Queenstown: 2.5 Hour Flight to Fiordland's Iconic Locations

Travelers contemplating a trip to New Zealand’s South Island often dream of the dramatic landscapes of Fiordland. This helicopter tour offers a unique way to see some of the region’s most breathtaking sights in one compact, 2.5-hour experience. While we haven’t personally taken this exact flight, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a genuinely spectacular adventure — perfect for those craving authentic, scenic splendor with a touch of adventure.

What we love about this experience is the variety of views you get—from coastal fjords and towering glaciers to remote valleys and waterfalls. Plus, the three landings at Lake Quill, Tutoko Glacier, and Earnslaw Burn promise hands-on moments amidst untouched wilderness. One thing to consider is the weather dependency; cloud cover or snow might limit some of the landings, but even then, the scenery remains stunning. This tour suits travelers eager for a combination of scenic flight, land-based exploration, and exclusive access to areas few see firsthand.

Contents show

Key Points

Stunning Views: Get panoramic vistas of Milford Sound, Mt Tutoko, and mountain ranges.
Exclusive Landings: Only company permitted to land at Earnslaw Burn, adding a rare touch.
All-Inclusive Experience: Three landings, scenic flyovers, live commentary, and optional hotel pickup.
Weather Dependency: Some landings depend on weather; snowy winter landscapes are still beautiful.
Value for Money: At $990, it’s a premium experience but offers a compact, comprehensive tour of Fiordland’s highlights.
Group Size & Comfort: Small group setting with 6 to 9 passengers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: A Closer Look at Each Segment

Looking for more options in Queenstown? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Departure and Scenic Overview

The flight starts from Queenstown, easily accessible and the perfect launch pad for this aerial adventure. The pilot will guide you over Ben Lomond and the Richardson Mountains, offering views of the charming town of Glenorchy and Lake Erskine—a photographer’s dream. From here, the journey moves into the heart of Fiordland, with a focus on showcasing the region’s rugged beauty.

Lake Quill and Sutherland Falls

One highlight is the landing at Lake Quill, fed by the impressive 580-meter-high waterfall. This spot offers a unique chance to step out onto the mountain terrain, listen to the rush of the water, and take pictures that will make your friends envious. The nearby Sutherland Falls (one of the tallest waterfalls in the world) is also visible from the air, and if weather permits, the helicopter will land nearby for a closer look. Reviewers like Stephanie from Kuwait noted that landing atop a mountain was a “definite unique experience,” elevating this tour from just a flight to a memorable adventure.

Milford Sound Flyover

Next, the helicopter sweeps over Milford Sound, the region’s most famous fjord. With the wings of your helicopter, you’ll soar past Mitre Peak, famed for its sharp summit, and along dramatic cliffs that plunge into the dark waters below. The bird’s-eye view makes it clear why Milford Sound is one of New Zealand’s top natural attractions. Expect to see waterfalls cascading into the fjord, even in winter when some may be less active, but the snow-covered peaks still dazzle.

More Great Tours Nearby

Mt Tutoko and Glacier Landings

Crowning the journey is a flight to Mt Tutoko, Fiordland’s highest peak. The pilot will navigate around its rugged summit, offering a perspective impossible to get from the ground. The thrill continues with a landing on the Tutoko Glacier, where you’ll step onto icy terrain surrounded by hanging glaciers. This part of the tour is weather-dependent, but even in winter, the snow-covered landscape provides a surreal backdrop that feels worlds away from ordinary life.

There's plenty more to explore in Queenstown

Earnslaw Burn: A Private Land

One of the biggest draws is the Earnslaw Burn, a basin known for its glaciers and waterfalls. The company running this tour is the only one authorized to land here, making it a rare and exclusive experience. Reviewers like Stephanie praised this stop, describing it as “breathtaking” and full of “surreal” views of glaciers and waterfalls. The scenery here feels untouched, with hanging glaciers framing cascading waterfalls, and snow in winter only enhances the drama.

Return via Skippers Canyon

On the way back, the pilot circles over Skippers Canyon, a historic gold-mining route with rugged cliffs and deep river gorges. This provides a fitting conclusion to the flight, offering one last look at the wild, untouched landscape before touching down in Queenstown.

