The Fox and Franz Twin Glacier Helicopter Flight from Franz Josef offers an exhilarating aerial tour over New Zealand’s stunning glacial landscapes. This 30-minute adventure takes travelers on a captivating journey, showcasing the region’s rugged terrain, frozen rivers, and majestic snow-capped peaks. With a maximum of six passengers per flight, the personalized experience includes expert pilot guidance and unique snow landings on pristine glacier surfaces. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned adventurer, this unforgettable helicopter flight promises to leave you in awe of the region’s natural beauty. But there’s more to discover about this remarkable experience.
Key Points
- 30-minute helicopter tour offering aerial views of Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, with a thrilling snow landing on the pristine, untouched snow.
- Maximum of 6 travelers per flight for a personalized experience, with expert pilot guidance for capturing memorable photographs.
- Highly rated tour with 5.0 rating based on 55 reviews, praised for professional and knowledgeable guides, breathtaking views, and personalized attention.
- Includes complimentary food and drinks, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a safety briefing for passenger security.
- Year-round operation with daily departures from Franz Josef township, though flights are subject to weather conditions.
Overview of the Experience
The Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Flight provides an exhilarating aerial experience, offering visitors a unique opportunity to soar over the stunning landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island.
This 30-minute tour showcases the breathtaking Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers from above, affording guests a bird’s-eye view of the rugged terrain, frozen rivers, and snow-capped peaks that define this remarkable region.
The highlight of the experience is a thrilling snow landing, allowing participants to step out onto the pristine, untouched snow in an area inaccessible to regular hikers or vehicles.
With a maximum of 6 travelers per flight, the tour ensures a personalized and immersive experience, complete with expert pilot guidance and assistance for capturing unforgettable photographs.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Franz Josef and Fox Glacier
Tour Duration and Accessibility
Approximately 30 minutes of flight time, including a landing on the glacier, make the Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Flight one of the most accessible glacier experiences in New Zealand, ideal for visitors.
This short yet thrilling flight provides aerial views of the spectacular Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, allowing guests to admire the snowy landscapes, frozen rivers, and rugged peaks from the comfort of a helicopter.
Despite their remote locations, these are the most accessible glaciers in the country, making them a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and unforgettable adventure.
The group size is limited to a maximum of 6 passengers, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience for all.
Excellent Customer Satisfaction
With an impressive 5.0 rating based on 55 reviews, the Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Flight boasts excellent customer satisfaction, showcasing the top-notch quality and remarkable experiences consistently delivered to travelers.
Reviewers praise the professional and knowledgeable guides, who provide engaging commentary throughout the scenic flight and seamless glacier landing.
Customers highlight the breathtaking aerial views of the dramatic landscapes, including the snow-capped peaks and frozen rivers.
The personalized experience with a maximum of 6 travelers per group is also lauded, allowing for individualized attention and ample photo opportunities.
Despite occasional weather-related challenges, the overall consensus among previous participants is overwhelmingly positive, making this helicopter adventure a must-do activity for visitors to the Franz Josef region.
Included in the Tour
Apart from the exceptional customer reviews, the Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Flight also includes several valuable amenities that enhance the overall experience for travelers.
Professional guides accompany each group, providing informative commentary and assistance throughout the journey. Complimentary food and drinks are provided, ensuring visitors remain refreshed and energized during the aerial exploration.
On top of that, the tour offers convenient hotel pickup and drop-off services, making it easy for participants to access the departure point and return to their accommodations seamlessly.
The tour’s inclusions are:
-
Professional guide
-
Complimentary food and drinks
-
Hotel pickup and drop-off
-
Maximum group size of 6 travelers
-
Safety briefing before boarding
Daily Departure and Group Size
The Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Flight departs daily from the Franz Josef township, with various time slots available throughout the day to accommodate travelers’ schedules.
To ensure a personalized experience, the tour operator limits group sizes to a maximum of 6 participants per flight. This intimate group size allows the pilot to provide each guest with individual attention and tailored commentary during the thrilling aerial journey over the stunning glacial landscapes.
The multiple daily departure options give visitors flexibility to fit the tour into their itinerary, whether they’re early risers or prefer an afternoon excursion.
With the convenience of daily flights and small group sizes, the Franz Josef Glacier helicopter experience is accessible to a wide range of travelers.
Aerial Views and Snow Landing
As the helicopter lifts off, passengers are treated to a captivating aerial perspective of the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. Soaring high above the serene, snow-capped landscape, they witness the dramatic interplay of ice, rock, and sky, each detail brought into vivid focus.
The flight offers an unparalleled vantage point, allowing guests to:
-
Gaze upon the majestic, winding curves of the glaciers as they carve through the rugged terrain.
-
Spot cascading waterfalls and meandering streams that flow through the icy wonderland.
-
Marvel at the intricate patterns and vibrant hues of the glacier’s surface.
-
Observe the stark contrast between the pristine snow and the jagged, towering peaks.
-
Capture breathtaking photographs to commemorate this once-in-a-lifetime aerial adventure.
Booking and Weather Considerations
Commonly, travelers book their glacier helicopter flights well in advance to ensure availability, particularly during peak tourism seasons.
The tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure, allowing flexibility in case of unfavorable weather conditions.
Flights operate year-round, though their frequency may be limited on certain holidays, such as Christmas day. While the glacier flights are scheduled daily, their operation is subject to weather conditions.
Travelers are advised to pack appropriately, including warm clothing, sunglasses, and sturdy footwear, as the landing site on the glacier can be cold and exposed.
With proper planning and preparation, visitors can maximize their chances of enjoying this breathtaking aerial adventure over the stunning Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers.
Highlights and Challenges
Travelers who embark on the Franz Josef Glacier helicopter flight consistently praise the outstanding aerial views and memorable glacier landing experiences, as highlighted in the overwhelmingly positive reviews.
The tour’s key highlights include:
-
Breathtaking vistas of the snowy landscapes, frozen rivers, and rugged peaks
-
The thrill of landing on the pristine snow in an area inaccessible to the public
-
Knowledgeable pilots who provide informative commentary and assist with photography
-
A personalized experience with small group sizes, ensuring an intimate and immersive tour
-
The accessibility of these stunning glaciers, making them a must-see for visitors to New Zealand
While some travelers have reported issues with weather-related cancellations and cramped seating, the overall consensus is that the helicopter flight is an unforgettable and awe-inspiring adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snacks or Drinks on the Flight?
Passengers can’t bring their own snacks or drinks on the flight. The tour includes food and drinks, and carries safety regulations that prohibit passengers from bringing outside items. Travelers should check with the operator for any specific policies.
What Is the Maximum Weight Limit for Passengers?
The maximum weight limit for passengers on this helicopter flight is 290 lbs (132 kg). This is to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers during the aerial tour and glacier landing experience.
Is the Helicopter Wheelchair Accessible?
The helicopter tour is not wheelchair accessible. Passengers must be able to board and disembark the helicopter on their own. The tour may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Can I Book a Private or Customized Tour?
Yes, customers can book a private or customized helicopter tour. The tour operator offers flexibility to accommodate individual preferences and group sizes up to 6 travelers for a more personalized experience over the glaciers.
How Do I Get to the Departure Location From My Hotel?
The tour operator offers hotel pickup and drop-off, so guests don’t need to worry about transportation to the departure location. They’ll be conveniently transported from their accommodation to the helipad in Franz Josef township.
Recap
The Fox and Franz Twin Glacier Helicopter Flight offers an unforgettable aerial adventure over New Zealand’s stunning glacial landscapes.
Customers can expect breathtaking views, a thrilling snow landing, and personalized guidance from expert pilots.
With daily departures and a maximum of six passengers per flight, this intimate experience provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness the natural beauty of the region.
More Helicopter Tours in Franz Josef and Fox Glacier
More Tour Reviews in Franz Josef and Fox Glacier
- Private Flight: 4 Glaciers With 2 Snow Landings – 60MINS
- WESTLAND WONDERLAND 40 Minute Movie Spectacular of South West New Zealand
- Small-Group Kayak Adventure From Franz Josef Glacier
- Franz Josef Nature Tour
- 4-Hour Lake Mapourika Kayak and Hike Adventure, With Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary
- Twin Glacier Helicopter Flight From Franz Josef
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Franz Josef and Fox Glacier we have recnetly reviewed
- 5 Best Tours In Franz Josef and Fox Glacier
- 2 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Franz Josef and Fox Glacier
- 4 Best Helicopter Flights And Tours In Franz Josef and Fox Glacier
- 2 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Franz Josef and Fox Glacier
- Ultimate Discovery: 3 Glaciers With Snow Landing – 45MINS
- Lake Matheson Nature Tour
- Tandem Skydive 16,500ft From Franz Josef
- Franz Josef Mountain Scenic Spectacular Helicopter Flight
- Pilots Choice – 2 Glaciers With Snow Landing – 35MINS
- Tandem Skydive 10,000ft From Franz Josef
- Tandem Skydive 13,000ft From Franz Josef
- Twin Glacier Franz and Fox, Snow Landing (Allow 30 Mins – Departing Franz Josef)