Mt Cook Supreme: 4 Glaciers with 2 Snow Landings – 60mins

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of towering glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and wild adventure, the Mt Cook Supreme: 4 Glaciers with 2 Snow Landings is a tour that promises to deliver all that and more. While we haven’t personally flown with Glacier Country Helicopters, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions make this experience sound like an authentic highlight for anyone visiting New Zealand’s West Coast.

What really draws us in about this tour are the stunning panoramic views of multiple glaciers, the chance for two unique snow landings, and the exceptional reputation of guides like Gus and Poppy—owners and operators with over 30 years’ experience. The personalized touch of a family business, combined with the promise of an hour in the sky, makes this trip feel both intimate and adventurous.

One potential consideration is the weather dependency—as with all mountain and glacier flights, clear skies are essential, meaning delays or cancellations are possible. But if the weather cooperates, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more visually spectacular adventure in the region.

This experience is ideal for travelers eager to combine aerial vistas with landings on snow and glacier surfaces, perfect for those who want a blend of sightseeing and tangible, icy encounters. If you’re looking for a memorable bucket-list activity that combines photography, adventure, and authentic mountain scenery, this tour will suit you well.

Key Points

• Stunning panoramic views of four glaciers and Mount Cook from the air
• Two snow landings provide unique photo opportunities and icy land experiences
• Family-owned and operated guides ensure personalized service
• Approximately 60-minute flight balances adventure with comfort
• Weather-dependent, so flexibility may be needed
• Limited group size (max 12 travelers) for a more intimate experience

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Mt Cook Supreme helicopter tour offers a rare combination of high-altitude sightseeing and hands-on glacier experiences. For glacier enthusiasts and photography lovers, the views of Franz Josef, Fox, and Tasman glaciers are genuinely breathtaking. It’s the kind of scenery that stays with you long after returning home.

The tour’s core appeal lies in its two snow landings—one on a snow-covered area for photos and another on Shackleton Glacier, where you can step onto the icy surface and really feel like you’re standing at the edge of the world. Reviewers like Lisa, who called her trip “a lifetime memory,” appreciated the magical snow landings that made her family’s first helicopter flight so special.

The guides, Gus and Poppy, are highly regarded not just for their flying skills but also for their friendliness and local expertise. Their over 30 years of experience lends confidence to the operation, and reviewers have highlighted the informative commentary that adds context to the incredible views.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Westland Tai Poutini National Park and Glacier Views

Your adventure begins in Franz Josef, with a scenic helicopter ride out over the Westland Tai Poutini National Park. From the sky, you’ll see the massive glaciers of Franz Josef, Fox, and the iconic Tasman Glacier. These glaciers carve their way through the mountains in a display of natural power and beauty, and the flight offers unmatched aerial perspectives that are impossible to capture from the ground.

The First Snow Landing

The first landing is on a snow-covered terrain—around 10 minutes long—where you’ll have time for photos amidst the snow and ice. Reviewers like Lesley describe standing on a glacier as “incredible,” emphasizing how the fresh, icy landscape creates a surreal environment for photos and a tactile experience that’s rare to find elsewhere.

Mount Cook and the Second Snow Landing

Next, your flight takes you deeper into the Southern Alps to Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. Here, you’ll land on Shackleton Glacier, where the glacial landscape feels pristine and untouched. This second 10-minute landing offers a chance to walk on ice, take photos, and really appreciate the scale of these ancient glaciers.

Return and Reflection

The flight concludes after approximately 60 minutes, returning you to Franz Josef with a trove of memories and stunning images. The entire experience, including check-in and transport, takes around 1 hour 45 minutes, ensuring plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

What To Expect During The Flight

Your helicopter will typically be a modern, twin-engine model capable of providing stable, smooth flights even over rugged terrain. Group sizes are capped at 12, ensuring a more personalized experience, and the helicopter seats are 40cm wide—offering reasonable comfort for most travelers.

While the average passenger weight limit is 265 lbs, the tour offers Comfort Seats for those 120 kg and over, which can be reserved in advance for extra space. The upgrades to front seats or executive helicopters** are available upon request, providing an even more premium experience.

Weather and Flexibility

Weather plays a crucial role—clear skies mean incredible views, but poor weather could lead to delays or cancellations. The tour operator is praised for their early communication and willingness to reschedule or offer refunds if conditions aren’t suitable. Multiple reviewers noted that staff went above and beyond to rearrange flights, sometimes providing partial refunds when weather limited landings.

Pricing and Value

At $460.58 per person, this helicopter tour might seem on the higher end but offers significant value for the quality of the experience. For this price, you get around an hour of flight time, two snow landings, and expert guiding in a small group. Considering the cost of helicopter flights and the exclusivity of landing on glaciers, it’s a reasonable expense for such a memorable adventure.

Reviewers like Radu and Kim highlight the spectacular views and friendly, knowledgeable staff, which justify the price. The experience balances aerial exploration with land-based moments, making it more than just a scenic flight—it’s a full, multi-dimensional adventure.

Practical Details and Tips

• Meeting point is conveniently located at 10 Main Road, Franz Josef, with easy access and parking.
• The tour operates with a mobile ticket, simplifying the booking process.
• Allow extra 45 minutes for check-in, transport, loading, and unloading.
• Travelers should inform staff of mobility limitations, as there are high ladder steps into the helicopter.
• The maximum weight per passenger is 265 lbs, with options for Comfort Seats for additional space.
• Most travelers can participate, but those with injuries, arthritis, or recent surgeries should notify the staff beforehand.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Lisa_C called her experience “the first-ever helicopter flight” for her family, emphasizing the magical snow landings that left her with lasting memories. Lesley_I encouraged everyone to book, describing the views as “incredible,” especially when standing on a glacier.

Radu_B praised the friendly pilot and staff, saying they made the experience a “must-do” activity. Many reviewers noted the informative commentary that added depth to the visual spectacle, making the flight both beautiful and educational.

Adrian_R appreciated the staff’s proactive communication when weather threatened to spoil the day, and Matthew_M recommended the tour for its beautiful glacier views and friendly guides.

The Sum Up

The Mt Cook Supreme helicopter tour offers a striking combination of aerial beauty and land-based glacier experiences, making it ideal for travelers wanting a memorable adventure in New Zealand’s stunning mountain landscape. The two snow landings provide exclusive, photo-ready moments that elevate this beyond a typical sightseeing flight.

This experience is best suited for those who value incredible scenery, expert guides, and small group intimacy. While weather can be unpredictable, the tour’s flexible policies and experienced staff help ensure a satisfying adventure when conditions are clear.

If you’re seeking an authentic, high-quality helicopter experience with the opportunity for glacier landings, this tour is a compelling choice. It’s perfect for adventure seekers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see Mount Cook and glaciers from a whole new perspective.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The helicopter flight itself lasts about 1 hour, with the entire experience—including check-in and transport—about 1 hour 45 minutes.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, the maximum weight per passenger is 265 lbs. Comfort Seats are available for passengers over 120 kg, which can be reserved with advanced notice.

Can I request a front seat or upgrade?
Yes, upgrades to front seats or executive helicopters are available if requested at least 24 hours in advance.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather is a critical factor. If conditions don’t permit safe flying or landings, the operator will contact you early to reschedule or offer a refund.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
There are high ladder-style steps into the helicopter, so travelers with mobility issues should inform staff beforehand to assess suitability.

What is included in the price?
The cost includes the helicopter flight, two snow landings, all fees and taxes, and transportation from the meeting point. It does not include upgrades or Comfort Seats unless requested.

How many people are in the group?
The group size is limited to 12 travelers, providing a more personal and less crowded experience.

This helicopter tour promises a spectacular journey through New Zealand’s most iconic glaciers and mountain peaks, offering an unforgettable blend of aerial adventure and icy landings. Whether you’re capturing photos or simply soaking in the views, it’s an experience that’s well worth the investment.