Traveler during a climb on Tasman Glacier
Woman climbs the Tasman Glacier ice
Happy climber on Tasman Glacier climb
Passengers on helicopter flight to Tasman Glacier
man climbs Tasman glacier with ice axes
Tasman Glacier crevasse climber
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Tasman Glacier Ice Climbing

Tasman Glacier Climbing: scenic helicopter flight and guided ice climbing

(2 reviews)
Starts: From the meeting point at Aoraki/Mount Cook Airport at 8:00 a.m.
Ends: Same meeting point at Aoraki/Mount Cook Airport 8 hours after departure.
Free cancellation!

Briefing

Ready for a true high-alpine challenge? The Tasman Glacier Ice Climbing experience with helicopter access takes place on New Zealand’s largest glacier, located in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park—an extraordinary alpine environment where the ice and landscape are constantly evolving.

Your adventure begins with a breathtaking scenic helicopter flight into the heart of the Tasman Glacier, a विशाल ice field stretching over 12 miles (20 km). From the air, you’ll take in incredible views of the Haupapa / Tasman Glacier Lake and the dramatic Hochstetter Icefall. Once on the glacier, your expert guide will introduce you to advanced ice climbing techniques using crampons and ice axes. You’ll climb vertical and angled ice walls, tackle ice pinnacles, and even descend into crevasses—all while safely secured with ropes and harnesses.

💚Why choose this tour?

  • Authentic ice climbing on the Tasman Glacier
  • Exclusive helicopter access to remote terrain
  • Professional guides and hands-on technical instruction
  • Small group experience
  • Up to 7 hours on the ice
  • Stunning alpine scenery in the Mount Cook region
  • Ideal for those seeking a real challenge

If you’re looking for something less intense, you can also check out the Tasman Glacier Heli Hike.

Tour details

Included

  • 2 helicopter flights (round trip)
  • Ice climbing
  • Expert guide (English)
  • Special climbing boots, technical and safety equipment, waterproof jacket and pants (overtrousers), gloves, wool socks, climbing helmet, alpine backpack, etc.

Not included

  • Pick-up and drop-off service
  • Food and beverages
  • Photos and videos

Important information

🎒 Maximum carry-on baggage per passenger: 6.6 lbs (3 kg)

🚫 Requirements:

  • Not suitable for: children under 13 years old (ages 13–16 must be accompanied by an adult), passengers with reduced mobility, or individuals weighing more than 255.7 lbs (116 kg)
  • Physical fitness required: good to high level
  • English level required: sufficient to understand guide instructions, ensure safety, and fully enjoy the experience

🕑Check-in: You must arrive at the meeting point 20 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

𖥂 Drones: The use and operation of drones is strictly prohibited. Failure to comply may result in confiscation and a financial penalty.

👤⛅ Operational conditions: If the minimum number of participants per departure (3 guests) is not reached, or if weather conditions are not suitable for a safe flight, the tour may be modified or rescheduled. If the alternative date does not work for you, a full refund will be provided. We recommend booking your activity for the first available day in Fox Glacier to allow maximum flexibility in case of weather changes.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation!

If you cancel at least 48 hours before the start of the tour, you will receive a 100% refund of the amount paid. After this period, or in case of a no-show, no refunds will be issued.

Tour itinerary

Tasman Glacier Ice Climbing

Total duration: 8 hours

Time on ice: 7 hours

Fitness Level: good/high

Previous climbing experience: not necessary

Check-in at Operational Base – Aoraki / Mount Cook Airport

The meeting point for this activity is Aoraki / Mount Cook Airport, located approximately 3.7 miles (6 km) from Mount Cook Village*. You must arrive at the operations desk inside the airport at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time to complete check-in.

Once there, you will check in with the team, who will verify your documentation, provide the necessary gear and equipment, and deliver a full safety briefing before you board the helicopter.

*Transfers from your accommodation to the airport are not included. However, you can reach the airport by car or via the regional bus network, which offers regular connections between the main locations.

Aoraki/Mount Cook Airport Terminal

Scenic Helicopter Flight to the Tasman Glacier

The adventure begins as you board a helicopter for a scenic flight of approximately 15 minutes over the spectacular landscapes of the Southern Alps. Along the way, you’ll take in unique views of glacial valleys, ice-filled rivers, and towering peaks, including Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. As the helicopter travels deeper into the national park, it descends into a remote area of the Tasman Glacier, where you’ll land directly on the ice to begin your guided walk.

All flights are operated by certified New Zealand companies that meet strict safety standards and operate under carefully controlled weather conditions. They are piloted by highly experienced professionals with extensive expertise in alpine flying environments.

Helicopter overflying Tasman Glacier

Guided climbing on the Tasman Glacier

After landing on the Tasman Glacier, the highlight of the experience begins. You’ll gear up with crampons, an ice axe, and a harness, and under the supervision of your expert guide, receive an introduction to basic ice climbing and movement techniques.

From there, you’ll enter a spectacular world of crevasses, ice towers, and vertical ice walls, where you’ll put your new skills into practice by climbing steep and slightly inclined formations, or exploring ice caves and more technical sections of the glacier. Throughout the activity, you will remain securely roped in, allowing you to progress safely at all times.

Your guide will follow a structured teaching approach designed to ensure you learn efficiently, build confidence, and stay safe throughout the experience.

💡 HOWLANDERS TIP: We recommend wearing several light layers rather than one heavy jacket, as temperatures on the glacier can change significantly during the activity. Bring an extra pair of gloves, as they often get wet when handling ice, and high-quality sunglasses are essential—sun reflection off the ice can be extremely intense, even on cloudy days.

guide gives explanations on Tasman Glacier

Scenic Helicopter Flight over the Tasman Glacier – Return to Mount Cook and End of Tour

After completing your climb on the Tasman Glacier, you will return to the landing site to board the helicopter once again. The return flight, approximately 15 minutes, offers a final opportunity to take in a stunning aerial perspective of the glacier from above.

You will land at the base of Mount Cook, where a transfer will take you back to the airport. This marks the end of your ice adventure on the Tasman Glacier.

Travelers board helicopter back to Mt. Cook

What to bring to Tasman Glacier Ice Climbing tour

In Aoraki / Mount Cook, the climate is typical of a high-mountain environment and can change very quickly. Temperatures remain cold throughout the year, ranging from approximately 23°F (-5°C) in winter to 50–68°F (10–20°C) in lower elevations, although they can drop even further in glaciated areas. For this reason, we recommend the following list of what to pack to visit the Tasman Glacier:

  • Identity card / passport.
  • Essential medication (in case the activity lasts longer)
  • Food, water and snacks
  • 3-4 layers of warm upper body clothing
  • Thermal pants
  • Hat and gloves (and spare gloves)
  • Sunglasses and sun protection
  • Cell phone with camera/camcorder

Not allowed:

  • Drones
  • Jeans
  • Valuables
  • Portable chargers or spare batteries
  • Bulky baggage
  • Vapes, electronic cigarettes and lighters

Where does the tour Tasman Glacier Ice Climbing start

The meeting point for this tour is the operations desk inside the terminal at Aoraki / Mount Cook Airport, approximately 3.7 miles (6 km) from Mount Cook Village.

Transfers from accommodation are not included. However, the airport can be reached by car or via the regional bus network, which operates regular services between the main townships.

Questions & Answers

  • Is there a minimum number of people for this Tasman Glacier Ice Climbing tour?

    Yes, we require a minimum of 3 people for this activity to take place. If your group is less than 3 people, we will do our best to include you in a group with other participants. If the minimum number is not reached, we can reschedule or organize private outings at an additional cost.

  • Do I need to know how to climb for this activity?

    Previous climbing experience is not necessary, but a good physical condition, a spirit of self-improvement and the desire to face a different challenge on one of the most impressive glaciers in New Zealand are required.

