TranzAlpine Glacier Experience

Duration: 4 Days

Price: from NZ$1,999

Departure From: Christchurch

Departure Date: Flexbile Dates

Tour Type: Independent Tour

Meal Plan: B&B and selected meals

Physical Grading: 2/5

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Be amazed at this elevated exploration of the West Coast on the stunning TranzAlpine Glacier Experience 4 day tour.

Discover the ancient world of the West Coast, where ice sheets carve through mountains and native rainforests thrive upon the hills and astonishing blue waters teem with minerals, precious stones, and gold. Breathe in the fresh scented air, from the mountain tops to the coastal breeze, on this phenomenal 4-day escape to the West Coast and Franz Josef.

We wish we were travelling with you because this is a great trip!

TranzAlpine Glacier Experience Highlights

  • Spectacular Helicopter glacier tour with heavenly views of the Southern Alps
  • A world-class voyage through the mountains aboard the TranzAlpine train  
  • Meet New Zealand’s rarest kiwi, the Rowi
  • Discover lush rainforests, twinkling glow-worms and snow-capped mountains

TranzAlpine Glacier Experience Train Journey

Travelling from Christchurch to the West Coast by train on the TranzAlpine Glacier Experience couldn’t be easier or more beautiful. Weaving between the peaks of the Southern Alps, soaring over breathtaking viaducts, meandering along the banks of the braided Waimakariri River, descending through the 8.5km long Otira tunnel into the lush river valleys of the West Coast. It’s all ahead of you and the TranzAlpine train is rated among the most beautiful train journeys in the world.

TranzAlpine-Springfield
The TranzAlpine Train

With spacious carriages and huge panoramic windows, you can sit back and enjoy New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery and the sociable environment of the train. Spend time with old friends or make new friends and see the best of New Zealand at the same time. Upon your arrival on the West Coast, you’ll be energised and ready to explore.

One unique feature of the great New Zealand rail journeys is the ability to step outside and enjoy the great New Zealand outdoors while you travel in the open-air viewing carriage. Feel the breeze ruffling your hair, the tingling kiss of fresh mountain air. Smell the forest aromas and the cool morning dew. Feel immersed in the landscapes and soak in the views. The open-air viewing carriage brings you true outdoor experiences while you travel through the land.

taste of the west coast
Onboard the TranzAlpine

TranzAlpine Glacier Experience Accommodation

On the doorstep to several of New Zealand’s most spectacular natural attractions, the enchanting Scenic Hotel Franz Josef is the perfect resting place between adventures.

With modern, comfortable rooms, all the conveniences you could wish for, and the beautiful Canavans Restaurant and Moa Bar in the hotel, you won’t want to leave this fantastic hotel.

Your TranzAlpine Glacier Experience Franz Josef Accommodation

For a detail itinerary, the TranzAlpine timetable, departure days, and booking conditions, please see below.

Should you wish to add a night or two into your itinerary in Greymouth, Hokitika or travel south to Queenstown, let us know at the time of booking. The TranzAlpine Glacier Experience is fully flexible.

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Tour Inclusions

  • Helicopter snow landing on Franz Josef glacier
  • Return TranzAlpine train journey from Christchurch to the West Coast
  • 3-night accommodation at the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
  • General Admission to the West Coast Wildlife Centre
  • ‘Westland Wonderland’ HELIMAX Movie
  • 1 Dinner, 3 Breakfasts
  • West Coast Transfers

Pricing Notes

  • Advertised price based on per person, twin share
  • Non-refundable deposit of 20% per person is due at the time of booking
  • Full non-refundable balance of tour payment date will be advised at the time of booking
  • A single supplement is available or you can choose to match up with another single traveller
  • Price is subject to change unless paid in full
  • Full terms and conditions will be advised at the time of booking

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 | Christchurch - TranzAlpine Train - Franz Josef (D)
Your Franz Josef Glacier Experience departs from Christchurch aboard the world-famous TranzAlpine scenic train, travelling through the magnificent Southern Alps to Greymouth on the West Coast. On arrival in Greymouth, you will be greeted at the station by your transfer and taken on a scenic drive along the West Coast on your way to Franz Josef. After checking into the spectacular Scenic Hotel Franz Josef, you'll enjoy an evening relaxing at the hotel with a two-course dinner.
Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at the hotel and then spend the morning exploring the lovely town of Franz Josef and the spectacular local walks. In the early afternoon if the weather is clear, it will be time for your elevated experience amidst the Southern Alps with a Heli-Tour of the local glacier. Finish the day by relaxing in town or at the hotel. Explore the local walking trails, or indulge in a spa treatment at the Amaia Spa at Te Waonui Forest Retreat.
Start the day with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before strolling into town in your own time. Your morning activity is learning about the local wildlife at the West Coast Wildlife Centre, which specialises in breeding two of New Zealand's most endangered kiwi, the rowi and Haast tokoeka. In the afternoon, you'll be heading to the Franz Josef cinema for a screening of the incredible Westland Wonderland film—an incredible 40-minute journey through South West New Zealand. The evening is yours to relax and enjoy the hospitality of Franz Josef.
Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at the hotel before checking out and meeting your Scenic transfer at 10:30am. By 12.30pm, your transfer will bring you back to Greymouth where you will check in for another wonderful journey aboard the TranzAlpine train on your way back to Christchurch.

For more information about this tour, price queries and updates on specials, please Enquire Now.