Soaring over the majestic Aoraki/Mount Cook and the expansive Tasman Glacier, this 45-minute helicopter tour offers a unique opportunity to witness the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand’s Southern Alps. With a skilled pilot providing live commentary, adventurers will capture the intricate patterns of glacial ice and pristine snowfields, culminating in a thrilling landing on the glacier itself. This unforgettable experience allows visitors to enjoy the tranquil beauty of this alpine wilderness, leaving them with a deeper appreciation for the raw power and grace of nature. What awaits those who embark on this bucket list adventure?
This experience made our list of the 3 Best Tours In Aoraki Mount Cook National Park Te Wahipounamu.
Key Points
- A 45-minute aerial tour showcasing the stunning glacial landscapes and peaks around Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain.
- Highly rated 5-star experience with a Badge of Excellence, offering a flexible cancellation policy and inclusive of live commentary and souvenir photos.
- Includes a landing on the Tasman Glacier, providing a unique opportunity to explore the intricate ice patterns and pristine alpine environment.
- Suitable for all travelers, with wheelchair accessibility, infant seats, and a weight limit of 256 lbs per passenger.
- Promises an unforgettable bucket list experience, capturing the raw beauty and grandeur of New Zealand’s Southern Alps from above.
Tour Overview
The Glacier Highlights Helicopter Tour provides a 45-minute aerial adventure from Mount Cook, showcasing the region’s stunning glacial landscapes.
Soaring over the South Island of New Zealand, this tour offers an exceptional experience, boasting 37 reviews and a prestigious Badge of Excellence with a 5-star rating.
Priced from $365.17 and with a lowest price guarantee, this tour can be easily booked with the Reserve Now and Pay Later option.
The tour’s flexible cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
With live commentary, souvenir photos, and wheelchair accessibility, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking glacial wonders of Mount Cook.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park Te Wahipounamu
Meeting and Pickup
Participants meet at the Mount Cook Airport, located just 5 minutes prior to Aoraki Mount Cook Village on State Highway 80. The tour’s meeting point is easily accessible, with the activity concluding back at the same location. Travelers should check-in at least 45 minutes before the scheduled flight time.
The tour includes:
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Headsets to hear the guide clearly during the flight
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Live commentary on board
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Souvenir photos available for purchase
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Wheelchair accessibility and infant seats for a comfortable experience
This bucket list helicopter tour provides unique glacier landscapes and breathtaking views, leaving lasting memories for all who embark on this adventure.
Tour Inclusions
Included in the 45-minute Glacier Highlights Helicopter Tour are headsets that allow passengers to clearly hear the guide’s live commentary during the flight.
Souvenir photos are also available for purchase, capturing the breathtaking views from the air.
The tour further provides a wheelchair-accessible experience with infant seats, ensuring a comfortable journey for all travelers.
The tour’s equipment and inclusions are designed to enhance the overall experience, allowing guests to fully enjoy the stunning landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island.
With these thoughtful touches, the Glacier Highlights Helicopter Tour promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave a lasting impression on all who embark on it.
Passenger Information
Passengers must adhere to weight limits, with a total weight per passenger capped at 256 lbs, ensuring a safe and comfortable flight. This helicopter tour requires a minimum of 4 people per flight and can accommodate a maximum of 12 travelers.
Key passenger information:
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Children must be accompanied by an adult, and infants must sit on laps.
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The helicopter is wheelchair accessible, with surfaces that are easily navigable.
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Infant seats are available for those traveling with young children.
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Passengers should arrive at the meeting point 45 minutes prior to flight time to ensure a smooth check-in process.
Customer Experiences
Customers have raved about the unique landscapes and breathtaking views experienced during the Glacier Highlights Helicopter Tour.
Travelers described the landing on the glacier as absolutely breathtaking, with one reviewer stating it was a ‘once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.’
The tour’s highly skilled pilots were highlighted for ensuring a smooth and stable flight, allowing guests to fully enjoy the stunning natural scenery.
Pilots were praised for their stability and extensive knowledge, leaving visitors with lasting memories of this bucket list experience.
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Unique Landscapes
The Glacier Highlights Helicopter Tour transports passengers over a breathtaking landscape, offering unparalleled views of New Zealand’s majestic glaciers and towering peaks.
During the 45-minute flight, travelers are treated to a unique aerial perspective of the region’s stunning natural wonder:
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Soaring over the Tasman Glacier, the largest glacier in New Zealand, with its distinctive blue hues and dramatic crevasses.
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Glimpsing the iconic Aoraki/Mount Cook, the country’s highest mountain, rising majestically against the backdrop of the Southern Alps.
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Witnessing the dramatic contrast between the pristine snowfields and the rugged mountain terrain.
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Admiring the intricate patterns and textures carved into the glacial ice by the relentless forces of nature.
Breathtaking Landing
The crowning moment of the Glacier Highlights Helicopter Tour is the breathtaking landing atop the Tasman Glacier.
As the helicopter gently settles on the pristine, glistening ice, passengers are treated to a truly awe-inspiring sight. Towering peaks and untamed wilderness surround them, creating a sense of isolation and connection with the raw power of nature.
Stepping out onto the glacier, visitors can explore the intricate patterns and vibrant blues of the ice up close, accompanied by the tranquil silence broken only by the occasional crackle and groan of the moving glacier.
This unique landing experience leaves a lasting impression, capturing the essence of New Zealand’s spectacular alpine landscapes.
Bucket List Experience
Beyond the breathtaking landing, it’s easy to see why the Glacier Highlights Helicopter Tour is considered a bucket list experience.
Soaring over the dramatic peaks and valleys of New Zealand’s Southern Alps, passengers are treated to a birds-eye view of some of the most captivating landscapes on Earth. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity allows visitors to:
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Witness the majestic grandeur of Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain
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Glide over ancient glaciers and icy blue rivers that carve through the rugged terrain
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Spot cascading waterfalls and pristine alpine lakes in remote, hard-to-reach areas
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Gain a deeper appreciation for the sheer scale and raw beauty of this wilderness wonderland
It’s an unforgettable experience that leaves a lasting impression on all who embark on this aerial adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Safety Precautions Are Taken During the Helicopter Flight?
The helicopter is equipped with necessary safety gear, and the pilots are highly trained to ensure the flight is conducted safely. Passengers are provided with headsets and guidance on safety protocols throughout the experience.
Can I Bring My Own Photography Equipment on the Tour?
Passengers can bring their own photography equipment on the tour. The helicopter’s headsets allow clear communication with the pilot, so photographers can capture stunning aerial shots during the flight without disrupting the experience.
Is There an Option for a Private Helicopter Tour?
Yes, the tour operator offers a private helicopter option for travelers who prefer a more exclusive experience. The private tour allows for customized itineraries and a personalized flight with just the passenger’s group.
Will I Get to See the Entire Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park?
The 45-minute helicopter tour focuses on the glacier highlights, rather than providing a comprehensive view of the entire Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Passengers will see stunning glacier landscapes, but the tour doesn’t cover the full extent of the park during the flight.
Do I Need Any Special Clothing or Gear for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t require any special clothing or gear. Passengers should wear warm, comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes. The tour provider will provide necessary equipment like headsets to hear the guide clearly during the flight.
Recap
The 45-minute glacier highlights helicopter tour from Mount Cook offers an unforgettable aerial adventure over New Zealand’s stunning Southern Alps.
Soaring above the majestic Aoraki/Mount Cook and the expansive Tasman Glacier, travelers are treated to breathtaking vistas and a thrilling landing on the glacier itself.
This experience immerses them in the tranquil beauty of this unique alpine wilderness, making it a truly bucket list experience for anyone seeking to explore the captivating landscapes of the region.