day trip queenstown to fox glacier

Queenstown to Fox Glacier Day Tour

Tour Details

This tour runs mon, tue, thu, sat only.

See the majestic Southern Alps, picturesque lakes and rivers and the wild beauty of the West Coast on this full-day sightseeing bus tour from Queenstown to Fox Glacier.

Step aboard your luxury sightseeing tour coach and begin your journey with breathtaking scenery of high mountain peaks and crystal-clear blue lakes. Along the way your driver guide will provide commentary on this unique region. Pass man-made Lake Dunstan outside Cromwell, beautiful Lake Wanaka and its neighbouring Lake Hawea, and take a morning tea break at Makarora, a small settlement at the foot of Mount Shrimpton, where the Otago and West Coast regions meet.

Entering Mount Aspiring National Park, we follow the historic route used by Māori as they travelled across the Southern Alps in search of pounamu (greenstone). Journey through the Haast Pass, the southernmost pass between the South Island's two coasts, enjoying views of native beech forest, waterfalls and glacier-fed rivers.

Arriving on the West Coast, we enter an awe-inspiring landscape of vast rainforests, crystal clear waterfalls and rugged mountain tops. As we wind our way along the rocky coastline, the formidable peaks, moody blue rivers and the powerful surf create the perfect escape. Here you will discover an isolated and tranquil part of New Zealand.

Your one-way tour concludes as we reach the small village of Fox Glacier, set against the lush green rainforest and your base for exploration of this fascinating natural phenomenon. The Fox Glacier is a moving river of ice approximately 13 kilometres (8.1 miles) long, enclosed by sheer rock walls and soaring mountain peaks. You can speak to your driver for details about guided tours of the glacier.

Special Notes

• Complimentary hotel pick-up / drop-off available
• Luxury coach travel from Queenstown to Fox Glacier
• Free WiF i is available on this tour

Tour Length : 7.5 hours

Minimum Number : From 1 person. If you would like to book a group charter, please contact us for a quote.

Itinerary : Operates daily

8:10 - Departure from Athol Street 15:39 - Arrival at Fox Glacier Guides Building, Main Road

What to Bring : For the most enjoyable experience, we recommend that you bring:

• Comfortable clothing

$165.00 NZD / person $111.00 NZD / Children

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Tour Application Terms & Conditions

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Special Note for this Tour

All terms & conditions below apply as normal, with these differences;

• A minimum of 2 adults must be attending the tour for the tour to take place.
• Application for a tour must be made by phone, fax or e-mail no later than 5:00 PM of the day before the tour.
• Your application may not be accepted if the tour is full, prior to your booking.
• Hobbiton Movie Set is closed on Christmas Day.

Cancellation & Refund Policy

Cancellations and refunds are based on the working day we receive your request. Please note that requests must must be received before 5 PM ( NZT ) to be processed on that working day.

• Bookings cancelled more than 4 working days before your tour date are fully refundable.
• Bookings cancelled between 2 and 3 working days before the tour date are 50% refundable.
• Bookings cancelled within 1 working day of the tour date can not be refunded.
• If you are not present at the specified pick-up location at the departure time, the tour must depart without you.
• No refunds will be made after travel has commenced.
• Refunds for Paypal payments do not include card fees ( 3% ) as per Paypal terms & conditions.

The above cancellation policy may have exceptions for certain tours, which will be communicated to you at the time of booking.

• If there are two adults attending the tour, the cost of the tour written is the cost for one person.
• If there are two adults attending the tour, children ( aged 5~11 ) will cost half of what is written.
• Please understand that changes of schedule, cost and tours may occur with no notice.
• Photos are only images.

