Franz Josef: Scenic Glacier Flight with Snow Landing

If you’ve ever dreamed of touching down on a glacier or soaring above towering ice formations, this Scenic Glacier Flight with Snow Landing in Franz Josef is worth considering. This 25-minute helicopter tour promises not only stunning vistas but also the chance to walk on snow and capture incredible photos. While it’s not a long adventure, the combination of aerial views and a glacier walk gives you a taste of New Zealand’s wild beauty in a compact experience.

What truly makes this tour stand out are the breathtaking views of the Southern Alps, the exhilaration of landing on the glacier, and the opportunity to step out onto pristine snow. The professional guides and friendly pilots help make the experience safe and memorable. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour’s price isn’t the lowest out there, but the value comes from exclusive access and unforgettable scenery. This tour suits travelers who love adventure, photography, and a dose of the extraordinary amidst stunning scenery.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: Enjoy unmatched panoramas of Franz Josef Glacier and the Southern Alps from the sky.
• Unique Glacier Landing: Step onto the icy surface for photos and a rare experience of walking on a glacier.
• Professional Guides: Experienced pilots and friendly staff prioritize safety and add insights into the landscape.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 12) ensure a more personalized experience.
• Weather Dependent: The flight is subject to weather conditions, which can affect availability and route.
• Great for Photographers: Capture incredible shots of snow, ice, and mountain views from both the air and ground.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Preparation

The adventure begins at The Helicopter Line Franz Josef Glacier office. It’s a straightforward check-in process, with check-in closing 30 minutes before departure. Here, you’ll meet your guide, who will quickly go over safety instructions and introduce the group. Make sure to arrive on time and provide your weights, as this information helps balance the helicopter for a safe flight. The meeting point is conveniently close to the town, with GPS coordinates -43.38854217529297, 170.1820526123047, making it easy to find.

The Scenic Flight Over Franz Josef

Once aboard, the helicopter lifts off, and the real magic begins. The 20-minute flight takes you over the rugged wilderness surrounding Franz Josef. From the air, you’ll see the icy veins of the glacier, the jagged peaks of the Southern Alps, and lush valleys carved by ancient ice and water. We loved how the pilot expertly pointed out key features, giving context to the landscape. One reviewer mentioned the “fantastic views of the glacier and mountains,” which is exactly what you can expect.

Landing on the Glacier

The moment of truth is when the helicopter lands on the glacier itself. Expect a chilly blast of mountain air as your chopper touches down on the snow-covered surface. This part of the tour is where the experience truly stands out. You get to step outside, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and take photos with the snow and mountains as your backdrop.

One traveler shared, “The flight and snow landing provided us with fantastic views,” highlighting how special this moment is. Expect to walk on the snow, which is a surreal experience, especially if you’ve only seen glaciers in photos. Be prepared for the cold — bring warm clothing and closed-toe shoes.

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The Return Journey

After soaking in the scenery and snapping plenty of pictures, your pilot will lift off again, heading back to base. The return flight offers fresh perspectives on the glaciers and surrounding peaks, often illuminated by the changing light of the day, making for more stunning shots.

Practical Tips

• Clothing: Dress warmly, as even in summer, mountain temperatures can be cool.
• Camera: Bring a good camera or smartphone for capturing the glacier and mountain vistas.
• Shoes: Closed-toe shoes are essential for walking on the snow and glacier.
• Weather: Flights are weather-dependent; conditions can change quickly, so flexibility is key.
• Group Size: The tour is limited to 12 participants, which ensures personalized attention but also means booking early is recommended.
• Children: Children under 4 and under 15kg sit on an adult’s knee, while those over need their own seats.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour kicks off at the helicopter office, where you’ll meet your guide and group. After a brief safety briefing, the helicopter takes off, lifting you into a world of snow-capped mountains and icy expanses. The flight itself lasts around 20 minutes and offers sweeping views of the glaciers and surrounding peaks. When you arrive at the glacier, your pilot will carefully land on the ice, giving you a chance to step out and walk on the snow.

This isn’t just a photo op; it’s a real touch-and-feel experience that adds depth to your New Zealand adventure. The return journey offers a different perspective, often with sunlight glinting off the ice or clouds drifting over the peaks, creating ever-changing scenery.

Authentic Feedback and What It Means for You

Reviewers consistently mention the professionalism of the staff, with one describing the process as “well organized, friendly, and professional.” The pilot’s expertise seems to be a highlight, with comments such as “the pilot is spontaneous and accommodating when weather conditions change,” which shows how flexible and attentive the team can be.

Several guests appreciated the stunning views, describing the snow landing as “overwhelming” or “fantastically scenic.” Another noted that despite the limited space in the helicopter (some felt a bit “squished,” especially when full), the incredible scenery made up for it.

The value of this tour really hinges on the exclusivity of the snow landing and the opportunity to stand on a glacier, which isn’t something you do every day. For travelers seeking a memorable, photo-worthy experience and willing to pay a premium, it’s a solid choice.

Price and Value

While not the cheapest activity, this helicopter tour offers a blend of aerial spectacle and a rare ground experience. The cost reflects the exclusivity of landing on the glacier and the high-quality service. For many, it’s an investment in unforgettable memories and spectacular visuals that are hard to match elsewhere.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who crave adrenaline and awe-inspiring scenery. It’s ideal for photography buffs wanting unique shots of glaciers and mountains, or anyone eager to step onto a real glacier in New Zealand. Families with children over 15kg will find it a unique outing, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with small aircraft and cold conditions.

Final Thoughts

This helicopter flight over Franz Josef with a snow landing offers a beautifully balanced mix of spectacular views and hands-on glacier experience. The professionalism of the guides and pilots, combined with the breathtaking scenery, makes it a worthwhile splurge for those seeking a true highlight of their South Island trip.

While weather can be unpredictable, the team’s flexibility and the chance to see the glacier up close make it worth considering. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer, an adventure seeker, or just someone who loves extraordinary landscapes, this tour will leave you with images and memories that last a lifetime.

Is the flight weather-dependent? Yes, the helicopter flights depend on weather conditions. Poor weather may lead to rescheduling or cancellations, so flexibility is recommended.

What should I bring? Pack warm clothing, a camera, and closed-toe shoes. Bring layers, as mountain temperatures can be cooler than in town.

Can children participate? Yes, children over 15kg (33 lbs) can fly independently. Children under 4 or under 15kg sit on an adult’s knee.

How long is the total experience? The entire trip, including check-in, is approximately 25 minutes, with 20 minutes of flight time.

What is the group size? The tour is limited to 12 participants, providing a more intimate experience.

Are there any restrictions on drones or tablets? Yes, drones, selfie sticks, tablets, and iPads are not allowed during the tour for safety reasons.

This helicopter tour in Franz Josef is a fantastic way to combine aerial sightseeing with the thrill of stepping onto a glacier. It’s a journey that captures the essence of New Zealand’s rugged beauty, perfect for those wanting to see the raw power of nature up close and from above.

You can check availability for your dates here: