Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime guided heli-hiking adventure on the Tasman Glacier, located in the heart of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
As New Zealand’s largest glacier, the Tasman Glacier offers unparalleled opportunities to explore a dramatic icy landscape accessible only by helicopter.
This guided experience takes you through towering ice formations, shimmering blue caves, and sprawling crevasses—all while surrounded by the majestic views of Mount Cook and the Southern Alps.
Begin your adventure with a scenic helicopter flight over Mount Cook, offering breathtaking vistas of glacier lakes, rugged alpine ranges, and the iconic Aoraki/Mount Cook peak.
Once you land on the glacier, you’ll be equipped with crampons for a safe exploration of the glistening ice under the expert guidance of professional tour leaders.
Designed to accommodate all fitness levels, this guided heli-hike combines adventure with the stunning beauty of New Zealand’s South Island.
Whether you’re an experienced explorer or visiting for the first time, a guided heli-hiking adventure on the Tasman Glacier offers a thrilling way to immerse yourself in one of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes.
Explore ice caves, marvel at crystal-clear blue ice, and uncover the natural wonders of this remote glacier environment.
Book your Mount Cook heli-hike today for an unforgettable experience.
Explore Tasman Glacier with these incredible heli-hiking tours, operated by trusted individual providers. From short scenic flights to full-day adventures departing from Queenstown, each tour offers a unique way to experience New Zealand’s largest glacier. Compare options below and find the perfect tour for your adventure on Aoraki/Mount Cook’s, Taman Glacier.
Trip Time: Glacier landing + 2 hour glacier hike adventure
Price: $919 per person
Departs: Glentanner 9:00am – 11:00 am & 1:00 pm
Embark on a thrilling heli-hike adventure with The Helicopter Line, one of New Zealand’s most trusted operators.
Begin with a breathtaking helicopter flight over Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, offering panoramic views of the Southern Alps, stunning ice formations, and the serene Tasman Glacier Lake.
Upon landing on New Zealand’s largest glacier, you’ll step into a frozen world of shimmering blue ice caves, towering ice formations, and deep crevasses.
Led by expert mountaineers, you’ll traverse this dynamic landscape while learning about the glacier’s history, geology, and the changing alpine environment.
This experience combines thrilling exploration with unparalleled scenery, making it a perfect choice for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Highlights:
Price: Adult $840 per person – Child: $840 aged 9 to 14
Departs: Mt. Cook airport
Duration: Approx 3 Hours
Discover the Tasman Glacier with Inflite Helicopters, a top provider of glacier tours.
Your adventure starts with a scenic helicopter flight over Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where you’ll witness breathtaking views of the Southern Alps, glacial lakes, and Mount Cook’s iconic peaks.
After landing on the glacier, gear up with crampons and join your guide for an unforgettable hike across this icy expanse. Traverse deep crevasses, marvel at blue ice caves, and experience the raw beauty of the glacier.
Your guide will share insights into the glacier’s unique features, history, and natural ecosystem.
This tour is an excellent choice for anyone seeking an exciting and informative alpine adventure.
Highlights:
Trip Time: 12 hours Incl 3 hour glacier hike adventure Price: $1079 per person Child: $968 pp
Departs: 6:30am from Queenstown Accommodation
Join Cheeky Kiwi Tours for an epic full-day adventure from Queenstown to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Your journey begins with a scenic drive through some of the South Island’s most stunning locations, including Kawarau Gorge, Lindis Pass, and the brilliant blue waters of Lake Pukaki.
Upon reaching Mount Cook Village, the highlight of your day awaits: a thrilling Tasman Glacier heli-hike.
Board a helicopter for a scenic flight over the Southern Alps and Tasman Glacier before landing on the ice.
Explore blue crevasses, towering ice cliffs, and hidden ice caves with expert guides leading the way.
After the heli-hike, relax with stops at High Country Salmon Farm for fresh salmon and Mrs. Jones Fruit Stall (seasonal), before returning to Queenstown.
Highlights:
Trip Time: 13 hours Incl 3 hour glacier hike adventure
Price: $1079 per person
Departs: 7:30am From Queenstown Accommodation
Travel in comfort with Altitude Tours, offering a premium small-group experience aboard a luxury Mercedes Sprinter van.
Your day begins with scenic stops at Cromwell, Lindis Pass, and Lake Pukaki, where you can capture stunning views of Mount Cook and the surrounding alpine landscapes.
The highlight of your trip is the Tasman Glacier heli-hike.
Board a helicopter for a breathtaking flight over the glacier, then land on the ice for a guided hike through dramatic ice formations, caves, and crevasses.
Afterward, enjoy a relaxing return journey to Queenstown.
Highlights:
Price: Adults $1499 per person – Child $1299 pp
Departure Time: 8:00am, returning at 4:00pm. Winter (May 1st to September 30th) departure is 8:00am returning by 4:00pm
Duration: 3 Hours Heli Hike + flight from Queenstown
Flying Time: One hour 20 minutes
Flight package includes:
Take your adventure to new heights with True South Flights, offering a unique combination of scenic flights and a heli-hike on Tasman Glacier.
Depart from Queenstown on a fixed-wing aircraft, enjoying guaranteed window seats as you soar over glacial lakes, Mackenzie Basin, and the Southern Alps.
Upon landing at Mount Cook Airport, transfer to a helicopter for an unforgettable flight over the glacier before touching down on the ice.
Explore stunning crevasses, ice caves, and towering formations during a 2-hour guided hike.
End the day with a scenic return flight via a different route, showcasing even more of New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes.
Highlights:
What to bring:
Heli-hiking on the Tasman Glacier in Mount Cook National Park is widely acclaimed by adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
Participants often highlight the breathtaking scenery, the thrill of helicopter flights, and the unique experience of exploring the glacier’s ice formations.
For instance, a reviewer on Tripadvisor described the experience as “Phenomenal… absolutely worth every penny,” emphasizing the expertise of the guides and the ever-changing beauty of the glacier.
Another participant shared their excitement about the heli-hike, stating it was an “unforgettable experience” and highly recommended the tour operator for their professionalism and ability to reschedule flights due to weather conditions.
These testimonials reflect the high satisfaction levels among those who have embarked on the Tasman Glacier heli-hike, underscoring its status as a must-do adventure in New Zealand.
Pack warm, layered clothing (avoid jeans on wet days), sturdy footwear, sunglasses, sunscreen, gloves, a warm hat, and a small backpack for snacks and water. Don’t forget a camera to capture the incredible scenery! All necessary glacier equipment, like crampons, will be provided.
Yes! These tours are designed for all fitness levels. The guides are experienced in helping first-time hikers feel comfortable and safe while exploring the glacier.
Heli-hiking tours are weather-dependent. In case of unfavourable conditions, operators will offer alternative schedules or provide a full refund.
Most tours are suitable for participants aged 9 years and older. Be sure to check specific age requirements when booking.
The duration varies depending on the operator:
Yes, many operators offer private tours tailored to your group. Contact John at [email protected] for more information.
Tours include a scenic helicopter flight, all glacier equipment (e.g., crampons, boots), a guided glacier hike, and return flights. Contact John at [email protected] for specific details.
Yes, heli-hiking tours are family-friendly, but age and fitness considerations apply. Children over 9 years old can typically join, making it an adventurous outing for families.