Soaring above New Zealand’s mightiest peaks, helicopter tours of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park deliver unforgettable alpine views.
The standout is the 55-minute Grand Circle, offering the most comprehensive look at these dramatic landscapes.
We particularly love the 45-minute combo tour, which cleverly pairs a ski plane with a helicopter ride – it’s the perfect mix of classic and modern mountain flying.
For those short on time, the 25-minute flight with alpine landing packs plenty of wow-factor into a compact timeframe.
Let’s explore the best aerial tours this stunning park has to offer.
Key Points
- The Grand Circle Helicopter Tour offers a 55-minute exploration of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park’s stunning landscapes, with a 4.5-star rating based on 32 reviews.
- The Mount Cook Ski Plane and Helicopter Combo Tour combines ski plane and helicopter experiences, with a 92% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence.
- The 25-Minute Helicopter Flight Including an Alpine Landing provides a short but impressive experience, including a landing in the national park, and has a Badge of Excellence recognition.
- All three helicopter tours offer live commentary, souvenir photos, and accessibility features like wheelchair access and infant seats.
- Customers should be aware of potential weather-related cancellations and mixed feedback on service quality for the Grand Circle Helicopter Tour.
55-Minute Grand Circle Helicopter
The 55-Minute Grand Circle Helicopter tour offers a unique and breathtaking way to explore the stunning landscapes of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. With a rating of 4.5 stars based on 32 reviews, this tour is a popular choice for visitors looking to experience the region’s majestic glaciers, towering peaks, and pristine wilderness from a bird’s-eye view.
The tour departs from the Mount Cook Airport, with passengers meeting at the convenient location and returning to the same point after the 55-minute flight. The tour accommodates up to 12 travelers, with a total weight limit of 256 lbs per passenger, making it accessible for most visitors. Families can also enjoy the experience, as infants are welcome to sit on laps, and child seats are available.
While the weather can be unpredictable, the tour operator strives to prioritize safety and may cancel flights due to inclement conditions.
Customers have provided mixed feedback, with some praising the incredible views and smooth flying, while others have reported issues with customer service and flight cancellations.
Read our full review: 55-Minute Grand Circle Helicopter Review
Book now: Check availability
45-Minute Mount Cook Ski Plane and Helicopter Combo Tour
For those seeking an even more immersive aerial experience in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, the 45-Minute Mount Cook Ski Plane and Helicopter Combo Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity.
With a 92% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides breathtaking views of the park’s glaciers and mountains from both a ski plane and a helicopter.
The tour includes clear communication via headsets and live commentary from a professional guide. Souvenir photos are available for purchase, and the experience is wheelchair-accessible with infant seats.
However, a minimum of 4 people is required for the flight operation, and check-in closes 45 minutes before the scheduled departure.
Travelers have consistently praised the tour’s stunning scenery, helpful staff, and knowledgeable pilots. Some have reported issues with wait times, weather-related cancellations, and communication about flight status.
Despite these occasional challenges, the 45-Minute Mount Cook Ski Plane and Helicopter Combo Tour remains a highly recommended way to learn about the breathtaking landscapes of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Read our full review: 45-Minute Mount Cook Ski Plane and Helicopter Combo Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
25-Minute Helicopter Flight Including an Alpine Landing
Soaring over the majestic peaks and pristine glaciers of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, the 25-minute Helicopter Flight Including an Alpine Landing offers an unparalleled aerial adventure.
With a Badge of Excellence from Inflite Ski Planes Limited, this flight boasts 44 positive reviews from travelers. Departing from the Mount Cook Airport, you’ll embark on a thrilling journey, with a maximum of 12 passengers per flight and a total weight limit of 243 lbs per person.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy live commentary from your knowledgeable guide and the opportunity to capture stunning souvenir photos.
While weather conditions may occasionally lead to flight cancellations, this experience is wheelchair accessible and near public transportation. Infants can join the adventure, sitting on laps, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
The flight maintains a 4.5-star rating, with many praising the great pilots and the unforgettable scenery. However, some have noted room for improvement in seating arrangements and pilot interaction.
The company remains committed to addressing feedback and enhancing the customer experience.
Read our full review: 25-Minute Helicopter Flight Including an Alpine Landing Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Aoraki Mount Cook National Park offers a breathtaking aerial experience. You can choose from a variety of helicopter and ski plane tours, ranging from 25 minutes to 55 minutes. These tours provide a unique perspective of the stunning glaciers, peaks, and alpine landscapes that make this region so captivating. Whether you opt for a quick flight or a more comprehensive tour, you’re sure to be left in awe of the natural beauty.