LET'S LACE UP!
Glacier Valley Eco Tours offers a diverse range of small-group, guided nature walks for all ages and abilities in Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier and Okarito on the West Coast of New Zealand. Glacier Country is abundant with unforgettable natural landscapes, birdlife and history. In the company of your experienced and knowledgeable guide, embark on your choice of a half or full-day adventure and discover new-found knowledge about the local flora and fauna, geology, glaciology, conservation and wildlife. Reconnect with nature and experience the best of Glacier Country including local secret spots, in safe hands. Private, tailored tours are also available.
Locally family-owned and operated, Glacier Valley Eco Tours is intensely focused on providing an authentic, valuable and memorable experience.
PRIVATE BESPOKE ADVENTURES
Our tours are fully customisable, allowing you to upgrade any experience to a private journey. Tailor-made to fit your unique fitness levels and interests, we're here to craft a memorable backcountry adventure just for you. Say goodbye to the hassle of planning, as we organise every detail to ensure a seamless and unforgettable day out in Glacier Country. From transport, amazing food and picnics in nature to post-hike hot tub soak in the rainforest and more.
THE FULL COLLECTION
DISCOVER WEST COAST BIRDLIFE
Discover the breathtaking diversity of birdlife on the West Coast, a haven for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Our tours offer an unparalleled opportunity to encounter an impressive array of species, including several that are threatened and rarely seen on occasion. Guided by our passionate experts, you'll explore this vibrant habitat, spotting magnificent birds such as the Kereru (Wood Pigeon), the spirited Robin, the melodious Tui and the elusive Fernbird and kakariki, among many others.
I was lucky enough to spend an entire day with Cliff seeing both glaciers and the lake.
The tour was fantastic, Cliff was full of knowledge and passion for the area. His expertise was almost endless on the glaciers, trees, moss, fungi and even the rocks.
Cliff managed our group well and discretely assessed our individual needs. He was kind to me when I felt I was going slow.
I couldn't recommend this tour highly enough! You will learn so much and have a great, relaxed walking day.
Amanda, August 2022 (Source: Trip Adviser)
ECO
Glacier Valley Eco Tours is passionate about conservation and we do what we can to ensure our business has minimal environmental impact. We are consciously involved in community volunteer programs such as the Okarito Native Plant Nursery, the Ōkarito Plant Project and Project Early Bird.
HUSBAND & WIFE TEAM
Cliff & Tash Goodwin
Glacier Valley Eco Tours is a New Zealand-owned and operated family business. The husband & wife team, Cliff & Tash have been living in the Franz Josef Glacier area for about 17 years. Our lead guide is Cliff and Tash is the queen of admin, bookings & marketing. Cliff has been guiding in New Zealand in our national parks for the last twenty years, and in Glacier Country, since we arrived in 2003. We live with our two children (and chickens, dogs, frogs and goat) at the beach in the bush in Okarito.
