Mount Cook, on New Zealand’s South Island, is a place where the scenery begs to be seen from above. The rugged peaks, vast glaciers, and deep valleys make helicopter flights not just a thrill but a practical way to experience the area’s grandeur. We’ve picked out the top options, including a variety of scenic routes, glacier landings, and alpine adventures. Whether you’re after a quick 25-minute jaunt or a more extended 55-minute exploration, these tours deliver views you won’t forget—some include snow landings, others a glacier flyover, and a few combine multiple glaciers and mountain passes.
Our favorite? The Mount Cook: Scenic Helicopter Flight with Alpine Landing [], offers a great mix of stunning scenery and a personal touch with your alpine landing. It’s a perfect introduction for first-timers wanting an authentic taste of the Southern Alps from the air. For those seeking something more adventurous, the Ski Plane and Helicopter Glacier Combo Flight [] combines ski-plane and helicopter flights to land on one of New Zealand’s iconic glaciers. Either way, these experiences show how helicopter tours make Mount Cook’s towering peaks and icy wilderness accessible and awe-inspiring.
- 1. Mount Cook: Scenic Helicopter Flight with Alpine Landing
- 2. Mount Cook: Ski Plane and Helicopter Glacier Combo Flight
- 3. Mount Cook and The Glaciers 55-Minute Helicopter Flight
- 4. Mount Cook: Mountains High 40-Minute Helicopter Flight
- 5. Mount Cook: Alpine Vista Helicopter Flight with Alpine Landing
- 6. Mount Cook: 50-Minute Aoraki Scenic Helicopter Flight
- 7. Mount Cook Alpine Explorer Helicopter Flight with Alpine Landing
- 8. Mount Cook: 55-Minute Scenic Flight in Helicopter or Ski Plane
- 9. Glacier Discoverer 40-minute Helicopter Flight from Mount Cook
- 10. Mount Cook Grand Glacier Experience Helicopter Flight
- 11. Mount Cook Scenic 35 Minute Helicopter Flight
- How to Choose the Right Helicopter Tour in Mount Cook
- Final Thoughts
1. Mount Cook: Scenic Helicopter Flight with Alpine Landing
Starting at number one, this scenic helicopter flight is a favorite for its balance of stunning views and the thrill of an alpine landing. With a duration of just 25 minutes, it packs a punch. You’ll fly over the Tasman Valley, where the glacier lakes shimmer, and then land high up on a mountain surrounded by peaks. The experience is enhanced by your pilot’s commentary, which adds context to the breathtaking scenery.
This tour’s highlight is the alpine landing itself—standing among the mountains where few get to go. It’s perfect for photographers and anyone wanting a true mountain adventure in a short time. With a 4.8-star rating from 424 reviews, it’s clear this trip hits the mark for its personal touches and spectacular vistas. The flight’s manageable length makes it ideal for travelers with limited time who want a memorable taste of Mount Cook.
Bottom Line: It’s a well-rounded option that offers a quick but immersive mountain experience with stunning views and a snow-free alpine landing.
2. Mount Cook: Ski Plane and Helicopter Glacier Combo Flight
At number two, this 45-minute glacier combo takes you by both ski plane and helicopter, landing on the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s longest. What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to land on a glacier, something you won’t find in many places. The flight starts with the skiplane gliding over the landscape before switching to helicopter mode for the glacier landing, offering a diverse aerial experience.
Guests are treated to sweeping views of the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, with the chance to walk on the ice and take photos on the glacier itself. The reviews praise the spectacular scenery and the uniqueness of the glacier landing. It’s a longer flight—45 minutes—making it suitable for those wanting a more in-depth exploration of the glaciers. The experience is perfect for adventure lovers eager for a once-in-a-lifetime view of New Zealand’s icy heart.
Bottom Line: Combining two aircraft types and a glacier landing, this trip offers a comprehensive and memorable ice adventure for travelers wanting a deep glacier experience.
3. Mount Cook and The Glaciers 55-Minute Helicopter Flight
Number three is a 55-minute helicopter journey that takes you over Mount Cook, the Tasman Glacier, and the West Coast glaciers, including Franz Josef and Fox. This flight is a detailed tour of the region’s most iconic glaciers, offering panoramic views of the towering peaks and expansive icefields.
What makes this trip special is the opportunity to land in pristine snow and walk around—something many travelers dream of. Reviewers mention the breathtaking scenery and the helpful pilot who shares insights about the region. It’s ideal for those who want to see multiple glaciers and experience the ruggedness of the Southern Alps in one comprehensive flight.
Bottom Line: This longer tour maximizes glacier and mountain views, with the added thrill of snow landing, suited for travelers craving an extensive aerial adventure.
4. Mount Cook: Mountains High 40-Minute Helicopter Flight
Number four on our list is a 40-minute helicopter ride that combines stunning views with the thrill of a snow landing on the Tasman Glacier. This tour includes a flypast over Hochstetter Icefall and a chance to stand on the glacier itself, making it perfect for those who want an immersive experience with minimal time commitment.
The pilot commentary enriches the experience, sharing insights about the region’s geology and glaciology. Guests love the variety of landscapes seen—from glaciers to arid pastures—making it a well-rounded aerial tour. The 5-star reviews emphasize the “gorgeous views” and the “smooth ride,” suitable for families and first-time helicopter riders.
Bottom Line: For a compact yet comprehensive glacier experience with a snow landing, this tour hits all the high points.
