Queenstown: Remarakbles Helicopter Tour with Alpine Landing

Imagine soaring high above the stunning South Island of New Zealand, with panoramic views that make your jaw drop. That’s exactly what this 20-minute helicopter tour offers — a quick but unforgettable peek into the dramatic scenery surrounding Queenstown. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just craving that first taste of helicopter adventure, this ride promises plenty of photo opportunities and a sense of awe that sticks with you.

We particularly like how accessible this experience is — it’s a straightforward, well-organized trip that balances thrill with comfort. The alpine landing on The Remarkables is a highlight, giving you a chance to step out and take in the mountain vistas up close. One thing to keep in mind is that the flight duration can feel a bit short, especially considering the price, but for many, the scenery and unique perspective justify it. This tour is ideal if you’re after a manageable, scenic adventure and don’t mind sharing the experience with a small group.

If you love striking mountain views, crave a bit of adrenaline, or want a memorable way to see Queenstown from above, this helicopter trip might be just right. It also works well if you’re curious about the region’s rugged terrain and want to add a special moment to your trip—perfect for a first-time helicopter ride or a quick special outing.

Key Points

• Short but Spectacular: This 20-minute flight delivers incredible views and a taste of helicopter adventure.
• Stunning Photo Opportunities: The alpine landing on The Remarkables gives you a unique chance to capture breathtaking shots.
• Expert Guides: The knowledgeable pilot, James, received praise for making guests feel at ease, adding to the enjoyment.
• Weather Dependent: Flights depend on good weather, and routes or landings might be adjusted for safety.
• Shared Experience: You’ll be flying with 6 to 9 other passengers, which can be fun and social but means you won’t always get a guaranteed seat next to the window.
• Value for Money: While some felt the ride was shorter than expected, many appreciated the overall scenic payoff.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Ease of Booking

The tour kicks off at 64 Grant Road, a central spot in Queenstown that’s easy to find. Booking is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later, which is handy if your plans are still fluid. Plus, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before, so there’s no big risk in trying to secure your spot.

The Scenic Flight: What to Expect

Once aboard, you’ll cruise over Queenstown’s iconic landscape—think winding rivers like the Shotover and Kawarau, lush valleys, and the shimmering Lake Whakatipu. The pilot will guide you through the sights, pointing out key features, all while you soak in the expansive views. Expect to see Queenstown from a perspective most visitors don’t get—on top of the world, literally.

The Remarkables Alpine Landing

This is the true highlight. After flying over the mountains, your helicopter will land on The Remarkables, at about 1,500 meters above sea level. If you’re lucky with the weather, you might even land in snow, which adds an extra layer of magic. Guests have described this as a “magical” experience, and it’s a rare chance to step outside a helicopter and walk in the mountains. The scenery from here is jaw-dropping — jagged peaks, expansive skies, and a sense of wonder that’s hard to beat.

More Great Tours Nearby

The View, the Photos, and the Vibe

From this vantage point, you’ll want to have your camera ready. The views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Wakatipu are stunning — perfect for snapping that epic shot. Many reviews mention how fantastic the photos turn out, especially if the weather clears up after some clouds.

Returning and Overall Atmosphere

After a brief stop and photo session, the helicopter will whisk you back to Queenstown, passing over more scenic spots. The entire trip lasts about 20 minutes, but many find it feels just right—enough time to see a lot without feeling rushed.

What Travelers Are Saying

The Good

• Knowledgeable Pilot: Reviewers rave about how James and the crew make everyone feel comfortable and safe. His local expertise and willingness to help with photos stood out.
• Spectacular Views: Guests agree that the scenery is impressive and the alpine landing a major highlight. Alexandra from Australia called it “the highlight of our trip so far.”
• Good Value for Money: Despite some feeling the ride was shorter than expected, most think the experience justifies the cost, especially given the scenery.

The Not-So-Perfect

• Short Duration: Sharon from Australia pointed out, “We paid for a 20-minute ride and were only in the air for about 10 minutes.” That’s worth knowing — if you’re hoping for a longer flight, this might not meet your expectations.
• Weather Dependency: The tour is weather-sensitive, which can lead to rescheduling or route changes. Keep an eye on the forecast if planning around a specific day.

The Practical Side: Logistics and Tips

Who is this for?

This experience suits travelers who want a quick but visually rewarding helicopter ride, especially those new to helicopter flights. It’s also great for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting that memorable mountain landings photo. It’s not specifically tailored to families with young children or those seeking an extended flight, but older kids who enjoy scenery and adventure may find it exciting.

Pricing and Value

While the tour isn’t cheap, many feel that the scenic vistas and the alpine landing add a lot of value. The key is to expect a short ride that packs a punch, offering a fresh perspective rather than a lengthy tour.

What to Bring

• Comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain
• Warm clothing, especially if visiting in winter — temperatures at altitude can drop quickly
• Camera to capture the incredible views

Things to Keep in Mind

• Seating is assigned based on weight for safety, so you may not get your preferred seat.
• Accurate weights are necessary at booking — discrepancies could affect your flight.
• Flights are weather-dependent, so flexibility might be needed.
• The experience involves shared flights, with up to 9 passengers aboard, making it a social adventure.

The Sum Up

For anyone visiting Queenstown, this helicopter tour offers a striking perspective on the region’s iconic mountain ranges and lakes. It’s a short but stunning window into New Zealand’s rugged beauty, perfect for those wanting a quick adrenaline boost with plenty of photo ops. The alpine landing on The Remarkables is a special touch that elevates the experience from ordinary to memorable.

If you’re after a well-organized, engaging, scenic trip that provides a chance to step out in the mountains and snap some incredible photos, this tour delivers. While it may feel a little brief, the views and the experience of landing on a mountain top make it worth considering—especially if you’re new to helicopter rides or want to tick this adventure off your bucket list.

This experience is best suited for those who value spectacular scenery and expert guides. It’s ideal if you want a quick, breathtaking highlight during your Queenstown stay, and don’t mind sharing the helicopter with others. For adventure lovers and photo enthusiasts alike, this helicopter trip stands out as a memorable chapter of your New Zealand journey.

FAQs

How long is the helicopter ride?
The scheduled flight lasts about 20 minutes, though some guests have noted it felt shorter—around 10 minutes in the air. Keep that in mind if you’re expecting a longer flight.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 64 Grant Road in Queenstown, a central and accessible location.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll experience a scenic flight over Queenstown, pass by rivers and mountains, and land on The Remarkables for about 10 minutes of exploration and photos.

Is the tour weather dependent?
Yes, all flights depend on weather conditions for safety reasons. Routes and landings may be adjusted or rescheduled if conditions aren’t ideal.

Can I take photos during the flight and landing?
Absolutely. Guests are encouraged to bring their cameras for the incredible views and the alpine landing.

Is this experience suitable for families or children?
While not specifically targeted at families, older children who enjoy scenery and a bit of adventure should find it exciting. Check with the provider about any age or height restrictions if traveling with kids.

If you’re dreaming of a quick but stunning helicopter ride over Queenstown, with a chance to stand atop The Remarkables and see the mountains from a whole new angle, this experience is worth considering. Just remember, good weather and realistic expectations about the duration will help you get the most out of this scenic jaunt.

You can check availability for your dates here: