Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown

Experience the Best of Fiordland with the Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown

Imagine soaring high above some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes, then stepping onto untouched snow or rocky terrain on remote mountain peaks. That’s exactly what you get with the Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour. Starting from Queenstown, this 1.5-hour adventure costs around $861 per person, combining a spectacular flyover of Milford Sound with two landings — one on a remote alpine peak and another at the stunning Earnslaw Burn, famous for its cinematic glacier and waterfalls.

What we love about this experience is how it manages to be both luxurious and authentic. The flight guides are engaging and knowledgeable, making sure you catch every majestic view. Plus, the combination of flying over the fiord and landing on alpine terrain offers a rare chance to connect with nature in a way that few tours can match. On the downside, the price is on the higher side, but considering the exclusive landings and stunning scenery, many find it to be a worthwhile splurge.

This tour suits travelers with a sense of adventure who want to see New Zealand’s wilderness from a unique perspective. If you’re comfortable with small-group experiences and love breathtaking landscapes, you’ll find this tour a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Unique combination of flyover and landings, offering an immersive experience
• Expert pilot guides provide live commentary and local insights
• Exclusive landings on remote alpine peaks and Earnslaw Burn create memorable moments
• Stunning views of Milford Sound, Mitre Peak, glaciers, waterfalls, and the Southern Alps
• Pickup included from Queenstown makes logistics easier
• Limited group size (max 15 travelers) enhances a personalized experience

A detailed look at the Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour

Starting in Queenstown: An Easy Launchpad for Adventure

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from your Queenstown hotel, saving you the hassle of organizing transport. Meeting at 64 Grant Road in Frankton around 2:15 pm, you’ll join a small group—up to 15 travelers—to start your adventure. The flight departs in the afternoon, a good time to catch the changing light over the mountains and water.

The helicopter ride itself lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, but with pickup, check-in, and post-flight debrief, it’s a well-paced journey. The shared experience makes it affordable for those who prefer small-group tours rather than exclusive charters.

The Scenic Flight: From Queenstown to Milford Sound

Once airborne, the first leg takes you over Lake Whakatipu, with its jagged mountain backdrop that’s instantly recognizable. We loved the way the pilot guides you through the landscape, pointing out notable features and sharing interesting tidbits. As you approach Milford Sound, the scenery shifts dramatically — towering cliffs, ancient glaciers, and Mitre Peak rising sharply from the water.

Many reviews highlight just how spectacular this flyover is, with one traveler noting, “All day we could only describe it as WOW!” The deep blue waters contrast sharply with the rugged mountains, making every moment a picture-perfect postcard.

Stop 1: Alpine Land in Fiordland National Park

The first landing occurs on a remote alpine peak in Fiordland National Park, where you step out onto snow or rocky terrain, depending on the season. This is a rare chance to get out of the helicopter and walk on untouched landscape, surrounded by vertical cliffs and silent wilderness.

You’ll have around 10 minutes here to snap photos and take in the panoramic views of Fiordland’s dramatic peaks and valleys. Reviewers rave about this stop, describing it as “a snow landing in the middle of nowhere,” and remarking how it offers an authentic taste of New Zealand’s wild side.

Stop 2: Mount Earnslaw / Pikirakatahi and the Earnslaw Burn

Continuing on, your second landing is at the Earnslaw Burn, a spectacular alpine valley with waterfalls, snowfields, and a hanging glacier famously featured in The Hobbit movies. This area is exclusive to this tour, and you’ll have about 20 minutes to explore the rugged terrain.

Travelers mention that the hanging glacier and waterfalls are truly cinematic, with one saying it was “better than I could have imagined.” Standing on this glacier-fed valley, surrounded by towering peaks, offers a profound sense of connection to nature’s raw beauty.

Return Flight: Scenic Vistas of the Southern Alps

As your adventure winds down, the helicopter lifts off for a scenic return, offering views of the Southern Alps, lakes, and distant fjords. Many reviews note how the return leg presents a different perspective — wider vistas and softer light, perfect for reflection on the day’s highlights.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour includes hotel pickup and dropoff, the scenic helicopter flight with two landings, a pilot guide offering live commentary, and a shared experience with fellow travelers. Meals aren’t included, so plan to eat before or after your adventure.

A key consideration is the price point — at over $860 per person, this experience is a significant investment. However, many reviewers feel it’s justified by the quality of the landings, the stunning scenery, and the personalized guide. The small group size enhances the experience, ensuring you get plenty of attention and opportunities for photos.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

Good weather is essential for this tour. If skies are too cloudy, the flight may be canceled, with a full refund or alternative date offered. Booking in advance is recommended, and the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, giving you some peace of mind.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery. One said, “Landing in the snow on the mountain was worth every cent,” highlighting how the landings make the experience special. Another shared, “This was better than I could have imagined,” emphasizing the awe-inspiring nature of the flight and scenery.

Many mention how the combination of flying and landing gave them a true sense of the landscape’s scale and beauty, something they couldn’t experience from a boat or car alone. The guided commentary added context and made the experience more meaningful.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those who crave a high-end adventure with exclusive access to remote wilderness, this helicopter tour offers a truly memorable experience. The stunning vistas, the authentic landings, and the personalized guides make it much more than just a scenic flight — it’s a chance to connect with New Zealand’s wild heart.

If you’re comfortable with the cost and appreciate small-group, authentic experiences, you’ll find this tour offers exceptional value. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a once-in-a-lifetime perspective on Fiordland’s grandeur, especially if you’re a fan of cinematic landscapes and mountain wilderness.

FAQ

How long is the helicopter flight?
The flight itself lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, with additional time for pickups, drop-offs, and boarding.

What are the landings like?
You’ll land on a remote alpine peak with snow or rocky terrain, and later at Earnslaw Burn, a stunning glacier-fed valley. The stops are brief but highly memorable.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, with a maximum weight per passenger of 353 lbs. Service animals are allowed, and guides provide commentary suitable for all ages.

What is included in the price?
Hotel pickup and dropoff, scenic helicopter flight with two landings, pilot guide, and live commentary. Meals are not included.

When should I book?
Booking in advance is recommended, especially since weather conditions can affect availability. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

What if the weather is poor?
If the weather cancels your flight, you will be offered a different date or full refund.

How many people will be on the helicopter?
The experience is shared but limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a personal and intimate setting.

Can I combine this tour with other activities?
Yes, many travelers include a Milford Sound cruise or other Queenstown adventures. The tour ends back at the meeting point in Queenstown, making it easy to plan your day.

Final Words

The Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown delivers a rare mix of luxury, adventure, and authentic wilderness. While it demands a significant investment, the chance to land in remote, cinematic landscapes and witness Milford Sound from above makes it a highlight worth considering for serious travelers. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or film buff, this tour offers a window into New Zealand’s most dramatic scenery that you won’t forget. If your schedule and budget allow, it’s an experience that truly pays for itself in memories.