Scenic Helicopter & Kepler Guided Hike from Te Anau with Lunch

If you’re dreaming of a day that combines New Zealand’s dramatic landscapes with a touch of adventure, this Scenic Helicopter & Kepler Guided Hike from Te Anau might just be the experience for you. With a flight that lands atop mountains and a guided walk through some of the most beautiful scenery in Fiordland, this tour offers an unforgettable taste of the region’s natural splendor.

What makes this trip stand out? We’re talking breathtaking aerial views, a knowledgeable guide, and the chance to hike a section of the iconic Kepler Track—all packed into a single day. Plus, with boat transfer back to Te Anau, it’s a seamless way to see the best of what Fiordland has to offer.

One thing to keep in mind: this tour is best suited for active travelers with some hiking experience. It involves a moderate physical effort, including a hike on uneven terrain, and a good level of fitness will help you make the most of it. If you’re after a relaxed scenic day, this might be more than you need. But for those craving adventure and stunning views, it’s a perfect fit.

Ideal for keen hikers short on time, those who love helicopter rides, and anyone eager to experience Fiordland’s wild beauty from above and below.

Key Points

• Spectacular aerial views of lakes, mountains, and Fiordland’s rugged terrain.
• Two landings during the helicopter flight, including Mt. Maury and Luxmore Hut.
• Guided hike along part of the renowned Kepler Track with expert commentary.
• Flexible options for challenging the ascent or taking a downhill route.
• All-inclusive snacks and drinks, with lunch available for purchase.
• Small group experience with only up to 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized adventure.

A Closer Look at the Experience

How the Tour Unfolds

Your day begins at 10:00am in Te Anau, where you’ll be picked up and transported to the helicopter departure point. Once onboard, prepare for an extended scenic flight over Lake Te Anau and a collection of hidden mountain lakes, with two landings for optimal photo opportunities. The first landing is on Mt. Maury, where the panoramic views of Fiordland’s wilderness make for perfect photos and a memorable moment of solitude high above the landscape.

Next, the helicopter lands at Mt. Luxmore, providing a dramatic vantage point before you start your guided trek. The hike begins from Luxmore Hut, which is a popular spot for hikers—and for good reason. The trail offers breathtaking vistas, lush alpine scenery, and the chance to spot native flora and fauna.

The Guided Hike

Led by a knowledgeable guide—like Sasha, praised for her warmth, expertise, and helpfulness—you’ll traverse a section of the Kepler Track. Reviewers mention her caring nature and deep knowledge, which enhances the experience significantly. Whether you challenge yourself with an ascent of Mt. Luxmore or opt for a more relaxed downhill walk, the trail promises stunning views and a chance to connect with some of New Zealand’s most pristine environment.

You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy snacks and drinks along the way, and if you wish, you can purchase a hearty lunch at Luxmore Hut to refuel before heading back.

The Return Journey

After completing your hike, you’ll board a boat that will whisk you back across Lake Te Anau to your starting point. The boat ride offers a different perspective of Fiordland’s waters and completes a day filled with diverse scenery—mountains, lakes, and lush valleys.

Why We Love This Tour

The helicopter flight is undoubtedly the highlight, offering spectacular views that are hard to match with ground-based sightseeing. The two landings provide fantastic photo ops, especially on Mt. Maury, which is praised for its panoramic vistas.

The guides receive high praise, with one reviewer describing Sasha as “lovely and so knowledgeable,” and others highlighting how her positive attitude and caring approach made the hike more enjoyable. Their insights help you understand the landscape and its native plants, making the walk both beautiful and educational.

The small group size means more personalized attention and fewer crowds, allowing for a more relaxed and intimate experience. Plus, the combination of outdoor adventure and aerial sightseeing offers excellent value, especially considering the included snacks and optional lunch.

Authentic Experiences

Reviewers mention the breathtaking scenery, noting the “beautiful helicopter ride” and the “amazing views on the track”. One guest highlighted how a guide went “above and beyond” to pack a special lunch, emphasizing the tour’s focus on thoughtful service. These touches make it a memorable experience rather than just a quick sightseeing trip.

Practical Considerations

The tour is approximately 8 hours long, involving moderate physical activity. While it’s suitable for those with hiking experience, it’s important to be comfortable on uneven terrain. The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, which keeps things intimate but means booking well in advance—most guests book around 12 days ahead.

The cost of $476.98 per person includes the helicopter flight, landings, guide, snacks, and boat transfer. The price reflects the exclusive nature of the experience and the unique combination of aerial and land-based exploration.

What to Keep in Mind

• Weather Dependency: The helicopter flight is weather-dependent, and cancellations are possible if conditions aren’t suitable. In such cases, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.
• Physical Fitness: A moderate fitness level is recommended, especially if you plan to challenge yourself with the ascent of Mt. Luxmore.
• Booking in Advance: Given its popularity, especially in high season, booking at least two weeks ahead is advisable.
• Additional Expenses: Lunch can be purchased at Luxmore Hut, but is not included in the base price. Snacks and drinks are provided during the hike.
• Group Size: The small group ensures quality but also means limited spots—perfect for those seeking a more personalized adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active travelers who enjoy hiking and scenic views. If you’re comfortable on uneven terrain and eager to see Fiordland from the air and on foot, you’ll find this tour a perfect blend. It’s especially ideal for keen hikers short on time who want to maximize their experience with a guided walk and stunning helicopter vistas.

Nature lovers and adventure seekers will appreciate the opportunity to explore remote mountain areas with expert guidance. And if you’re after photo opportunities that include lakes, mountains, and dramatic landscapes, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is designed for travelers with moderate fitness levels, it is best suited to older children or teenagers comfortable on uneven terrain. Always check with the provider if you have younger children in your group.

What should I bring on the hike?
Bring layers suitable for mountain weather, comfortable hiking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera. Snacks and drinks are provided, and you can purchase lunch at the hut if desired.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The helicopter flight is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled. In such cases, a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, including pickup, helicopter flight, hiking, and boat transfer.

Can I customize the hiking route?
The guide will tailor the hike based on your fitness and interests, with options to challenge yourself with an ascent or take a gentler downhill route.

Is there a minimum number of travelers?
Yes, this experience has a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a small-group atmosphere, and it usually requires booking in advance due to popularity.

Final Thoughts

This Scenic Helicopter & Kepler Guided Hike from Te Anau offers a superb way to see Fiordland’s spectacular landscapes from both above and below. The combination of aerial vistas, expert guiding, and a challenging yet rewarding hike makes it a standout choice for active travelers.

While it’s not the most relaxed day out, the value of seeing remote mountain vistas and experiencing Fiordland’s wilderness in such an immersive way is undeniable. It’s an adventure that balances thrill, scenery, and comfort, making it perfect for those looking to make the most of their time in New Zealand’s wild south.

If you’re up for a day of exploration, stunning views, and a bit of adventure, this tour will leave you with lifelong memories—and plenty of photos to prove it.