Queenstown: Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike

Queenstown’s Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike is an unforgettable adventure that combines the thrill of helicopter flights over the Southern Alps with the chance to explore the mesmerizing ice caves of either the Franz Josef or Tasman Glacier. Under the guidance of experienced professionals, participants marvel at the glacier’s breathtaking features while outfitted with specialized equipment for their safety. This immersive experience promises to deepen one’s appreciation for the majestic beauty of these natural wonders – but the true highlight may lie in what’s waiting to be discovered on the glacier itself.

Key Points

• The Queenstown: Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike activity is a 6.5-hour tour that includes scenic flights and a guided glacier hike.
• The activity features a helicopter ride over glacial landscapes and a two-hour guided hike on either the Franz Josef or Tasman Glacier.
• The tour is led by English-speaking professionals, includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, and provides specialized equipment for participants.
• The activity is not suitable for children under 12, individuals with mobility issues, or those outside the weight range of 30 kg to 115 kg.
• Participants must wear appropriate gear, and certain items are prohibited on the glacier to ensure safety and enjoyment during the tour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The Queenstown: Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike is a 6.5-hour activity that offers a scenic return flight from Queenstown to Franz Josef.

The experience includes a helicopter ride over spectacular glacial scenery and a two-hour guided glacier hiking experience, which features exploration of ice caves.

Priced from $901.47 per person, the activity is available at various start times, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour is led by an English-speaking guide and includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, all necessary equipment, and transportation.

However, it’s not suitable for children under 12, individuals with mobility issues, or those with low fitness levels.

Participants must bring appropriate clothing and gear and follow specific booking requirements.

Experience Highlights

Scenic return flights from Queenstown to Franz Josef allow travelers to soak in the breathtaking glacial scenery from above before embarking on a helicopter ride that brings them even closer to the impressive natural formations.

Once on the glacier, you will explore the ice with an experienced guide, discovering hidden features like ice caves. Depending on weather conditions, the tour offers the option to visit either the Franz Josef or Tasman Glacier, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

The two-hour glacier hiking portion provides the perfect opportunity to fully take in the icy landscapes, with all necessary specialist equipment provided for a safe and enjoyable adventure.

Included in the Tour

What makes this tour truly comprehensive is the inclusion of hotel pick-up and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to the experience.

Plus, travelers will enjoy two scenic plane flights from Queenstown to Franz Josef and back, providing stunning aerial views of the region’s glacial landscapes.

The tour also comprises two helicopter flights from the township directly to the glacier, allowing for an up-close encounter with the impressive natural formations.

All specialist equipment, such as crampons, waterproof pants, and jackets, is provided, so guests can focus on the adventure without worrying about gear.

However, food and drinks aren’t included, so participants should come prepared with their own sustenance.

Important Considerations

While the tour includes an array of amenities, there are some important considerations travelers should keep in mind when booking this heli-hike experience.

First and foremost, the activity isn’t suitable for children under 12, those with mobility issues, or individuals weighing less than 30 kg or over 115 kg.

Participants should also be prepared with the right gear, including sunglasses, outdoor clothing, and closed-toe shoes.

Plus, certain items like jeans, selfie sticks, and bags aren’t allowed on the glacier.

Finally, it’s crucial to provide accurate personal details like names and weights when booking, as any discrepancies could affect participation.

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Customer Reviews

Overwhelmingly positive reviews have come through for the Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike, with customers praising the tour’s transportation, overall value, and the expertise of the guides.

The flights to and from the glacier received unanimous 5/5 ratings, with customers highlighting the pilots’ skill and the sheer beauty of the aerial views.

While some felt the hiking portion was a bit rushed, the majority rated the overall value at 4.5/5, impressed by the unique experience of exploring the glacier up-close.

Reviewers consistently noted the friendliness and safety-focused approach of the guides, who led participants through the ice caves and precarious terrain.

With an average 5/5 rating across 18 reviews, this tour stands out as a must-do for anyone visiting Franz Josef Glacier.

Scenic Flights

The scenic return flights from Queenstown to Franz Josef Glacier are widely praised by customers for their stunning aerial views and the pilots’ expertise.

These flights offer travelers a unique opportunity to witness the breathtaking landscapes of the South Island from above.

According to customer reviews, the highlights of the scenic flights include:

1. Soaring over the rugged mountains and pristine valleys of the Southern Alps, providing a bird’s-eye view of the region’s natural beauty.

2. Observing the vast expanse of the Franz Josef Glacier and its surrounding glacial features, which are inaccessible from the ground.

3. Experiencing the smooth and skillful flying of the pilots, who expertly navigate the challenging terrain to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

Glacier Hiking Adventure

Following the scenic flights, travelers embark on the glacier hiking adventure, where they explore the captivating ice formations of either the Franz Josef or Tasman Glacier, depending on weather conditions.

Led by experienced guides, hikers don specialized equipment like crampons and waterproof gear to navigate the glacier safely. They’ll discover hidden ice caves, marvel at the intricate patterns in the ice, and learn about the glacier’s unique geology.

Though the hike is limited to two hours, the sense of adventure and wonder makes it an unforgettable experience. Travelers return from the glacier with a deeper appreciation for the power and beauty of these natural wonders.

Booking Requirements

To book the Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike, travelers need to provide their full names and approximate weights at the time of booking, as discrepancies may affect participation. This is an important requirement for several reasons:

1. Ensuring the safety and comfort of all participants by properly fitting equipment and accommodating weight restrictions.

2. Facilitating efficient logistics and planning, as the tour operator needs to account for the total weight of the group.

3. Maintaining transparency and setting clear expectations, so travelers are fully informed about the activity’s requirements.

Recap

The Queenstown: Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike is an unforgettable experience that combines breathtaking aerial views with an immersive glacier exploration.

Participants can expect stunning scenery, expert guidance, and specialized equipment as they discover the captivating ice caves and features of either Franz Josef or Tasman Glacier.

This thrilling adventure is a must-do for those seeking to deepen their appreciation for the majestic beauty of New Zealand’s glaciers.

You can check if your dates are available here: