Franz Josef: The Grand Tour by Helicopter with Snow Landing

If you’re visiting New Zealand’s South Island and craving a truly unforgettable adventure, the Grand Tour by Helicopter at Franz Josef is hard to beat. For around $337 per person, you get approximately 40 minutes of helicopter flight time, including a scenic snow landing. The tour whisks you over the Fox, Franz Josef, and Tasman glaciers, offering views that will make your camera work as hard as your neck does trying to take it all in.

Two details we particularly love are the stunning visual contrast of the icy glaciers against the rugged peaks of the Southern Alps and the chance to step onto actual snow in the middle of a vast, icy landscape. It’s a rare chance to walk on snow, even in New Zealand—an experience that adds a layer of authenticity and fun.

One consideration is the weather dependency—if the sky is cloudy or winds are high, the pilot might postpone or cancel the snow landing for safety reasons. It’s worth planning this tour early in your stay, just in case.

This experience is perfect for adventure lovers, photographers, or anyone eager to see New Zealand’s most iconic glaciers and mountains from a privileged perspective. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike find it rewarding, especially since reviews highlight friendly guides and fantastic views.

Key Points

• Stunning Aerial Views: Fly over the Fox, Franz Josef, and Tasman glaciers, with breathtaking mountain vistas.
• Unique Snow Landing: Walk on snowfields, creating perfect photo opportunities and adding an authentic alpine experience.
• Expert Commentary: Guided by knowledgeable pilots who provide interesting insights during the flight.
• Short but Impactful: A 40-minute total experience, packing in sightseeing, flying, and snow walking.
• Great Value: The combination of scenic flight and snow landing offers excellent value for such an iconic adventure.
• Weather Dependent: Clear skies are ideal; weather conditions can impact the snow landing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Starting from the Alpine Adventure Centre in Franz Josef, you’ll report about 30 minutes before your scheduled departure. This gives you time to check in and settle any last-minute questions. Once on board the helicopter, the journey begins with a quick safety briefing before your pilot takes the controls.

The helicopter ride itself is a highlight—a breathtaking 40-minute journey that takes you over some of New Zealand’s most famous glaciers and peaks. You’ll soar above the magnificent icefalls of the Fox, Franz Josef, and Tasman glaciers—each one more stunning than the last. The glaciers are known for their vivid blue ice, a result of compressed snow and ice absorbing all colors except blue. This contrast makes for incredible photos, especially when viewed from above.

As you fly, your pilot provides commentary—not just technical details but also stories and insight about the area’s geological history, local flora, and fauna, making the flight both enjoyable and educational. Many reviews praise the guides for their professionalism and engaging explanations, with one traveler noting that the pilot “offered relevant explanations on the spectacular viewpoints.”

The highlight comes with the scenic snow landing. After about 10 minutes on the snowfield, you’ll step out of the helicopter into a landscape that looks like a scene from a winter postcard—crisp, white snow stretching out in all directions. You can take photos, walk around, and truly soak in the silence and vastness of this icy environment. Several visitors have described this as “the icing on the cake” or “a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

After your time on the snow, you’ll hop back into the helicopter for a short flight back, enjoying more incredible views of the mountains and glaciers from a different perspective. The entire experience lasts around 40 minutes, with about 8 to 10 minutes on the snow.

The Experience in Detail: Why It Matters for Travelers

This tour offers a blend of adventure, scenery, and education. As you fly over the glaciers, you get a sense of the immense scale of these icy giants—something that’s difficult to grasp from the ground. The blue icefalls are a photographer’s dream, with their vivid color and jagged formations. Many visitors mention how the views of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman are simply “unbelievable,” offering a sense of connection to New Zealand’s rugged wilderness.

Landing on snow may seem like a small addition, but it’s a significant highlight. It allows you to stand on a real glacier, feel the crunch of snow beneath your feet, and capture memorable photos. Several reviews praise the friendly pilot who allows passengers to switch seats, which enhances the experience by giving everyone a chance at the best view.

While the price may seem steep to some, it’s worth considering the value of the experience—a combination of flight, scenery, and the rare opportunity to step onto snow in a pristine environment. Laura from Germany shared, “Getting to walk on the glacier was the icing on the cake,” emphasizing how this personal touch makes the trip special.

It’s also worth noting that weather conditions play a crucial role. If the skies are cloudy or winds are strong, the pilot might cancel the snow landing for safety reasons. We recommend checking the forecast and planning your tour early in your stay, so you have flexibility if the weather isn’t cooperating.

Practical Tips for Your Tour

• Meet at the Alpine Adventure Centre in Franz Josef 30 minutes before departure.
• Bring sunglasses, a camera, and closed-toe shoes for walking on the snow.
• Bags and selfie sticks are not allowed on the helicopter, so pack light.
• Infants under 3 years and under 15kg fly free, but if they weigh more or are older, they’ll need a ticket.
• The tour operates mainly in the morning and afternoon, with flexible options.
• The pilot is an experienced professional, ensuring safety and commentary throughout.
• The entire experience is about 40 minutes, so plan your day accordingly.

Why This Tour Stands Out

From the stunning aerial views to the unique snow landing experience, this tour delivers a memorable taste of New Zealand’s alpine splendor. The friendly guides and pilots, along with the beautiful scenery, make it a standout for those wanting to combine adventure with breathtaking photography.

Many reviewers mention how it surpassed expectations, with one calling it “the best thing we’ve ever done” and “unbelievable” flying between snowy peaks. The professional service and well-organized operation ensure you feel confident and comfortable throughout.

While the price isn’t the cheapest, the quality of the experience—both in scenic beauty and personal adventure—justifies it for many travelers. It’s an activity that leaves a lasting impression, perfect for celebrating a special trip or simply indulging your love of nature and flight.

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Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This helicopter tour is best suited for those who crave spectacular views, authentic glacier experiences, and don’t mind a bit of a splurge for a memorable adventure. If you love photography, you’ll find endless opportunities for stunning shots of glaciers, mountains, and snowfields.

Families and couples alike will appreciate the friendly guides and the variety of sights, from soaring above icy giants to walking on snow. For adventure seekers, it’s a seamless blend of thrill and beauty that leaves you with lifelong memories.

If you’re looking for a highlight of your South Island trip, this tour offers a perfect combination of excitement, scenic wonder, and personal achievement—standing tall among the many incredible things to do in New Zealand.

FAQs

How long is the helicopter ride?
The total flight duration, including the snow landing, is approximately 40 minutes.

What is included in the tour?
You get a 40-minute helicopter flight, commentary from the pilot, a headset to listen to explanations, and a snow landing lasting about 8 to 10 minutes.

Are there any age restrictions?
Infants under 3 years old and weighing less than 15kg fly free, sitting on an adult’s lap. If they weigh more or are older, they will need a ticket.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a camera, and closed-toe shoes for walking on the snow.

Can I book for a specific time of day?
Yes, the tour is usually available in the morning and afternoon, but check availability when booking.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, flights and snow landings are subject to weather conditions for safety reasons.

Can I change seats during the tour?
Yes, guides often offer to switch seats, so everyone can have a good view.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but consider individual mobility needs, especially for walking on snow.

Where do I meet for the tour?
At the Alpine Adventure Centre, 29 Main Road, Franz Josef, 30 minutes prior to your scheduled departure.

In essence, this helicopter tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, stunning scenery, and a touch of thrill with the snow landing. It’s a highlight for many travelers and a wonderful way to see some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes from a perspective few get to enjoy. If you’re after a bucket-list experience that’s both visually spectacular and personally memorable, this is a trip worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: