Mount Cook Small Group Scenic Tour & Helicopter Experience

Join our small-group, fully guided return day tour from Queenstown to Aoraki/Mount Cook. Immerse yourself in the region’s must-see highlights and experience a 25-minute Tasman Taster scenic helicopter flight.

• 
  From NZD $580 per person
• 
  Premium Mercedes Sprinter Bus
• 
  Maximum 16 guests
• 
  12 hours duration (Approx)

What's Included

• Central pickup and drop-off locations in Queenstown
• Return transport in a modern, air-conditioned minibus
• 25 Minute Scenic Helicopter Flight
• Experienced local guide with in-depth commentary
• Multiple scenic stops and photo opportunities along the way, including Lake Pukaki and Lindis Pass.
• Free time to enjoy self-guided hikes
• Entry to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre
• Complimentary snacks and water on board (bring a reusable bottle)

ITINERARY

Departure Time: 7.30am

Your Adventure Begins

Start your day by meeting our friendly local guide at your Queenstown accommodation or nearby. You’ll travel in style in a premium Mercedes van designed for touring with only 16 seats onboard. As we depart Queenstown, the first leg of our journey takes us through the Central Otago wine regions of Gibbston and Cromwell. We then cross the dramatic Lindis Pass before making a brief stop in Omarama for refreshments and an opportunity to purchase lunch/snacks.

Welcome to Mackenzie Country

The scenery transforms as we enter Mackenzie Country, and our guide will entertain you with stories and interesting facts as we trace the edge of the Southern Alps. Along the way, we’ll pass a network of lakes and canals near Twizel, renowned for its fishing of fresh Mt Cook Alpine salmon. Once we veer off the main road, we’ll follow the stunning bright blue waters of Lake Pukaki before arriving at Mt Cook Village.

Mount Cook Adventure & Helicopter Flight

Welcome to Mt Cook! Arriving at approximately 12 pm, your guide will transport you to Mt Cook Airport where you will check in with Mt Cook Skiplanes & Helicopters for their Tasman Taster flight. You will have a quick safety briefing before taking to the skies on a unique 25-minute scenic flight in one of their state-of-the-art helicopters. Fly over the Tasman Lake before a stunning alpine landing on Brass Peak or Liebig Dome within the National Park. Your helicopter will briefly shut down where you’ll be able to disembark for some stunning photos as you look at the soaring peaks of Mt Cook above you. Reboard the helicopter for take-off as you make your way back to Mt Cook Airport and have additional free time to enjoy Mt Cook Village.

All guests receive complimentary access to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre. This museum and theatre offer insights into Mt Cook’s unique history and the adventures of one of New Zealand’s most famed explorers.

The Journey Back

At approximately 3:30pm, you will rejoin our guide and van to commence the return journey to Queenstown. Sit back, relax, and take in the views. This day tour spans approximately 12 hours, and our smaller vehicles and attentive guide ensure your comfort and entertainment throughout the journey.

Please note: the Tasman Taster scenic flight is subject to availability at the time of booking and our team will reconfirm with you once your booking is confirmed. This is a weather-dependent activity.