Soaring above New Zealand’s highest mountain, Mount Cook helicopter tours pack serious bang for your buck. These well-orchestrated flights, ranging from 20 to 50 minutes, give you front-row seats to the region’s most dramatic sights – think massive glaciers, jagged peaks, and pristine alpine terrain.
I especially love the snow landing tours on Tasman Glacier – they’re worth every penny for the chance to step onto pristine snow while surrounded by some of the Southern Alps’ most impressive scenery. The 20-minute flights with alpine landings are perfect for travelers on tighter schedules or budgets.
The Helicopter Line stands out with their experienced pilots, flexible scheduling, and consistently high ratings from fellow travelers. Almost everyone (94%) recommends these tours, and it’s easy to see why.
Let’s explore the best helicopter tours at Mount Cook.
Key Points
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The Aoraki Scenic Helicopter Flight, a 50-minute tour priced at €418.44, offers breathtaking views of New Zealand’s highest mountain and includes a snow landing.
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The Mount Cook Alpine Vista Flight, a 20-minute tour starting at $216.24, provides sweeping views and an alpine landing experience.
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The Mount Cook Mountains High Flight, a 40-minute tour, showcases snow-capped peaks and glaciers, praised for its stunning vistas.
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The Ski Plane and Helicopter Combo Flight, a 45-minute experience, combines ski plane and helicopter for a unique aerial adventure rated 4.7/5 from 134 reviews.
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Travelers are advised to dress appropriately for cold temperatures and be aware of potential weather-related impacts on flight schedules and landing experiences.
Mount Cook and The Glaciers Helicopter Flight
The Mount Cook and The Glaciers Helicopter Flight offers travelers a captivating 55-minute aerial tour over the stunning landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island.
With a 94% recommendation rate from 109 reviews, this scenic flight provides an exceptional opportunity to witness the majestic Aoraki Mt. Cook, Tasman Glacier, Franz Josef Glacier, and Fox Glacier from above.
Passengers can look forward to a knowledgeable pilot’s commentary and even an alpine snow landing, all while taking in the breathtaking vistas.
While the flight accommodates a maximum of 6 travelers, certain restrictions apply, such as a total weight limit per passenger.
Warm clothing and suitable footwear are recommended to combat the cold temperatures.
Read our full review: Mount Cook and The Glaciers Helicopter Flight Review
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Mount Cook: 50-Minute Aoraki Scenic Helicopter Flight
Set out on a breathtaking 50-minute aerial adventure over the dramatic landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park with the Aoraki Scenic Helicopter Flight.
Soar above pristine glaciers, serene lakes, and the majestic Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain.
Enjoy a thrilling snow landing on the Tasman Glacier, and marvel at the bird’s eye views of the South Island’s stunning natural wonders.
With an experienced pilot providing informative commentary, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the region’s awe-inspiring beauty from above.
Priced at €418.44 per person, the tour can be booked with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Read our full review: Mount Cook: 50-Minute Aoraki Scenic Helicopter Flight Review
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Mount Cook Alpine Vista Helicopter Flight
For those seeking a thrilling yet compact aerial adventure over Aoraki/Mt. Cook, the Mount Cook Alpine Vista Helicopter Flight is a must-try.
This 20-minute helicopter tour departs from Aoraki/Mt. Cook Village, offering sweeping views of the Ben Ohau Range and an alpine landing. Soar over mountain peaks, valleys carved by glaciers, and the glacial waters of Lake Pukaki, with Aoraki/Mt. Cook, New Zealand’s tallest mountain, in full view.
The twin-engine helicopter seats up to 6 passengers, ensuring personalized attention, and the professional pilot provides expert narration throughout the flight.
With prices starting from $216.24 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this experience is both accessible and flexible.
Read our full review: Mount Cook Alpine Vista Helicopter Flight Review
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Mount Cook: Scenic Helicopter Flight With Alpine Landing
Although the Mount Cook region is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, visitors can truly experience the grandeur of this alpine wonderland by taking the Scenic Helicopter Flight with Alpine Landing.
This 25-minute tour offers stunning aerial views of Aoraki (Mount Cook), Tasman Valley, and a glacier lake, culminating in a unique landing experience amongst the majestic mountains.
Passengers will learn about the area from an experienced pilot during the flight, which follows a path through the Tasman Valley and over breathtaking scenery.
With a weight limit of 255 lbs and the possibility of snow landings, this tour is a must-do for adventure-seekers visiting Mount Cook.
Read our full review: Mount Cook: Scenic Helicopter Flight With Alpine Landing Review
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Mount Cook Mountains High Helicopter Flight
The Mount Cook: Mountains High 40-Minute Helicopter Flight takes adventurous travelers on a breathtaking aerial tour of the Aoraki/Mount Cook region.
Soaring over snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and arid landscapes, the 40-minute scenic flight offers unparalleled views. Highlights include a snow landing atop the Tasman Glacier, as well as sights of Aoraki/Mt. Cook, the Burnett Mountains, and the Mackenzie Basin.
While the flight isn’t wheelchair accessible, it accommodates up to 6 travelers. Guests should dress warmly and confirm preferred flight times at booking.
Reviews praise the stunning vistas and informative pilot commentary, though some report issues with headset quality and missed snow landings due to weather.
Read our full review: Mount Cook Mountains High Helicopter Flight Review
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Mount Cook: Ski Plane and Helicopter Alpine Combo Flight
Offering a world-exclusive aerial experience, the Mount Cook: Ski Plane and Helicopter Alpine Combo Flight takes adventurers on a 45-minute journey over the awe-inspiring landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Guests will fly by both ski plane and helicopter, landing on the upper snowfields of the Tasman Glacier to enjoy the alpine environment.
The scenic flight includes views of the Tasman Valley, blue glacier lake, Hochstetter Icefall, and Aoraki/Mount Cook.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 based on 134 reviews, this once-in-a-lifetime experience is a must for those seeking spectacular aerial views and an unforgettable adventure.
Free cancellation, free parking, and free Wi-Fi make this tour a compelling choice.
Read our full review: Mount Cook: Ski Plane and Helicopter Alpine Combo Flight Review
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Mount Cook Alpine Explorer Helicopter Flight
Soaring over the majestic peaks of Aoraki/Mount Cook, the Mount Cook Alpine Explorer Helicopter Flight offers a captivating aerial experience.
Lasting 35 minutes, the scenic flight showcases the Ben Ohau Range and Tasman Valley, with a weather-dependent snow landing and pilot narration.
Accommodating up to 6 passengers, the flight ensures personalized attention. Guests should dress warmly and wear suitable footwear to withstand the cold temperatures.
The meeting point is at The Helicopter Line in Glentanner Park, and the flight ends back at the same location.
With a price starting from $321.27 per person, the tour is a popular choice due to its spectacular views and smooth landing, though some customers have noted weather-related cancellations and expectations regarding snow landings.
Read our full review: Mount Cook Alpine Explorer Helicopter Flight Review
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Mt Cook: 55-Minute Scenic Flight in Helicopter or Ski Plane
For those seeking a captivating aerial adventure amidst the majestic landscapes of Mount Cook National Park, the 55-Minute Scenic Flight in Helicopter or Ski Plane stands as a must-experience activity.
Priced from $411.64 per person, this 55-minute flight offers a limited group size of up to 6 participants and an English-speaking live tour guide.
Soar over the iconic Mount Cook, Mount Tasman, and Mount Sefton, while enjoying aerial views of the stunning Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers.
The flight also traverses the Main Divide to the West Coast, providing breathtaking panoramas of the Tasman Glacier and the Grand Plateau.
With a flexible cancellation policy and comfortable attire requirements, this scenic flight is an unforgettable way to take in the grandeur of New Zealand’s highest peaks.
Read our full review: Mt Cook: 55-Minute Scenic Flight in Helicopter or Ski Plane Review
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Sum Up
Mount Cook offers an array of thrilling helicopter flights and tours that allow visitors to witness the majestic alpine landscape from the sky. From scenic flights to glacier landings, these experiences provide a unique perspective and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re seeking a 50-minute aerial adventure or a longer alpine combo, there’s a helicopter tour to suit your preferences and budget. With so many options available, you’re sure to find the best way to explore the stunning beauty of Mount Cook.