Fox Glacier Heli Hike
Fox Glacier Heli Hike with helicopter transfer
Briefing
There are few places in the world where you can land on a glacier by helicopter and explore it on foot in the same day. Our Fox Glacier Heli Hike, recognized as one of the world’s most extraordinary experiences, takes you deep into the heart of one of New Zealand’s most accessible glaciers. Located on the wild West Coast and famous for flowing from the Southern Alps down to nearly sea level, Fox Glacier creates ever-changing ice formations unlike anywhere else.
After a spectacular scenic flight over towering mountains, waterfalls, and lush temperate rainforest, you’ll land in a remote section of the glacier at an altitude of around 2,600 feet. Arriving by air allows you to access areas where natural forces are at their most powerful, shaping dramatic ice caves, arches, and deep-blue ice formations.
This is where the real adventure begins: a guided hike across crevasses, ice caves, and striking glacial features. The glacier is constantly moving and changing, and your guides are always discovering new routes and formations—making every Fox Glacier experience truly one of a kind.
Tour details
Included
- 2 helicopter flights (round trip)
- Ground transportation
- Expert guide
- Equipment: leather boots, socks, crampons, hiking poles, hat, gloves, waterproof jacket and pants.
- Small backpack
Not included
- Pick-up and drop-off service
- Food and beverages
- Photos and videos
Important information
👤 Minimum of 3 people required per departure (smaller groups will be joined with others when possible).
🎒 Maximum carry-on weight per passenger: 6.6 lbs (3 kg).
🚫 Not suitable for children under 9 years old, guests with reduced mobility, or individuals weighing over 255 lbs (116 kg).
💪 Moderate level of physical fitness required.
⛅ In case of poor weather conditions, the tour may be modified or rescheduled to ensure safety and the best possible experience.
𖥂 Drone use is strictly prohibited. Non-compliance may result in confiscation and/or a fine.
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation!
Cancellations made at least 48 hours before the start of the tour are eligible for a 100% refund. After this period, or in the case of a no-show, no refunds will be issued.
Tour itinerary
Fox Glacier Heli Hike
Total duration: Up to 4 hours
Time on ice: Up to 3 hours
Fitness Level: moderate
Previous experience required: none
Office check-in - Fox Glacier
The starting point for this experience is Fox Glacier Township*, a small town located on New Zealand’s West Coast, just a short distance from the glacier of the same name.
Please arrive at the operator’s office on the main street of the township (44 Main Road) 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time to complete check-in. This tour offers two daily departure times:
- 8:50 AM (check-in 8:30 AM)
- 11:50 AM (check-in 11:30 AM)
At check-in, you will register for the tour, review your documentation, and be provided with all the technical equipment required for the activity.
*Please note: Transfer to the town from your accommodation is not included, but you can easily walk there in just 2–10 minutes if you’re staying in Fox Glacier, or arrive by road or via the regular intercity bus network if you’re staying further away.
Transfer to the heliport and flight preparation
From the office, your guide team will arrange a short vehicle transfer to the heliport, located just a few minutes from the town center.
Once at the heliport:
- You will receive a short safety briefing
- Your group will be assigned to a helicopter
- Your flight to Fox Glacier will begin
Helicopter flight to Fox Glacier
This is where one of the most exciting parts of your experience begins: you’ll board a helicopter and fly over the Fox Glacier valley. During this short but spectacular flight (around 5 minutes), you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of cascading meltwater waterfalls such as Victoria Falls, dense temperate rainforest, and the dramatic moving ice formations of the glacier.
Your helicopter will take you to a remote, elevated section of the glacier that is inaccessible by land, giving you a unique aerial perspective of this vast natural environment before landing directly on the ice.
💡 HOWLANDERS TIP: Try to sit by a window seat and have your camera or phone ready from takeoff—the flight is short, and the best views appear within moments. Don’t forget your sunglasses, as the ice reflection can be very intense even on cloudy days.
Guided hike on the Fox Glacier
After landing directly on the ice, your on-foot exploration begins. Your guide will equip you with crampons and show you how to walk safely on the glacier before starting the route.