  • What is considered good/high physical condition?

    A good physical condition for this trip implies the ability to ascend and descend more than 1,000 meters of vertical drop for 8 hours or more.

  • What happens if I am late for the tour departure?

    Please make sure you allow enough time to travel safely to the operating base at Aoraki / Mount Cook Airport. The route is spectacularly beautiful, and you may want to make some stops along the way.

    We have strict safety briefing and flight scheduling schedules, so we cannot delay your departure if you are late. Failure to show up on time will be considered a forfeiture of the tour and will still be charged, as your place has been reserved specifically for you.

  • What happens if my tour is cancelled due to bad weather?

    Excursions are dependent on weather conditions. Being an alpine environment in Aoraki / Mount Cook, the weather is very changeable and therefore unpredictable.

    For this reason, the final decision on the weather for each departure is made 10 minutes before departure time.

    If conditions are not suitable for flying and your tour is cancelled, a refund will be issued. Alternatively, if you prefer to change to another departure time, it is possible if there is availability.

  • Is it a safe activity?

    Please read the following risk disclosure statement carefully.

    UNDERSTANDING THE RISKS

    I accept that this activity inherently involves risks and hazards that could result in damage or injury. These risks include, but are not limited to: avalanches, rock falls, ice falls, crevasses, moulins, heavy rains, exposure to cold, heights, floods, uneven terrain, tripping, earthquakes (including, without limitation, injuries resulting from man-made structures such as buildings, bridges and dams, or natural features such as cliffs and unstable slopes), air travel (including, without limitation, aircraft accidents or injuries from contact with moving propellers or rotors), and exposure to the sun.

    I am aware that participating in guided activities can be dangerous if not conducted with care, control and responsibility. I acknowledge that these risks may result in injury (physical or mental) or even death.

    Medication / health conditions

    I have informed the staff (or will do so prior to undertaking the activity) of any medical conditions, previous injuries and medication I am taking that may affect my ability to undertake the booked activity.

    I confirm that I am physically fit to participate in the activities and that I have not been advised against it by a qualified medical professional.

    I consent to receive any medical treatment deemed necessary in the event of injury, accident or illness during the activity.

    I understand that it is my responsibility to report any condition (health or otherwise) that may affect my safety or the safety of others.

    Conditions of participation in the activity

    I agree to walk with caution and obey at all times the established rules and instructions of the guide (or his representative).

    I accept that if I do not follow the instructions or act in a way that is dangerous, reckless or may put myself or others at risk, I may be withdrawn from the activity without the right to a refund.

    I accept that the organization reserves the right to cancel the activity if it considers that there is a risk to my safety or that of others.

    I agree to wear appropriate clothing and use all required safety equipment at all times.

    Limited Liability

    I understand that, if I act recklessly or intentionally and do not follow the instructions provided, the organization will not be liable, to the extent permitted by law, for any injury, damage or loss caused to me, another person or their property.

    Landowner's liability

    I agree that the owner of the land where the activity takes place shall not be liable, to the extent permitted by law, for any death, injury, incident, damage or loss of property arising from the activity.

    Damage to property or equipment

    In the event of damage to clothing, equipment or other property, I agree to assume the costs of repair.

    Drugs / alcohol

    I confirm that I am not under the influence of alcohol or drugs (legal or illegal) that may affect my ability to perform the activity.

    Insurance

    I acknowledge that comprehensive insurance covering personal injury and property loss or damage, including medical coverage, is strongly recommended.

    Overnight stay on the glacier

    I understand that the activities take place in an alpine environment where circumstances may arise that require an overnight stay on the glacier.

    Participant's Acceptance

    I accept that, by purchasing this ticket and participating in the activity, I assume the associated risks and dangers, as well as all the terms and conditions described in this risk statement.

    I also confirm that all persons traveling with me on this reservation have been informed of these terms and equally accept the risks and conditions set forth herein.

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