Ice. Moving ice. Big moving ice. It can be found in various places on our planet. I usually associate it with the northern part of the world, however that is not the only side that has these magnificent glaciers. The south does too and today we’ll be looking at two which are found in New Zealand. Considered among their most famous pieces of big moving ice are Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier.
These glaciers are located on the western coast of the South Island of the country. Although they are not the largest of New Zealand’s glacier (that title belongs to the Tasman Glacier) they both share a trait not common to rivers of ice. These glaciers end at a rainforest. That means that they terminate rather close to sea level. This is due to their very high altitudes along the mountain. All that snow and ice stays cold and only begins to melt when it reaches the end of its trail which is close to sea level.
Of the two, Franz Josef is visited much more often and has more tourists. It has also been described as being more spectacular although it is smaller than Fox Glacier. Though the less touristy Fox Glacier may be an incentive as well. Either way, I do not doubt that they will provide amazing memories. I think I will add these to my travel list and I don’t even like snow!
Many tours and adventure companies are available to help you see and experience both of these mammoth ice marvels. Numerous activities and ways to experience them are open to you. From walking/hiking to the ice, helicopter tours, Glacier Hot Pools and skydiving with incredible views. Alternately you can make your way there by car and walk the region on your own (though be careful and do not stray from the paths or cross marked barriers for your own safety).
Wanders The World 
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