Franz Josef: 4-Glacier Helicopter Ride with 2 Landings

Imagine soaring above some of New Zealand’s most striking glaciers—Franz Josef, Fox, Tasman, and Shackleton—with the chance to land on snow and capture incredible photos. That’s exactly what this helicopter tour offers, and it’s a must for anyone wanting a truly memorable adventure in the South Island.

From knowledgeable pilots sharing insights about the landscape to spectacular views of Mount Cook and ice pinnacles, this experience promises a mix of thrill and beauty. We love the way it combines aerial sightseeing with the chance to step onto the snow, creating a well-rounded window into the glaciers’ world.

However, keep in mind that weather conditions play a significant role; if the skies are cloudy or wind is strong, the flight could be delayed or routes adjusted. This is a common consideration with helicopter excursions in mountain areas but worth noting.

This experience fits best for those who crave adventure, stunning scenery, and photo opportunities. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just a look from the ground and are comfortable traveling in small groups with a focus on comfort and safety.

Key Points

• Four glaciers in one flight: Franz Josef, Fox, Tasman, and Shackleton
• Two snow landings: ideal for photos and exploring snowy landscapes
• Expert commentary: learn about the scenery from your pilot
• High value: longer duration (1 hour) for a comprehensive experience
• Weather dependent: routes may change or be canceled
• Best for: adventure seekers, photography lovers, and nature enthusiasts

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why You’ll Love This Helicopter Tour

This helicopter experience offers a rare opportunity to see multiple glaciers in a single flight. Flying over the glaciers provides a perspective you simply can’t get from the ground—vast ice rivers, jagged crevasses, and towering ice pinnacles that look like they belong on another planet. The two snow landings are especially noteworthy, giving you time to step onto the snow, take photos, and truly appreciate the scale and beauty of the glaciers.

Many reviewers highlight the knowledge and friendliness of the pilots, who provide guided commentary about the scenery. One traveler from Germany, Philipp, called it “simply amazing” and appreciated the “trustworthy” guidance and perfect weather that made the experience unforgettable. The added insight into the glaciers’ formation and landscape features enriches the visual experience, making it more than just a pretty flight.

For those worried about the cost, at $442 per person, this tour offers solid value considering the duration and the exclusivity of landing on snow in such a remote location. The special perspective of flying amongst some of New Zealand’s biggest mountains, with Mount Cook often in view, makes it an experience that’s well worth the price for many.

What To Expect During the Tour

The adventure begins at the Glacier Country Helicopters office, where you’ll check in and attend a safety briefing. After a short van transfer to the helicopter hangar, you’ll meet your pilot—who’s usually experienced and eager to share facts about the landscape. Once strapped in with your headset on, takeoff is smooth and promises spectacular views.

The flight route takes you past the terminal moraine of the Franz Josef Glacier, with the pilot pointing out interesting features along the way. You’ll fly up the valley, taking in the big three glaciers—Franz Josef, Fox, and Tasman—each a massive river of ice crisscrossed with crevasses and ice pinnacles. Shackleton Glacier adds a little-known gem to the mix, often described as a “well-kept secret,” giving you an off-the-beaten-path feel.

During the flight, expect to see ice lakes, especially near Shackleton Glacier, which adds a luminous blue contrast to the stark white snow and dark mountain peaks. The pilot’s commentary often includes stories about the area’s geology and film history—many of the glaciers or surrounding mountain corners have been used as filming locations, including those in Lord of The Rings.

The two snow landings are scheduled at different points, allowing plenty of time for photos and exploration. Many travelers mention how well-organized and scenic these stops are. You’ll have enough time to snap shots of the pristine snow, the surrounding peaks, and the stunning ice formations. The landings often include views of Westland Tai Poutini National Park, providing a sense of remoteness and untouched wilderness.

After the landings, the helicopter takes you back toward the hangar, offering final views of the glaciers and the Southern Alps, including Mount Cook if visibility permits.

The Experience in Detail

Transportation and Logistics

Starting at Glacier Country Helicopters, the process is straightforward—check-in, safety briefing, and then a comfortable van transfer to the helicopter base. This short transfer is convenient and ensures everyone is prepared before takeoff.

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Duration and Group Size

The 1-hour duration includes both flights and landings, providing a generous window to soak in the scenery. The small group setting makes it more intimate, with most tours accommodating fewer passengers, enhancing comfort and interaction with the pilot.

Price and Value

At $442 per person, the tour is priced towards the higher end but reflects the exclusive nature of snow landings and the comprehensive itinerary. Considering the experience’s length, expert narration, and photo opportunities, many travelers find it to be good value—especially when compared to shorter or less interactive glacier flights.

Weather and Cancellation

The tour is weather-dependent, with routes subject to change at short notice for safety reasons. This means your scheduled flight could be canceled or rerouted if conditions aren’t ideal, but the company is transparent about this. Rescheduling or full refunds are available if weather prevents flying, so flexibility is key.

Comfort and Safety

While there is an option to purchase a “Comfort Seat” for passengers over 120kg, the inclusive safety briefing and headset ensure you stay informed and comfortable during the flight. The pilots prioritize safety, making this a worry-free adventure for most travelers.

Authentic Tips and Insights from Travelers

From the reviews, we learn that many find the longer duration to be a distinct advantage—one reviewer noted the experience passes incredibly quickly but was more than satisfied with the time spent in the air and on the snow. Others appreciated the trustworthiness of the guides, who shared detailed info about the scenery, adding layers of understanding to the visual spectacle.

Some travelers mention that the views of Mount Cook, visible from the flight, are a highlight, providing a sense of scale and majesty. The snow landings are described as “stunning” and “perfect for photos,” making the trip especially worthwhile for those keen on capturing memories.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This helicopter ride is ideal for adventure lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone interested in experiencing New Zealand’s glaciers from an unbeatable vantage point. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want a longer, more immersive experience than shorter helicopter tours.

However, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or travelers with heavy luggage, and the weather-dependent nature means it’s best to be flexible with your plans. It’s also best suited for those comfortable with small-group tours and keen to spend a memorable hour amidst glaciers and mountain grandeur.

The Sum Up

This 4-glacier helicopter tour with two snow landings offers a compelling blend of breathtaking scenery, expert guiding, and photo opportunities that few other experiences can match. The longer duration and the chance to step onto snow make it a truly immersive adventure for travelers seeking something extra special.

While weather conditions can affect the schedule, the overall experience remains high-value, especially for those who prioritize authentic, scenic, and memorable moments. Whether you’re a photographer, a nature lover, or simply looking for a once-in-a-lifetime thrill, this tour stands out as an excellent choice.

In the end, it’s a chance to see some of New Zealand’s most stunning glacier landscapes from a perspective that truly elevates the experience—both literally and figuratively.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the data doesn’t specify age restrictions, helicopter tours typically require passengers to meet safety standards, and children’s height and weight may be considered. It’s best to check directly with Glacier Country Helicopters for specific age or size limitations.

Does the tour include transportation to the departure point?
Yes, a van transfer from the check-in location to the helicopter hangar is included, making it easy to access the departure site.

What should I bring on the tour?
You’ll want warm clothing, sunglasses, a camera, and closed-toe shoes. Avoid high heels, loose clothing, and large bags for safety and comfort.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable for flying, routes may be changed or flights canceled. You can reschedule or receive a full refund if the activity is canceled.

Are the flights suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the experience is not suitable for wheelchair users, and the small aircraft may not accommodate certain mobility needs.

How long in advance should I book?
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot, as the tour can be weather-sensitive and popular.

Is there a guarantee that I will see Mount Cook?
Mount Cook is often visible from the flight, but visibility depends on weather and cloud cover. The pilot will do their best to show it when conditions permit.

This helicopter tour offers a genuine glimpse into New Zealand’s awe-inspiring glaciers, combining adventure, scenery, and memorable photo moments. It’s a standout experience for those eager to see the South Island’s icy giants from a perspective few get to enjoy.

You can check availability for your dates here: