Franz Josef Town: 3-Glacier Helicopter Ride with Landing

Flying high above New Zealand’s stunning glaciers is a bucket-list experience, and this 3-glacier helicopter tour from Franz Josef offers just that—plus a snow landing to make it truly memorable. We’ve looked into what makes this tour stand out, from the spectacular scenery to the professionalism of the operator, to help you decide if it’s worth the price and fits your travel style.

What immediately gets us excited about this experience are the breathtaking views of three major glaciers, the chance to land on snow, and the impressive knowledge shared by guides. We also appreciate the safety and organization, especially considering the unpredictable weather in the region. The only thing to keep in mind is that weather can cause cancellations or route changes, so flexibility in your plans is a plus.

This tour is perfect for those craving a taste of high-altitude adventure paired with incredible photography opportunities. If you’re comfortable with helicopter rides and want to see the Southern Alps from a perspective most travelers only dream of, this is a solid option. It’s especially suitable for nature lovers, glacier enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a once-in-a-lifetime photo backdrop.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: Fly over three of New Zealand’s most iconic glaciers—Franz Josef, Fox, and Tasman.
• Snow Landing: Get up close on an elevated snow site for 15 minutes of photos and awe.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable pilots and staff ensure safety and a smooth experience.
• Weather Dependency: Flights are subject to weather conditions, which can lead to cancellations or route changes.
• Value for Money: At $331, it’s a premium experience, but many find the scenery and landing worth it.
• Limited Group Size & Professional Service: Group sizes are typically small, with options for front and comfort seats, enhancing comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Check-in and Safety Briefing

Your adventure begins at a local partner’s office in Franz Josef Town, where you’ll check in about 30 minutes before your scheduled flight. The staff are friendly and professional, walking you through safety procedures and what to expect. Attendees emphasize the importance of arriving on time, especially since weather conditions can change rapidly.

Transfer to the Hangar and Meet Your Pilot

Once checked in, you’ll transfer to a private hangar where your helicopter awaits. The aircraft is modern, and many reviews mention how surprisingly comfortable the ride is, even for first-timers. You’ll meet your pilot—an experienced guide who will provide commentary throughout the flight, pointing out peaks like Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain, along with ice pinnacles and crevasses on the glaciers.

The Helicopter Flight: An Aerial Showcase

The 45-minute flight is a highlight of the tour. Your pilot will take you over the terminal moraine of the Franz Josef Glacier, which is an ancient ice river that feeds into the larger Fox and Tasman glaciers. Expect to see massive ice pinnacles, deep crevasses, and stunning blue ice formations that look like they belong on a postcard.

Flying amongst the mountain peaks, you’ll get an expansive view of the Southern Alps, including Mount Cook. Many reviewers mention how the guidance and commentary from pilots like Poppy and Edine enhance the experience—offering insights about the glaciers, the terrain, and the formation of these natural wonders.

More Great Tours Nearby

Snow Landing: Photos and Panoramic Views

After soaring over the glaciers, the helicopter lands on an elevated snow site for about 15 minutes. This part of the trip is often described as unforgettable. You’ll be standing on snow amongst towering peaks with panoramic vistas of Westland Tai Poutini National Park.

Several reviews highlight how generous the time on the snow is, giving ample opportunity to snap photos, marvel at the icy landscape, or just soak in the silence of the mountains. Elizabeth from Australia noted, “Just an amazing experience to have done,” appreciating the chance to capture the glaciers from such a unique perspective.

Return Flight and Wrap-up

After the snow landing, your pilot will guide the helicopter back to the hangar, flying over more glaciers and mountain scenery. Many guests comment on how smooth and stable the flight is, even with the sometimes challenging weather conditions like low clouds or wind. The entire experience wraps up in about 45 minutes, making it a manageable yet memorable outing.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the Tour:

• Safety briefing and equipment
• Guided commentary from a skilled pilot
• Helicopter flight over the glaciers
• Landing fees
• Snow landing with photo opportunities
• Headset for clear communication

Extras and Considerations:

• Comfort seats are required for passengers over 120kg, which costs about half the flight price.
• Requests for front seats should be made 24 hours in advance.
• You’ll want to bring sunglasses, a camera, a jacket, and closed-toe shoes for comfort and safety.
• The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility issues or wheelchair users.

Price vs. Experience

At $331 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but many reviewers agree that the stunning scenery, snow landing, and expert guiding justify the investment. The value also increases when you consider the quality of the aircraft, the safety standards, and the level of personalization in small groups. Several reviews, including that of Emily from Hong Kong, mention how stable and comfortable the helicopter ride was, and that the pilot’s professionalism made all the difference.

Weather and Safety

Weather plays a critical role in this experience. Many flights are rescheduled or rerouted, depending on cloud cover or wind conditions. For example, Shaun from New Zealand shared how their flight was rerouted due to weather but still enjoyed the glaciers from the air. It’s reassuring to see the company’s flexibility and focus on safety, with options for rescheduling or refunds if conditions aren’t suitable.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Elizabeth from Australia praises the clear communication about weather updates, which helps set expectations. Catherine from New Zealand highlights the pilot’s skill and friendliness, making the experience both safe and enjoyable. Hannah from the UK appreciated the company’s flexibility after a weather-related cancellation, noting the company’s professionalism.

Many travelers comment on the knowledge of their pilots, with one reviewer noting how Poppy’s explanations added layers of context to the incredible scenery. Others mention how the photos taken during the snow landing are some of their favorites, with the snowy landscape providing a surreal contrast to the glaciers below.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This experience is great for outdoor lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those seeking a special adventure. Since it’s weather-dependent, it’s best suited for flexible travelers who understand that schedules might shift. People with a passion for glaciers will find this a highlight of their trip, especially with the chance to land on snow and truly feel surrounded by icy giants.

Final Thoughts

This helicopter tour from Franz Josef offers a unique blend of aerial adventure, scenic beauty, and personal touches that make it stand out. The combination of flying over three major glaciers and landing on snow creates an experience that’s both visually stunning and emotionally uplifting. The knowledgeable guides, smooth operation, and top-notch safety standards make it a practical choice for travelers looking to add a memorable highlight to their New Zealand trip.

While the price might seem high, the value lies in the exclusive access, the breathtaking views, and the once-in-a-lifetime feeling of standing on snow in such a remote wilderness. It’s best suited for those who appreciate scenic flight experiences, are comfortable with helicopter rides, and want to capture unforgettable photos.

If you’re visiting Franz Josef and want to see the glaciers from above with a real snow landing, this tour checks all boxes — just be sure to pack your camera, dress warmly, and stay flexible with the weather.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 45 minutes, including the flight and snow landing.

What is included in the price?
You get a safety briefing, guided commentary from an experienced pilot, the helicopter flight over glaciers, landing fees, and a 15-minute snow landing.

Can I request a front seat or comfort seat?
Yes, requests for front seats should be made 24 hours in advance and are confirmed at check-in. Comfort seats are required for passengers over 120kg and cost about half the flight price.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a camera, a jacket, and closed-toe shoes. Avoid high heels, large bags, or anything that might interfere with safety requirements.

Is this activity weather-dependent?
Yes, flights depend on weather conditions, and routes may change or tours canceled at short notice for safety reasons.

Is this suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

In summary, the Franz Josef 3-Glacier Helicopter Ride with Landing is a remarkable way to see some of New Zealand’s most impressive glacial scenery. It balances breathtaking views, expert guidance, and a touch of adventure, making it a worthwhile splurge for those seeking a truly special experience in the South Island.

You can check availability for your dates here: