Discover the Frozen Giants from the Sky with the Franz Josef Mountain Scenic Helicopter Flight
If you’re heading to New Zealand’s South Island and crave a true once-in-a-lifetime experience, the Franz Josef: Mountain Scenic 40-Minute Helicopter Flight offers a remarkable way to see some of the most impressive glaciers in the country. For around $357 per person, this tour takes you high above the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, with a unique chance to land on the ice itself.
We love that this tour combines the thrill of a helicopter ride with the serenity of standing atop ancient glaciers, giving travelers a rare opportunity to experience the raw beauty of New Zealand’s Southern Alps. The flight offers panoramic views that are often described as breathtaking, especially as you soar over the Tasman Glacier and come close to Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak.
One of the standout features is the snow landing—a chance to step onto the glacier’s ice and breathe the crisp, alpine air. It’s an experience that makes the tour truly memorable and provides fantastic photo opportunities. However, keep in mind that weather conditions can impact the experience, sometimes causing delays or shortening the land time.
This adventure suits those who aren’t afraid of heights or cold weather, and it’s particularly appealing for nature lovers, photographers, or anyone eager to see New Zealand’s glaciers from an entirely new perspective. It’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a more leisurely tour, but if you’re up for an adventure, this is a fantastic option.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Stunning Aerial Views: Get a bird’s-eye perspective of the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers in a 40-minute flight.
- Glacier Snow Landing: Step onto the glacier’s icy surface, breathe in the alpine air, and enjoy unique photo moments.
- Expert Pilot Commentary: An informative guide makes sure you understand the scenery and geology you’re witnessing.
- Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 6 people) ensure a more intimate experience.
- Weather Dependent: The tour might vary due to weather conditions, affecting timing and landings.
- Value for Experience: Though priced at $357, the combined aerial and land experience offers a memorable, immersive trip.
Planning more time in Fox Glacier? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
An In-Depth Look at the Franz Josef Helicopter Experience
When we think about seeing glaciers, most of us picture long walks or icy expeditions, but this helicopter tour offers a different, more exhilarating view. Starting at the heli-base in Franz Josef, you’ll meet your pilot—a knowledgeable guide who provides a concise briefing before boarding the helicopter. This is a small-group tour, limited to six participants, which means more space to enjoy the scenery and ask questions.
The Flight Itself: What to Expect
Once airborne, your journey begins with a gradual ascent over the lush rainforest and the rugged terrain of the Southern Alps. As the helicopter climbs, the familiar landscape beneath transforms into a sprawling glacier wilderness. The flight routes vary depending on weather and pilot discretion, but typically you will fly over the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, both of which are among New Zealand’s largest ice formations.
The commentary from your pilot is a highlight — they are often quite knowledgeable, sharing insights about the glaciers’ formation, their size, and the surrounding peaks like Mount Cook. We loved the way the pilot pointed out specific features, making the experience both visual and educational.
The Snow Landing: Touching the Ice
The star attraction is the snow landing. After the aerial tour, the helicopter lands on a snowy plain on the glacier. Standing on ancient ice that has been shaped over thousands of years, you’ll feel a profound sense of connection to the untouched wilderness. The crisp, cool air is invigorating, and the silence—except for the helicopter’s blades—creates an almost spiritual moment.
This part of the experience is particularly popular, with reviewers like Michele from Belgium noting, “Fantastic even if we had to wait a day and only had 30 min instead of the 40 paid,” emphasizing how memorable the landings are, despite possible delays.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Return Journey and Final Views
After your glacier walk, you’ll hop back into the helicopter, continuing to enjoy panoramic views of the mountains, glaciers, and lakes. The flight back offers a different perspective, giving you a sense of the vastness of the Southern Alps. The route usually includes a flyover the Tasman Glacier and past Mount Cook, adding a sense of scale and grandeur.
Practical Details and Considerations
The duration of 40 minutes includes both the flight and the glacier landing. Flights usually operate in the morning, afternoon, or evening, providing flexibility for your plans. Since the experience is weather-dependent, flexible scheduling is common, and your exact flight time will be confirmed via email after booking.
The price includes landing and concession fees—because your helicopter lands in conservation and special areas, those fees are incorporated into the ticket. Keep in mind that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to plan transportation to the heli-base on Main Road in Franz Josef.
What to bring? Pack comfortable shoes, warm clothing (layers are best), sunglasses, and sunscreen. Drones, selfie sticks, and tablets are not permitted onboard, likely for safety reasons.
Authenticity and Authentic Experiences
The reviews reflect a genuine appreciation for the stunning vistas and the knowledgeable guides. One reviewer from Belgium highlighted the experience as “fantastic,” despite logistical hiccups, which underscores how memorable the views and the landings are. The small group size ensures that you’re not just a number but rather part of a more personalized adventure, a critical aspect for those wanting an authentic, less commercialized experience.
Is It Worth the Price?
At $357 per person, this tour invests in your memories and photo collections. For those who value aerial photography, unique access to glaciers, and guided insights, the cost aligns well with the experience’s quality. It’s a premium activity, but one that offers a rare view of some of New Zealand’s most iconic glaciers, a perspective that’s difficult to match elsewhere.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?
This helicopter flight is best suited for adventure-minded travelers who want to combine scenic beauty with a touch of adrenaline. It’s perfect if you’re seeking breathtaking views, a glacier walk, or simply an unforgettable experience that’s both scenic and educational. It’s also ideal for photographers eager to capture spectacular mountain and glacier landscapes from the air and on the ice.
If you’re interested in a small-group experience with knowledgeable guides and don’t mind the weather dependency, this tour will deliver. However, if you’re on a tight schedule or wary of delays, keep in mind that weather can influence your experience.
For those who want to see glaciers from a new angle and are prepared for a cold, high-altitude adventure, this helicopter tour is a compelling choice that will leave you with stunning photos and memories of New Zealand’s icy giants.
FAQ
How long is the helicopter tour?
The total experience lasts about 40 minutes, including the flight and the glacier snow landing.
Is transportation to the helicopter base included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not part of this package, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the base on Main Road in Franz Josef.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Since you’ll land on snow, layers are advisable to stay warm.
Are there any restrictions?
Drones, selfie sticks, and tablets are not allowed onboard. The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check with the operator if you have specific needs.
Can I book this tour if the weather looks uncertain?
Yes, but be aware that flights, landings, and routes may vary depending on weather conditions, and your exact schedule may be adjusted. The operator will confirm your flight time via email.
What’s included in the price?
The scenic helicopter flight, the snow landing, pilot commentary, and landing and concession fees are all included.
In summary, the Franz Josef helicopter tour offers a dynamic blend of aerial adventure and glacier exploration. It’s a fantastic way for travelers to see the stunning glaciers from above and below, making for a memorable highlight of any South Island trip. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer, an adventure seeker, or simply someone who appreciates natural beauty from a unique vantage point, this experience is likely to leave you with a sense of awe—and plenty of incredible photos.
You can check availability for your dates here: