Kind Reader, if you are looking to experience a truly unforgettable adventure in New Zealand, then Franz Josef Helicopter Tours is the perfect choice for you. With its stunning glaciers, majestic mountains, and breathtaking scenery, the Franz Josef glacier is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the South Island. And there’s no better way to take in all the beauty of this incredible region than from the air, aboard one of our exclusive helicopter tours. Whether you’re looking for an exhilarating ride, or a relaxed, scenic flight, our experienced pilots will ensure that you have an experience you’ll never forget.
What to Expect on Franz Josef Helicopter Tours?
If you are looking for an unforgettable experience in Franz Josef, then a helicopter tour is a must-do. When you step on board, you will feel like a VIP as you take to the skies and enjoy stunning views only seen from above. Each tour comes with a friendly and knowledgeable pilot who will guide you through the journey and provide interesting information about the area.
Views of Franz Josef Glacier
One of the highlights of a helicopter tour in Franz Josef is getting an up-close view of the glacier. As you soar through the air, you’ll be able to see the jagged ice formations, deep crevasses, and stunning blue ice pools that make this glacier so unique. The experience is truly breathtaking and is something that should not be missed.
Alpine Landing
Another feature of Franz Josef helicopter tours is the option to land on one of the nearby glaciers or mountain tops. This offers a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy the stunning scenery up close. You’ll be able to take plenty of photos and enjoy some time exploring the snouts and crevasses of the glacier.
Types of Franz Josef Helicopter Tours
There are a number of different Franz Josef helicopter tours available, catering to different budgets and interests. Here are some of the most popular options:
Glacier Flight
The Glacier Flight takes you on a 20-minute scenic flight over the Franz Josef Glacier and surrounds. This tour is perfect for those who want to get a taste of what a longer tour would be like but don’t have much time or budget.
Neve Discoverer
The Neve Discoverer helicopter tour takes you on a 30-minute flight over the Franz Josef Glacier and the Southern Alps, with the added bonus of landing in the mountains for a snow landing and photo opportunity.
Mountain Scenic
The Mountain Scenic helicopter tour is perfect for those who want to see the Southern Alps in all their glory. This tour takes you on a 40-minute flight over the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers, with a snow landing on one of the mountains for unbeatable views.
Twin Glacier
The Twin Glacier helicopter tour is the longest and most comprehensive tour available. It takes you on a 40-minute flight over the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers, with a snow landing on one of the mountains. You’ll also get to see the Tasman Glacier and the Southern Alps, making this tour perfect for those who want to experience it all.
Scenic Beauties During Franz Josef Helicopter Tours
The Franz Josef glacier is a feast of natural beauty, and the Franz Josef helicopter tour gives you a chance to marvel at the beauty of nature from high above. The tour offers stunning panoramic views of glaciers, valleys, and snow-capped peaks.
Glaciers
One of the highlights of the Franz Josef helicopter tour is the glaciers. Franz Josef is a massive glacier that is over 11 kilometers long and 7 kilometers wide. When you take a helicopter tour, you get to see the glacier from a unique aerial perspective, which is not possible from the ground. The helicopter ride takes you up close to the glaciers and gives you a chance to witness their massive size and beauty.
Valleys
The helicopter tour also provides a bird’s eye view of the valleys in the area. From above, you can see the deep valleys etched into the landscape by rivers and glaciers over thousands of years. You’ll get a fascinating view of the winding rivers, dense forests, and towering mountains as you fly over the valleys.
Wildlife Sightings During Franz Josef Helicopter Tours
The Franz Josef helicopter tour also offers a unique chance to witness the diverse wildlife in the area. Here are some of the animals you might spot during the tour.
Kea birds
The Kea bird is a native bird of the South Island of New Zealand that you might spot during the Franz Josef helicopter tour. These birds are known for their cheeky behavior and their curiosity. If you’re lucky, you might even get to see them up close as they fly alongside the helicopter.
Tahr goats
The Himalayan Tahr is another animal that you might spot during the tour. These animals were introduced to New Zealand in the early 20th century, and they have thrived in the mountainous terrain of the South Island. You might see them grazing on the grassy slopes or leaping from rock to rock as they traverse the steep terrain.
| No. | Information | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Company Name | Franz Josef Helicopter Tours |
| 2 | Tour locations | Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier, and Mount Cook |
| 3 | Tour types | Scenic, snow landing, heli-hiking, and heli-ice climbing tours |
| 4 | Flight duration | 20 to 40 minutes depending on the tour type |
| 5 | Passenger capacity | 4 to 6 passengers per helicopter |
| 6 | Cost per person | Ranges from $220 to $890 based on tour type and duration |
| 7 | Operating season | All year round, weather permitting |
| 8 | Website | https://www.franzjosefhelicopters.co.nz/ |
Benefits of Franz Josef Helicopter Tours
Experiencing Franz Josef through helicopter tours comes with its own benefits for tourists, may they be first-time visitors or returning ones. The following are some advantages of taking Franz Josef helicopter tours:
Faster and More Convenient
Compared to hiking or walking, helicopter tours offer faster transportation to Franz Josef’s natural attractions. Helicopters can get you to hard-to-reach destinations like the Franz Josef Glacier, providing a much quicker and easier way for travelers to experience the spectacular views.
Bird’s Eye View of the Scenery
With helicopter tours, you’ll be able to get a unique and comprehensive view of the Franz Josef valley. Seeing the mountains, rivers, and glaciers from above is a breathtaking and unparalleled experience that will make your Franz Josef trip memorable.
Expert Local Guides
Franz Josef helicopter tours usually come with experienced and knowledgeable local guides. These guides can provide travelers with insights and interesting information about Franz Josef’s natural wonders, giving them a better understanding and appreciation of the place’s beauty.
Spanning Different Terrains
Helicopters can fly over various landscapes and terrains, enabling tourists to see more than they would on foot. With Franz Josef’s various attractions, helicopter tours offer a chance for tourists to get up close and personal with locations they might otherwise not have seen.
Less Physical Exertion
While hiking and walking are great ways to experience Franz Josef, not everyone has the physical fitness level to handle the rough terrain. Helicopter tours reduce the amount of physical exertion required, allowing almost anyone to witness Franz Josef’s majesty.
Fantastic for Photography
Franz Josef’s natural wonders provide a fantastic backdrop for visuals, and helicopter tours can provide the perfect way to capture them. With a bird’s eye view of locations like the Franz Josef Glacier, tourists can capture fantastic photos and videos to share with friends and family back home.
Flexible Timeframes
The time that tourists spend on Franz Josef helicopter tours can be customized, depending on their needs. The length and locations of the helicopter tours can be determined by the visitors, enabling them to develop an itinerary that suits their schedules and preferences.
Reviews of Franz Josef Helicopter Tours
If you’re considering booking a Franz Josef helicopter tour, it’s helpful to read reviews from other travelers who have experienced it for themselves. Here are some key takeaways from reviews on 10 different travel websites:
Experience of a Lifetime
Many reviewers said that their Franz Josef helicopter tour was the highlight of their trip to New Zealand. The stunning views, combined with the exhilaration of flying in a helicopter, made for an unforgettable experience.
Professional and Knowledgeable Pilots
Several reviewers commented on the expertise and professionalism of their helicopter pilots. They felt safe and secure throughout the tour, and appreciated the pilots’ commentary about the natural landmarks they were flying over.
What to Wear
Several reviews mentioned that it’s important to dress in warm layers for a Franz Josef helicopter tour, as the temperature drops significantly at higher elevations. Some tours provide warm jackets for passengers, but it’s best to come prepared just in case.
Making the Most of Your Tour
Reviewers recommended booking a longer tour if possible, as it allows you to see more of the stunning scenery from the air. They also advised bringing a good camera to capture the amazing views.
Booking in Advance
Many reviewers suggested booking a Franz Josef helicopter tour in advance, as they can book up quickly during peak travel times. It’s also a good idea to check the weather forecast before booking, as tours can be cancelled or rescheduled due to weather conditions.
Value for Money
Although some reviewers noted that Franz Josef helicopter tours can be pricey, most felt that the experience was well worth the cost. Some even said it was the best money they spent on their entire trip.
Traveling with Children
Several reviews mentioned that Franz Josef helicopter tours can be a great activity for families with older children. However, some tours have age restrictions or weight limits, so it’s important to check before booking.
The Benefits of Franz Josef Helicopter Tours
If you’re looking for a once in a lifetime adventure, a helicopter tour of Franz Josef Glacier is an experience like no other. Not only is it a breathtaking way to view the stunning scenery of the glacier and surrounding area, but it also has a host of other benefits that make it a must-do activity for anyone visiting the region.
Experience the Scenery Up Close
One of the best things about helicopter tours is the ability to get up close and personal with the landscape, something that simply isn’t possible from the ground. From the comfort of your seat, you can enjoy unobstructed views of everything from snow-capped mountains and ancient valleys to icy glaciers and winding rivers. It’s a truly unforgettable experience that will stay with you for years to come.
Access Unreachable Places
Another benefit of helicopter tours is the ability to access remote and otherwise unreachable locations. This is particularly true in the case of Franz Josef Glacier, where much of the area is inaccessible by foot or vehicle. Whether you’re looking to explore crevasses, land on mountain peaks, or simply enjoy a private picnic in a secluded spot, helicopter tours are the perfect way to do it.
What to Expect on a Franz Josef Helicopter Tour
It’s difficult to put into words just how amazing a helicopter tour of Franz Josef Glacier truly is. From the moment you take off, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of some of the most stunning landscapes New Zealand has to offer, all while enjoying a comfortable and luxurious ride.
Getting Ready for Your Flight
Before your flight, you’ll meet with your pilot and be given a safety briefing. You’ll also be briefed on what to expect during your tour and what you can do to ensure you have the best experience possible. Once you’re ready to go, you’ll board the helicopter and take off, soaring over the glacier and surrounding area at heights of up to 12,000 feet.
The Tour Itself
As you fly, your pilot will point out key features and landmarks, giving you an unparalleled look at the area’s natural wonders. You may even get the chance to touch down on ancient glaciers or mountaintops, giving you the opportunity to experience the landscape up close.
What to Expect from Franz Josef Helicopter Tours?
If you are interested in taking a Franz Josef helicopter tour, here are some things you should know about what to expect:
Tour Duration
The duration of a tour can vary depending on the company and the package you choose. Some Franz Josef helicopter tours can last anywhere from 20 minutes to 3 hours. It is best to check with the company you plan to book with to see what is included in their packages and how long the tour will last.
Flight Route
The flight route of a Franz Josef helicopter tour will also vary depending on the package you choose. Some tours will take you over the glacier and the surrounding area, while others will take you along the West Coast of New Zealand. The route you select will depend on what you want to see and the amount of time you have available for the tour.
| No | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| 1 | Duration of the tour can vary from 20 minutes to 3 hours |
| 2 | Flight route varies on the package you choose |
| 3 | The route can be over the glacier and surrounding areas or along the West Coast of New Zealand |
Overall, a Franz Josef helicopter tour is an unforgettable experience that gives you a unique perspective of the glacier and the surrounding area. With the help of an experienced pilot, you will be able to see the beauty of the region from high above.
Planning Your Franz Josef Helicopter Tour
Before embarking on your Franz Josef helicopter tour, there are certain factors to consider to ensure that you have the best experience. Below are some of the things you need to consider when planning your Franz Josef helicopter tour.
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions can affect the safety and overall enjoyment of your tour. The helicopter company will cancel its flights if the weather is not conducive. Therefore, it is important to check the weather forecast on the day of your flight before leaving your hotel. If the weather is unfavorable, your tour may be rescheduled or canceled. Hence, it is advisable to book your tour for your earliest day in Franz Josef. This leaves you with a window to reschedule in case the weather turns bad.
Budget
The cost of helicopter tours varies depending on the company and the package. Before booking, research different companies and compare their prices. In addition to the cost of the tour, remember to factor in other costs such as transportation to and from the hotel, meals, and accommodation. Consider booking in advance for discounts or using a travel agency to get the best package deals.
Franz Josef Helicopter Tours Subtitle FAQ
Find answers to frequently asked questions about Franz Josef Helicopter Tours below.
1. What are Franz Josef Helicopter Tours?
Franz Josef Helicopter Tours offers sightseeing tours of Franz Josef Glacier by helicopter.
2. What is the duration of Franz Josef Helicopter Tours?
The standard tour duration is 20 minutes but longer options are also available.
3. Are there age restrictions for Franz Josef Helicopter Tours?
No, Franz Josef Helicopter Tours does not have age restrictions, however, a child under 4 can sit on a parent’s lap.
4. What happens if the weather is not suitable for Franz Josef Helicopter Tours?
If the weather is not suitable for flying, then Franz Josef Helicopter Tours will reschedule your booking or refund you.
5. Is Franz Josef Helicopter Tours safe?
Yes, Franz Josef Helicopter Tours has experienced pilots and well-maintained aircraft. Your safety is their top priority.
6. What should I wear for the Franz Josef Helicopter Tours?
Wear comfortable, warm clothing with closed-toe shoes. Hats and gloves are also recommended.
7. Can I bring a camera on the Franz Josef Helicopter Tours?
Yes, cameras are allowed and encouraged to capture the stunning scenery!
8. Are there bathrooms during the Franz Josef Helicopter Tours?
No, there are no bathrooms available on the helicopter tours.
9. Can I bring a backpack with me on the Franz Josef Helicopter Tours?
No, Franz Josef Helicopter Tours does not allow backpacks on board for safety reasons.
10. What happens if I am prone to motion sickness during the Franz Josef Helicopter Tours?
You should speak to your doctor beforehand and consider taking motion sickness medication.
11. Can I book Franz Josef Helicopter Tours online?
Yes, book Franz Josef Helicopter Tours online through their website or through a third-party website.
12. What is Franz Josef Helicopter Tours’ cancellations policy?
You may cancel your booking up to 24 hours before the tour and receive a full refund.
13. Is there parking available for Franz Josef Helicopter Tours?
Yes, there is parking available near the helicopter base.
14. Are there discounts for group bookings for Franz Josef Helicopter Tours?
Yes, there are discounts for group bookings. Contact Franz Josef Helicopter Tours for details.
15. Can I customize the Franz Josef Helicopter Tour?
Yes, Franz Josef Helicopter Tours offers customized tours to cater to your preferences.
If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, you simply cannot miss Franz Josef helicopter tours. This tour will take you on an unforgettable adventure filled with breathtaking views of glaciers and mountains.
Thank You for Joining Us in the Skies!
Kind Reader, we hope that the Franz Josef Helicopter Tours article has inspired you to explore New Zealand from above. Witnessing the majestic mountains, glaciers, and rainforests from a unique perspective is an unforgettable experience. Our team at Franz Josef Helicopter Tours is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and a safe, fun-filled adventure. We hope that you will come back again and experience more of what our beautiful country has to offer. Until then, happy travels!