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Queenstown Glacier 2 Day Express

Begin your journey by embarking from the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown. See the majestic Southern Alps, the stunning blues of Lake Hawea, Lake Wanaka, and Lake Dunstan, and picturesque rivers. Continue through the Haast Pass, the southernmost pass between the South Island's two coasts, enjoying views of native beech forest, waterfalls and glacier-fed rivers. Arriving on the West Coast, take in the wild beauty and the awe-inspiring landscapes of vast, pristine rainforests, crystal clear waterfalls, and rugged mountains. After a restful night sleep in Fox Glacier, awake refreshed to begin the second day of your adventure. Travel north, through small townships full of rich goldmining history, including Hokitika, the hub of Westland, before finally reaching Greymouth Train Station. From here, you will board one of the worlds great train journeys, the Tranzalpine Train. You'll travel across the South Island in comfort, from the west to the east coast through stunning Arthur's Pass National Park. From the comfort of your carriage see lush beech forest, deep river valleys and the spectacular peaks of the Southern Alps. Descend to the windswept Canterbury Plains before arriving at your final destination in the largest city in the South Island, Christchurch. **Please note this tour departs on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays in line with train schedules.

Independent tour (bus & coach)

This suggested tour costs from NZD$740 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Queenstown, finishes in Christchurch

2 days/1 nights

Hotel 3 star

  Customisable? YES

  Viewed 507 times in the last 7 days

Tour Inclusions

At a glance - Queenstown Glacier 2 Day Express

Day 1 : Queenstown to Fox Glacier Accommodation: Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier

Day 2 : Fox Glacier to Greymouth, then take the Tranz Alpine train to Christchurch

See the majestic Southern Alps, picturesque lakes and rivers and the wild beauty of the West Coast on this journey from Queenstown to Fox Glacier. Along the way your driver guide will provide commentary on this unique region. Pass man-made Lake Dunstan outside Cromwell, beautiful Lake Wanaka and its neighbouring Lake Hawea. Entering Mount Aspiring National Park, follow the historic route used by Māori as they travelled across the Southern Alps in search of pounamu (greenstone). Journey through the Haast Pass, the southernmost pass between the South Island's two coasts, enjoying views of native beech forest, waterfalls and glacier-fed rivers. Arriving on the West Coast, you enter an awe-inspiring landscape of vast rainforests, crystal clear waterfalls and rugged mountain tops. Here you will discover an isolated and tranquil part of New Zealand. Your journey concludes as you reach the small village of Fox Glacier.

Your accommodation: Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier

This morning travel north through the small townships of Whataroa and Harihari. Pass through the township of Ross, which in the late 1800s was the centre of one of New Zealand's richest alluvial goldfields. In 1903 the largest gold nugget ever found in New Zealand was discovered at Jones Creek, not far from the town centre. It weighed 2807 grams. The New Zealand Government later purchased the nugget and presented it as a coronation gift to King George V. On arrival into Hokitika there is a short break in your journey. This allows time to purchase lunch, explore the town centre and relax. Hokitika is the administrative and commercial centre for this part of Westland. The major primary industry is timber milling. Dairy and sheep farming, commercial fishing, white baiting and eel processing being the other major industries. Your coach concludes at the Greymouth Train Station.

Considered one of the world's great train journeys, the TranzAlpine Scenic Train takes you from Greymouth to Christchurch. You'll travel across the South Island from the west to the east coast through Arthur's Pass National Park. From the comfort of your carriage see lush beech forest, deep river valleys and the spectacular peaks of the Southern Alps. Descend to the windswept Canterbury Plains before arriving in the city of Christchurch.

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Some similar tours to this one

Glaciers overnight, 2 day queenstown glacier express.

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Fox Glacier to Queenstown Day Tour

From fox glacier.

from $ 147 NZD

Select Travellers and Date

• 7 hours 55 minutes
• Hotel pickup/drop-off offered
• Offered in: English and  1 more

Travel from the remote splendour of Fox Glacier to the exciting adventure playground that is Queenstown on this full-day sightseeing tour.

Step on board a luxury coach in the small village of Fox Glacier on New Zealand’s West Coast and travel through lush native rainforest and along the untamed rocky coastline. Journey through the Haast Pass, the southernmost pass between the South Island’s two coasts, surrounded by native beech forest, waterfalls and crystal-clear rivers.

On the other side of the Southern Alps, enjoy picture-postcard views of vibrant blue glacier-fed lakes like Lake Hawea, Lake Wanaka and Lake Dunstan.

Your day tour concludes late afternoon in world famous Queenstown. See Queenstown day tours .

What's Included

• West Coast scenery
• South Island lakes
• Driver commentary
• Premium coach with onboard toilet and leather reclining seats
• Free WiFi and onboard USB charging docks

Hotel Pickup/Drop-off

Available from selected inner-city hotels.

Cancellation Policy

Change or cancel your booking FREE up to 2 hours before departure.

0800 744 487

International Calls: +64 9 583 5790 Our contact centre is open 6.30am-8pm daily (NZDT).

Reference tour code: GSFGLZQN

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Travel Info

• Our Drivers
• Our Coaches
• Hotel Transfers
• Tour Commentary
• Accommodation

2 day Queenstown Glacier Express

Making the most of just 2 days travel this tour is the perfect way to see the west coast of New Zealand. Starting in Queenstown you will travel north with a small group tour, visiting key photograph stops and learning about the natural and cultural history of the region, along the way. Once in Fox Glacier you'll be dropped at your accommodation before exploring the sleepy town at the foot of the glacier. The second day sees you head further north to Greymouth a location that gained its name from hunting jade (precious greenstone) and the start of the TranzAlpine Scenic Train. Once on the train it's time to relax as you weave your way to Christchurch through mountain gorges and rugged landscapes. Be sure to take a walk to the open carriages and enjoy the wind in your hair.

About this NZ Road Trip

Seat-in-Coach Touring

This suggested tour costs from NZD$2,235 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Queenstown, finishes in Christchurch

2 days/1 nights

Hotel 3 star

  Customisable? YES

  Viewed 13 times in the last 7 days

Leaving Queenstown, travel past picturesque scenery of massive mountain peaks and crystal-clear blue lakes. Travel across the Haast Pass to the other side of the Southern Alps, the landscape changes dramatically. Welcome to the wild and wonderful West Coast, a remote and unspoiled region. Wind your way past native rainforest, rocky coastlines and powerful waterfalls. Your journey concludes in the village of Fox Glacier, your base for exploration of the area.

Your accommodation: Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier

Back to top

Today you’ll head north through the historic gold mining region of Hokitika. Known for its Greenstone (Pounamu) this seaside town has a rich history dating back to the 1860’s. Continue on to Greymouth, the largest town on the West Coast and the starting point for the next leg of your journey - the TranzAlpine Scenic Train.

Considered one of the world's great train journeys, the TranzAlpine Scenic Train takes you from Greymouth to Christchurch. You'll travel across the South Island from the west to the east coast through Arthur's Pass National Park. From the comfort of your carriage see lush beech forest, deep river valleys and the spectacular peaks of the Southern Alps. Descend to the windswept Canterbury Plains before arriving in the city of Christchurch.

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NOTE: Quotes are subject to the availability of specific accommodations and other inclusions. Our NZ touring experts will be in touch with you regarding this. Costs quoted in currencies other than New Zealand dollars (NZ$) are based on today's exchange rate and are subject to change. Terms and Conditions apply.

Remember - we can create this itinerary with any accommodation style or customise it to suit your interests and timeframe. Just contact us here.

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Glaciers Overnight

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2 day Christchurch to Queenstown Journey including TranzAlpine Train

33 Best Stops Between Queenstown and Fox Glacier

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How long is the drive from Queenstown to Fox Glacier?

The direct drive from Queenstown to Fox Glacier is 203 mi (327 km) , and should have a drive time of 4 hrs 14 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Queenstown to Fox Glacier, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Wanaka , Arrowtown , and Cromwell , as well as top places to visit like Queenstown Gardens and Kiwi Park Queenstown, or the ever-popular Lake Wakatipu.

Top cities between Queenstown and Fox Glacier

Best stops along Queenstown to Fox Glacier drive

Lake wakatipu.

Queenstown Gardens

Kiwi Park Queenstown

O'connells, queenstown hill, gibbston valley winery & restaurant, cardrona alpine resort, highlands - experience the exceptional, bike it now, cromwell heritage precinct, underdog sled dog tours, roys peak track, tititea / mount aspiring, mount iron track, national transport & toy museum.

Lake Wānaka

Waiatoto river safari, wilkin river jets, lindis pass, blue pools track, haast visitor centre, thunder creek falls, haast river safari, knights point lookout, sir edmund hillary alpine centre, glacier explorers, aoraki/mount cook national park visitor centre, hooker valley track, gillespies beach road, other popular road trips from queenstown, explore nearby places.

• Fox Glacier
• Franz Josef
• Aoraki Mount Cook National Park (Te Wahipounamu)
• Mt. Cook Village
• Lake Moeraki
• Lake Tekapo
• Burkes Pass
• Peel Forest
• Mount Somers
• Pleasant Point
• Windwhistle
• Castle Hill
• Arthur's Pass National Park

All related maps of Fox Glacier

• Map of Fox Glacier
• Map of Franz Josef
• Map of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park (Te Wahipounamu)
• Map of Okarito
• Map of Mt. Cook Village
• Map of Whataroa
• Map of Harihari
• Map of Lake Moeraki
• Map of Lake Tekapo
• Map of Pukekura
• Map of Pukaki
• Map of Burkes Pass
• Map of Twizel
• Map of Ross
• Map of Haast
• Map of Fairlie
• Map of Makarora
• Map of Peel Forest
• Map of Hokitika
• Map of Omarama
• Map of Mount Somers
• Map of Geraldine
• Map of Pleasant Point
• Map of Methven
• Map of Temuka
• Map of Windwhistle
• Map of Castle Hill
• Map of Lake Hawea
• Map of Arthur's Pass National Park
• Map of Timaru
• Map of Otira

Fox Glacier throughout the year

• Fox Glacier in January
• Fox Glacier in February
• Fox Glacier in March
• Fox Glacier in April
• Fox Glacier in May
• Fox Glacier in June
• Fox Glacier in July
• Fox Glacier in August
• Fox Glacier in September
• Fox Glacier in October
• Fox Glacier in November
• Fox Glacier in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Fox Glacier?

Get inspired for your trip to Fox Glacier with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Fox Glacier Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from queenstown to fox glacier.

Yes! You can drive from Queenstown to Fox Glacier.

How far is Fox Glacier from Queenstown by car?

The drive from Queenstown to Fox Glacier is 203 miles (327 km).

How long does it take to drive from Queenstown to Fox Glacier?

Driving from Queenstown to Fox Glacier should take you 4 hrs 14 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Queenstown to Fox Glacier?

Gas from Queenstown to Fox Glacier would cost around $18 to $42 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Queenstown to Fox Glacier?

You could check out Queenstown Gardens and Kiwi Park Queenstown, or the always popular Lake Wakatipu!

What are the best cities to visit between Queenstown and Fox Glacier?

People love visiting Wanaka, Arrowtown, and Cromwell, among others.

What's the weather like in Queenstown?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Queenstown in January
• Weather in Queenstown in February
• Weather in Queenstown in March
• Weather in Queenstown in April
• Weather in Queenstown in May
• Weather in Queenstown in June
• Weather in Queenstown in July
• Weather in Queenstown in August
• Weather in Queenstown in September
• Weather in Queenstown in October
• Weather in Queenstown in November
• Weather in Queenstown in December

What are some other road trips from Queenstown?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Queenstown.

• Queenstown to Dunedin drive
• Queenstown to Christchurch drive
• Queenstown to Fiordland National Park drive
• Queenstown to Wellington drive
• Queenstown to Auckland drive
• Queenstown to Rotorua drive
• Queenstown to Milford Sound drive
• Queenstown to Lake Tekapo drive
• Queenstown to Invercargill drive
• Queenstown to Te Anau drive
• Queenstown to Oamaru drive
• Queenstown to Fox Glacier drive
• Queenstown to Taupo drive
• Queenstown to Waitomo Caves drive
• Queenstown to Hokitika drive
• Queenstown to Nelson drive
• Queenstown to Hinuera drive
• Queenstown to Napier drive
• Queenstown to Tauranga drive
• Queenstown to New Plymouth drive
• Queenstown to Punakaiki drive
• Queenstown to Kaikoura drive
• Queenstown to Blenheim drive
• Queenstown to Paihia drive
• Queenstown to Hamilton drive
• Queenstown to Omarama drive
• Queenstown to Akaroa drive
• Queenstown to Franz Josef drive
• Queenstown to Haast drive
• Queenstown to Middlemarch drive

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

Queenstown to Franz Josef Tour via Wanaka (One-Way)

Searching for the best way to get from Queenstown to Franz Josef? Join Cheeky Kiwi Travel on a fully-guided, small group tour to Franz Josef and experience the West Coast’s most unmissable destinations.

Led by our famously passionate guides, you’ll get a unique glimpse into the rugged landscapes, natural gems and rich cultural heritage of the West Coast with multiple stops along the way. Your tour concludes in Franz Josef with the option to book an onward journey to Christchurch , or take a day trip back to Queenstown with Cheeky Kiwi.

While in Franz Josef, you’ll have the chance to enjoy guided glacier hikes, helicopter tours, hot springs and nature walks, immersing yourself in the natural wonders of this epic region!

Key details

Tour overview.

Destination Highlights: Cardrona Pub, Lake Wānaka, Lake Hāwea, Blue Pools, Thunder Falls, Ship Creek, Bruce Bay and Lake Matheson

Starts Queenstown

Ends Franz Joseph

12 hours approx

Lunch & snacks included

ADD-ONS: SCENIC FLIGHT & HELI HIKE

ALL AGES TOUR

$290 adult / $250 child.

• Fully-guided tour led by an experienced guide
• Small group size for a more interactive experience
• Modern, comfortable minibus equipped with WiFi and USB charging ports
• Thoughtfully planned itinerary featuring stops at listed destinations
• Lunch included  – please specify any dietary requirements when booking
• Free snacks and bottled water
• Free cancellation with a minimum of 24 hours’ notice

Tour itinerary

1. queenstown.

Your tour begins in the stunning city of Queenstown. As we depart, your guide will set the scene for your journey, pointing out and providing insights into some of the area’s top highlights.

2. Cardrona Hotel

Located on the spectacular Crown Range Road between Queenstown and Wānaka, the Cardrona Hotel is one of New Zealand’s oldest and most iconic hotels. Its rustic charm, spectacular mountain setting and rich history make it a must-see in Central Otago.

We’ll stroll down to the lakeside for that iconic photo of the Wānaka Tree. Soak in the beauty of this expansive lake, backdropped by Mt Aspiring and the Southern Alps—a paradise for photographers.

4. Lake Hāwea

Crossing the mighty Clutha River, we’ll head westward past the stunning Lake Hāwea. We’ll stop for a quick photo at a lookout point between Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea.

5. Blue Pools

Located in Mt Aspiring National Park, the aptly named Blue Pools are a must-see. This easy 3km round trip is well worth the effort to witness the breathtaking blue waters of the Makarora River.

6. Thunder Creek Falls

An easy 5-minute walk will reward you with a spectacular view of Thunder Creek Falls. This 28-metre waterfall, a remnant of a once-great glacier, pours from a hanging valley.

7. Ship Creek

As we head north along the border where ancient rainforest meets the ocean, we’ll stop at Ship Creek. Dig your toes in the sand and feel the crash of the relentless waves of the Tasman Sea. Explore the dunes via an easy 1km walking track.

8. Bruce Bay

Here, thick native rainforest meets the seemingly endless open ocean. Bruce Bay truly showcases the best of the West Coast!

9. Lake Matheson

We continue to every photographer’s dream: Lake Matheson. On a calm day, you can capture Mt Cook reflected elegantly across this picturesque lake. This 4.4km/90-minute easy walk will reward you with breathtaking views of the Southern Alps.

10. Franz Josef

We’ll pass many glacial rivers as we journey past Fox Glacier to our destination of Franz Josef. Our guide will drop you at any central accommodation in either Franz Josef or Fox Glacier.

If you are continuing your journey from Franz Josef to Christchurch or returning to Queenstown , Cheeky Kiwi has awesome tours available – including the option to ride the TranzAlpine train journey en route to Christchurch . Our guides will pick you up from your hotel to carry on the journey from Franz Josef.

Why book with Cheeky Kiwi Travel?

Top rated tours

1,500+ five star reviews on TripAdvisor

Small group size

Enjoy a more interactive & personalised tour experience

Famously passionate tour guides

Our authentic & knowledgeable guides go the extra mile to make you smile

Comfortable tour buses

Complete with WiFi, USB charging ports & on-screen entertainment

Extra surprises

Surprise stops, wildlife viewings & other little delights along the journey truly set our tours apart

Customisable NZ tour packages

Explore our full-range of tours and add-ons to customise your New Zealand adventure

About our guides

At Cheeky Kiwi Travel, our famously passionate guides are the heart of your adventure. Each guide is an engaging host who brings rich knowledge, enthusiasm and a personal touch to every tour. All Cheeky Kiwi guides have clean, passenger-endorsed driver licenses, are trained in first aid and receive comprehensive training before they hit the road with you. Whether it’s revealing hidden gems, sharing fascinating stories, or ensuring your comfort and safety, our guides go the extra mile to make your journey truly unforgettable.

Guest reviews

Smaller and more intimate

“This was one of the highlights of my trip to New Zealand. I’m glad I specifically went with this tour as it is smaller and more intimate. Driver Ben was hilarious, informative and enthusiastic throughout the entire day.”

Knowledgeable and very passionate

“Such a great tour guide, extremely knowledgeable and very passionate about his country, people and culture. Absolute champion.”

Fantastic day trip

“We had a fantastic day trip with Cheeky Kiwi. From pick up to drop off we never felt rushed. We enjoyed sitting back and relaxing while our trusted driver took us on our very long journey.

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Start your Holiday

• Fox Glacier and Franz Josef
• Scenic Plane Flights

Fox & Franz Josef Glacier Plane Flights from Queenstown

Fly on our Fox & Franz Josef Glacier Plane Flights from Queenstown over to the west coast Glaciers in New Zealand and admire the breathtaking beauty of Fox, Franz Josef Glaciers, Mt. Cook and local glaciers from above. Soar at more than 12,000 feet and sweep over New Zealand’s tallest mountains, largest glaciers, immense snowfields, turquoise glacial lakes, complex river systems, soaring waterfalls, and many of South Island’s untouched paradise.        

All the seats offer unimpaired views of the scenery below.

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Bus 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.

During your Queenstown to Fox Glacier bus trip, you'll enjoy meal breaks in scenic Makarora and Haast, arriving in the afternoon in Fox Glacier outside the Fox Glacier Guides building on the Main Road.

Search for a bus Queenstown to Fox Glacier with New Zealand's most popular national bus network. 

About Fox Glacier

Fox Glacier is a 13km long glacier located in Westland Tai Poutini National Park on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island.

There are many walks in the Fox Glacier area with some offering spectacular glacier views. For example: the Minnehaha Walk has you following a stream through the rain forest, or you can choose to enjoy a few hours walk beside Gillespies Beach. The glow worm caves are also close to the town centre.

To see the glaciers you will need to arrive at the terminal face, and arrange a ice-hiking adventure, or you can book a sightseeing flight.

For additional information on Fox Glacier visit: www.glaciercountry.co.nz

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Driving Route : Queenstown - Christchurch - Queenstown

• Day 1 : Queenstown to Fox Glacier
• Day 2 : Fox Glacier to Greymouth
• Day 3 : Greymouth to Christchurch
• Day 4 : Christchurch to Mt Cook Village
• Day 5 : Mt Cook Village to Queenstown

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Route Summary

Travel time is approximate only, based on an average driving speed under normal road conditions.

Queenstown - Wanaka

103 km (64 miles) Approximately 1.25 hours Road Conditions: State Highway

The alpine resort of Queenstown is exciting, sophisticated and fantastically scenic. It's the place to source almost any kind of adventure, including bungy, jet boating, horse trekking, rafting and river surfing. It's also a destination for luxury experiences—gourmet food and wine, spa treatments and leisurely games of golf.

The shortest route to Wanaka is over the Crown Range Road. It's a challenging drive, but the views are amazing and you'll probably encounter friendly keas (mountain parrots).

