Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Flight with Snow Landing

If you’re heading to New Zealand’s South Island and looking for a way to see one of its most iconic sights, a Franz Josef Glacier helicopter flight with snow landing is definitely worth considering. While we haven’t done this particular experience ourselves, it consistently gets high praise from travelers who want to add a dash of adventure and breathtaking scenery to their trip.

What really catches the eye about this tour is how it combines an exhilarating helicopter ride with the opportunity to step onto actual snowfields—something that’s not always possible without special equipment and guides. Plus, the views from above are reported to be absolutely unforgettable. That said, it’s worth noting that weather can affect flights, and you might need some flexibility in your schedule.

This tour seems best suited for travelers craving scenic adventure—those who want to see glaciers from the air and up close—and don’t mind a bit of unpredictability with weather. It’s an experience that works well for most, but keep in mind that children over 4 years old and over 15kg require their own seat, so it’s not ideal for very young kids.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The tour offers panoramic vistas of the glacier, snowfields, and surrounding mountains.
• Unique Snow Landing: You get to step onto the glacier’s snowfield, an experience only accessible by helicopter.
• Flexible Scheduling: Multiple departure times make it easy to fit into different itineraries.
• Weather Dependency: Flights are subject to good weather, so flexibility is important.
• Excellent for Photography: The scenery lends itself to incredible photos from both the air and the ground.
• Well-rated Provider: Glacier Helicopters has consistently high reviews, with all reviewers giving a perfect score for the transport.

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The Experience in Detail

From the moment you arrive at the helicopter base in Franz Josef, you’ll notice how streamlined the process is. The check-in is straightforward, and the staff typically keeps things relaxed and friendly. The journey begins with a scenic flight over the Ice Falls, snowfields, and crevasses of the glacier, which is honestly a view that’s hard to beat. The glacier’s sheer size and icy architecture look surreal from above, especially when framed against the lush forest that creeps to the glacier’s edge.

During the flight, you’ll get sweeping views of the Westland Tai Poutini National Park—a vast, unspoiled wilderness of rugged mountains and dense greenery. The 20-minute duration is just right for a quick yet immersive experience: enough time to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

The highlight, for many, is the snow landing. Once the helicopter touches down on a part of the snowfield, you’re free to stretch your legs and explore the icy landscape. Without special equipment, this area isn’t accessible otherwise, making it a rare chance to see the glacier’s interior up close. Capturing photos here is a must, and many travelers rave about the ‘incredible views’ they get from this vantage point.

After exploring the snowfield, the helicopter takes you back for the return flight, giving you a new perspective on the landscape. It’s a brief but intense experience that leaves many travelers with a sense of awe. One reviewer shared, “We loved the way the glacier looked from above, and the snow landing was a real highlight.”

What to Expect at Each Step

Meeting Point and Check-in

You’ll meet at the helicopter base on Main South Road in Franz Josef. The check-in process is smooth, and staff are generally friendly and knowledgeable. Be sure to arrive a little early to allow for any last-minute questions or adjustments—especially if weather conditions are variable.

The Flight

Once airborne, the views start to unfold immediately. Expect to see the thick forest bordering the glacier, which creates a stunning contrast with the icy landscape. The pilot will likely point out notable features, making the experience both scenic and educational.

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Snow Landing

Midway through, the helicopter lands on a section of the glacier snowfield. Here, you’ll have a few moments to step outside, soak in the silence, and admire the ice formations. You might find this to be one of the most memorable parts—standing on actual glacier ice, surrounded by pristine white snow.

Return Journey

The flight back offers a different perspective, as you see the glacier from a fresh angle. The overall experience typically lasts about 20 minutes, making it a manageable addition to your day.

Price and Value

While the price isn’t specified in the provided data, it’s clear that this experience offers a high degree of value. You’re paying for a short but intense scenic flight combined with a snow landing, which is quite exclusive. The reviews confirm that many find the views worth the cost, especially since the glacier is largely inaccessible without helicopter access after a 2012 collapse.

The fact that flights are bookable with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds flexibility, especially considering weather can be unpredictable. The option to reserve now and pay later is also handy for travelers trying to keep their plans flexible.

The Realistically Practical Aspects

• Timing and Weather: Since flights depend on good weather, it’s wise to book your first available slot in Franz Josef. If the weather isn’t cooperating, you might get rescheduled or refunded, which is reassuring.
• Group Size: While not explicitly stated, helicopter tours tend to be small groups, making the experience more personal.
• Duration: The flight itself is 20 minutes long—short enough to fit into a busy day but packed with plenty of stunning views.
• Children and Families: Kids over 4 years old and over 15kg can participate, which makes it accessible for families with older children.

Authentic Voices from Travelers

Many reviewers emphasize how beautiful the views are from above. One traveler from the Netherlands described it as “Geweldige vlucht gehad! Mooier wordt het denk ik niet,” meaning they had a fantastic flight and thought it might be the most beautiful experience. Another mentioned that during their first attempt, weather prevented the snow landing, but the company rescheduled at no extra cost, highlighting the professionalism and customer care.

Several comments mention the excellent safety and organization of Glacier Helicopters, with all reviews giving a perfect score for transport. The scenic value remains the main draw for nearly everyone, with many describing the views as “spectacular” or “unforgettable.”

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This helicopter and snow landing tour is ideal for adventure seekers and scenery lovers. It’s particularly suited for those who want to see the glacier from above and up close without undertaking a strenuous hike. The brief flight makes it a good choice for travelers who want a taste of glacier scenery without committing to longer or more challenging activities.

However, if you’re prone to motion sickness or dislike flying, it’s worth thinking twice. Also, because the glacier is only accessible by helicopter now, this experience is a unique way to get close to the icy landscape that’s been changing over recent years.

FAQ

How long is the helicopter flight?
The flight lasts approximately 20 minutes, providing enough time to enjoy panoramic views of the glacier and surrounding mountains.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve your spot in advance and choose a suitable departure time. It’s recommended to book your first available day in Franz Josef since weather can impact flights.

Is the snow landing safe?
Yes, the landing is conducted by a professional operator with a proven safety record. You will land on a snowfield accessible only by helicopter, which adds a special touch to the experience.

What happens if the weather doesn’t permit the flight?
Flights are weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable, you will be offered an alternative or a full refund. Booking early in your visit provides flexibility in case you need to reschedule.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children aged 4-14 and over 15kg are permitted and require their own seat. Infants under 4 and under 15kg must sit on an adult’s knee.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at the helicopter base in Franz Josef, located on Main South Road. The coordinates are -43.3875, 170.1820.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an experience that combines breathtaking aerial views with the thrill of standing on actual glacier ice, this helicopter flight with snow landing is a memorable choice. It’s a compact adventure packed with some of the best scenery New Zealand’s South Island has to offer. While weather can be unpredictable, the professionalism of the operator and the stunning vistas make it well worth considering.

Ideal for those who want a quick but impactful thrill, it’s a tour that creates lasting memories for anyone eager to see glaciers from a new perspective. Just remember to keep your plans flexible, and be prepared for the possibility of rescheduling if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Whether you’re a dedicated photographer, an adventure lover, or simply someone who appreciates awe-inspiring landscapes, this experience has something special to offer.

You can check availability for your dates here: