Fox Glacier
New Zealand · West Coast · 150 m
Description
Fox Glacier and nearby Lake Matheson lie on the west coast of New Zealand's South Island, south of Franz Josef, in the shadow of Aoraki / Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. The region is renowned for its spectacular combination of glaciers, temperate rainforest, and the rugged peaks of the Southern Alps. On calm mornings, the snow-capped mountains are perfectly reflected in the still waters of Lake Matheson, creating one of New Zealand's most iconic photographic scenes. Fox Glacier is one of the few glaciers in the world whose terminal ice extends into temperate rainforest. The wild coastline of Gillespies Beach, with its remnants of the gold rush era and frequent sightings of New Zealand fur seals, adds to the area's unspoiled natural character.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 3 days (optimal 2 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: December – January
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Lake Matheson
- Fox Glacier
- Glacier helicopter landing
- Franz Josef Glacier(Day trip)
- Lake Gault
- Mount Fox Route
- Minnehaha Walk
- Gillespies Beach(Day trip)
- Jetboat on the Cook River
- West Coast Wildlife Centre(Day trip)
- Ōkārito Lagoon(Day trip)
- Ōkārito Trig Walk(Day trip)
- White Heron Sanctuary (September - February)(Day trip)