South Island | Must Do New Zealand

Updated: 22nd June 2026

Inflite Helicopters Mount Cook - Breathtaking Mount Cook Scenic Flights

Discover spectacular Mount Cook helicopter tours and scenic flights with INFLITE Experiences. Soar above Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, explore the vast Tasman Glacier, and enjoy unforgettable alpine views of New Zealand’s highest mountains.

Choose from scenic helicopter flights, glacier landings and combined helicopter and ski plane experiences that showcase the dramatic landscapes of the Mackenzie Country. Whether you’re seeking a short scenic flight or the ultimate glacier adventure, these Mount Cook helicopter tours provide some of the most breathtaking aerial experiences in New Zealand.

Scenic Flights Mount Cook & Tasman Glacier

Discover spectacular Mount Cook helicopter tours and scenic flights with INFLITE Experiences. Soar above Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, explore the vast Tasman Glacier and enjoy breathtaking views of New Zealand’s highest mountains and alpine landscapes.

Choose from scenic helicopter flights, glacier landings, heli-hikes and combined helicopter and ski plane experiences that showcase the dramatic scenery of the Southern Alps. From short scenic flights to unforgettable adventures on the ice, every experience offers a unique perspective of this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage area and some of New Zealand’s most spectacular alpine landscapes.

Fly above the Tasman Glacier, Hooker Valley, Aoraki / Mount Cook, Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier while enjoying expert commentary from experienced local pilots. Whether you’re seeking incredible photography opportunities, a bucket-list glacier landing or a once-in-a-lifetime alpine adventure, INFLITE Mount Cook offers unforgettable aerial experiences in the heart of the Southern Alps.

Mount Cook Flight comparison

Experience	Adult Price From	Duration	Landing	Passengers	Best For
Tasman Glacier Taster	$379 pp	25 minutes	Glacier/alpine landing	Max 6	Quick Mount Cook scenic flight with glacier landing
Glacier Highlights	$649 pp	45 minutes	Glacier/alpine landing	Max 6	More helicopter sightseeing over the Tasman Glacier and Southern Alps
The Grand Circle	$749 pp	55 minutes	Glacier/alpine landing	Max 6	The most complete Mount Cook helicopter scenic flight
Picnic Amongst the Peaks	$4,999 private party	90 minutes	Private glacier/alpine landing	Max 6	Couples, proposals, anniversaries and luxury alpine experiences
Ultimate Alpine Experience Combo	$549 pp	45 minutes	Glacier/snow landing	Max 6	Experiencing both a helicopter and ski plane in one trip
Heli-Hike the Tasman Glacier	$899 pp	Approx. 3 hours	Helicopter access + guided glacier walk	Max 6	Active travellers wanting to walk on the Tasman Glacier

Note: All flights depart from Mount Cook Airport and are weather dependent. Glacier and alpine landing locations may vary depending on snow, ice and weather conditions on the day.

Discover the Majestic Landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook with Inflite Helicopters

Tasman Glacier Taster - 25 minutes

Glacier Highlights - 45 minutes

Price: Adult from $379 per person – Child: from $379 aged 4 to 12 (min 4 pax)
Departs: Mt. Cook airport
Duration: 25 minutes includes glacier landing
N.B. Infant: aged 3 & under that doesn’t require a seat is free of charge.

Lift off over the Mackenzie Basin and trace the sinuous Tasman Valley toward New Zealand’s longest glacier. As the village and braided rivers fall away, the scale of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the surrounding Southern Alps snaps into view—serrated ridgelines, hanging icefalls, and wind-sculpted snowfields.

Your pilot arcs across the Tasman Terminal Lake, where icebergs often drift below, before climbing for an alpine snow/glacier landing. Step out onto firm, dry winter powder or crisp spring corn (conditions vary) and feel the hush of the high country around you—perfect for photos and a quick wander.

Back in the heli panoramic windows frame the return leg along turquoise meltwater streams and moraines that tell the story of the glacier’s slow retreat. It’s a compact, quintessential Mount Cook sampler—ideal if you’re short on time but big on views.

Price: Adult from $649 per person – Child: from $599 aged 4 to 12 (min 4 pax)
Departs: Mt. Cook airport
Duration: 45 minutes includes glacier landing
N.B. Infant: aged 3 & under that doesn’t require a seat is free of charge.

This extended circuit gives you more time in the mountains and a wider sweep of scenery. Departing Mount Cook Airport, you’ll track above the Tasman Valley and out toward the great ice—glacial plateaus, crevasse fields, and sculpted seracs that glow blue where the ice is deepest.

Aoraki/Mount Cook dominates the skyline while neighbouring peaks and buttressed walls form a vast amphitheatre. Your pilot lines up a glacier or alpine landing for unhurried photos and a few quiet minutes taking in the altitude—listen for distant avalanches and katabatic winds moving across the ice.

In the air again, the route explores additional ridges and basins for fresh angles on the Southern Alps, with sweeping views back to the Mackenzie lakes. Expect a smooth, commentary-rich flight that trades distance for depth—more time, more texture, more of what makes Aoraki unforgettable.

The Grand Circle - 55 Minutes

Picnic amongst the Peaks

Price: Adult from $749 per person – Child: from $699 aged 4 to 12 (min 4 pax)
Departs: Mt. Cook airport
Duration: 55 minutes includes glacier landing
N.B. Infant: aged 3 & under that doesn’t require a seat is free of charge.

Go big and see it all. Lifting off from Mount Cook Airport, you’ll climb above the Mackenzie Basin before turning toward the Main Divide, where the Southern Alps spill west to the Tasman Sea.

Track sweeping ridgelines and vast snowfields, then cross to the West Coast for aerial passes of the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers—icefalls, crevasse fields, and blue seracs glowing under the sun.

Swing back across the Divide for commanding angles on Aoraki/Mount Cook, Mount Tasman, and Mount Sefton, plus the Grand Plateau and Hochstetter Icefall. A glacier/alpine landing gives you time out on the snow for photos and a few quiet minutes soaking up the altitude.

The return leg traces the full length of the Tasman Glacier to its milky terminal lake, with your pilot’s commentary tying the geology, weather, and climbing history together.

Tour Highlights:

Spectacular views of Aoraki/Mount Cook, Mount Tasman, and Mount Sefton
Fly over Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers
Traverse the Tasman Glacier from end to end
Stunning views of the West Coast and Tasman Sea
The Grand Plateau, Hochstetter Icefall, and Plateau Hut
Snow and ice-covered landscapes year-round

Price: Private party $4999 max 6 passengers
Departs: Mt. Cook airport
Duration: 90 minutes includes glacier landing

A private alpine date with the Southern Alps. Your helicopter arcs over the Tasman Valley toward high snowfields, with unhurried circuits around Aoraki/Mount Cook, Mount Tasman, the Grand Plateau, and the Hochstetter Icefall.

After a scenic run along glacial ridges, your pilot selects a pristine glacier landing where the hush is palpable and the views run to the horizon. Here, they set up your exclusive picnic—time to linger, toast the moment, and capture those wide-angle shots without another soul in sight.

Back in the air, the route adds extra vantage points across shimmering basins and the turquoise sweep of the Tasman Terminal Lake before a smooth return to Mount Cook Airport.

It’s adventure with a luxe pause in the middle—unforgettable scenery, unrushed landing time, and a private experience tailored for proposals, anniversaries, or simply doing something extraordinary.

Includes: Private helicopter flight, glacier landing, exclusive picnic, expert pilot commentary

Tour Highlights:

Spectacular views of Aoraki/Mount Cook, Mount Tasman, and Tasman Terminal Lake
Fly over the Hochstetter Icefall, Grand Plateau, and Plateau Hut
Private picnic on the snow-covered Tasman Glacier
Helicopter landing in the snowfields
Snow and ice year-round in the stunning Southern Alps

Indulge in this once-in-a-lifetime adventure and create unforgettable memories amidst the peaks of Aoraki/Mount Cook.

The Ultimate Alpine Experience Combo

Heli - Hike the Tasman Glacier

Price: Adult from $549 per person – Child: from $499 aged 4 to 12 (min 4 pax)
Departs: Mt. Cook airport
Duration: 45 minutes includes glacier landing
Best For: Visitors wanting to experience both a helicopter and ski plane in a single Mount Cook adventure.

Two aircraft, one big alpine story. Lift off in either a ski plane or helicopter and trace the Tasman Valley toward the high ice, with panoramic views of Aoraki/Mount Cook, glacial plateaus, and the turquoise sweep of the Tasman Terminal Lake.

After a smooth glacier/snow landing, the engine winds down and the hush of the Southern Alps takes over—time for photos, a short wander, and to feel the altitude.

Then swap aircraft for the return leg: compare the nimble hover of the helicopter with the graceful glide of the ski plane as you arc past the Grand Plateau and Hochstetter Icefall.

Your pilot’s commentary connects the geology, weather, and climbing history while you enjoy different flight dynamics and viewpoints. It’s a compact, premium sampler that gives you the best of both worlds plus unhurried time on the ice.

Flying in both aircraft gives you a rare opportunity to experience the Southern Alps from two very different perspectives. The helicopter provides unrivalled manoeuvrability and close-up views of glaciers, ridgelines and alpine terrain, while the ski plane offers a smooth, sweeping flight experience across the snowfields and ice of the Tasman Glacier.

With a glacier landing included and spectacular views throughout, this is one of the most unique scenic flight experiences in New Zealand and an excellent choice for visitors wanting more than a traditional helicopter tour.

Tour Highlights:

Experience stunning aerial views in both a ski plane and helicopter
Land on the snowfields of the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s longest glacier
Fly over Tasman Terminal Lake, the Hochstetter Icefall, and Aoraki/Mount Cook
Soak in the beauty of the Southern Alps with views of snow and ice year-round

This combo flight offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines the thrill of both aircraft with the serene beauty of a glacier landing, making it a must-do for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

Price: Adult from $899 per person – Child: from $899 aged 9 to 14
Departs: Mt. Cook airport
Duration: Approx 3 Hours
Best For: Active travellers wanting to land on and explore New Zealand’s largest glacier.

Fly deep into the Tasman Glacier’s upper reaches, then step out into a world of blue crevasses, wind-carved ridges, and shimmering ice caves.

After a scenic helicopter approach with wide-angle views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the surrounding Southern Alps, your guide outfits you with crampons (summer) or crampons and snowshoes (winter) and leads a slow, exploratory circuit tailored to the day’s conditions.

Expect gentle gradients, steady pacing, and plenty of photo stops as you learn how glaciers move and shape the valley. Guides use classic techniques from New Zealand’s alpine pioneers—sometimes cutting safe steps—to access the most photogenic features.

With roughly two hours on the ice, every trip is unique because the glacier constantly evolves. The return flight sweeps you back over the valley for one last look at the seracs and the milky Tasman Lake below—an immersive, bucket-list glacier experience.

What to Bring:

3-4 layers of warm upper body clothing
Warm trousers (no jeans)
Sunglasses and sun protection
A daypack with drinks and snacks
Warm hat and gloves
A camera to capture this incredible experience

Tour Highlights:

Breathtaking helicopter flight over Aoraki/Mount Cook and the Southern Alps
Explore the ever-changing landscape of the Tasman Glacier
Walk on New Zealand’s largest glacier with crampons or snowshoes
Discover ice caves, crevasses, and unique glacier formations
Expert glacier guide to lead you through this unforgettable journey

Each heli-hike is unique as the glacier is constantly shifting, making every adventure a new and exciting discovery.

Suitable for adventurers of all levels, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore New Zealand’s iconic alpine wilderness.

Explore our Mount Cook Ski Plane Scenic Flights for another spectacular way to experience the Tasman Glacier and Southern Alps.: HERE

Inflite Helicopters - Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if poor weather cancels my flight?

Helicopter and ski plane flights are weather dependent. If your flight cannot operate due to weather or safety reasons, INFLITE will usually offer an alternative departure time, reschedule your booking or provide a refund in accordance with their booking terms and conditions.

What is the best Mount Cook helicopter flight?

The best Mount Cook helicopter flight depends on your interests and budget. The Tasman Glacier Taster is ideal for visitors short on time, while Glacier Highlights offers more time in the mountains. The Grand Circle is INFLITE’s most comprehensive scenic flight, combining views of Aoraki / Mount Cook, the Tasman Glacier, Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier. For a truly unique experience, consider the Ski Plane & Helicopter Combo or the Tasman Glacier Heli-Hike.

What types of helicopter experiences are offered at INFLITE Mount Cook?

INFLITE Mount Cook runs scenic flights with alpine/glacier landings, the Tasman Glacier Heli-Hike, a Ski Plane & Helicopter Combo, and private luxury options like Picnic Amongst the Peaks. Tours focus on Aoraki/Mount Cook, the Tasman Glacier and valleys, with commentary from experienced local pilots.

How long are Mount Cook helicopter tours?

Flight times range from 25 minutes for the Tasman Glacier Taster to 45 minutes for Glacier Highlights and 55 minutes for The Grand Circle. The private Picnic Amongst the Peaks experience runs about 90 minutes including an alpine/glacier landing.

Is a glacier landing included on Mount Cook helicopter flights?

Most INFLITE Mount Cook helicopter tours include a glacier or alpine snow landing, allowing you to step out onto the snow for photos and enjoy spectacular views of Aoraki / Mount Cook and the surrounding Southern Alps. Landing locations vary depending on weather and snow conditions on the day.

Are there any special experiences combining different aircraft or activities?

Yes. The Ski Plane & Helicopter Combo gives you both flight styles plus a glacier landing on the Tasman Glacier. The Tasman Glacier Heli-Hike pairs a scenic flight with up to two hours on ice, led by qualified guides using crampons (and snowshoes in winter).

What safety measures does INFLITE take for these adventurous tours?

Safety comes first: modern, well-maintained aircraft; experienced, locally trained pilots; pre-flight briefings; weight and seating balance checks; and weather-based go/no-go decisions. Landings and routes may change on the day to ensure safe, comfortable conditions and the best available views.