Helicopter flying over glaciers during the Glacier Explorer Helicopter Tour

Glacier Explorer & Earnslaw Burn – Soar, Land & Explore - Image 2

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Glacier Explorer & Earnslaw Burn – Soar, Land & Explore

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Glacier Explorer & Earnslaw Burn takes you on a breathtaking helicopter journey over the Southern Alps, soaring past glaciers, alpine peaks, and cascading waterfalls. Land on pristine glaciers or alpine peaks for unforgettable views of this cinematic Fiordland landscape.

The experience

Glacier Explorer & Earnslaw Burn – Helicopter Adventure

Take flight from Queenstown on the Glacier Explorer & Earnslaw Burn helicopter journey, an unforgettable adventure through the heart of the Southern Alps. Soar over the rugged cliffs of Skippers Canyon, the braided rivers of the Rees Valley, and deep into Mt Aspiring National Park. Discover the iconic Earnslaw Burn, where cascading waterfalls tumble from a spectacular hanging glacier — a cinematic landscape famously featured in The Lord of the Rings. The experience includes an exhilarating alpine or glacier landing (conditions permitting), allowing you to step into pristine wilderness surrounded by towering peaks, ancient ice, and untouched natural beauty. A perfect blend of cinematic scenery and raw alpine adventure, this is a true Queenstown bucket-list experience.

Highlights

Scenic helicopter flight into Mt Aspiring National Park
Fly over dramatic glaciers, rugged alpine peaks, and ancient ice formations
Explore the iconic Earnslaw Burn and its spectacular hanging glacier
Waterfalls cascading down sheer rock faces
Exhilarating glacier or alpine landing (conditions permitting)
Cinematic landscapes featured in The Lord of the Rings

Please note: Between December and June, glacier landings may not be possible due to changing snow conditions. In these cases, your pilot will select the best alternative landing near the glacier or at a stunning alpine location.

Supplier: Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters

The highlights

Where ice and snow meet the sky: a breathtaking journey above the glaciers of the Alps.

Unleash your inner explorer: join our Glacier Explorer Helicopter Flight and discover the secrets of the frozen wilderness.

The details

Duration
DURATION: 50 MIN
TIME OF TOUR:
9:00 AM - All year
2 PM (Apr - Oct)
4:30 PM (Oct - Mar)

Check In
If you will be self-driving, 20mins prior to the flight's departure or Complementary Shuttle 30mins prior to the flight's departure.

Location: 35 Lucas Place, Queenstown Airport.

Transport
Convenient Central Queenstown pick up or Self Drive.

Additional Inclusions
N/A

The restrictions

Physical
Walking on and off of the helicopter and walking around the landing area.

Accessibility
We do not have any facilities to lift people into our Helicopter, please get in touch to discuss your requirements. We will do our best to accommodate you.

Pregnancy & Babies
Pregnant ladies are welcome, if you let us know during check out process, in the notes.

Children
For scenic flights, children aged 0 – 11 years are eligible for child rates.
12 years and over are considered adults.

The common questions

Can I bring a camera?

Cameras are recommended, but carried at your own risk.

What should I wear?

Dress for the weather – comfortable clothes, closed toe shoes are a must.

Are there safety lockers?

You are welcome to leave your belongings in our office.

What if the weather is bad?

Weather checks are made 1 HR before your departure time.

What is the cancellation policy?

Our standard cancellation policy of written notice 48 hours prior for full refund applies for this activity. For more information please refer to our terms and conditions.