Off-Road Adventure Tour Franz Josef Glacier
Explore Franz Josef Glacier’s wild side on our guided Off-Road Adventure Tours. With 3 tour options, choose between self-drive quad bikes and adventure buggies with an expert guide. Other options include a guide-driven buggy experience, or a private quad bike tour tailored to your group.
Travel through rainforest tracks, riverbeds and ever-changing West Coast terrain with experienced local guides leading the way. Whether you’re after hands-on adventure or a more relaxed scenic ride, our off-road tours offer a unique way to explore beyond the glaciers. Free photographs are included on all tours.
Why join an Off-Road tour with us?
- Thousands of 5-star reviews
- Safety audited operation
- Free photos included
- Experienced local guides
- Single or double quad bikes & adventure buggies available
- River crossings, rainforest & riverbed terrain
FAQS
What types of off-road tours are available in Franz Josef?
You can choose from guided Off-Road Adventure Tours on single or double quad bikes and 2 or 3-seater buggies. We also offer Off-Road Buggy Rides, which are driven by the tour leader, great for families or groups of up to 5 people. Private Off-Road Tours are available for a fully customised experience.
Are the tours suitable for beginners?
Yes! All off-road tours cater to beginners and experienced riders. Guides provide a safety briefing and practice run through test tracks, and they tailor the experience to your comfort and confidence level.
Can children join off-road tours?
Children can join on buggies from age 4 for an Off-Road Buggy Ride (driven by the guide). Children can join as passengers on quad bikes and buggies with minimum height requirements. Drivers must be at least 16, and drivers with passengers must be 18 or older.
What should I wear for an off-road adventure?
Dress for the weather outside on the day. Your clothing will remain dry as you’ll have our outerwear on. Sunglasses, gloves, and waterproof jackets are provided, along with helmets, gumboots, and other safety gear.
How long do off-road tours last?
The Off-Road Buggy Ride lasts for 1.5 hours, and the Off-Road Adventure tour lasts 2 hours.
What is included in an off-road tour?
Tours include safety gear (helmets, jackets, gloves), gumboots, high-quality photos, and guides experienced in navigating Franz Josef’s rainforest and riverbed terrain.
Can I ride a quad bike alone or share it with a friend?
You can choose a single quad bike, a double quad bike to share, or a 2-3 seater buggy, depending on your group size and comfort level. We also offer a guide-driven tour in a 5-passenger buggy.
Are off-road tours suitable in all weather?
Yes! Tours operate in wet and dry conditions, and the wetter it is, the more fun the muddy tracks and riverbeds become. Waterproof gear is provided for safety and comfort.
Can off-road tours be a fun activity on a rainy day in Franz Josef?
Definitely! Rainy days actually make the off-road tracks more exciting. With all-weather gear provided, you can enjoy a thrilling adventure through muddy riverbeds and lush rainforest without worrying about the weather. It’s one of the top rainy-day activities in Franz Josef.
What makes Franz Josef a unique destination for off-road tours?
Ride through glacier-fed riverbeds, lush Jurassic rainforest, and trails with sweeping views of the Southern Alps. The UNESCO World Heritage Site setting makes it one of New Zealand’s most scenic off-road adventure destinations.
Can I book a private off-road adventure for my group?
Yes! Private Off-Road tours give your group exclusive access to the trails, a dedicated guide, and the freedom to explore at your own pace. You can even participate in conservation initiatives, like native tree planting, during your tour.
CANCELLATION
We want you to be confident when you book directly with us! We provide hassle-free full refunds without any penalties. We do ask that any cancellations and changes are made a full 24 hours prior to the trip time. Cancellations made within the 24 hour time frame cannot be refunded (for any reason including medical or other) so please let us know in time if you need to change, or cancel your booking! Private/Group bookings or charters incur a 48 hour cancellation policy.
We reserve the right to cancel tours if minimum numbers are not met or in the event of unsafe conditions, in which case full refunds are issued.
We’re here to help, so feel free to drop us an email if you have any questions.
