Glacier Helicopter Tour Queenstown | 50min Blue Ice Journey

Imagine flying over rugged Skippers Canyon, then touching down on a pristine glacier filled with shimmering deep blue ice—that’s exactly what this 50-minute helicopter tour delivers. For $422 per person, you get a blend of scenic aerial views and the thrill of stepping onto snow-covered terrain. Led by skilled local pilots, this experience is as much about the incredible scenery as it is about feeling tiny amidst towering glaciers and dramatic mountain backdrops.

What we love about this tour is how it combines the exhilaration of helicopter flight with the rare chance to walk on real glacier ice—an experience that’s hard to find elsewhere. The sweeping views of Skippers Canyon, with its gold-mining history etched into the landscape, add a layer of authenticity and history to the adventure. Also, the opportunity to capture incredible photos with crisp snow, bright blue ice, and expansive mountain vistas makes this a highlight for photography enthusiasts.

One thing to keep in mind is the weather dependency—cloud cover or warm temperatures can affect the visibility of the glacier and the safety of the landing. If your schedule is flexible and you’re willing to adapt to weather conditions, this tour is well worth it. It suits travelers who love outdoor adventure, breathtaking scenery, and don’t mind sharing the helicopter with a small group, usually 6 to 9 people.

Key Points

• Unforgettable scenery: Fly over Skippers Canyon and land on a glacier with striking blue ice.
• Authentic experience: Walk on snow and ice, creating perfect photo opportunities and a true alpine feel.
• Expert pilots: Local guides offer in-flight commentary, adding context and safety.
• Weather reliant: The experience depends on clear skies and good conditions for a safe, visible landing.
• Year-round availability: The tour runs in all seasons, but visibility and conditions vary.
• Convenient options: Pickup and dropoff from hotels are available, making it easy to fit this into your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Glacier Helicopter Tour

The Itinerary: From Queenstown to the Ice

This tour kicks off with a scenic helicopter flight westward from Queenstown. The initial leg offers spectacular views of Skippers Canyon, a narrow gorge carved by rushing waters during the gold rush days. Your pilot, likely someone like Mark or Sarah, will point out historic gold mining sites along the way, giving you a sense of the rugged history that shaped this landscape.

Once above the canyon, the helicopter ascends towards the glacier. The flight itself is part of the thrill—soaring over craggy peaks, deep valleys, and snow-capped mountains. The aircraft’s windows are large, providing panoramic views that make you feel like you’re in a flying cinema. Many reviews mention that the aerial scenery alone makes the experience worthwhile, with one traveler noting, “The views of Skippers Canyon were jaw-dropping, and the helicopter felt so stable and smooth.”

The Glacier Landing: A Rare Close-Up

The highlight? The landing on the glacier itself. This isn’t just a quick photo stop; you get about 10 minutes on the ice to explore and take pictures. The glacier is described as expansive and covered in crisp snow, with deep blue ice underneath—an sight that’s especially striking in the warmer months when the ice’s vibrant color is most vivid. As one traveler put it, “Walking on the glacier felt surreal, like stepping into a snow globe, with the bright blue ice sparkling around us.”

Despite the brief nature of the stop, the experience of standing on a remote glacier is memorable. You can expect some soft snow underfoot, and the crisp mountain air adds to the sense of adventure. The guided nature of the tour means your pilot will share insights into how glaciers form and their importance to the environment.

The Return and Additional Highlights

After exploring the icy terrain, the helicopter lifts off again, returning to Queenstown. Many reviews mention how the aerial views on the way back—with the sun casting shadows over the peaks—are equally stunning. Some travelers appreciate the inclusive nature of the tour, with hotel pickup and dropoff available, making it more convenient than arranging your own transport.

More Great Tours Nearby

What Makes This Tour Special?

What sets this experience apart is its combination of scenic flight and the thrill of glacier walking. It’s not just a sightseeing flight; it’s an interactive adventure. The photo opportunities are excellent, with many travelers coming away with stunning images of blue ice and mountain panoramas.

