Guided Kepler Track Heli Hike

Exploring New Zealand’s Kepler Track through a guided heli hike offers a rare blend of adventure, comfort, and jaw-dropping scenery. This full-day experience combines the thrill of a helicopter flight with the serenity of alpine hiking, making it ideal for those who want to see the best of Fiordland without dedicating days to trekking. With glowing reviews and a reputation for impeccable organization, this tour is quickly becoming a favorite among travelers.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, the spectacular helicopter ride over Lake Te Anau sets the scene with panoramic views. Second, the well-maintained trail through native beech forest and up to Luxmore Hut offers an authentic hiking adventure. Third, the small group size—capped at just twelve participants—ensures a personalized touch and plenty of opportunity for questions and photos. That said, the price point of around $423 per person** might give some pause, especially considering optional extras like lunch. Still, the quality of transport, guide expertise, and exclusive access make it a solid value for adventurers eager to see the landscape from above and below.

If you’re physically active, appreciate stunning mountain scenery, and prefer guided experiences that streamline logistics, this tour could be an excellent choice. It’s especially suitable for families with children over 8 and travelers with a moderate to high fitness level who don’t mind a bit of downhill walking on uneven terrain.

Key Points

• Unique combination of helicopter and water taxi offers diverse perspectives of Fiordland’s landscape
• Small group size ensures a more intimate and personalized experience
• All safety gear and essentials like walking poles and rain jackets are provided
• Stunning views from the helicopter and along the trail make this a photographer’s dream
• Well-maintained trail suitable for a range of fitness levels but requires moderate physical fitness
• Includes transportation, safety equipment, and local guides for a hassle-free adventure

This tour is designed to give you a comprehensive taste of the Kepler Track’s diverse environments, from alpine tussock fields to lush beech forests, all in one action-packed day. Starting at the Fiordland Community Events Centre in Te Anau at 9:30 am, your adventure kicks off with a scenic transfer to the helicopter pad.

The Helicopter Flight: A Bird’s Eye View of Fiordland

The highlight for many is the helicopter ride to Luxmore Hut, soaring over Lake Te Anau and the surrounding mountains. This flight alone is worth the price, offering stunning vistas that are simply impossible from the ground. Reviewers have described this part as “fantastic,” with one noting the views are “great,” and another calling the experience “wirklich beeindruckend” — truly impressive.

The helicopter lands next to the Kepler Track at Luxmore Hut, nestled high amid the alpine terrain. You’ll get an opportunity to take in panoramic mountain views and, if the weather cooperates, venture a little higher for an even more elevated perspective. This part of the journey is ideal for photography lovers and anyone wanting to see the scale of Fiordland’s mountains.

The Alpine Hike: From Luxmore Hut to the Lakeshore

After disembarking, your guide will lead you along well-maintained trails through the tussock grass and native beech forest. Expect to walk for about 3-6 hours, covering roughly 8 km with significant descents. This section is physically demanding but rewarding, offering a variety of terrains and a chance to observe native flora and fauna.

Reviewers have appreciated the expert guidance, describing guides as knowledgeable and passionate. One noted, “Great trek” with “great views,” emphasizing the trail’s beauty and how well it’s maintained. Another called it “a good way to see the landscape without having to hike up the mountain,” highlighting the tour’s accessibility for those who want a lighter but authentic experience.

Descending Through Beech Forest to the Lake

The walk winds down through lush forests beneath limestone bluffs, revealing a peaceful lakeside setting. The trail is generally well-formed but can be uneven and rocky in places—so good footwear is essential. The descent is longer and more sustained than some expect, which can be tough on the knees, especially if you’re not used to downhill walking.

Here, you’ll see some of the most pristine sections of New Zealand’s native forest, with the serene lakeside offering a perfect spot for rest and reflection. One reviewer mentioned that “the hike down to the lake was easy and beautiful,” confirming the trail’s scenic charm.

Water Taxi and Return to Te Anau

The final leg of the journey involves a water taxi across Lake Te Anau, providing a tranquil, scenic return trip with views of the surrounding mountains and forests. It’s a fitting way to conclude a day filled with extraordinary sights and experiences.

The tour ends back at the starting point in Te Anau around 4:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to relax or explore the town further. Transport and drop-off are included, making this a seamless adventure from start to finish.

Included in the tour are essentials that enhance your comfort and safety, such as walking poles, rain jackets, and safety equipment. Your local, experienced guide will accompany you throughout, providing insight into the landscape and ensuring your safety at all times.

Hot drinks like coffee or tea are available during the hike, adding a cozy touch to the outdoor experience. The helicopter and water taxi rides are included in the price, which adds significant value considering how much variety they add to the trip.

You’ll need to bring your own lunch and bottled water. The tour provider recommends bringing a refillable water bottle and some food for energy, as these aren’t included in the price. Carrying a waterproof rain jacket is advised, especially since the tour operates in all weather conditions unless deemed unsafe.

Additional Considerations

This experience is best suited for those with moderate to high fitness levels due to the length and terrain of the hike. The minimum age is 8, and the maximum is 70, making it family-friendly but requiring some physical capability. The trail can be uneven and rocky, so sturdy shoes are a must. Weather can change quickly in Fiordland, so packing waterproof layers and checking forecast updates is wise.

The small group size (up to 12 travelers) creates a more personalized experience but also means early booking is advisable—most guests book around 88 days in advance.

Multiple reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of guides, adding a layer of confidence for future travelers. One reviewer appreciated the “great views” and how the tour balanced adventure with comfort, noting the inclusion of gear like rain jackets and poles as a big plus.

Another reviewer, DeeG, mentioned, “Wirklich beeindruckend,” emphasizing how the experience is “definitely worth climbing to the top,” weather permitting. The comments reinforce that this tour offers a mix of scenic grandeur and manageable physical challenge.

This guided Kepler Track heli hike offers an unbeatable snapshot of Fiordland’s stunning landscape, combining the thrill of a helicopter ride with an authentic alpine trek. It’s best suited for travelers who are active, curious, and eager to see the mountains from multiple perspectives without spending days on the trail.

While the price may seem high, the inclusions—transport, safety gear, and expert guiding—make this a solid value for those wanting an all-in-one, hassle-free adventure. It’s especially perfect for those who want a taste of New Zealand’s wilderness with the comfort of guided support and a small group setting.

For families with older children or active individuals who love photography, mountain views, and well-organized outings, this tour checks all the boxes. Plus, with a full refund policy if canceled 24 hours in advance, you can plan with confidence.

Is transportation included? Yes, pickup and drop-off from Te Anau are included, along with the helicopter and water taxi rides.

What should I bring? Bring a packed lunch, a refillable water bottle, sturdy shoes, and a waterproof rain jacket—weather in Fiordland is unpredictable.

What is the fitness level required? A moderate to high fitness level is recommended, as you’ll walk 8 km with significant downhill sections, and the trail can be uneven.

Can children participate? Yes, the minimum age is 8 years, but children should be comfortable with hiking and outdoor conditions.

What happens if the weather is bad? The tour operates in all weather unless deemed unsafe. If canceled, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How long does the hike take? Expect 3-6 hours of walking, covering about 8 km, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery.

Is lunch included? No, lunch is not included but can be pre-ordered for an extra charge. You should bring your own snacks and drinks.

In essence, this Kepler Track heli hike is a superb way to witness New Zealand’s breathtaking wilderness for those who enjoy a blend of aerial views and grounded hiking—making it a truly memorable adventure worth considering for your Fiordland trip.