Fox & Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Tour with Snow Landing

Summary

Helicopter Flight Over Twin Glaciers from Fox Glacier Village

Soar above Fox and Franz Josef glaciers by helicopter, land right on the snowfields, and hear local stories from your guide. Includes pre-flight safety briefing and is accessible for families or travelers with mobility needs—a short adventure packed with moments you’ll keep replaying in your mind.

What’s the experience like?

We were already buckling in when our pilot—Pete, I think—leaned back and grinned, “You folks ready for some proper West Coast weather?” The rotors kicked up this cold rush of air that smelled faintly like wet stone and pine needles. I remember glancing at my partner, both of us wide-eyed but trying to play it cool. As soon as we lifted off from Fox Glacier village, the world just fell away beneath us—green valleys turning to white in a blink.

The helicopter ride was louder than I expected (they give you headsets), but honestly, it’s hard to care when you’re skimming over those blue crevasses. Pete pointed out where the Franz Josef Glacier curves down between the peaks—he called it “the river of ice”—and you could see sunlight catching on the snowfields up top. There was this moment where everything went quiet except for the engine and the wind rattling against the glass. I swear I could smell the cold itself when we landed on the snowfield; it’s like nothing else.

We had maybe ten minutes up there—enough time for a few awkward photos and to just stand still, boots crunching into powdery snow. Pete told us about how these glaciers shift every year, carving out new shapes in the valley below. On the way back down, I kept thinking about how small we looked from above, just specks moving across all that white. If you’re looking for a real twin glacier experience near Fox Glacier, this is it—quick but unforgettable.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Glacier Views Flight

• View Fox and Franz Josef glaciers

Top questions

How long does the Fox & Franz Josef glacier helicopter tour last?

The helicopter flight lasts approximately 30 minutes, including time spent landing on the glacier snowfields.

Is the twin glacier helicopter tour suitable for children?

Yes, children can join as long as they are accompanied by an adult; infants may need to sit on an adult’s lap during the flight.

Are there any fitness requirements for this glacier tour?

No special fitness level is required; it’s suitable for most travelers and is also wheelchair accessible.

What happens if my tour gets canceled due to weather or low numbers?

If your flight is canceled because of weather or not enough passengers, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

What’s included

Your experience includes a pre-flight safety briefing with your local pilot before taking off from Fox Glacier village. The tour covers both Fox & Franz Josef glaciers by helicopter with a snow landing on one of their upper fields. It’s family friendly and accessible for wheelchairs or strollers—just bring your sense of adventure (and maybe sunglasses).