5. Mount Cook: Alpine Vista Helicopter Flight with Alpine Landing
Number five offers a quick 20-minute scenic flight with an alpine landing. It’s perfect for travelers short on time but eager for a taste of the mountains. Departing from Aoraki/Mt. Cook Village, the tour provides sweeping views over the Ben Ohau Range, with a chance to step foot on a mountain in the high country.
The tour emphasizes photo opportunities and personalized attention in a small group, making it friendly and intimate. The reviews highlight the “fantastic vista” and the “incredible experience,” especially for families or couples seeking a quick but memorable mountain adventure.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for those wanting a short, scenic helicopter flight with the excitement of an alpine landing.
6. Mount Cook: 50-Minute Aoraki Scenic Helicopter Flight
Number six offers a 50-minute experience flying over the entire Aoraki region. This flight covers views from coast to coast, including three glaciers and Lake Pukaki, with the chance of a snow landing on the Tasman Glacier. It’s ideal for travelers who want a more comprehensive tour in a relaxed timeframe.
The reviews note the “amazing views” and the opportunity to see multiple glaciers and the mountain from different angles. The longer duration allows for a less hurried experience, giving you more time to soak in the scenery and take photos.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking an extensive scenic flight that covers the major sights with a snow landing option.
7. Mount Cook Alpine Explorer Helicopter Flight with Alpine Landing
Number seven is a 35-minute tour that combines scenic views with a snow landing in Mount Cook National Park. The flight soars above steep ridges and the Southern Alps, with a pilot narration that adds depth to the visual feast.
Guests appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to step onto a snowfield, provided weather allows. It’s suitable for those interested in a more intimate and educational experience, with opportunities to capture stunning photos of the rugged landscape.
Bottom Line: For a mid-length aerial adventure with an alpine landing and insightful commentary, this tour offers great value.
8. Mount Cook: 55-Minute Scenic Flight in Helicopter or Ski Plane
Number eight is a 55-minute scenic flight in either a helicopter or ski plane, providing a broad overview of the Southern Alps. The tour includes views of Mount Cook, Mount Tasman, Mount Sefton, and glaciers like Franz Josef and Fox.
The informative commentary helps make sense of the dramatic scenery, perfect for travelers who want a longer, detailed aerial experience without a glacier landing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a comprehensive aerial tour with options for different aircraft types and excellent scenery.
9. Glacier Discoverer 40-minute Helicopter Flight from Mount Cook
This 40-minute flight is a less reviewed but promising option for glacier lovers. It features views of the Hochstetter Icefall and an exploration of the upper Tasman Glacier, culminating in a glacier landing that offers close-up views of icefalls and crevasses.
While it currently has no reviews, the itinerary promises a spectacular glacier experience with views of the Burnett Mountains and Mackenzie Basin. It’s a good pick for travelers wanting an immersive glacier experience.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for glacier enthusiasts eager to see spectacular ice formations up close.
10. Mount Cook Grand Glacier Experience Helicopter Flight
Number ten is a 50-minute premium glacier-focused flight. It follows the Tasman Glacier, then crosses to the West Coast, with views of Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. The highlight is landing on a pristine glacier and experiencing the scale and silence of this icy landscape.
Reviewers note the breathtaking scenery and the amazing views of Mount Cook. This tour suits travelers looking for a luxury experience with a focus on glaciers and expansive vistas.
Bottom Line: For those wanting an extended glacier adventure with multiple landings and scenic highlights, this flight delivers.
11. Mount Cook Scenic 35 Minute Helicopter Flight
Finally, at number eleven, this compact 35-minute flight is ideal for travelers wanting a quick yet comprehensive aerial view. It features flying over the lower Tasman Glacier and the Liebig mountain range, with an alpine landing providing spectacular panoramic views.
The reviews reflect satisfaction with the “breathtaking views” and the “smooth ride,” emphasizing how even a short flight can be truly memorable.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for travelers short on time but seeking a high-quality helicopter experience with an alpine landing.
How to Choose the Right Helicopter Tour in Mount Cook
When selecting your helicopter experience, consider your budget, the time available, and what scenery or activities excite you most. If you wish to land on a glacier, the Ski Plane and Helicopter Glacier Combo or the Glacier Discoverer are your best bets. For maximum scenery in a shorter time, the Mount Cook: Mountains High or the Scenic 35-Minute Flight deliver excellent value.
If you want to see multiple glaciers and the entire region, opt for the 50-minute Aoraki Scenic Flight or the Grand Glacier Experience. Weather can impact flying conditions, especially in alpine environments, so booking early and being flexible can help.
For detailed information, you can explore this scenic helicopter flight with an alpine landing, which balances views and quick access to the mountains. Keep in mind the weather dependency and prepare for potential rescheduling, especially during changeable spring and summer days.
Final Thoughts
Mount Cook’s towering peaks and icy landscapes make helicopter tours the best way for most travelers to grasp the scale and majesty of this region. From quick scenic flights to immersive glacier landings, options range from budget-friendly to luxury experiences. If you’re after a superb all-around tour, the Scenic Helicopter Flight with Alpine Landing is hard to beat, with its balance of views and personal adventure.
For those seeking adventure and glacier close-ups, the Ski Plane and Helicopter Glacier Combo and Glacier Discoverer tours stand out. Meanwhile, travelers with limited time should consider the Alpine Vista or Scenic 35-Minute Flight for a memorable but brief aerial journey.
Whatever your choice, booking early is wise—mountain weather can be unpredictable, and these experiences tend to fill quickly during peak seasons. Prepare for an unforgettable perspective on one of New Zealand’s most spectacular landscapes.