Practical Details & What to Expect

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts 2.5 hours, a good length for a rundown without feeling rushed. The helicopter typically accommodates 6 to 9 passengers, ensuring a more personalized experience and better chances to hear the guide and enjoy the scenery.

Landings and Weather

The tour includes three landings: an alpine lake, a glacier, and the Earnslaw Burn valley. These landings depend on weather conditions, which can vary seasonally. For example, in winter, waterfalls tend to be less active, but snow coverage and glacier views remain stunning, as confirmed by reviews. The pilot and crew prioritize safety, and routes may be adjusted if weather conditions are challenging.

Price and Value

At $990 per person, this tour is on the higher end in terms of price but is justified by the inclusion of three landings and extensive scenic flyovers. Given the exclusivity of landing at Earnslaw Burn and the opportunity to see some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes from the air and ground, it offers strong value for travelers seeking a premium experience.

Additional Comforts

Optional hotel pickup makes logistics easier, and live commentary adds context to the breathtaking sights. Remember to bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing (especially in winter), a camera, and closed-toe shoes for landings. Since this is a shared experience, seating is assigned based on weight for safety reasons, so specific seat requests are unlikely.

Insights from Reviews

One reviewer, Stephanie, shared that the flight was her “highlight of the trip,” emphasizing how clear weather made the experience even more special. She also mentioned that landing at the top of a mountain was “definitely a unique experience,” which underlines how small but memorable moments can turn a scenic flight into a lifelong memory.

Another reminder from reviews is that this experience is weather-dependent. While the scenery remains impressive year-round, winter’s snow cover and glacier views make it particularly special. The pilot’s skill and the company’s permit to land in remote locations add a layer of authenticity that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This helicopter adventure is ideal for travelers who want more than just a sightseeing cruise. If you’re eager to witness Fiordland’s rugged beauty from a bird’s-eye view while also stepping onto glaciers and mountain tops, this tour delivers. It’s perfect for those celebrating a special occasion or seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The small group setting and exclusive landings make it a premium option—worth the cost for those craving authenticity and adventure.

It also suits those who want the flexibility of a scenic flight combined with the thrill of landing in remote, beautiful spots that are otherwise inaccessible. If you’re patient with weather variability and understand that some landings might be adjusted, this trip is sure to leave lasting memories.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking a comprehensive, authentic exploration of Fiordland’s most iconic locations, this helicopter tour hits all the marks. The combination of scenic flyovers, exclusive landings, and expert guides ensures a memorable journey through some of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes. While it’s a premium experience with a matching price tag, the value lies in the access, views, and once-in-a-lifetime moments it offers.

The experience is best suited for those who want a personalized, high-impact adventure that combines aerial panoramas with real, tangible landings in remote locations. If you’re a fan of breathtaking scenery and exclusive access, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your South Island trip.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including all scenic flights and landings.

What locations are visited during the flight?
You’ll see Milford Sound, Lake Quill, Sutherland Falls, Mt Tutoko, and the Earnslaw Burn basin, among others.

Are there any landings included?
Yes, the tour includes three landings: an alpine lake, a glacier, and the Earnslaw Burn valley.

Is this experience weather-dependent?
Yes, all flights depend on weather and operational conditions. Routes and landings might be adjusted for safety.

What’s the group size?
The helicopter accommodates 6 to 9 passengers, ensuring a more intimate and comfortable experience.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a camera, and closed-toe shoes for landings.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, hotel pickup and dropoff are offered as an optional extra.

Will I see waterfalls in winter?
Waterfalls may be less active in winter, but snow-covered landscapes and glaciers make up for it with their dramatic beauty.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s accessible, but participants should be comfortable with small aircraft and some altitude. Children and adults alike will enjoy the scenery.

In summary, this helicopter tour offers a rare chance to see Fiordland’s most awe-inspiring sights from the sky and land. Even with the weather risks, the combination of spectacular views, exclusive landings, and professional guides makes it a highly worthwhile experience for those seeking genuine adventure and jaw-dropping scenery.