5 Best Helicopter Tours
(Updated November 2025)
Which are the Best Franz Josef Glacier Tours?
With the advent of higher temperatures, Franz Josef Glacier melting has accelerated, resulting in a rapid retreat of the glacier snout (terminus).
Unfortunately for visitors, that has led to the snout of the Franz Josef Glacier becoming dangerous, with huge chunks of ice caving frequently, and ice dams breaking resulting in unexpected floods ravaging the valley floor.
As a result of the glacier retreating, the nearest viewpoint, a short hike on the Franz Josef Glacier Walk trail, offers only a distant glimpse.
For those seeking better views or walking on the frozen glacier, a bucket list item for many New Zealand visitors, the primary viable option is a helicopter tour, pricey but well worth the splurge!
But which one to choose?
Types of Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Tours
| Helicopter Tours | Duration | Experience | Helicopter Price (per adult) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scenic Flight with Snow Landing | ~20 min | Fly over Franz Josef Glacier with a snow landing | About $215 |
| Twin Glacier Tour | ~30 min | Explore both Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers, usually includes a snow landing | About $275 |
| Mount Cook Spectacular | ~40 min | Scenic flight over Franz Josef Glacier & Aoraki/Mount Cook with a snow landing | About $375 |
| Glacier Heli-Hike | ~3 hrs | Helicopter drop-off on glacier + guided hike with ice exploration | About $450 |
| Private Charter | Varies | Tailored flight experience for special occasions or exclusive access | About $2,999 (up to 6 people) |
Scenic Flights with Snow Landings
The most affordable option for visitors on a tight budget, these helicopter tours offer a quick flight (usually about 20 minutes total duration) over Franz Josef Glacier and a short snow landing on the upper reaches of the glacier.
The tour offers stunning, panoramic views of snow-covered peaks and the glacier’s crevasses and towering seracs, along with an opportunity to step out briefly on the bluish icy landscape, savor the crisp mountain air and snap a few shots for your Instagram feed.
>> Check pricing and availability on this popular, 5-star rated Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Flight with Snow Landing!
Twin Glacier Helicopter Tours
Slightly more expensive and longer, these tours throw in a two-for-one deal: you get to see both the Franz Josef Glacier and the Fox Glacier, along with a slightly more immersive landing experience.
>> Check pricing and availability on this popular, 5-star rated Fox and Franz Twin Glacier Helicopter Flight from Franz Josef!
Mount Cook Spectacular
For about an additional $100 per adult, you get a roughly 40-minute helicopter ride that includes awe-inspiring views of Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier and Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak for an amazing showcase of the grandeur of the Southern Alps!
A brief snow landing is typically included in these tours.
>> Check pricing and availability on this popular, 5-star rated Mount Cook and The Glaciers 55-Minute Helicopter Flight!
Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hikes
For tourists hoping for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to walk on the frozen river your only option currently are guided heli-hike tours that offer scenic panoramic views from the helicopter along with an extended, guided hike on the upper ice regions of the glacier.
The guided hikes are usually 2-2.5 hours long, and you get to don specialized equipment (crampons) to walk on pristine, bluish ice exploring ice caves, deep crevasses and towering seracs with your guide.
>> Check pricing and availability on this popular, 5-star rated Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike!
Private Charter Flights
For those seeking to tailor their experience, private charter flights are available, but often require advance reservations.
>> Check pricing and availability on this popular, 5-star rated Private Flight: 3 Glaciers with Snow Landing – 45mins!
Helicopter Price
As of current writing, helicopter prices vary from about $200 / adult to $500 / adult depending on the type of tour, as described above.