Franz Josef: The Grand Tour by Helicopter with Snow Landing

Imagine flying high above some of New Zealand’s most iconic glaciers, with a snowland landing that’s pure picture-perfect. That’s exactly what the Grand Tour by Helicopter with Snow Landing offers — a 40-minute adventure that combines awe-inspiring scenery with a memorable snow experience. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or someone who just loves a good scenic view, this tour promises a window into the wild beauty of the South Island’s mountains and glaciers.

What makes this experience shine? First, the spectacular views of the Fox, Franz Josef, and Tasman glaciers — you truly get to see their colossal blue icefalls up close. Second, the magnificent vistas of the Southern Alps, including Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, New Zealand’s highest peaks, are nothing short of breathtaking. Lastly, the scenic snow landing provides a fun, tactile connection to the icy landscape and a chance for fantastic photos.

One thing to keep in mind is the weather dependency of helicopter flights — if skies are cloudy or windy, the pilot might need to adjust or postpone the landing. Plus, this tour is best suited for those comfortable with heights and cold climates, as you’ll be stepping onto snow fields and glacier ice. But overall, this experience is ideal for anyone eager to see New Zealand’s alpine grandeur from a unique perspective.

Key Points

• Unmatched views of glaciers and mountain peaks from a helicopter.
• Snow landing offers a hands-on experience and photo opportunities.
• Expert commentary enhances understanding of the landscape.
• Accessible for most with wheelchair accessibility and flexible booking.
• Value for money given the comprehensive 40-minute adventure, including the snow landing.
• Weather dependent, so flexibility might be necessary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Helicopter Tour

What to Expect: The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting from Franz Josef, the tour kicks off with a check-in at the Alpine Adventure Centre, located at 29 Main Road. About 30 minutes before departure, you’ll want to arrive prepared with your camera, sunglasses, and closed-toe shoes. The staff are friendly and well-organized, making the check-in process smooth, especially for first-timers.

Once aboard the helicopter, your pilot (whose expertise impresses many reviewers) will begin your 40-minute journey over the glaciers and mountain peaks. The flight includes a narrated commentary, highlighting key features and sharing interesting facts about the glaciers and the surrounding peaks. This commentary is delivered via headsets, ensuring you don’t miss any of the magic.

The main highlight is the scenic snow landing. After about 10 minutes on the snowfields, you’ll have a chance to step out of the helicopter onto icy terrain, taking in the crisp mountain air and capturing memorable photos. Several reviewers mention how special this part is: “Flying in between the snow-covered summits of Mt Tasman and Mt Cook was unbelievable,” a guest from Australia noted.

After your snow experience, the helicopter lifts off again, offering different perspectives of the glaciers and peaks on your return to Franz Josef. This round-trip flight is perfectly timed, giving you a comprehensive view of the region without feeling rushed.

The Scenic Highlights

• Fox, Franz Josef, and Tasman Glaciers: These are some of the world’s most famous icefalls, known for their striking blue color. The glaciers stretch across the landscape, and from above, their scale is impossible to grasp. Guests often say the views “are worth every penny,” especially with the vivid contrast of ice and snow.

• Southern Alps: Flying among these towering peaks, including Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, is a true bucket-list moment. The sheer size and rugged beauty of these mountains are unforgettable.

• Snow Landing: Sitting on snow fields in the middle of the mountains gives a magical feeling. Reviewer Melissa highlights how the weather was perfect for her trip, making the snow landing especially vivid.

The Experience: Professionalism and Authenticity

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable pilots who provide relevant explanations throughout the flight. One reviewer mentioned that the pilot was “awesome,” and another appreciated the option to switch seats for different viewpoints. The team’s professionalism shines through in their organization and safety measures, which are especially reassuring given the weather-dependent nature of helicopter flights.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details and Value

The cost of $337 per person reflects a premium experience, but many say it’s well worth it considering the guided flight, the snow landing, and the stunning vistas. The tour’s duration allows for ample viewing and photo opportunities without feeling rushed.

There are no food or drinks included, but nearby cafés make it easy to grab a quick bite before or after your flight. The experience also includes a headset for commentary, which enhances your understanding of the landscape and makes the entire journey more engaging.

What Reviewers Love Most

Several guests cite the exceptional scenery, the expert guidance, and the uniqueness of the snow landing as the highlights. Sandra from Germany called it a “great experience for the whole family,” and Christian from France simply said, “Perfect.” Emmanuel appreciated the “relevant explanations” and the opportunity to switch seats, which gives everyone a chance to get the best view.

In-Depth: Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the price might seem steep for a 40-minute flight, it’s important to consider what’s included — the scenic flight, expert commentary, and snow landing — all in one package. Guests repeatedly mention how this tour is a “highlight of their trip” and a unique way to experience New Zealand’s rugged landscapes.

The visual impact alone makes it a worthwhile adventure. The glaciers’ vivid blue ice and the dramatic mountain peaks create postcard-perfect scenes. The snow landing adds a tactile element that many tours lack, making it more memorable and engaging.

On top of that, the professionalism of the guides and pilots, along with the well-organized process, adds confidence and ease to your experience. The tour’s flexibility (such as seat swapping) also ensures everyone gets a good view.

Who Would Love This?

This helicopter adventure is ideal for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, or those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive view of the glaciers and mountains, especially if they’re eager to experience snow firsthand.

It’s also suitable for most — thanks to wheelchair accessibility and the flexible scheduling — but those with fears of heights or who prefer warmer climates might want to weigh their comfort level before booking.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely. If you’re looking for a high-impact, scenic adventure in South Island, this helicopter tour hits all the marks. You get to see some of New Zealand’s most iconic glaciers and mountain peaks from a perspective only a helicopter can provide, topped off with the thrill of standing on snow fields.

The experience is well-structured, with knowledgeable guides making the flight informative and engaging. It’s a memorable way to mark a special trip — whether as a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo explorer’s highlight.

While it’s priced at a premium, the combination of stunning views, expert commentary, and the snow landing makes it a worthwhile splurge for those seeking an authentic, awe-inspiring experience in New Zealand’s wild heart.

FAQ

How long is the helicopter flight?
The total duration is 40 minutes, which includes the snow landing and the scenic flight over glaciers and mountain peaks.

Do I need prior experience or special skills?
No, this tour is suitable for most, including those with limited helicopter experience. Just ensure you’re comfortable with heights and cold temperatures for the snow landing.

Is the snow landing safe?
Yes, the tour is operated by professional pilots with safety as a top priority. The landing is on snow fields, and the weather conditions are closely monitored to ensure safety.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a camera, and closed-toe shoes. The weather can be cold on the snow, so dress appropriately. Bags and selfie sticks are not allowed on the helicopter.

Can infants join the tour?
Infants under 3 years and less than 15kg fly free sitting on an adult’s lap, but those over 15kg or older need to pay the child fare.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Flights are subject to weather conditions. If the weather isn’t suitable, the pilot may delay or cancel the flight for safety reasons. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In summary, this helicopter tour over glaciers and snowfields in New Zealand’s South Island offers a combination of breathtaking scenery, expert narration, and a memorable snow landing. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers wanting a high-quality, authentic experience that captures the rugged beauty of the Southern Alps and glaciers. Whether for a special occasion or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, it’s a tour that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: