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5 Best Mount Cook Scenic Flights

5 Best Mount Cook Scenic Flights

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Looking for the best helicopter tours in Mount Cook? Good idea!

If there’s one way to experience the magic of Aoraki/Mount Cook, it’s from the sky. There’s just something about seeing New Zealand’s highest peak, vast glaciers, and snow-covered valleys from above that makes it all feel more epic. Having done multiple helicopter tours in the region, I’ve seen firsthand which ones are worth it – and which ones aren’t.

Whether you’re looking for a short, budget-friendly ride or a longer, more immersive adventure, this list has it all. From glacier landings to combo flights with ski planes, each tour offers something unique. So if you’re ready for an unforgettable aerial adventure, here are Mount Cook’s best helicopter tours!

Don’t Miss Out On My Top Choice!

Bailey-poses-for-a-photo-in-a-helicopter-ride-over Mount Cook New Zealand

The tour I loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!

My personal FAVORITE tour is this 55-minute helicopter flight. Not only is it the longest option, but you get to fly over Mt Cook and the iconic Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, plus an alpine landing! You really get it all on this tour!

Check out the 100+ raving reviews and book this tour here.

Best Mount Cook Scenic Flights

1. 45-Minute ski plane and helicopter tour around Mount Cook National Park 

Tasman Glacier seen after landing on a helicopter and plane tour around Mount Cook New Zealand
Walking around the Tasman Glacier is a surreal experience
mount-cook-ski-plane on a helicopter and plane tour around Mount Cook National Park New Zealand
The ski plane!
  • Duration: 45 minutes
  • Time: Multiple times throughout the day
  • Highlights: Fly in both an aircraft ski plane and helicopter, get gorgeous aerial views over Mt Cook and the Tasman River, and stop for a 15-minute landing on the Tasman Glacier
  • Inclusions: Professional guide/pilot, live commentary, headsets
  • Rating: 4.6 stars (check out the great reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

If you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime experience, this 45-minute ski plane AND helicopter combo tour delivers in every way possible. It’s the only tour in the world where you get to fly in both a helicopter and a ski plane –  and trust me, it’s just as incredible as it sounds!

The adventure kicks off with a helicopter ride that’s nothing short of jaw-dropping. As soon as the rotors start spinning, you’re soaring above the stunning Tasman Valley.

The aerial views of Mount Cook and the Southern Alps are incredible and our pilot pointed out jagged icefalls and massive crevasses as we flew by. He even shared some fascinating insights into the region’s geology and history which really enhanced the experience. 

But the real “wow” moment for me, was when we touched down right on the Tasman Glacier. Stepping out onto the snow, surrounded by a world of ice and mountains, felt like being in another world!

After soaking in the glacial beauty (and snapping about a million photos), the adventure continues as you switch to a ski plane for the return flight. The transition between aircraft adds an extra layer of excitement and a different perspective of the majestic landscape.

This tour offers the best of both worlds – the thrill of a helicopter ride and the serenity of a ski plane flight. It’s an unforgettable way to experience the magic of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park from every angle!

2. See Mount Cook and The Glaciers on a 55-minute helicopter flight 

A-helicopter-lands-on-a glacier on a helicopter tour over Mount Cook National Park New Zealand
Landing on a glacier is such an epic experience!
Flying past Mount Cook on a scenic flight in New Zealand
Mount Cook is even bigger up close!
  • Duration: 55 minutes
  • Time: Multiple times throughout the day
  • Highlights: Soar over the Southern Alps and West Coast on a 55-minute helicopter ride, view the Tasman Glacier, Franz Josef Glacier, and Fox Glacier, make an alpine snow landing
  • Inclusions: Professional pilot/guide, 55-minute flight, live commentary
  • Rating: 4.7 stars (check out the 100+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

For a more in-depth helicopter experience, check out this 55-minute flight over Mount Cook National Park and 3 different glaciers! I did this a few months ago, and it was easily one of the most unforgettable experiences I’ve ever had!

The journey kicks off with a smooth lift-off, and within minutes, you’re soaring past the towering Aoraki Mount Cook. I’ve seen this mountain many times from the ground, but somehow it looks even more impressive from above. 

Our pilot pointed out key landmarks like the Tasman Glacier with its sharp ice formations and crevasses. The best part? You’re seeing areas that most people never get to see. These areas are only accessible by air or by expert mountaineers. 

The highlight of this tour was the snowy alpine landing. If you’ve never experienced snow before, this is the perfect opportunity. Walking through the bright snow surrounded by majestic mountains felt like stepping into a winter wonderland! 

On the way back, we flew over the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, which were equally as stunning. Our guide provided interesting commentary the whole time and I really enjoyed learning about the different glaciers and landscapes. If you’re heading to Mount Cook, this helicopter flight is a must. I can’t recommend it enough, and so can’t all these people who left 5-star reviews (see them all here)!

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Why I Book Tours on Viator

Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! I almost always book all of my tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:

  • Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
  • Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
  • Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
  • Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.

Check out the Viator website here

3. 25-minute helicopter flight around Aoraki Mt Cook including an alpine landing

A scenic flight above Mount Cook National Park
A scenic flight above Mount Cook National Park
Bailey-daniel-and-a-freind-land-on-a-glacier-on-a-heli-tour-around Mount Cook National Park New Zealand
I got to take this one with my partner and good friend!
  • Duration: 25 minutes
  • Time: 8:30 am, 3:30 pm, or 4:30 pm
  • Highlights: Enjoy a scenic 25-minute flight over Aoraki Mt Cook National Park, make an alpine landing with views of Mt Cook 
  • Inclusions: Professional guide/pilot, live commentary, headsets
  • Rating: 4.3 stars (check out the reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

If you’re short on time (or funds) but still want that “wow” helicopter experience, this 25-minute Mount Cook Helicopter Adventure is exactly what you need. It’s the most budget-friendly option and the shortest helicopter tour, so it’s super easy to fit into a busy schedule.

This tour may be quick, but it’s absolutely packed with jaw-dropping scenery. The flight takes you soaring over the Tasman Valley with panoramic views of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. The views from the helicopter windows are unreal – think snow-capped peaks, jagged icefalls, and sprawling glaciers stretching out below you. The pilot even pointed out spots only mountaineers usually get to see!

This tour also makes a brief alpine landing with magnificent views of Mount Cook. The pilot will turn off the helicopter, so you can really appreciate the serene silence of the mountains before climbing back into the helicopter and heading back.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable aerial adventure that’s affordable, efficient, and still absolutely incredible, this tour hits all the marks. You get the views, the adventure, and the once-in-a-lifetime landing – all in just 25 minutes!

Why I Book Tours on Viator

Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! I almost always book all of my tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:

  • Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
  • Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
  • Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
  • Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.

Check out the Viator website here

4. Heli Hike in Glentanner High Country

Bailey walks towards a helicopter on a heli tour around Mount Cook National Park New Zealand
Ready to fly
Bailey-smiles-while-walking-away-from-our-helicopter-during-an-alpine-landing-around Mount Cook National Park New Zealand
Time for a glacier hike!
  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Time: 8:30 am or 1:30 pm
  • Highlights: Take a scenic Helicopter flight to the exclusive Glentanner Station, follow your guide on a 7 km (4.3 miles) hike, and learn about the area’s scientific and farming history at the Historic Field Station
    Inclusions:
    Guide, 8-minute helicopter ride, hiking poles, coffee/tea, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent
  • Rating: 5 stars (check out the great reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

If you’re looking for a more active adventure, this Glentanner heli hike is it! It blends the thrill of a helicopter flight with a stunning hike – making it one of the best ways to explore the high country around Aoraki/Mount Cook.

The adventure starts with a scenic helicopter flight over the Southern Alps, Lake Pukaki, and the Tasman River Delta. The views are epic, but landing on the Ben Ohau Range is where things really kick off. 

You’ll set out on a guided 7-kilometer (4.3 miles) hike through Glentanner Station’s private land, an area most people will never see. The descent is gradual, weaving past alpine tarns and rugged peaks, making it accessible for most fitness levels. I especially loved that it’s all downhill – a rare hiking perk!

Along the way, my guide shared fascinating stories about the station’s history and pointed out local wildlife and native flora and fauna. We also got to visit the recently restored Historic Field Station, where we could explore the exhibit and enjoy a nice coffee or tea. 

If you’re craving an immersive, off-the-beaten-path experience, this heli-hike is a winner. The views from the air and the trail are unbeatable, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat!

5. 45-minute helicopter flight and glacier landing

A helicopter makes a glacier landing on a helicopter tour around Mount Cook National Park New Zealand
The glacier landing was awesome!
Inflite Experiences New Zealand people fly through Mount Cook National Park New Zealand on a helicopter tour
Seeing Mount Cook up close from a helicopter is so cool! Photo credit: Inflite Experiences New Zealand
  • Duration: 45 minutes
  • Time: Multiple times throughout the day
  • Highlights: Enjoy a scenic 45-minute flight through Mount Cook National Park, land on the Tasman Glacier, learn about your surroundings from your pilot
  • Inclusions: Professional Pilot/guide, live commentary, headsets
  • Rating: 4.7 stars (check out the great reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

If you’re still undecided, this 45-minute helicopter tour may be the one you’re looking for! At 45 minutes, it’s that “just right” amount of time to see the best of the region without feeling rushed.

The helicopter flight itself is stunning – you’ll soar over the Southern Alps, taking in views of Aoraki/Mount Cook, the Tasman Glacier, and dramatic icefalls. But what makes this tour really stand out is the glacier landing. Stepping out onto a remote, snow-covered glacier is something most people will never get to do, and it’s even more surreal in person!

We had time to walk around, snap photos, and just stand in awe of the endless white peaks and untouched snow. It’s one of those “you have to be there” moments.

Back in the helicopter, the return flight path offers a fresh perspective as you head back, giving you more jaw-dropping views of the mountains and valleys. It’s a well-rounded tour that’s big on experience but easy to fit into a busy schedule. So if standing on a glacier is on your bucket list (and it should be), then make sure you book this tour! 

Where to Stay in Mount Cook

A room at the Hermitage hotel in Mount Cook National Park
The Hermitage is absolutely beautiful! Photo credit: Hermitage Hotel

There aren’t a ton of places to stay in Mount Cook if I’m being honest. All of the accommodation is in Mount Cook Village, and in the summer months, the best places to stay are fully booked.

Hermitage Hotel – $$$

The most popular (and luxurious) place to stay in Mount Cook is the Hermitage Hotel. With its stunning rooms, ranging from twin rooms all the way up to premium king suites, it’s not hard to see how this hotel gets its reputation as the height of luxury in Mount Cook Village!

The friendly staff here go above and beyond to help you with any requests you have, whether you’re looking to arrange a tour, or book in at their fantastic on-site restaurant. Rooms here at the Hermitage Hotel start as low as $467 NZD per night, but like the Aoraki Court Motel, they do book up far in advance. So make sure to check your dates and reserve your room online here.

Aoraki Court Motel – $$

If you’re looking for something a little more mid-range, then the Aoraki Court Motel is definitely worth a look. All of the rooms here are spacious and modern, with fantastic mountain views, all just a 3-minute walk from Mount Cook Village.

Rooms here at the Aoraki Court Motel do sell out months in advance, so it’s a good idea to reserve your room as far as possible in advance as you can! If you do, you can snag some great early-bird deals from just $350 NZD per night.

Glentanner Park Center – $

The Glentanner Park Center is my go-to choice for traveling on a budget. Although it’s a 17 km (10.6 mi) drive out of town, the dorm rooms here are clean and cheap, plus there’s also a communal kitchen area which is perfect for meeting new friends.

A bed in a mixed dorm here starts as low as $45 NZD per night, not a bad deal considering you’re on the doorstep of one of New Zealand’s most beautiful national parks! You can check availability and book your stay here on Booking.com.

Another budget-friendly option is to camp! You can stay at White Horse Hill Campground in Mount Cook Village, which is operated by the DOC and requires bookings in advance. It costs $15 NZD per adult per night or $7.50 NZD per child in the off-peak period between the 9th of February and the 25th of December. For the remainder of the year, it costs $18 NZD per adult, and $9 NZD per child.

Renting a Car, Campervan, or Motorhome in New Zealand

Bailey stands and smiles with a JUCY Campervan New Zealand
Bailey sits in a Star RV campervan in New Zealand with mountain in the background-2

Let’s face it, you’re going to need wheels to get around New Zealand. Although a small country, buses between destinations are infrequent and expensive. Plus, some of the best experiences you can have in NZ are on road trips!

You have three options when it comes to getting wheels in New Zealand; a car, a campervan, or a motorhome. Here’s what you need to know about each and where to get them:

  • Car – A normal car is the cheapest rental vehicle you can get in New Zealand. It’ll get you around to all of the best destinations with ease. The only downside to a car is that you will need to stay in hotels or Airbnbs during your travels (no camping.) The easiest place to rent a car in New Zealand is on Discover Cars where you can compare cars, companies, prices, features, and more very easily.
  • Campervan – A Campervan is a large van that has a bed and a small kitchen in the back. It’s what most budget travelers use for traveling around New Zealand since it allows you to camp comfortably and for free (most) nights. Campervans are best for couples or solo travelers who are happy to live in a small space. You should also love the outdoors and camping…and be prepared for an adventure of a lifetime! My favorite campervan rental company is JUCY because they have a huge selection of campervans to choose from, plus multiple pick-up/drop-off locations. You can browse JUCY’s campervan selection online here. Alternatively, you can easily compare all campervans available in NZ on Motorhome Republic here.

EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT CODE: I’ve managed to snag a discount code for 5% off for my readers if you book your campervan or motorhome through JUCY or Star RV! Simply click here to select your JUCY campervan, or click here to select your Star RV motorhome, and then use the code DTRAVEL25 at checkout to get 5% off – it’s that easy!

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, I currently use and recommend SafetyWing. I’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had my back when I needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.

SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference I’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. I’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum and you get a refund for unused time.

SafetyWing has helped me out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given me peace of mind. Read my full review on if you should get travel insurance in NZ for more info!

Book your travel insurance with SafetyWing here!

Thanks for reading!

Bailey sits on a rock on the edge of Lake Pukaki looking over at Mount Cook on the South Island of NZ
Thanks for reading!

Seeing New Zealand’s tallest peak from up above is something truly spectacular. The truth is – no matter which helicopter flight you decide on, it’s going to be an amazing time! There’s a reason I’ve gone back for more time and time again.

Thanks for reading my blog! If you found it helpful, be sure to check out my other South Island blogs. Not only have I traveled this island extensively, but I also call Queenstown home, so I’m a bit of an expert! Here are a few related blogs to help you plan your next adventure.

21 Things to do in Mount Cook National Park (that you don’t want to miss!)

18 BEST Stops on the Drive from Queenstown to Mount Cook

20 FUN Things to do in Lake Tekapo, New Zealand