Hover above skied ridgelines and land on ancient blue ice: a 50-minute helicopter tour from Queenstown that touches down on Tyndall Glacier for photo-perfect views. Expect skirting views of Skippers Canyon, a short snow landing, and expert pilot commentary.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You lift off from the lake edge and the town shrinks into a scatter of roofs; the rotor wind pushes questions out of your head as the Southern Alps draw nearer. Below, the razor of Skippers Canyon threads a bright river through steep schist walls—history carved into stone where gold rush miners once pried wealth from impossible slopes.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
45–60 minutes
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required—able to stand and step on uneven icy surface for a short period.
Wildlife
History
Skippers Canyon was a 19th-century Otago gold rush corridor—rough tracks and tunnels from that era still mark the canyon walls.
Conservation
Glaciers in the Southern Alps are retreating; operators advise minimizing impact by following crew instructions and avoiding unnecessary foot traffic on fragile ice and moraines.
Reserve your spot on the Queenstown Helicopter Tour: Glacier Landing and Scenic Views today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Book early for clear-weather slots
Weather dictates departures—reserve morning or midday windows and check cancellation policies to improve chances of flying.
Bring warm, layered clothing
Temperatures on the glacier are much colder than Queenstown—pack an insulated jacket and windproof outer layers.
Prepare for brief snow footing
The landing is short and on uneven ice—wear sturdy boots and be ready to follow crew instructions during disembarkation.
Protect camera gear from cold
Cold drains batteries quickly—keep spares warm and use wrist straps to secure cameras during the landing.
Insulated, windproof jacket
Keeps you warm during exposed snow landing and while waiting to board.
winter
Sturdy ankle-support hiking boots
Provides traction and stability on snow and icy surfaces during the short landing.
Warm hat and gloves
Protects extremities from alpine wind chill on the glacier surface.
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Glare from snow and high UV at altitude make eye and skin protection important.
summer