Waiatoto River safaris, catering to outdoor enthusiasts.
• Charming Village Atmosphere: Experience the friendly, family-friendly vibe of Franz Josef Glacier village, ideal for all types of travellers.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a variety of eco-certified motels and scenic hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay in this picturesque region.

Find great hotels in Franz Josef Glacier

Discover a range of delightful accommodation options in Franz Josef Glacier, where comfort meets adventure. From eco-certified motels to scenic hotels, there’s something to suit every type of traveller, whether you're seeking a family getaway or an exhilarating escape into nature. Enjoy the breathtaking surroundings and choose from a variety of star-rated accommodations that promise a memorable stay in this stunning region of New Zealand.

• Rainforest Retreat: Nestled in the heart of Franz Josef Glacier, Rainforest Retreat offers a unique holiday park experience with a strong emphasis on nature. This 4-star accommodation boasts a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10 and is ideal for pet owners, allowing pets onsite under a flexible policy. Guests can enjoy a tranquil rainforest setting while taking advantage of amenities designed for comfort and adventure. The retreat features a welcoming atmosphere that encourages relaxation amidst stunning natural surroundings, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a pet-friendly getaway in the wilderness.
• Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier: With a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, this 4-star hotel is perfect for adventure enthusiasts and eco-conscious travellers. Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier is eco-certified, ensuring a sustainable stay while providing easy access to a variety of adventure sports such as hiking, fishing, and skydiving nearby. The hotel’s location fosters a sense of exploration, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the breathtaking landscape. The combination of adventure and environmental awareness creates a distinctive experience for those wishing to connect with both nature and their adventurous spirit.
• Franz Josef Oasis: Achieving an impressive guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, Franz Josef Oasis stands out with its luxurious offerings and superb amenities. This 4-star hotel features complimentary daily breakfast and a restaurant for delightful dining experiences. Guests can partake in various recreational activities such as fishing and horse riding nearby. The accommodation provides entertainment options including flat-screen televisions, ensuring a comfortable stay. Situated close to the stunning national parks and mountains, Franz Josef Oasis is the ideal sanctuary for those seeking both relaxation and adventure in a picturesque setting.

Where to stay near Franz Josef Glacier

Adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers will be captivated by the stunning Franz Josef Glacier and its surrounding village. This remarkable area offers an array of outdoor pursuits, from exhilarating glacier hikes to scenic road trips through breathtaking landscapes. Experience the friendly atmosphere and family-friendly vibe, making it an ideal getaway for all. With its convenient location, Franz Josef Glacier serves as a perfect base for exploring the rugged beauty of New Zealand's West Coast.

• Westland Tai Poutini National Park: Nestled 13km from Franz Josef Glacier, Westland Tai Poutini National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. This national park boasts breathtaking scenery, including stunning mountains and serene lakes, making it an ideal spot for hiking and recreational activities. The park experiences a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, with peak seasons in January, March, and November. Here, you can explore numerous hiking trails and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that defines New Zealand’s rugged West Coast.
• Waiho: Located 14km from Franz Josef Glacier, Waiho is a charming suburb known for its outdoor adventures and scenic vistas. The area sees a moderate influx of visitors, particularly between December and February. Travellers flock to Waiho for its relaxing body treatments, rejuvenating spa experiences, and access to beautiful trails. With nearby attractions like glaciers, parks, and pristine lakes, Waiho offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration amidst stunning natural landscapes.
• Okarito: Situated 18km away from Franz Josef Glacier, Okarito is a picturesque suburb that attracts visitors year-round, with peaks in January, February, and November. This destination is perfect for those seeking a romantic getaway or an outdoor adventure, featuring activities such as skiing, hiking, and exploring its beautiful ski fields. Okarito's proximity to enchanting lakes, majestic glaciers, and lush parks makes it an ideal spot for nature lovers and couples looking to enjoy the tranquillity of the West Coast.

Things to do in Franz Josef Glacier

Shopping

In Franz Josef Glacier, explore local shops like the Glacier Hot Pools Store for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to Hokitika, about 35 kilometres away, where you can visit the Hokitika Craft Gallery for artisan treasures and West Coast souvenirs.

Recreation

At Franz Josef Glacier, the Glacier Hot Pools provide a serene escape surrounded by lush rainforest, featuring naturally heated pools ideal for relaxation. For a rejuvenating experience, the Te Waonui Forest Retreat offers wellness treatments that incorporate local ingredients, allowing you to unwind in a tranquil environment.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of a guided glacier hike, where you can explore breathtaking ice formations and crevasses. Alternatively, embark on a scenic helicopter flight for stunning aerial views of the glacier and surrounding peaks, or try ice climbing for an exhilarating challenge on the icy surface.

Nightlife

In Franz Josef Glacier, enjoy a laid-back evening at the lively Glacier Hotel bar, where you can mingle with fellow travellers. For a unique experience, visit the nearby Rainforest Retreat, offering a cosy atmosphere and delicious local craft beers.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Franz Josef Glacier

To save money during your trip to Franz Josef Glacier, consider visiting in the cheaper months of May or August to September. Book your accommodation about a month in advance for the best rates, and check Expedia for last-minute deals. Saturdays typically offer the lowest prices, while Wednesdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter for budget-friendly options, including eco-certified hotels. Additionally, combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can yield significant savings. Keep an eye out for member discounts and special deals to maximise your budget.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Franz Josef Glacier are May and August to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Franz Josef Glacier is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Franz Josef Glacier is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Franz Josef Glacier is Wednesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from low to high.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation for the Franz Josef Glacier with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier is a stunning destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking scenic adventures. Visitors can explore the majestic glaciers, unwind in natural hot springs, and appreciate the local church's charm. Nearby attractions include the renowned Fox Glacier and the captivating scenery of the region, making it an ideal spot for romance and exploration alike. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquillity, Franz Josef offers a perfect blend of experiences.

• Waiho Bailey Bridge: Located 644m from the Franz Josef Glacier, this charming bridge offers a romantic atmosphere and a touch of local culture. It's an ideal spot for photography and enjoying the serene surroundings of the glacier region.
• Lake Mapourika: Situated 8km from the glacier, this stunning lake is known for its picturesque scenery and outdoor activities. Its beautiful beaches and romantic vibes make it a perfect retreat for nature lovers and those seeking tranquillity.
• Glacier Hot Pools: Nestled within Franz Josef Glacier, these natural hot springs provide a relaxing outdoor experience. The soothing waters are perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring, offering a unique wellness escape amidst breathtaking scenery.

Best time to go to Franz Josef Glacier

The best time to visit Franz Josef Glacier is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. February is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with frequent rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	46.2°F (7.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
March	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
April	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	32.4°F (0.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	27.1°F (-2.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
July	25.0°F (-3.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	26.4°F (-3.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
September	28.9°F (-1.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	32.5°F (0.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Franz Josef Glacier

Accessing Franz Josef Glacier is convenient via its nearby airports, with Hokitika (HKK) located 100km away. Excellent hotel options near Hokitika include the 5-star Rimu Lodge, situated 6km from the airport, offering free airport transportation and limited shuttle services. The 4.5-star Awatuna Sunset Lodge, 11km away, and the 4-star Fitzherbert Court Motel, just 1km from HKK, are also great choices. Alternatively, Timaru (TIU-Richard Pearse) is 132km from the glacier, with quality hotels such as the 4.5-star Aspen on King Motel, 11km away, and the 4-star Ashbury Park Motel, located 8km from the airport, providing comfortable stays for visitors.