More conservative drivers can take the route that runs beside the Shotover River, Lake Dunstan and the Clutha River. The vineyards of the Gibbston area and bungy jumpers at the Kawarau River Bridge are interesting distractions along the way.

The lakeside resort town of Wanaka can provide you with an appealing mix of fine living, family fun and adventure. It has a high concentration of cafes, restaurants and interesting shops. You'll also find some unique attractions, like the 3D maze and the ‘warbird’ air show, which is held every two years.

Wanaka - Haast

139 km (87 miles) Approximately 1.75 hours Road Conditions: State Highway

The lakeside town of Wanaka can provide you with an appealing mix of fine living, family fun and adventure. It has a high concentration of cafes, restaurants and interesting shops. You'll also find unique attractions, like the 3D maze and the ‘warbird’ air show, which is held every two years.

Lake Hawea is the first scenic highlight of your journey, followed closely by the northern end of Lake Wanaka. The famous ‘bra fence’ is impossible to miss—it started as a joke, but it's become a local legend.

At the wilderness town of Makarora you can fuel up and refresh before you take on the dramatic twists and turns of the Haast Pass. Enjoy waterfalls and river scenery as you arrive in rainforest country.

The settlement of Haast was once a construction camp for the Ministry of Works (the government department responsible for road and bridge building). It's a town with a touch of the wild west—helicopters fly deer hunters into the rugged ranges and local pubs make a feature of stuffed animal trophies.

Haast - Fox Glacier

122 km (76 miles) Approximately 1.75 hours Road Conditions: State Highway

Just north of Haast is Lake Moeraki, a peaceful forest lake with good fishing—a 40 minute walk takes you to the penguin colony at Monro Beach.

Next is pretty Lake Paringa, where you can enjoy a delicious meal of salmon at the salmon farm. Just before Fox Glacier is the western end of the Copland track. In half a day you can walk to the hot springs at Welcome Flat.

The terminal face of Fox Glacier is just five kilometres from the township that serves it. The road to the walking track crosses ancient moraine from earlier advances and retreats. Fox Glacier was named after an early New Zealand Prime Minister, William Fox.

View more Queenstown driving routes .

Directory Information

Queenstown: Accommodation , Attractions and Activities , Tours , Transport , Visitor Information

Wanaka: Accommodation , Attractions and Activities , Tours , Transport , Visitor Information

Haast, West Coast: Accommodation , Attractions and Activities , Tours

Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, West Coast: Accommodation , Attractions and Activities , Tours , Transport , Visitor Information

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Boutique vineyard-stay near the town of Alexandra.

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• Fox Glacier Day Tour
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Latest Questions about Fox Glacier Day Tour

Dear Sir/Madam I am Angus. My friends and I want to make a booking on Fox Glacier one day tour. However, the tour only providing one-way transport "If departing from Queenstown or Wanaka, the tour ends in Fox Glacier town. If starting in Fox Glacier, the tour ends in Wanaka or Queenstown. " May I know what can we do if we want to departure in Queenstown and back to Queenstown after the trip? Thanks in advance Angus

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Good day, Queenstown to Fox Glacier day tour, tour terminate at Fox Glacier so how do we go back to Queensrown? do u give any Airlines staff discount? Thanks

Hi, I'd like to know if we are able to stop for a brief walk at those sightseeing spots, like Lake Dunstan, Lake Wanaka, Mount Aspiring as listed in your introduction? How big will the group be? Thanks!

Heya, The amount of time spent at the spots varies. In general you will not be able to walk off its more of a quick stop at each place to see it and take some pics. The group will be generally a full coach.

Comment by: Alicia - Everything Queenstown on 1st Aug 18 at 17:16

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R der toilets near by der glacier or on der coach bus

Heya, Yes there are plenty of toilet stops along the way, not to worry about that.

Comment by: Alicia - Everything Queenstown on 29th Jan 18 at 12:15

In this tour do you have to sleep around the fox glacier or the tour take back to Queenstown?

Heya, Yes it is a 'one way' tour. So when you get to fox glacier you will stay there. You can purchase another one way ticket back to Queenstown for the following morning.

Comment by: Alicia - Everything New Zealand on 23rd Sep 17 at 15:36

93% of new customers that used Everything Queenstown to provide advice and securely book their Queenstown activities have let us know they've had a good or excellent experience with us. Thank you .

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Fox Glacier to Queenstown Day Tour

Highlights & inclusions, select travellers & date, what you can expect.

A journey that is brimming with alpine scenery awaits with this **tour** as we leave the small village of **Fox Glacier** in the morning then travel along New Zealand's West Coast and take in its awe-inspiring landscapes of vast rainforests, crystal clear waterfalls and rugged mountaintops. Continue onwards to Haast Pass - the southernmost pass between the East and West coasts of the South Island - then head on East for a drive through some outstanding scenery, passing the amazing blue lakes of Hawea, Dunstan, Wanaka and Wakatipu.

The tour wraps up in the afternoon upon arriving in the adventure capital of New Zealand - Queenstown.

What you need to know

• One Way Tour to Queenstown from Fox Glacier.
• Beautiful mountain views and lake views as you travel along the scenic route.
• Experience an afternoon in Queenstown!
• 8:35am Tour departs Fox Glacier Guides Building
• 4:30 pm Tour arrives Athol St carpark, Queenstown
• A complimentary hotel-pick up is included in this day tour. At the time of booking, please select your designated accommodation property to book this in and obtain your pick-up time. Please ensure you are waiting 10 minutes prior at your designated pick-up location _If you have booked a hotel_
• Select your hotel name and pick up time from the location drop down list provided. If your hotel is not listed, select an alternative hotel in close proximity and make your way to that hotel on the day of the tour. Alternatively, choose Opposite Fox Glacier Guides Building, Main Road from the location drop down list and make your way to that location on the day of the tour, as this is the main departure point _If you have not yet booked a hotel_
• Select Opposite Fox Glacier Guides Building, Main Road from the location drop down list provided as this is the main departure point for the tour. Once your hotel arrangements have been finalised, you can contact the local tour operator to change your pick up details. Local tour operator's contact details will appear on your tour voucher _If your hotel is not listed or you do not require a hotel pick up_
• Select Opposite Fox Glacier Guides Building, Main Road location drop down list provided as this is the main departure point for the tour. Make your way to this location at least 15 minutes prior to the tour departure time
• The Tour Operator reserves the right to alter prices and timetables and to arrange alternative transport, routes or sightseeing services without notice.
• Products are sold subject to the conditions of the Carriage of Goods Act 1979, the terms and conditions published by the carrier and conditions printed on the ticket.
• The Tour Operator is not responsible for any loss or damage resulting from the purchase or use of its products or services or the purchase or use of any third party’s products or services.
• No refund will be made against customer failure to report prior to departure. Claims for refunds due to circumstances beyond the control of tour operators, service supplier or customer should be submitted in writing, but no later than 30 days after the date of tour departure.  Refunds must be claimed within 30 days of cancellation. It is recommended that customers adequately insure themselves against cancellation charges and the possible loss of money or personal belongings.
• Children's fares: 3 - 12 years inclusive. Infants under 3 years old no charge when not occupying a seat, however please advise sales staff when an infant is travelling in the additional comments section.
• Fuel: due to the uncertainty of fuel prices, the Tour Operator reserves the rights to add a fuel surcharge to any of their tours.
• Tour codes are shown in brackets for booking purposes. The following tours are operated by third parties - GS57, GS55, GS99.
• While every effort is made to operate the Milford Sound tour in glass roof coaches, due to servicing requirements these vehicles may not always be available.
• Confirmation in the form of a tour voucher will be received at time of booking
• Upon completion of purchase, please print the voucher and present on day of the experience.
• Mobile Vouchers are accepted! - Vouchers can also be presented on your mobile device for this attraction.
• For your information, complete Tour Operator Information including contact details is included on your tour voucher

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Queenstown to fox glacier tour.

• Email us at [email protected]
• Help code: D2B-1418
• This experience is supplied by Fox Glacier Tours to and from Queenstown

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Franz josef glacier heli hike tour, fox or franz josef glacier 20 minute helicopter flight, fox and franz josef glacier 30 minute helicopter flight, fox glacier and mount cook 30 minute helicopter flight.

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