The only reason why I included a night’s stay at Franz Joseph (FJ) Glacier Town was because I had planned to go for the FJ Glacier Walk. Priced at NZD105/pax, the packaged “tour” included a half-day walk right into the glacier valley. However, we didn’t sign up for it due to the unpredictable weather.
FJ town.. maybe just 50m in length ;pAccommodation:
Rainforest Backpackers – NZD90 for an ensuite. We were given a free upgrade as they gave our original room to a group of tour. Not only did we have a bigger room in room 208, there was also a small kitchenette so we could cook! Great room!
Entrance to the sanctuary. I love this place! It's literally built amidst rainforest!
The smaller units. There were many other types of units available, including tree houses for those who wants to be real close to the nature and bungalows for bigger families. 
The common kitchen
Our bedroom. To the left is a single bed. So, good for three persons.
The kitchenette and seating area
BathroomLunch:
The food at FJ was so expensive!! A very small town, there were only three to four restaurants, a supermarket, a souvenir shop, the FJ Glacier Centre and then various types of accommodation. We settled for burgers at one of the restaurants – I had a Classic with Cheese for NZD7.50 while hubby had The Meat Eater for NZD10.50. They were the cheapest options in town!! Hahahah!! But I must say the burgers were tasty!
Meateater burgerAs we didn’t sign up for the tour, we drove to the Glacier Access Road and did two short walks on our own. Firstly, the Sentinel Rock Walk, a 20min return steady climb which gave views of the glacier. It was BEAUTIFUL! In fact, the glacier had already formed back in 1750 at a lower altitude but had since resided due to global warming. I wonder if the glacier we saw today would still be present in 50 years’ time. Moving on, the second walk was another 20min return to Peter’s Pool, which apparently would give a fantastic reflective view of the glacier valley. But too bad, the weather was rainy so no reflective view ;(
Fox Glacier lookout
Mirror Lake - I'm sure the view wll be marvellous in good weather condition!There were many other self-guided walks ranging from 30min to 8hours return, depending on your fitness level as well as the weather. Some were closed due to flooding from continuous rainfall. I think what was different between these walks and the glacier walk was that the guided tour will lead you right into the glacier valley. I believe the views would be stunning and experience unforgettable!
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