20 Minute Twin Glacier Overflight in Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers

If you’re heading to New Zealand’s West Coast, a helicopter flight over the Fox and Franz Josef glaciers is a must-do. Although we haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, the stories and reviews paint a picture of a truly memorable adventure that delivers extraordinary scenery and a unique perspective on these iconic ice formations.

What we love most about this experience is its efficient combination of two glaciers into a single flight — giving you a swift yet comprehensive peek at their contrasting features. The crystal-clear blue ice, dramatic crevasses, and alpine waterfalls promise jaw-dropping views, while the expert commentary adds context and insight. Plus, the fact that it’s family-owned and operated suggests a warm, personalized touch.

One potential caveat? With only 20 minutes of flight time, it’s a quick glimpse rather than an exhaustive exploration. If you’re craving an in-depth glacier hike or snow landing, this might not be the right fit. However, for travelers seeking a high-impact scenic experience with excellent value, this tour hits the spot. It’s perfect for those short on time but eager for an unforgettable aerial perspective of New Zealand’s glaciers.

Who will love this tour? Anyone with a curiosity for glaciers, a love for breathtaking vistas, or those looking for a memorable highlight to their West Coast trip will find this experience rewarding. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer a shorter, scenic adventure with a guaranteed window seat and expert narration.

Key Points

• Dual glacier views: Experience both Fox and Franz Josef glaciers on one flight, each with its own distinct features.
• Short but impactful: A 20-minute flight offers a quick yet comprehensive aerial view of these stunning formations.
• Includes additional glacier sights: Besides the main glaciers, see Victoria, Baumann, and Fritz glaciers, along with alpine waterfalls.
• Family-friendly and small group: Max of 4 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience with guaranteed window seats.
• Professional, friendly pilots: The reviews highlight knowledgeable guides who provide engaging commentary.
• Excellent value for the scenery: At $183.08 per person, considering the unique views and expert narration, it’s a solid investment in one of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes.

The Itinerary in Detail

Fox Glacier First Stop: A Closer Look at an Icon

Your adventure begins with a short ride from the meeting point at Mountain Helicopters in Fox Glacier village to the helicopter pad. Once aboard, you’ll ascend over the Fox Glacier, which is renowned for its striking features and accessibility.

As the helicopter hovers, you’ll get a chance to spot large-scale ice features, deep crevasses, and waterfalls cascading down the ice. Reviewers note that the Fox Glacier offers a “rare view of crevasses, waterfalls, large ice features, and alpine huts,” making it a captivating start. The helicopter’s vantage point means you’ll see features typically hidden from the ground — a perspective that appeals to photographers and nature lovers alike.

The pilot’s commentary is described as friendly and informative, with some guests mentioning how the guide’s insights enrich the experience. The short 10-minute stop here allows for plenty of photo opportunities and a quick grasp of what makes this glacier special.

Crossing Over to Franz Josef: Witnessing a Different Face of Glaciers

After exploring Fox Glacier, the helicopter smoothly transitions across the valley to Franz Josef Glacier. While both are glaciers, their features are strikingly different.

Reviewers have remarked that the Franz Josef glacier “has distinctive yet iconic features” that differ from Fox Glacier, offering a fresh perspective. Seeing the glacier from above reveals its jagged, crevassed surface and the snow-fed waterfalls that feed into the river below. The 10-minute view here provides enough time to absorb the scale and beauty of this icy giant, with commentary helping you understand the geological history and formation.

Once back at the starting point, many comment on how the flight exceeded expectations, providing stunning visuals that are both educational and awe-inspiring.

What to Expect During Your Flight

The Flight Experience

The 20-minute helicopter ride is a quick but impactful experience, with most of the time focused on soaring over the glaciers and their surrounding features. Pilots are experienced and provide informative commentary about the glaciers’ formation, the surrounding peaks, and notable waterfalls. Guests report that the window seats are guaranteed, ensuring each person gets a clear view—crucial for photography or simply soaking in the scenery.

The Views

You’ll see a variety of glaciers, including Victoria, Baumann, and Fritz glaciers, which are also visible from the air. These additional glaciers add diversity to the scenery, highlighting the extensive glacial system fed by the surrounding mountains.

