A 30-minute scenic flight from Fox Glacier that lands on the snow for close-up views of ice pinnacles, then sweeps past the west faces of Aoraki / Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. Ideal for short visits and photography, but weather-dependent—arrive early for the safety briefing.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step into a brisk West Coast morning at the Fox Glacier base and the aircraft’s hum becomes the first line of a story written in ice. Minutes later you’re swept over a fractured white world—ice pinnacles and serrated seracs on Fox Glacier that seem to move as the plane banks, then the sheer west faces of Aoraki / Mount Cook and Mount Tasman rise ahead, ancient rock and recent ice locked in vertical contrast.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
30 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; passengers should be able to board small aircraft and follow safety briefings. Not recommended for people with serious cardiovascular issues.
Wildlife
History
Aoraki / Mount Cook holds deep significance in Māori tradition and the Southern Alps have been a focus for European mountaineering since the 19th century; Fox Glacier village developed as access to the ice increased in the 20th century.
Conservation
Glaciers in the region are retreating due to climate change; operators follow strict aviation and safety rules to minimize disturbance and visitors are urged to respect fragile alpine environments.
Reserve your spot on the Mt Cook and Fox Glacier with snow landing (allow 30 mins - departs Fox Glacier) today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive 30 minutes early
Reporting time is 30 minutes before departure for a mandatory safety briefing and weight checks; lateness can mean missed flights.
Dress in warm layers
Even in summer the landing is cold and windy—pack an insulated midlayer and a windproof shell.
Secure your camera
Use a wrist or neck strap and bring spare batteries—cold drains power faster and the landing window for photos is short.
Expect weather cancellations
Flights are cancelled in poor weather; plan buffer time in your itinerary and book flexible transport.
Insulated jacket
Keeps you warm during the snow landing and when exiting/entering the aircraft.
Sturdy closed-toe shoes
Useful for traction on uneven snow and boarding ramps at remote landing zones.
Camera with strap and spare battery
Captures panoramic and close-up glacier details; batteries perform poorly in cold.
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Snow glare is intense—protect eyes and skin even on cool days.
summer