Twin Glacier Helicopter Flight departing Fox Glacier

Imagine soaring above two of New Zealand’s most famous glaciers—Franz Josef and Fox Glacier—with a snow landing on Fox Glacier itself. For around 30 minutes, you’ll sit in a small helicopter with a knowledgeable pilot guiding you through the stunning landscapes of the Southern Alps. Priced at about $266.39 per person, this tour is a fantastic way to see the icy giants from a perspective few get to experience firsthand.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines spectacular aerial views with the thrill of stepping onto a snowfield atop Fox Glacier—an experience that’s both visually breathtaking and uniquely immersive. The pilot’s informative commentary adds context, making the trip more than just pretty pictures.

One thing to keep in mind is that weather can impact the experience. While most reviews praise clear skies, a few mention delays or restrictions based on wind conditions. This tour suits those who are comfortable with small group sizes, appreciate expert narration, and are eager for an authentic, bird’s-eye view of the glaciers.

If you’re a traveler who loves outdoor adventure, scenic photography, or simply wants to witness the majesty of the Southern Alps from above, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially ideal if you want a memorable highlight that combines nature, thrill, and education in one compact package.

• Stunning Views: Witness the glaciers and the Southern Alps from the air, with opportunities to see areas inaccessible by foot.
• Snow Landing: Get out onto Fox Glacier’s icefield, a rare chance for a close-up experience.
• Expert Commentary: Your pilot provides engaging and informative narration about the landscape.
• Short and Sweet: At around 30 minutes, it’s a manageable and memorable adventure.
• Weather Sensitive: Clear skies are ideal, but weather can cause delays or restrictions.
• Small Groups: Tours typically have a maximum of six travelers, fostering a more intimate experience.

Getting a bird’s-eye view of the Southern Alps is a thrill that few other activities can match. From the moment you arrive at the Fox Glacier helicopter base, you can feel the anticipation building. The tour departs from the village, a convenient location close to the main road, making it easy to access without fuss. The fixed price includes GST and a live commentary from your pilot, which adds richness to what you’re seeing.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Your flight begins with a short safety briefing before boarding a twin-engine helicopter with an open cabin that seats up to six passengers. As you lift off, your eyes are immediately drawn to the twin glaciers—Franz Josef on one side and Fox Glacier on the other. Both glaciers are cloaked in shades of icy blue, with crevasses and icefalls creating a stunningly rugged landscape.

The helicopter offers a 360-degree view that includes carved valleys and the towering peaks of the Southern Alps. As you hover above Fox Glacier, your pilot points out features like icefalls, crevasses, and the surrounding peaks, including Aoraki Mt. Cook, which rises to 12,217 feet. The helicopter’s open cabin design means you can lean out for unobstructed photos, but many reviewers wished they could have sat next to the pilot for even better vantage points.

The Snow Landing: A Glacier Experience Like No Other

One of the highlights is the snow landing at the head of Fox Glacier. After a scenic flight over the ice, your helicopter descends onto a snowfield, where you can step out onto the glacier’s surface. This is an incredible opportunity to feel the crisp cold and take in the glacial crevasses and ice formations up close. Many travelers, like Paul Hudson, mention how landing on top of the glacier was “awesome,” with some wishing they could have spent more time there.

Landing on the glacier isn’t just for photos—it’s a chance to connect with one of nature’s most ephemeral features. The view from above is awe-inspiring, but standing on the icefield makes the experience more tangible and memorable.

What Makes This Tour Special?

• Accessible Scenic Wonders: The flight offers views of areas that are impossible to reach on foot, giving you a comprehensive perspective on the glaciers’ scale and complexity.
• Expert Pilot Narration: As Tenna_S mentions, the pilot “Simon was very helpful with information,” adding depth to the experience.
• Photographic Opportunities: With open cabins and close-up views of ice formations, this tour is a photographer’s dream—if you don’t mind sharing the space.
• Flexible and Resilient: Several reviews highlight how the team was accommodating when weather caused delays or cancellations, rebooking flights without fuss.

However, some travelers have noted that weather can impact the trip. Valerie_a’s experience of a shortened flight due to wind reminds us that safety takes precedence, so it’s best to stay flexible.

The Experience: Why It’s Worth the Price

At roughly half an hour, this tour offers a condensed but impactful look at the glaciers. Given the cost, it’s a good value considering the spectacular views and the unique experience of being on a glacier. The inclusion of a snow landing makes it stand out from purely scenic flights, providing a tactile element that elevates the trip beyond just sightseeing.

Many reviews, including Keith_D and Brendan_O, express satisfaction with the professionalism of the staff and the stunning vistas. “The flight was very smooth, and the views when we landed on top of the glacier were incredible,” said Paul Hudson, capturing the essence of the experience. The cultural value of seeing the glaciers up close and learning about the landscape from your guide enriches the outing.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance: Most bookings are made about 34 days ahead, so plan early, especially in peak seasons.
• Dress warmly: Temperatures at the glacier can be cold, even in summer. Warm clothing and suitable footwear are advised.
• Be flexible with weather: Weather can cause delays or shortened flights. Keep a flexible schedule.
• Bring your camera: The views are unparalleled, and with the open cabin, you’ll want to capture every moment.
• Weight limits: The maximum combined weight per passenger is 364 lbs, so consider this if traveling with heavier friends or family.
• Children: They must be accompanied by an adult, and those under 15 kg can sit on a parent’s lap.

This scenic helicopter flight is perfect for those who love outdoor adventure and breathtaking landscapes. It’s especially appealing if you want to see glaciers from above but also experience the thrill of stepping onto an icefield. It suits travelers who appreciate a small group (max six), want expert narration, and are okay with the weather-dependent nature of such activities.

If you’re traveling with family or friends, this is a memorable way to share a rare, close-up experience of New Zealand’s icy giants. It’s less suited for those with mobility issues or a strict schedule, given the potential for weather-related delays.

How long is the helicopter flight?
The flight lasts approximately 30 minutes, including the snow landing on Fox Glacier.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a scenic helicopter flight with a snow landing, live commentary, and the services of a professional guide.

Can I book this tour for a specific date?
Yes, most bookings are made about 34 days in advance and are subject to availability. The tour operates seasonally but is weather-dependent.

Is transportation provided to the meeting point?
The meeting point is at the Fox Glacier Main South Road; specific details aren’t provided, but it’s a short drive from the village.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layered clothing and wear suitable footwear, as temperatures on the glacier can be quite cold.

Are children allowed?
Children must be accompanied by an adult. Those under 15 kg can sit on a parent’s lap.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t safe, the flight may be delayed or canceled, with options for rescheduling or a full refund.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the maximum number of travelers per flight is 6, making for an intimate experience.

What if my flight is canceled due to weather?
You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if the weather prevents flying.

The Twin Glacier Helicopter Flight from Fox Glacier offers a rare glimpse into the icy world of New Zealand’s glaciers, combining aerial photography, adventure, and education in one short, memorable trip. The snow landing adds a layer of excitement that makes it stand out from typical scenic flights, making it ideal for those seeking a truly unique outdoor experience.

The tour’s small group size and knowledgeable pilots ensure a personalized and engaging journey, and reviews consistently praise the stunning views and professional staff. While weather can sometimes influence the experience, the team’s flexibility and safety focus make this a dependable choice for travelers ready to embrace nature’s unpredictability.

Overall, if you’re after a breathtaking perspective of New Zealand’s glaciers and a chance to stand on ice, this tour will deliver in both scenery and memory-making.