Expect to see crystal-clear blue ice, which is a result of compressed snow turning into dense glacier ice. The eye-opening crevasses make the landscape appear like a natural sculpture, frozen in time yet constantly changing.

The Helicopter and Group Size

The tours operate with a maximum of 4 travelers, making for an intimate, less crowded experience. The smaller group size, combined with the professionalism of the pilot, ensures a comfortable and personalized adventure. One reviewer mentioned that the “family-run business” adds a friendly, welcoming atmosphere, which can make a big difference on a short flight.

Logistics and Duration

The entire experience lasts about 40 minutes — including briefings, transportation to and from the helicopter, and the flight itself. This makes it a great option for travelers who want a stunning highlights reel without dedicating hours.

Guests should note that no jackets or footwear are provided, so dress warmly if the weather is cool. The flight does not include a snow landing, but that’s reflected in the price—if you’re after a snow landing or glacier walk, other options are available.

Price and Value

At $183.08 per person, this flight is quite competitive given the scenery and the experience level. When you consider that most guests are traveling with a guaranteed window seat, the professional narration, and the chance to see multiple glaciers and waterfalls in 20 minutes of flying, it feels like a worthwhile investment.

Reviewers consistently mention the professionalism and friendliness of the pilots and staff, adding a layer of trust and comfort. Many also highlight the convenience of booking in advance—most reservations are made about 8 days ahead, which is typical for popular scenic flights in New Zealand.

While it’s a shorter flight, the quality of the views and the inclusion of multiple glaciers make this a high-value experience for those wanting a quick, visually stunning tour.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear warm clothing, especially if the weather is cool, since the helicopter can be chilly.
• Arrive at least 10 minutes early for the briefing and safety instructions.
• Bring a camera or smartphone with a good zoom — the views are photo-worthy.
• Book at least a week in advance, as this tour is popular.
• Expect a small group, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Remember, the flight does not include landing on the glacier or snow, so if that’s your goal, look for other options.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This overflight is ideal for travelers who want a spectacular view of glaciers in a short time, especially if they’re tight on schedule but still want to see these incredible features from the air. It’s suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Those interested in photography will appreciate the guaranteed window seats and expert commentary, while adventure lovers who prefer a more relaxed experience still get plenty of awe-inspiring scenery. If you’re curious about glaciers but not eager for a full-day hike or snow landing, this is a perfect, hassle-free option.

The Sum Up

This 20-minute twin glacier overflight offers an exciting, scenic snapshot of New Zealand’s glacier country. It combines the dramatic beauty of Fox and Franz Josef glaciers with expert guidance in a small-group setting, making it a memorable highlight of any West Coast trip.

While it’s a brief experience, the views and insights provided make it a worthwhile splurge for those eager to witness these icy giants from above. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value quality over quantity and want a personalized, hassle-free adventure.

For anyone craving a birds-eye view of one of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes, this tour hits the mark—delivering stunning scenery, friendly guides, and great value all in a concise format.

FAQ

How long is the actual helicopter flight?
The flight lasts approximately 20 minutes, providing ample time to see both glaciers and surrounding features.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a guaranteed window seat, informative commentary from an experienced pilot, and the scenic flight over Fox and Franz Josef glaciers plus additional glaciers like Victoria, Baumann, and Fritz.

Are there any age or weight restrictions?
The total weight per passenger should not exceed 287 lbs, and most travelers can participate. Specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned, but the small group size and professional pilots make it suitable for a wide range of travelers.

Is transportation included to the helicopter?
Guests are transported to the helicopter from the meeting point at Mountain Helicopters in Fox Glacier. The experience begins there and ends at the same location.

Can I book this last minute?
Most bookings are made about 8 days in advance, but availability may vary depending on the season. It’s best to book ahead to secure your preferred time.

Does the tour include landing on the glacier?
No, the flight does not include a snow landing. It’s strictly an aerial scenic flight.

This flying adventure is a concise, captivating way to appreciate the scale and beauty of New Zealand’s glaciers — perfect for those who want stunning scenery without a lengthy commitment.