The tour’s year-round availability means you can plan this in any season, but it’s especially popular in winter and spring when the snow and ice are at their most picturesque. Keep in mind, weather conditions can influence the experience—cloud cover or poor visibility might mean rescheduling or route adjustments. It’s worth checking with the reservations team if you have specific dates in mind.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts about 50 minutes with around 10 minutes on the glacier. The helicopter ride can accommodate 6 to 9 passengers, so it’s a shared experience but still intimate enough to enjoy the scenery and commentary. Club seating is assigned based on weight and balance, so specific seats aren’t guaranteed.

Pricing at $422 per person reflects the exclusivity and thrill of the experience, though compared to other helicopter tours in Queenstown, it offers a unique mix of both aerial and glacier terrain, making it good value for those seeking a true adventure.

What to bring? Comfortable shoes for walking on snow, warm clothing in case of chilly wind, and a camera to capture the stunning views. It’s also wise to wear layers, as temperatures on the glacier can be cooler than expected.

The Experience Through the Eyes of Other Travelers

Many reviews echo enthusiasm for the breathtaking views. One mentioned, “The photo opportunities were endless—I couldn’t stop taking pictures of the blue ice—and the serenity of standing on the glacier was unforgettable.” Others appreciated the professionalism of the pilot, noting that the in-flight commentary added depth to the experience.

Some travelers did mention that weather can impact the experience—a few had to reschedule due to poor visibility, so flexibility is key. Others found the small group size to be ideal for getting good photos and enjoying the scenery without feeling crowded.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy both scenic travel and adventurous activities. It suits those interested in photography or wanting a unique photo backdrop, and is great for couples, friends, or families with older children. Since it involves a short walk on snow, it’s suitable for most people with moderate mobility, but those with mobility issues should check the accessibility options.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This Glacier Helicopter Tour offers a rare opportunity to see New Zealand’s stunning glacier landscapes up close, from the sky and on the ice itself. The combination of breathtaking aerial views of Skippers Canyon, the thrill of landing on a glacier, and the serene beauty of deep blue ice makes it a well-rounded adventure for anyone seeking spectacular scenery and a sense of remote wilderness.

While the weather dependency and price point might give some pause, the experience’s authenticity and the chance to step onto a glacier make it a worthwhile splurge for lovers of nature and adventure. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a visual feast and are prepared for an active, outdoor component.

If you’re after a high-impact photo opportunity coupled with an exhilarating flight and a true sense of exploration, this tour is one of Queenstown’s premier options. Just remember to dress warmly and be flexible with your schedule in case Mother Nature has other plans.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While most people with moderate mobility can enjoy walking on the glacier and the helicopter ride, very young children or those with mobility issues should check with the provider about accessibility. The experience is best suited for older children and adults who enjoy outdoor adventures.

How long is the total experience?
The entire tour lasts about 50 minutes, including the flight, the time on the glacier, and the return. The actual glacier stop is approximately 10 minutes.

Is the tour weather dependent?
Yes. Flights and glacier landings depend on good weather conditions. Cloud cover or poor visibility can lead to rescheduling or route adjustments. It’s wise to check with the reservations team if weather might be an issue.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers the scenic helicopter flight, glacier landing, aerial views of Skippers Canyon, 10 minutes on the glacier for photos, and in-flight commentary. Hotel pickup and dropoff are optional.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera are recommended. No special equipment is necessary, but dressing in layers helps manage the alpine chill.

Can I book this tour for any time of year?
Yes, it’s available year-round. However, the glacier’s appearance and visibility of blue ice can vary with the seasons, especially in warmer months.

What about group size?
The helicopter typically carries 6 to 9 passengers, making it intimate enough for good views and photos. Seating is assigned based on weight for safety reasons.

In the end, this helicopter and glacier experience stands out as a vivid, memorable adventure that blends aerial spectacle with the thrill of standing on ice. For those eager to witness New Zealand’s striking glacial landscapes and capture stunning photos, it’s a well-spent day. Just remember to keep an eye on the weather, dress warmly, and prepare for a genuine taste of alpine wilderness tucked away in the South Island.

You can check availability for your dates here: