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Heli-Hiking Adventure On The Tasman Glacier, Mount Cook

Discover the Thrill of Heli-Hiking on the Tasman Glacier, Mount Cook

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime heli-hiking adventure on the Tasman Glacier, nestled in the heart of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. As New Zealand’s largest glacier, the Tasman Glacier offers a unique opportunity to explore a dramatic icy landscape that’s accessible only by helicopter. This guided heli-hike tour promises an unforgettable journey through towering ice formations, shimmering blue caves, and sprawling crevasses—all while surrounded by the breathtaking views of Mount Cook and the Southern Alps.

What to Expect on a Tasman Glacier Heli-Hike

Your adventure begins with a scenic helicopter flight over Mount Cook, offering panoramic views of glacier lakes, rugged mountain ranges, and the iconic Aoraki/Mount Cook peak. After touching down on the glacier, you’ll be equipped with crampons to safely navigate the glistening ice under the guidance of experienced professionals. Suitable for all fitness levels, this guided glacier hike is perfect for anyone looking to combine adventure with the beauty of New Zealand’s South Island.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time visitor, heli-hiking on the Tasman Glacier is a thrilling way to experience one of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes. Explore ice caves, marvel at the crystal-clear blue ice, and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of this remote glacier environment. Book your Mount Cook heli-hike today for a truly unforgettable experience.

Heli Hiking Tour Options:

The Helicopter Line - Heli Hike

Inflite Helicopter - Heli Hike

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-hiking adventure with The Helicopter Line, and explore the majestic beauty of Tasman Glacier, the longest glacier in New Zealand.

Stretching 27 kilometers (17 miles) through the heart of the Southern Alps, this massive glacier is up to 4 kilometers wide and 600 meters thick, making it a truly awe-inspiring sight.

Your journey begins with a scenic helicopter flight over Tasman Glacier and the surrounding Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, offering panoramic views of the glacier’s stunning ice formations, towering peaks, and the picturesque Tasman Glacier Lake.

As you fly over this incredible landscape, you’ll witness the power and beauty of New Zealand’s natural wonders from above.

After descending onto the glacier, feel the crisp alpine air as your guide introduces you to the ever-changing world of the Tasman Glacier.

This guided glacier hike takes you through spectacular ice formations, where you’ll encounter breathtaking blue ice, deep crevasses, and rugged ice caves.

Your experienced guide will lead you safely across the glacier, sharing insights into its geology, history, and ongoing transformation.

This heli-hike experience offers a unique and unforgettable opportunity to explore the wonders of the Southern Alps and New Zealand’s largest glacier.

It’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that promises stunning views, thrilling exploration, and lasting memories.

 

Price:   Adult  $840  per person  –  Child:  $840 aged 9 to 14 
Departs: 
Mt. Cook airport

Duration:  Approx 3 Hours

Experience the ultimate alpine adventure with Inflite Helicopters’ Tasman Glacier Heli-Hike, combining the thrill of a scenic helicopter flight with an unforgettable guided hike on New Zealand’s largest glacier.

Soar deep into the heart of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where your helicopter will land on a remote, untouched section of the majestic Tasman Glacier.

Throughout the flight, enjoy breathtaking aerial views of Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak, and the rugged expanse of the Southern Alps.

Upon landing, you’ll be outfitted with all necessary gear, including crampons in summer or a mix of crampons and snowshoes in winter, ensuring your glacier walk is both safe and exciting.

Under the expert guidance of your glacier guide, you’ll traverse the stunning icy landscape, encountering blue ice caves, deep crevasses, and other incredible ice formations that make the Tasman Glacier a marvel of nature.

Your guide, using skills passed down by New Zealand’s mountaineering pioneers, will expertly carve steps into the glacier as you explore this ever-changing natural wonder.

Learn about the glacier’s history, its gradual evolution, and the delicate balance of its icy ecosystem during your 2-hour hike.

The adventure concludes with another scenic helicopter flight back to the Mount Cook base, offering one last chance to take in the breathtaking views of Tasman Glacier and the surrounding alpine peaks.

Day Tours From Queenstown to Heli-Hike The Tasman Glacier. Mount Cook

Mt Cook Tour & Heli Hike Combo from Queenstown

Mt Cook Scenic Tour / Incl. Tasman Glacier Heli Hike

Trip Time: 12 hours Incl 3 hour glacier hike adventure       
Price:  $1079 per person Child: $968 pp
Departs:  6:30am from Queenstown Accommodation

See Days Itinerary:

Join Cheeky Kiwi Tours for an epic day trip from Queenstown to the breathtaking Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, including an unforgettable Tasman Glacier Heli-Hike.

This small-group tour offers spectacular scenic drives, stunning landscapes, and a thrilling adventure on New Zealand’s largest glacier.

Your journey begins in Queenstown, where you’ll be guided through some of the South Island’s most scenic locations, including Kawarau Gorge, Lindis Pass, and the vibrant blue waters of Lake Pukaki.

Along the way, enjoy photo stops and local insights from your guide, who will point out hidden gems and iconic landmarks.

The highlight of the tour is the Tasman Glacier Heli-Hike.

Board a helicopter for a scenic flight over the Southern Alps and Mount Cook, before landing on a remote section of the glacier.

Equipped with all the necessary gear, you’ll embark on a guided glacier hike, exploring stunning ice formations, blue crevasses, and hidden caves.

After up to 2 hours of exploration, your adventure concludes with another scenic helicopter flight back to base.

Other memorable stops include High Country Salmon Farm, where you can taste fresh local salmon, and Lake Pukaki, offering unparalleled views of Aoraki/Mt Cook.

The tour wraps up with a relaxing drive back to Queenstown, where you can enjoy local fruit at Mrs. Jones Fruit Stall (seasonal).

Highlights:

  • Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and Tasman Glacier Heli-Hike
  • Two scenic helicopter flights over Mount Cook and the Southern Alps
  • Explore Lake Pukaki, Kawarau Gorge, and Lindis Pass
  • Visit High Country Salmon and sample fresh New Zealand salmon

This fully guided, small-group tour promises comfort, adventure, and unforgettable memories.

Trip Time: 13 hours Incl 3 hour glacier hike adventure        
Price:  $1079 per person 
Departs:  7:30am From Queenstown Accommodation

See Days Itinerary:

Join Altitude Tours for an unforgettable day trip from Queenstown to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, featuring a thrilling Tasman Glacier Heli-Hike.

Travel in comfort in a premium Mercedes Sprinter van, limited to just 16 passengers, as you explore the stunning alpine landscapes of the Southern Alps.

Your adventure begins with scenic stops at Cromwell, the breathtaking Lindis Pass, and the quaint town of Omarama, before reaching the brilliant blue waters of Lake Pukaki.

Marvel at the towering peaks of Mount Cook as you journey deeper into the national park.

Upon arrival at Mount Cook Village, prepare for the highlight of your day—a once-in-a-lifetime Tasman Glacier Heli-Hike with The Helicopter Line.

Soar over the glacier in a scenic helicopter flight and land on the remote ice, where you’ll spend two hours exploring dramatic ice caves, crevasses, and stunning ice formations with experienced guides.

After your heli-hike, relax on the scenic drive back to Queenstown, taking in the unforgettable alpine views.

This 12-hour tour offers a unique combination of sightseeing and adventure, with expert commentary and small-group comfort throughout the day.

Highlights:

  • Scenic stops at Lindis Pass, Omarama, and Lake Pukaki
  • Tasman Glacier Heli-Hike with two scenic helicopter flights
  • Small-group tour in a premium Mercedes vehicle
  • Fully guided experience with informative commentary

True South Flights: Queenstown to Mount Cook Tasman Glacier Heli-Hike

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:

  • Courtesy transport between your accommodation and Queenstown Airport
  • 60 minute flights between Queenstown and Mount Cook, taking a different route back via Mt. Aspiring if possible
  • Window seats guaranteed
  • 3 hour heli-hike, with 2 hours of time on the ice plus scenic helicopter flights to and from the glacier
  • All equipment provided: crampons, boots, socks, ice axes

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the Tasman Glacier with True South Flights.

Departing from Queenstown on a scenic fixed-wing flight, you’ll soar over the stunning glacial lakes, the expansive Mackenzie Basin, and the rugged Southern Alps.

This is an ideal way to experience New Zealand’s highest peak and the quiet grandeur of the Tasman Glacier, which is typically less crowded than the Franz Josef Glacier.

Upon arrival at Mount Cook Airport, you’ll transfer to a helicopter for a thrilling flight over the Tasman Glacier Lake, where you’ll witness the floating icebergs before landing on New Zealand’s longest glacier.

From here, expert guides will lead you on a two-hour glacier walk, exploring mesmerising ice caves, deep crevasses, and learning about the unique geological history of the glacier.

After your glacier exploration, you’ll helicopter back to Mount Cook Village and board your return flight to Queenstown.

Taking in even more dramatic landscapes along an alternate route through the Southern Alps (weather permitting).

This full-day adventure offers unparalleled views, incredible glacier hiking, and the convenience of flying to and from Mount Cook.

Highlights:

  • Scenic fixed-wing flight from Queenstown to Mount Cook
  • Helicopter over the Tasman Glacier Lake and land on the glacier
  • Two-hour guided glacier walk with experienced guides
  • Return flight via a scenic alternate route along the Southern Alps

This tour combines the thrill of flying with the awe-inspiring beauty of New Zealand’s alpine wilderness and its iconic glaciers.

What to bring:

  • 3 – 4 layers of warm upper body clothing (jeans are not recommended on wet days, as they become very cold and uncomfortable to wear).
  • Sunglasses and sun protection.
  • A daypack, a drink and snacks are useful.
  • A warm hat and gloves.
  • A Camera.
  • Light snacks or lunch.

               

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