How far is Fox Glacier from Christchurch?

approximately nine and a half hours
The journey takes approximately nine and a half hours including transfer time, arriving in the late afternoon in Fox Glacier. Search for travel Christchurch to Fox Glacier and book online today with InterCity.

Is it better to stay at Franz Josef or Fox Glacier?

Fox Glacier has a gradual incline whereas Franz Josef is steeper. The surface of Franz Josef Glacier is full of crevasses and ice caves, where you have a much better chance of seeing the famous blue ice.

How long does it take to drive from Franz Josef to Fox Glacier?

approximately 16 min
It takes approximately 16 min to drive from Franz Josef to Fox Glacier.

Which town is bigger Fox Glacier or Franz Josef?

The town of Franz Josef is slightly larger than its neighbour, Fox Glacier, but similar in feel. A 25 minute drive further up the coast, Franz is also home to a glacier of the same name. Also five kilometres from the town centre, the Franz Josef Glacier is easily accessible.

How do I get from Queenstown to Fox Glacier?

Take a bus Queenstown to Fox Glacier with InterCity. The journey from Queenstown takes approximately 7 hours 15 minutes, travelling through the Southern Alps and into the rugged native bush and wild splendour of the West Coast.

How do I get from Christchurch to Franz Josef?

Travel Christchurch to Franz Josef via train and bus, taking the scenic TranzAlpine railway from Christchurch to Greymouth and connecting with InterCity’s West Coast bus service from Greymouth to Franz Josef. TranzAlpine trains depart daily from Christchurch Railway Station.

Can you walk to Fox Glacier?

The walk will take you to within about 500m of the glacier terminal face. Even on a cloudy day, Fox Glacier valley looks like it’s from another world. The final section of track to the safety barriers includes a short climb up to the viewing area. The glacier is constantly moving.

Can you still see Fox Glacier?

To see the glacier, you can head towards Lake Matheson on Cook Flat Road for magnificent views. You can arrange an ice-hiking adventure or booking a scenic flight. There are glow worm caves just a short walk from the town centre, which offers a good choice of cafes and restaurants.

Can I drive to Fox Glacier?

You can drive from Queenstown to Fox Glacier in half a day. You might, however, like to stop in Wanaka on the way. The shortest route is over the Crown Range Road, a challenging road that demands full attention, but with great views.

Can you see Franz Josef Glacier from the road?

The Franz Josef Glacier valley is a hazardous environment. The access road and tracks can be closed due to rock falls or flooded rivers, and glacier viewpoints may be hundreds of metres from the face of the glacier.

How do I get from Queenstown to Franz Josef Glacier?

The journey from Queenstown takes approximately 8 hours, travelling through some of the most beautiful scenery in the South Island. The bus from Queenstown to Franz Josef passes through Cromwell and Wanaka, with stops at Makarora and Haast, before arriving in Franz Josef at the bus stop on the Main Road.

Is the road to Franz Josef open?

Glacier Motors, 20 Main Road, Franz Josef village. Open 7.30am–7.30pm in summer, 8am-7.00pm in winter, 7 days a week. Open 8am–7.00pm in summer, 8am-6.00pm in winter, 7 days a week.