Franz Josef: 4-Glacier Helicopter Ride with 2 Landings

When you’re traveling through New Zealand’s South Island, few experiences match the drama and beauty of soaring over its glaciers. This helicopter tour takes you above four iconic glaciers—Franz Josef, Fox, Tasman, and Shackleton—then lands you twice on snowy peaks for memorable photos and close-up views. At a price of $442 per person and lasting about one hour, it’s an investment in awe-inspiring scenery and lasting memories.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines the thrill of flight with the tranquility of snow landings, giving you ample time to soak in the scenery and snap photos. The guidance from seasoned pilots is another highlight, making the entire experience both educational and entertaining. Plus, the chance to see Mount Cook from above adds a cherry on top.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is weather-dependent—cloud cover or rain could impact the route or even cancel the flight. If you’re prone to motion sickness or uneasy with heights, this might be a more challenging outing. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime aerial adventure, especially those who appreciate stunning landscapes and photography.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to see New Zealand’s glaciers from a new perspective, this trip delivers authentic scenery and expert insight at a very good value. Let’s explore what makes this adventure worth considering.

Key Points

• Unparalleled Views: Fly over four of New Zealand’s most impressive glaciers with a bird’s-eye view of the ice rivers and mountains.
• Two Snow Landings: Enjoy ample time on two separate snow sites to take photos and explore close-up.
• Expert Guides: Pilots provide informative commentary on the glaciers’ features and the surrounding landscape.
• Good Value: The 60-minute experience balances cost with significant scenery, landing opportunities, and professional guidance.
• Weather Dependence: Flights are subject to weather conditions, which could lead to route changes or cancellations.
• Ideal for Photo Enthusiasts: Plenty of photo opportunities both in the air and on the snow.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from Your Glacier Flight

This helicopter adventure begins with a check-in at Glacier Country Helicopters’ office, where you’ll get a safety briefing. From there, a van transfers you to the helicopter hangar, setting the stage for an exciting ride. With your headset on and seatbelt fastened, your pilot will guide you through the scenery, sharing insights about each glacier and mountain.

The Flight Itself

The first part of the flight takes you over the terminal moraine of Franz Josef Glacier, a stunning sight with its jagged ice formations. As you ascend into the valley, the impressive big three glaciers—Franz Josef, Fox, and the Tasman—come into view. The glaciers appear as massive, slow-moving ice rivers, with crevasses and ice pinnacles that look almost surreal from the sky.

Your pilot might also point out Shackleton Glacier, a lesser-known but equally striking ice formation. From this height, you’ll see Mount Cook—the highest peak in New Zealand—standing proud amid the Southern Alps.

The Snow Landings

After about 20-25 minutes of flight, you’ll land on two separate snow sites within Westland Tai Poutini National Park. These stops are a rare chance to step onto fresh snow, take in the wide vistas of ice and mountains, and capture some incredible photos. The landings are designed to give you plenty of time to admire the scenery and explore, making this experience much more than just a quick flyby.

What You’ll See and Learn

Throughout the tour, your pilot will explain the landscape’s features, including the formation of glaciers and the landscape’s evolution. If you’re a fan of movies, you might also recognize the “lighting of the beacons” area used in the Lord of The Rings films, adding a layer of cinematic magic to your trip.

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Additional Details

• The entire experience lasts approximately one hour, with about 30 minutes flying and 30 minutes on landings.
• The cost includes a safety briefing, the helicopter flight, an experienced pilot, and headset-guided commentary.
• Comfort seats are available at an additional cost for passengers over 120 kg, and it’s wise to dress warmly, even in summer, as high altitudes can be chilly.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

One review captures the essence: “Simply amazing. Much better than a 35 or 25 minute tour. The time passes incredibly quickly.” We loved how much scenery you get for the duration—no rushed views here. The two snow landings are a huge bonus, offering a rare chance to step onto the glacier surface and take memorable photos.

Another reviewer praised the trustworthiness and professionalism of the guides, which is important when you’re flying in the mountains. They also noted the perfect weather made for an unforgettable experience, highlighting how weather can influence the route and overall enjoyment.

The stunning views of the glaciers, ice pinnacles, and the Southern Alps create an experience that’s both visually captivating and educational. We appreciated the opportunity to see the ice lake near Shackleton Glacier—a sight that feels both serene and monumental.

Practical Tips for Your Glacier Helicopter Tour

• Book in advance, especially in peak seasons, as this is a popular experience.
• Dress warmly and bring sunglasses and a camera. Closed-toe shoes are required.
• Weather can change quickly, so prepare for possible delays or route modifications.
• If you’re sensitive to motion sickness, consider taking precautions, as helicopter rides can be bumpy at times.
• Transport to the hangar is included, but confirm the meeting point beforehand.
• The activity is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with large luggage.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This helicopter ride is perfect for photography lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to tick off a bucket-list experience. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy not only the views but the insights shared by knowledgeable pilots. It also appeals to those who appreciate authentic, scenic experiences rather than overly commercialized tours.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy unique outdoor adventures and stunning landscapes, this is a fantastic choice. Keep in mind, if your schedule is tight or weather forecast looks uncertain, it may be wise to book with flexible options.

Final Thoughts

This 4-glacier helicopter tour offers a genuine, high-value way to see some of New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery. The two snow landings stand out as a highlight, giving you that feeling of truly being on top of the world—on glaciers and ice fields. The experience strikes a good balance between adventure, education, and photography opportunities.

While weather dependency is a consideration, the professionalism of the guides and the breathtaking views make this a worthwhile splurge for those who want to see the icy heart of New Zealand from above. The experience’s reputation for trustworthiness and quality makes it a top pick for travelers eager to connect with nature’s grandeur in a safe, guided setting.

If you’re after a memorable, scenic adventure that blends aerial views with the thrill of snow landings, this tour may well be the highlight of your trip to the South Island.

FAQ

What glaciers will I see during this tour?
You’ll see the Franz Josef, Fox, Tasman, and Shackleton Glaciers, all from high above, with the chance to land on two of them.

How long is the helicopter ride?
The entire experience lasts about one hour, including flying time and landings.

Is there a chance the route could change?
Yes, because the tour is weather-dependent. Routes and landings may be adjusted or canceled if conditions aren’t safe.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly, bring sunglasses and a camera, and wear closed-toe shoes. Luggage and large bags are not permitted.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Passengers over 120 kg will be asked to purchase a Comfort Seat, which costs about half the flight price.

Can I book last-minute?
Availability depends on weather and scheduling, but it’s best to reserve ahead to secure your spot, especially in busy seasons.

Is this experience suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for wheelchair users or travelers with certain mobility challenges, and children should be old enough to enjoy the flight experience.

This helicopter tour of New Zealand’s glaciers offers a rare chance to witness the icy grandeur of the South Island from a perspective that’s both exhilarating and serene. Whether you’re a photographer, a nature lover, or simply seeking a memorable adventure, it’s a trip that delivers stunning scenery, expert guidance, and a sense of accomplishment—on snow-capped peaks and icy landscapes that will stay with you long after you’ve landed.

You can check availability for your dates here: