Glacier Discoverer: A short, breathtaking landing on the Tasman Glacier beneath Aoraki / Mount Cook

AORAKI MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Glacier Discoverer: A short, breathtaking landing on the Tasman Glacier beneath Aoraki / Mount Cook

A 40-minute sightseeing flight and glacier landing that visits the Hochstetter Icefall, the upper Tasman Glacier and offers sweeping views of Aoraki / Mount Cook and the surrounding basins.

Glacier Discoverer: A short, breathtaking landing on the Tasman Glacier beneath Aoraki / Mount Cook.

Duration
40 Minutes
Location
Aoraki Mount Cook National Park
Operator
The Helicopter Line and Glacier Helicopters - Aoraki / Mount Cook
Category
Sightseeing Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Embark on an unforgettable aerial excursion to the Hochstetter Icefall and the upper Tasman Glacier in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park. The Glacier Discoverer delivers a spectacular glacier landing and close-up vantage of Aoraki / Mount Cook, with expansive panoramas across the Burnett Mountains and the Mackenzie Basin.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE LANDSCAPE

Hochstetter Icefall up close

See the Hochstetter Icefall cascading down the mountainside and inspect centuries-old neves and crevasses formed on the upper Tasman Glacier.

THE LANDING

A spectacular glacier landing

The trip includes a glacier landing on the Tasman Glacier, providing direct access to glacial features and unparalleled views of the surrounding range.

THE VISTAS

Aoraki / Mount Cook and sweeping basins

From the aircraft and glacier surface enjoy breathtaking views of Aoraki / Mount Cook and the sweeping landscapes of the Burnett Mountains and Mackenzie Basin.

What the day feels like

What the trip feels like

In roughly forty minutes you’ll lift off from Aoraki / Mount Cook Village, cross the high country to the Tasman Glacier, land amid ice formations and take in unbroken alpine vistas dominated by Aoraki / Mount Cook.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this trip suits — and why.

1
Active FamiliesAdvertised as suitable "for all ages," the short format makes this an accessible alpine introduction for families.
2
Short-time VisitorsAt approximately 40 minutes, this is a compact way to experience a glacier landing and Aoraki / Mount Cook views without a full-day commitment.
3
View-focused TravelersIdeal for travelers whose priority is dramatic mountain and glacier scenery, including the Hochstetter Icefall and the Tasman Glacier.
4
General SightseersPositioned as a sightseeing tour suitable for a broad audience, this trip is designed as a scenic aerial experience rather than a technical mountaineering excursion.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

The experience runs about 40 minutes.

Meeting & Departure

Meet at Glacier Helicopters, 81 Bowen Drive, Aoraki / Mount Cook Village.

What to Bring

Warm clothing, sturdy covered shoes, sunglasses and sunscreen, and a phone or camera.

Operator

Operated by The Helicopter Line and Glacier Helicopters - Aoraki / Mount Cook.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the Glacier Discoverer flight?

About 40 minutes.

Where do I meet for the departure?

At Glacier Helicopters, 81 Bowen Drive, Aoraki / Mount Cook Village.

Do we land on the glacier?

Yes — the experience includes a spectacular glacier landing on the Tasman Glacier.

What should I bring for the trip?

Bring warm clothing, sturdy covered shoes, sunglasses and sunscreen, and your phone or camera.

Is the trip suitable for children?

The trip is described as suitable for all ages.

What sights will I see on the flight?

You will see the Hochstetter Icefall, the upper Tasman Glacier, Aoraki / Mount Cook and sweeping views of the Burnett Mountains and the Mackenzie Basin.