You’ll explore a constantly changing environment, where the ice is always in motion. During the hike, you’ll follow paths carved into the ice by your expert guide and make your way through unique formations such as ice caves, arches, and deep-blue tunnels.
The exact route varies daily depending on Fox Glacier conditions, meaning no two experiences are ever the same. Along the way, there will be stops for photos, as well as explanations from your guide about how the glacier forms and evolves over time.
Return Flight & End of Tour
After completing your walk on the ice, you will return to the landing area to board the helicopter for your return flight. This final journey gives you one last opportunity to take in a breathtaking aerial view of the glacier, its cascading waterfalls, and the lush temperate rainforest that surrounds it.
Within minutes, you will land back in Fox Glacier Township, where this Fox Glacier Heli Hike comes to an end.
What to bring to Fox Glacier Heli Hike tour
To fully enjoy this experience at Fox Glacier, it’s important to come well prepared, as the area is mountainous and weather conditions can change quickly. Temperatures can range from 32°F to 77°F (0°C to 25°C), and New Zealand’s West Coast is known for its wild, wet weather. Here´s a list of what to bring to Fox Glacier:
What to bring:
- ID card or passport
- Essential medication (in case the activity is extended)
- 3–4 layers of warm upper-body clothing
- Sunglasses and sun protection
- Water and snacks
- Mobile phone or camera
Not allowed:
- Drones
- Jeans
- Valuables
- Portable chargers or spare batteries
- Large backpacks or bulky luggage
- Vapes, e-cigarettes, and lighters
Where does the tour Fox Glacier Heli Hike start
The meeting point for this tour is in the town of Fox Glacier, at the office located at 44 Main Road. Private transfers from accommodations are not included, but those staying within Fox Glacier are just a 2–10 minute walk from the office. For those staying outside the town, you can arrive by car or via the bus network, which offers regular services between the main towns.
Questions & Answers
What is the check-in time for my Fox Glacier Heli Hike?
Check-in is 20 minutes before your scheduled helicopter departure at the Fox Glacier office (44 Main Road).
- If your tour is at 8:50 AM, check-in time is 8:30 AM
- If your tour is at 11:50 AM, check-in time is 11:30 AM
Please make sure you arrive on time to complete your registration and receive your equipment before the helicopter transfer.
Do I need previous experience?
No previous experience is required for this excursion. Our professional guides will provide you with all the necessary instructions and ensure you feel comfortable and confident throughout the activity.
What does “moderate fitness level required” mean?
Moderate fitness for this trip is a level of fitness sufficient to ascend and descend 500-800m over 4-6 hours carrying a light pack 10kg (22lb).
How much can I carry in my backpack?
There is a maximum limit of 6.6 lbs per passenger for carry-on items.
Traveling light will make your experience more comfortable and also helps reduce helicopter fuel consumption, making the trip more environmentally friendly.
Please only bring the essentials for your glacier experience: a camera or phone, some snacks, a water bottle, and an extra warm layer of clothing.
Is it a safe activity?
Walking on a glacier involves inherent risks. Please read the following information carefully:
Glacier and helicopter activities involve significant risks, including (but not limited to) falls, crevasses, avalanches, falling ice, rapidly changing weather, uneven terrain, exposure to cold, helicopter-related incidents, and other natural or environmental hazards. These risks may result in serious injury or death.
By participating, you acknowledge and agree that:
- You are in adequate physical condition and have disclosed any relevant medical conditions
- You voluntarily accept all risks associated with the activity
- You will follow all guide instructions and safety procedures at all times
- You may be removed from the activity without refund if you fail to comply with safety rules or behave in a dangerous manner
- Emergency medical treatment may be provided if necessary
Liability & Responsibility
- The operator is not responsible for injuries or incidents resulting from reckless behavior or failure to follow instructions
- The landowner assumes no liability for any incidents during the activity
- The customer is responsible for any damage caused to equipment or gear
Additional Conditions
- Participation under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited
- Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended
- In exceptional circumstances, an overnight stay on the glacier may be required
- By participating, you agree that photos and videos taken during the activity may be used for promotional purposes
- This is a high-risk mountain activity, and you participate entirely at your own risk
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