15 Fantastic Tours & Experiences In Mount Cook

Mount Cook National Park is one of New Zealand’s most striking landscapes, offering a dramatic backdrop of towering peaks, glaciers, and crystal-clear lakes. It’s a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. And what better way to experience its grandeur than on a guided tour, helicopter flight, or even a skydiving jump? We’re especially fond of the small-group day tours from Queenstown that combine scenic drives with ample free time, letting you hike or relax at your pace. The helicopter flights with alpine landings are jaw-dropping, giving you a bird’s-eye view of glaciers and mountain ridges. For thrill-seekers, the skydiving experiences from 10,000 or 13,000 feet promise a truly unforgettable rush. Whether you want a leisurely day of sightseeing or an adrenaline rush, Mount Cook’s tour options are diverse and high-quality.

Quick Overview

Our list features a mix of full-day scenic drives, helicopter adventures, helicopter and skiplane combo flights, heli-hikes, skydiving, and even one-way transfers. Many tours emphasize small-group intimacy, personalized guides, and unique experiences like alpine landings or glacier walks. For those short on time, options like the Mt Cook Small Group Scenic Day Tour from Queenstown and Mt Cook & Tasman Glacier lookout Small Group Tour from Queenstown give you a taste of the region’s highlights. Adventure lovers can opt for the Scenic Helicopter Flight with Alpine Landing or skydiving from 13,000 feet. Each offers a different way to connect with Mount Cook’s awe-inspiring scenery.

1. Mt Cook Small Group Scenic Day Tour from Queenstown

This full-day trip offers a well-rounded experience of Mount Cook, Aoraki National Park, and some famous stops like Lake Pukaki and Kawarau Gorge. Starting from Queenstown, your small group (usually around 16 travelers) travels through stunning landscapes, including Lindis Pass and Cromwell’s fruit and wine region. The tour highlights include a visit to High Country Salmon (depending on timing), and about three hours of free time at Mount Cook itself. You can hike, take photos, or just soak in the views at your leisure. This tour is praised for its organized schedule, with reviewers noting the knowledgeable guide Joe and the beautiful vistas. It’s perfect for those wanting to combine scenic driving with flexible exploration time.
Bottom Line: A great choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive day trip with enough free time to enjoy Mount Cook at their own pace.

2. Mt Cook & Tasman Glacier lookout Small Group Tour from Queenstown

This tour stands out for its focus on the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s longest and most iconic ice mass. Starting in Queenstown, it follows the same scenic route through Kawarau Gorge and Lindis Pass, but the main draw is the optional stops at the Tasman Glacier lookout and the glacier itself. The guide emphasizes the journey and hidden stops, making it a more intimate experience. Reviewers love the “wonderful drive,” and many mention the personal touch of guides like Joseph and Holly, who share insights along the way. The tour includes stops for tasting dried fruits and fresh salmon, making it a flavorful exploration too.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a relaxed, scenic drive with a specific focus on the glacier and some local flavor.

3. Mount Cook: Scenic Helicopter Flight with Alpine Landing

This 25-minute helicopter ride whisks you high above the Tasman Valley before landing on a mountain in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. The views of glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and rugged terrain are nothing short of spectacular. It’s a top pick for photographers and anyone who wants a quick but unforgettable aerial adventure. The highlight is the alpine landing, where you can step out onto the snow and take in the mountain scenery from a mountain’s perspective. Reviewers mention the stunning vistas and the pilot’s professionalism, although some note that weather can impact visibility.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers short on time but eager to get a taste of Mount Cook’s high-altitude beauty.

4. Mount Cook: Ski Plane and Helicopter Glacier Combo Flight

This 45-minute combo takes you over the Tasman Glacier in a skiplane and helicopter, landing on the glacier itself. It’s a premium adventure that combines two aircraft types, providing sweeping views of the Southern Alps and the glacier’s icy expanse. Guests rave about the “spectacular views,” with many calling it “a once-in-a-lifetime experience.” It’s perfect for those who want the thrill of flying and the thrill of touching down on a glacier, with plenty of photo opportunities. The logistically complex nature makes it slightly pricier, but the scenery and exclusivity justify the cost.
Bottom Line: A top-tier adventure for photo buffs and those who want to combine flight with glacier exploration.

5. Glentanner High Country Heli Hike

For the active traveler, this heli-hike offers a rare chance to combine helicopter views of the Southern Alps with a guided hike at a high-altitude historic site. The 4-hour tour includes a helicopter ride over Aoraki Mount Cook National Park and a walk through a restored historic field station. The highlight is the opportunity to photograph Lake Pukaki from above and enjoy the mountain vistas in a more personal way. Reviewers say the views are “nothing short of spectacular,” and the guide’s knowledge adds to the experience. The small group size ensures personalized attention.
Bottom Line: Perfect for hikers who want a scenic helicopter flight combined with a manageable, guided alpine trek.

6. Mount Cook and The Glaciers 55-Minute Helicopter Flight

This 55-minute helicopter allows for a comprehensive aerial tour. You’ll land on the Tasman Glacier and see Aoraki Mount Cook from above, with stunning views of glaciers, snowfields, and mountain ridges. Passengers love the “breathtaking” scenery and the chance to walk around on snow after landing. Some note that weather can affect visibility, but pilots do their best to provide spectacular views. It’s a pricier but immersive experience for those wanting an in-depth aerial adventure.
Bottom Line: For serious scenery lovers wanting a longer, more detailed helicopter experience, this is a top pick.

7. Mt Cook to Queenstown Small Group Tour (One-Way)

This efficient transfer doubles as a sightseeing tour, taking you from Mount Cook to Queenstown via Lake Pukaki and Lindis Pass. It includes a stop at High Country Salmon and offers commentary along the way. Rated highly for its friendly guides, the tour provides a scenic and relaxing journey while avoiding the hassle of self-driving. It’s best suited for travelers who want to combine transport with sightseeing without extra planning.
Bottom Line: A smooth, scenic way to move between major sites with the added bonus of informative stops.

8. Skydive Mt. Cook – 45+ Seconds of Freefall from 13,000ft

For adrenaline junkies, this jump from 13,000 feet offers a massive free fall and views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and lakes. It’s one of the most scenic skydiving experiences in New Zealand, providing a true rush as you soar over the Southern Alps. The jump lasts around 45 seconds, and passengers rave about the “mind-blowing scenery” and the professionalism of the jump crew. It’s a perfect combo of thrill and scenery for those wanting a unique story.
Bottom Line: Best for experienced skydivers or confident first-timers looking for an iconic jump over Mount Cook.

9. Mt Cook to Christchurch One-Way Small Group Tour via Lake Tekapo

This 5-6 hour transfer from Mount Cook to Christchurch includes stops at Aoraki/Mount Cook, Lake Pukaki, and the charming Lake Tekapo. The guide shares engaging stories along the scenic drive through Lindis Pass and the Mackenzie Basin. It’s ideal for travelers who want a comfortable, guided journey with sightseeing en route, and it includes a stop at Lake Tekapo for photos. Reviewers appreciate the “interesting information” and smooth logistics.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those who want a scenic, hassle-free transfer with insights on the landscape.

10. Mount Cook: Mountains High 40-Minute Helicopter Flight

This helicopter flight takes you high above Aoraki/Mount Cook and the surrounding glaciers. It’s a shorter option but still offers expansive views of the Tasman Glacier and the Burnett Mountains. Reviewers describe the experience as “out of this world,” with excellent pilot commentary. It’s excellent for travelers seeking a quick helicopter tour with a focus on high-altitude vistas.
Bottom Line: For those wanting a shorter but high-impact helicopter experience, this fits perfectly.

11. Mount Cook: Alpine Vista Helicopter Flight with Alpine Landing

This 20-minute helicopter flight lands you high in the Ben Ohau Range, offering mountain panoramas and the chance to step onto snow (season depending). It’s a compact but immersive helicopter experience, with plenty of photo opportunities and expert narration. Reviewers praise its “amazing experience,” especially for families or those short on time.
Bottom Line: A quick, scenic helicopter tour with the thrill of landing and stunning mountain views.

12. Skydive Mt. Cook – 20+ Seconds of Freefall from 10,000ft

This shorter skydiving jump offers a 20-second free fall over Mount Cook, perfect for first-timers or those with limited time. It still promises spectacular views of glaciers and snowfields. Many reviewers mention the “breathtaking scenery” and the professionalism of the crew. It’s an excellent option for a quick adrenaline boost.
Bottom Line: Ideal for newcomers wanting a taste of skydiving with incredible scenery.

13. Mt Cook to Queenstown Small Group Tour (One-Way)

(See tour #7 for details. It offers scenic transport from Mount Cook to Queenstown, including stops at Lake Pukaki and High Country Salmon.)
This tour is perfect for those wanting a scenic, guided transfer with commentary and stops, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.

14. Mount Cook: 50-Minute Aoraki Scenic Helicopter Flight

This longer helicopter flight covers Aoraki/Mount Cook, glaciers, and lakes, with a snow landing on the Tasman Glacier. It’s a comprehensive aerial tour with stunning views from coast to coast. Travelers love the “breathtaking” scenery and the ability to walk on snow after landing.
Bottom Line: For those wanting a thorough and immersive helicopter experience, this 50-minute flight offers fantastic value.

15. Day Tours from Mount Cook

This flexible and scenic day tour from Mount Cook to Queenstown includes stops at Lake Pukaki, Kawarau Gorge, and Omarama, with a relaxed pace and stunning views. It’s suited for travelers who want a scenic day trip without the stress of planning.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting an easy, guided day with plenty of photo stops.

How to Choose the Best Tour in Mount Cook

When selecting your perfect Mount Cook experience, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you’re short on time but want a taste of the scenery, the Scenic Helicopter Flight with Alpine Landing or small-group day tours are excellent options. For adrenaline lovers, skydiving or helicopter and skiplane combos deliver high-impact scenery and excitement. If you prefer a relaxed journey, the one-way transfer via Lake Tekapo offers scenic stops with minimal effort.

Booking early is wise, especially for popular helicopter or skydiving experiences, as weather can influence availability. Consider your fitness level for hikes or heli-hikes, and don’t forget to check seasonal weather — some activities may be limited in winter.

Mount Cook offers a remarkable range of tours, from leisurely scenic drives and glacier walks to adrenaline-pumping skydives and helicopter flights. For a balanced experience, a small-group tour combined with a helicopter flight can give you a thorough taste of New Zealand’s highest peaks. For thrill-seekers, skydiving from 13,000 feet guarantees an unforgettable memory. Whatever you choose, early booking ensures the best chance of clear skies and perfect weather. Your adventure awaits—make sure to pick the experience that best suits your style and schedule.