Glacier Explorer & Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Flight

If you’re considering a helicopter adventure while visiting Queenstown, this tour offers a rare combination of stunning scenery, glacier exploration, and a touch of cinematic magic. While I haven’t personally flown with this company, I’ve gathered plenty of insights from travelers who have—so I can give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What we love about this tour is the way it blends spectacular aerial views with the thrill of landing on a glacier, creating a truly memorable experience. The pilots are consistently praised for their professionalism and knowledge, making the flight not just beautiful but also informative. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that the glacier landing isn’t always guaranteed during certain months, which can be a bit disappointing if that’s what you’re hoping for.

This experience is best suited for those who want to see New Zealand’s jaw-dropping mountain scenery without the long walks or hikes, and for anyone eager to add a little adventure to their trip. If you’re after impressive vistas and a bit of adrenaline, this tour should definitely be on your list.

Key Points

• Stunning Aerial Views: Fly over iconic landscapes like Skippers Canyon, Rees Valley, and glaciers, with breathtaking views that are hard to beat.
• Glacier Landing: An exhilarating chance to step onto an untouched glacier—weather permitting—adding a rare, hands-on element to your trip.
• Expert Pilots: Guides and pilots are highly praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and safety, making the journey both informative and relaxing.
• Flexible Options: If weather doesn’t cooperate, you can rebook or get a full refund—flexibility that many travelers appreciate.
• Short but Impactful: The 50-minute flight packs a lot of scenery into a compact duration, ideal for those with limited time.
• High Satisfaction: With a 4.9 out of 5 rating from nearly 200 reviews, most travelers leave with glowing feedback.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is the Glacier Explorer & Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Flight?

This tour takes you on an unforgettable 50-minute helicopter ride from Queenstown, exploring some of the South Island’s most impressive landscapes. The flight begins with a scenic takeoff from Queenstown, giving you instant access to dramatic alpine scenery. The route includes flying over Skippers Canyon, a rugged, historic gorge, and the Rees Valley’s braided rivers. You’ll then venture deep into Mt. Aspiring National Park, home to towering peaks, glaciers, ice falls, and hidden alpine lakes.

One of the most talked-about parts of this experience is the visit to Earnslaw Burn, a spectacular hanging glacier feeding waterfalls into the valley below—a scene made famous by movies like The Lord of the Rings.

The highlight for many is the chance to land on a glacier. This is an area of pristine ice, surrounded by towering peaks, providing a rare opportunity for photos and a real sense of adventure. Even if the glacier landing isn’t possible in all months, you’ll still witness incredible views from the air.

The Flight Itself: What You Can Expect

Imagine taking off from Queenstown’s airfield, feeling the buzz of anticipation. Your pilot, skilled and friendly, guides you through the first few moments with ease as you ascend into the sky. As you lift off, you’ll see Queenstown’s sparkling lake and the surrounding mountains unfold beneath you—a scene that sets the tone for what’s to come.

Fly over Skippers Canyon, with its historic gold rush roots, and admire the braided rivers snaking through Rees Valley. These views alone are worth the trip. The real magic begins as the helicopter heads toward Mt. Aspiring National Park, revealing massive glaciers, gleaming ice falls, and serene alpine lakes.

Your pilot will share insights into how glaciers have shaped the landscape—something you’ll want to listen closely to, as the guides are generally praised for their knowledge and engaging commentary.

The Earnslaw Burn area is next, where a hanging glacier and waterfalls create a scene that looks like it’s from a fantasy film. This is a favorite among travelers who appreciate the cinematic scenery that New Zealand is famous for.

When conditions allow, you’ll land on a glacier, stepping out into a world of untouched snow and ice. Many reviewers describe this as the most memorable part of the trip, with one saying it’s “a once-in-a-lifetime experience.” You’ll get time to take photos, soak in the silence, and marvel at the towering peaks all around.

The Glacier Landing Experience

Landing on a glacier is the tour’s crown jewel. It’s a carefully controlled, exhilarating experience that leaves many travelers feeling like they’re on a movie set. You’ll step onto the ice, surrounded by pristine snow and towering mountain walls. This close-up encounter lets you appreciate the scale and beauty of these ancient ice formations.

A notable point is that, depending on the season, glacier landings may be limited or unavailable. From January to June, snow cover changes might expose crevasses or make landing unsafe, so pilots may opt for a nearby alpine landing instead. But even without landing, the flyover itself offers spectacular views of glaciers and icefalls.

Reviewers consistently mention how gentle and steady the flight feels, with pilots often sharing fun stories and pointing out LotR filming locations, adding a layer of cinematic nostalgia. One traveler noted, “The glacier was surreal, and the whole flight path was just unbelievable.”

How Does the Experience Feel in Practice?

Most travelers report that the flight is smooth and the scenery is far more impressive in person than pictures can capture. The views are expansive, with mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls all unfolding in a kaleidoscope of icy blues and rugged browns.

The group sizes tend to be small, making the experience feel intimate. The aircrafts are modern and well-maintained, according to reviews, and safety is clearly a priority.

The staff, from booking to the actual flight, are praised for their professionalism and friendliness. Several reviews mention the ease of arranging pickups from hotel accommodations, which helps streamline the whole experience.

One traveler pointed out that the pilot Alfie was “fantastic, in complete control, a good laugh, and a lovely fella,” making the flight not only enjoyable but also relaxing.

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The Value for Money

At what you might consider a premium price, most reviews agree that this tour offers good value given the scenery, the expertise, and the once-in-a-lifetime chance to land on a glacier. The flight packs a lot of sights into just under an hour, meaning you’re paying for a high-quality, personalized adventure rather than just a standard scenic flight.

Given the reviews praising the professionalism, safety, and the memorable nature of the experience, many see it as worth the cost. Plus, the flexibility to rebook or get a full refund if the weather doesn’t cooperate adds peace of mind.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This helicopter experience is ideal for adventurers and scenery lovers who want a quick but impactful taste of New Zealand’s mountain wilderness. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want a bucket-list moment.

Travelers who enjoy photo opportunities will love the chance to capture glaciers and mountain panoramas from above—and when landing on the glacier, you get a truly unique shot.

It’s also a good pick for those who have a thing for Lord of the Rings scenery, as guides often point out filming locations. While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the tour is suitable for most able-bodied travelers who are comfortable in a helicopter environment.

Final Thoughts

The Glacier Explorer & Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Flight delivers a well-balanced mix of breathtaking scenery, expert guidance, and adrenaline-pumping glacier landings. It’s a must-do for anyone wanting to see some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes in a relatively short time, especially if you’re craving a high-adventure experience that combines flying and walking.

The high ratings and glowing reviews speak volumes about the quality and consistency of this tour. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, most will come away with incredible photos, unforgettable memories, and a new appreciation for New Zealand’s rugged beauty.

If you’re after a top-tier scenic helicopter ride with the chance to step on ice, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember, weather can be unpredictable, so flexibility and a sense of adventure are your best allies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book early, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot. You can also transfer your booking if weather causes delays or cancellations.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses and a camera to capture the views. Dress appropriately for the weather, especially in winter or colder months.

Is a glacier landing always guaranteed?
Not necessarily. Between January and June, snow conditions can change, and landing on the glacier might not be possible. In such cases, you’ll still see glaciers from above or land nearby instead.

How long does the flight last?
The flight duration is approximately 50 minutes, which includes flying over various scenic spots and the glacier landing when possible.

Are there any restrictions?
Drones, selfie sticks, and smoking are not allowed on the aircraft or at the landing sites.

Is this experience suitable for families?
While generally suitable for most travelers comfortable with helicopter flights, it’s best suited for those who don’t have significant fear of flying or mobility issues.

What if the weather is bad on the day of my booking?
You can rebook or get a full refund if the weather prevents flying. The company is flexible and prioritizes safety.

What makes this tour stand out compared to other helicopter trips?
Most travelers point to the knowledgeable pilots, stunning scenic routes, and the chance to land on a glacier as key differentiators. The combination of cinematic scenery and adventure is hard to beat.

For those craving a snapshot of New Zealand’s icy wilderness, with the bonus of a glacier landng, this helicopter tour looks like a fantastic choice. It blends awe-inspiring views with genuine adventure, and with positive reviews across the board, it’s a tried-and-true way to elevate your Queenstown experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: