Fox Glacier Helicopter Ride & Snow Landing Tour

Summary

Helicopter Snow Landing Experience at Fox Glacier

Fly by helicopter from Fox Glacier town straight onto the glacier itself for a real snow landing. Take in wild views of crevasses and icy pinnacles with a local guide’s stories along the way. Includes a safety briefing and time for photos—a short adventure you’ll probably talk about for weeks after.

What’s the experience like?

We were buckling in at the little Fox Glacier heliport, helmets slightly crooked, when our pilot grinned and said, “It’s a good day for flying.” The chopper blades started up—loud but kind of thrilling—and then we were up, climbing fast over the green valley. I remember my friend nudging me, pointing out the blue-white cracks running through the glacier below. Honestly, I didn’t expect it to look so alive—like frozen waves caught in mid-crash.

The air got colder as we rose, and you could smell that sharp, clean ice even before we landed. When the helicopter touched down on the snow, it was almost too bright to look at without squinting. Our guide waved us out—“Careful, it’s slippery!”—and suddenly we were standing right on top of Fox Glacier. The wind whipped around us, carrying little bits of snow that stung my cheeks. I snapped a photo but then just stood there for a minute, listening to nothing but the wind and distant hum of the chopper cooling down.

We only had about ten minutes up there (the whole private Fox Glacier helicopter ride is pretty quick), but it felt longer somehow. A couple next to us laughed as they tried to write their names in the snow with their boots. Our guide pointed out some deep crevasses nearby—he called them “seracs”—and explained how fast the glacier moves every year. On the way back down, I kept thinking about that weird blue light shining through the ice cracks. Still can’t get that color out of my head.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Fox Glacier Snow Landing

• Fly to Fox Glacier icefall
• Snow landing and photo opportunities

Top questions

How long does the Fox Glacier helicopter ride last?

The flight plus snow landing takes about 20 minutes total, including time on top of the glacier for photos.

Is this Fox Glacier tour suitable for kids or families?

Yes, children can join if accompanied by an adult; infants can sit on laps or use a stroller at departure.

What should I wear for a Fox Glacier helicopter tour?

Wear warm layers and sunglasses—the snow is bright and it gets chilly up on the glacier itself.

Is this private Fox Glacier helicopter ride wheelchair accessible?

Yes, this tour is accessible for wheelchairs and travelers with most fitness levels are welcome.

What’s included

Your experience starts with a pre-flight safety briefing at Fox Glacier heliport before taking off with a local pilot. The tour includes your scenic helicopter ride, guided commentary about glacier features, time to walk around on fresh snow for photos, and easy return back to town—all in about 20 minutes.