Franz Josef’s helicopter tours pack major scenic punch for your travel dollar. The basic 20-minute flight over Westland Tai Poutini National Park delivers jaw-dropping alpine views, while glacier landing tours give you that coveted boots-on-ice experience.
I’m especially fond of the 1.5-hour private tour with mountaintop picnic – the extra time lets you soak in the solitude of New Zealand’s pristine peaks.
For active travelers, the 4-hour combo tour (helicopter plus guided glacier hike) offers the best overall glacier experience.
Let’s look at the top flight options that deserve your attention.
Key Points
- The Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Flight offers a 20-minute scenic aerial tour with a snow landing for close-up glacier exploration.
- The Helicopter – Picnic Amongst the Peaks provides a private 1.5-hour adventure with a landing on the Tasman Glacier and a delectable local cuisine picnic.
- The Half-Day Glacier Helicopter and Hiking Tour combines a helicopter flight with a guided glacier hike, lasting 4 hours and including all necessary gear.
- The Twin Fox & Franz Josef Glaciers Helicopter Trip is a 30-minute helicopter adventure featuring a scenic snow landing and breathtaking views of the Southern Alps.
- The helicopter tours in Franz Josef town offer a range of durations, prices, and experiences, catering to various budgets and preferences.
Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Flight With Snow Landing
One of the most popular helicopter flights in Franz Josef town is the 20-minute Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Flight with Snow Landing. Priced from $205.68 per person, this activity offers a scenic aerial tour of the stunning Westland Tai Poutini National Park, including ice falls, snowfields, and crevasses.
The highlight is a snow landing on the glacier, allowing you to explore the icy landscape up-close.
The flight includes in-flight commentary from an experienced pilot, sharing insights about the region’s natural wonders. While children aged 4-14 must have their own seat, infants under 15kg can sit on an adult’s knee.
Booking is flexible, with no upfront payment required. However, flights are subject to favorable weather conditions, so it’s best to book for the first available day to maximize your chances.
With an impressive 4.8/5 customer rating, this helicopter experience is a must-do for visitors seeking a thrilling and unforgettable adventure in Franz Josef.
Read our full review: Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Flight With Snow Landing Review
Book now: Check availability
Franz Josef: Helicopter – Picnic Amongst the Peaks
For a truly unforgettable experience in the stunning Franz Josef region, consider the Helicopter – Picnic Amongst the Peaks. This 1.5-hour private group adventure provides a bird’s-eye view of New Zealand’s tallest mountain peaks, including the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, La Perouse & Belfour Glaciers, and the majestic Aoraki Mount Cook and Mount Tasman.
The highlight of the tour is a private landing on the Tasman Glacier, the longest glacier in New Zealand. You’ll enjoy a delectable local cuisine picnic in this breathtaking setting, with ample time to soak in the views and capture memories.
This is an exclusive experience, with a maximum of 6 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized outing. Priced at $1,762.41 per group, you can book now and pay later, plus enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
As the only operator offering this Tasman Glacier landing experience on the West Coast, you won’t want to miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Read our full review: Franz Josef: Helicopter – Picnic Amongst the Peaks Review
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Franz Josef: Half-Day Glacier Helicopter and Hiking Tour
If you’re seeking a thrilling way to explore the breathtaking Franz Josef Glacier, the Half-Day Glacier Helicopter and Hiking Tour is an unparalleled experience. Priced from NZ$11,205 per person, this 4-hour tour offers a guided trek across the glacier, a helicopter flight with panoramic views and a glacier landing, and a 2-hour hike on the ice with crampons and glacier boots.
You’ll learn about the area’s history and terrain from a local guide while observing fascinating ice formations and the fast-moving ice flow. The tour includes all necessary equipment, from waterproof jackets and pants to glacier boots and socks.
However, it’s not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or individuals outside the specified height and weight requirements.
With an overall rating of 4.6/5 based on 180 reviews, this tour is likely to sell out, so it’s recommended to book early and account for potential weather-related cancellations or delays.
Don’t forget to dress warmly and leave your jeans, selfie sticks, and tablets at home.
Read our full review: Franz Josef: Half-Day Glacier Helicopter and Hiking Tour Review
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Franz Josef: Twin Fox & Franz Josef Glaciers Helicopter Trip
Soar above the majestic Twin Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers on this captivating 30-minute helicopter adventure. For $246.82 per person, you’ll experience breathtaking views of the Southern Alps, Mount Cook, and Mount Tasman from the comfort of your helicopter.
Enjoy a thrilling scenic snow landing and witness the glacial icefalls and snowfields of both glaciers up-close. The friendly pilot and staff provide an excellent, albeit somewhat factory-like, operation with limited interaction.
The meeting point is the Alpine Adventure Centre, where you’ll need to check-in 30 minutes before departure. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and hotel pickup and drop-off are included.
Infants under 3 years weighing less than 15 kg fly free on an adult’s lap, while those above 15 kg are charged the child fare. Remember to bring comfortable shoes and your camera to capture the stunning photo opportunities.
With an overall rating of 5/5 from 36 reviews, this helicopter experience is a must-do in Franz Josef.
Read our full review: Franz Josef: Twin Fox & Franz Josef Glaciers Helicopter Trip Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
You’ll find plenty of thrilling helicopter flights and tours to experience the stunning Franz Josef Glacier. Whether you opt for a scenic flight, a snow landing, or a combination with hiking, you’ll be awed by the region’s breathtaking natural beauty. These tours offer a unique perspective and unforgettable memories, so don’t miss the chance to soar over this remarkable landscape.