Milford Sound Heli | 1.5hr with Alpine & Earnslaw Landing

Imagine soaring high above New Zealand’s South Island, gliding over Milford Sound with its towering cliffs, waterfalls, and glaciers, then touching down in rugged alpine terrain. For those looking to combine adventure, scenery, and a touch of exclusivity, this 1.5-hour helicopter tour from Queenstown offers a truly memorable way to see one of the world’s most iconic fjords. At a cost of $826 per person, it’s not cheap, but the views and experiences delivered are quite special.

Two aspects really stand out for us: first, the panoramic views from the helicopter of Milford Sound’s cliffs and waterfalls — nothing beats the perspective from above. Second, the exclusive landings—both in the alpine region and at the stunning Earnslaw Burn basin—offer a feeling of adventure that’s hard to beat.

However, it’s worth noting that because this is a shared flight, you’ll be sitting with a small group of 6 to 9 people, which might influence your seat choice. Also, weather can change quickly in the mountains, so flexibility is essential. This tour suits travelers who appreciate a mix of scenic beauty, a dash of exploration, and don’t mind spending a bit more for a premium experience.

If you’re someone who dreams of seeing Milford Sound from above, wants to access areas usually off-limits to regular boats or hikers, and loves a well-rounded adventure, this experience should be on your list.

Key Points

• Stunning aerial views of Milford Sound and surrounding peaks.
• Exclusive landings at alpine and Earnslaw Burn locations.
• Good value considering the inclusiveness of flights, landings, and commentary.
• Weather-dependent — flexibility and patience help ensure a smooth experience.
• Small group setting lends a personal feel but impacts seat assignments.
• Suitable for adventure seekers and scenery lovers willing to spend for a premium perspective.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Milford Sound Helicopter Experience

The Itinerary and Route

This tour begins in Queenstown, where you’ll be picked up (if you choose the hotel transfer option) and driven to the helicopter base at the airport. The actual flight lasts about 1.5 hours, but the entire experience feels like a full-day adventure thanks to the variety of sights and landings involved.

Once airborne, you’ll fly across Lake Whakatipu, a sprawling, fjord-like body of water that’s quite stunning from the air. Your pilot, often a local with extensive knowledge of the region, will give you commentary on the landscape as you soar over the Richardson Mountains, which mark the beginning of your journey into Fiordland.

The main highlight is cruising over Milford Sound itself—an area renowned for its dramatic cliffs, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls. From the sky, the waterway resembles a winding corridor of natural splendor, with some viewers claiming it’s like looking at a giant, pristine landscape painting.

The Alpine Landing and Its Significance

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the alpine landing, which lasts about 10 minutes. The exact spot depends on weather conditions but generally offers a chance to step onto snow and ice, which adds a layer of adventure and perspective. It’s not just a photo stop—many travelers find that walking in the high country, surrounded by jagged peaks and icy patches, gives a real sense of the scale and wildness of New Zealand’s mountains.

The Earnslaw Burn Basin Landing

The Earnslaw Burn basin is the tour’s pièce de résistance—a 20-minute landing in a remote, rugged basin that’s accessible only by helicopter. This area, carved by glaciers and filled with glaciers and waterfalls, delivers one of the most memorable photos opportunities. From reviews, we learn that visitors are “left speechless” by the rugged, raw beauty of this location.

This spot is often described as “a photographer’s dream” and “a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” giving travelers a chance to step into the wild and unspoiled landscapes that are otherwise hard to access. The sense of being in such a remote corner of the world, surrounded by towering peaks and icy formations, is genuinely awe-inspiring.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

• Panoramic views from the helicopter mean you see Milford Sound from a perspective impossible from land or boat.
• The exclusive landings provide a level of intimacy and adventure that many other tours don’t offer.
• The pilot’s commentary adds context, helping you understand the geology, history, and ecological significance of the region.
• The small group size enhances the sense of personal discovery, though it does mean you might not get your preferred window seat.

The Worth of the Price

At $826, this tour is on the pricier side for a 1.5-hour experience. But when you consider the extraordinary views, remote landings, and the personalized storytelling provided, many find it good value for a premium activity. Plus, the photos and memories you’ll take home are priceless.

Some reviews mention that “the flight was a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” and that “the views from above made everything else seem small.” For those who prioritize authentic, bird’s-eye views of Milford Sound’s grandeur, this is hard to beat.

Practical Considerations

• Weather can affect your plans, so flexibility is important. A clear day will provide the best experience.
• Bring warm clothing and sturdy shoes, especially if you plan to explore the alpine landing area.
• Seats are assigned based on weight and balance, so specific seat requests can’t be guaranteed.
• The experience includes hotel pickup and dropoff (if booked), adding convenience.
• Food isn’t included, so plan to eat before or after your flight.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This helicopter experience is best suited for adventure lovers and scenery enthusiasts willing to invest in a high-end, memorable outing. If you’re craving unique perspectives and access to off-limits locations, this is a perfect fit. It’s also ideal for travelers who value personalized experiences and want to capture stunning photos.

The Sum Up

If you’re after an experience that combines breathtaking aerial views, exclusive landings, and a sense of exploring untouched wilderness, this Milford Sound helicopter tour is hard to beat. It’s a premium price, but for many travelers, the photos, memories, and sense of adventure justify the cost.

While it’s weather-dependent and shares the experience with a small group, the personalized touch from the pilot and the remote landings elevate this above standard scenic flights. It’s particularly well-suited for nature lovers and adventure travelers who appreciate a good story, spectacular scenery, and a sense of discovery.

This tour offers a chance to see Milford Sound in a way few other experiences can match — from the sky and in the wild. For those looking to create lasting memories of New Zealand’s natural beauty, this is an adventure worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long does the flight last?
  The scenic helicopter experience is approximately 1.5 hours, including landings and commentary.

• What is included in the tour?
  The tour includes a 1.5-hour helicopter flight from Queenstown, one alpine landing (10 mins), one exclusive Earnslaw Burn basin landing (20 mins), and in-flight commentary. Hotel pickup/dropoff is optional.

• Are food options available?
  No, food isn’t included in the tour, so plan accordingly before or after your flight.

• What kind of views will I see?
  You’ll see panoramic vistas of Milford Sound, glaciers, waterfalls, alpine peaks, and lush rainforests from above.

• Is this a shared experience?
  Yes, the helicopter carries 6 to 9 passengers, making it a small-group experience.

• Can I choose my seat?
  Specific seats aren’t guaranteed; seating is assigned based on weight and balance.

• What should I bring?
  Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera are recommended.

• How does weather affect the tour?
  Flights are weather-dependent. Routes and landings may be adjusted or rescheduled for safety.

• Who is the tour provider?
  The experience is offered by Heliworks Queenstown, known for quality scenic flights.

• Is there a cancellation policy?
  Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In the end, this helicopter tour offers a rare opportunity to see Milford Sound from a perspective few travelers get to enjoy. It’s a bit of an investment, but for those who cherish spectacular scenery and adventure, it’s a memorable way to spend a half-day in New Zealand’s wild heart.

You can check availability for your dates here: