Earnslaw Burn Glacier & Waterfalls | 75min from Queenstown

Travelers seeking a blend of adventure and breathtaking scenery will find this helicopter tour from Queenstown a compelling choice. While it’s not the cheapest option, the chance to land in a truly remote alpine location, surrounded by waterfalls and glaciers, makes it a special outing worth considering.

What we love most about this experience are the exclusive landing in Earnslaw Burn, where few get to go, and the spectacular views of waterfalls and glaciers that change with the seasons. A potential drawback is the price point of $651 per person, which might seem steep, but the uniqueness and quality of the scenery justify it for those who prize memorable landscapes.

This tour suits travelers who crave unique photo opportunities, remote wilderness, and a taste of New Zealand’s rugged beauty. It’s also ideal for those who want an active, adventurous experience that offers a different perspective on Queenstown’s stunning surroundings.

Key Points

• Exclusive landing in Earnslaw Burn makes this experience rare and special.
• Seasonal variations mean waterfalls are more prominent in summer, while glaciers are snow-covered in winter.
• Panoramic views over Lake Whakatipu, Skippers Canyon, and rugged peaks provide plenty of photo opportunities.
• The 75-minute flight balances adventure with comfort, including two landings and scenic flight time.
• Weather dependency means routes and landings could be rescheduled for safety, but the experience is adaptable.
• The small group format (with 6-9 passengers) enhances comfort and interaction with your pilot.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting from Queenstown: A Scenic Journey Begins

Your adventure kicks off with a pickup or meeting point in Queenstown, leading to a helicopter that seats about 6 to 9 passengers. As you lift off, you’ll immediately notice the stunning aerial views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Whakatipu. The flight path takes you through Moonlight Saddle, offering sweeping vistas of the South Island’s rugged terrain.

Skippers Canyon and Mt Earnslaw: A Historic and Awe-Inspiring Precursor

Before reaching the main attraction, your pilot will fly over Skippers Canyon, a historic gold-mining route carved into towering cliffs. This area adds a layer of historical intrigue and shows off the dramatic geological forces that shaped the region. Passing by Mt Earnslaw, you get a sense of the glaciers’ scale and the mountain’s rugged beauty.

The Highlight: Earnslaw Burn Landing

The exclusive landing in Earnslaw Burn is the tour’s crown jewel. This is a place so remote that only Heliworks is permitted to touchdown here. Surrounded by cascading waterfalls and a hanging glacier, the scene is otherworldly, especially in summer when waterfalls thunder from the ice or in winter when snow blankets the glacier.

One of the reviews emphasizes: “The views of waterfalls in summer and the snow-draped glacier in winter were breathtaking. It’s a photographer’s paradise.” The blue ice and icy formations make for a surreal landscape, perfect for capturing once-in-a-lifetime images.

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Alpine Landings and Remote Wilderness

After the Burn, you’ll lift off again toward the north end of Lake Whakatipu. Here, your pilot will select an alpine landing site, often on a mountain top, based on weather and safety conditions. You’ll have around 10 minutes to step out onto the mountain, taking in panoramic views of distant peaks and unspoiled wilderness.

This part of the trip offers a rare chance to stand in the silence, surrounded by snow or lush alpine greenery, and appreciate the scale and remoteness of New Zealand’s landscapes.

Return Flight: Scenic Farewell

The flight back takes you along the lake and over the rugged terrain toward Queenstown. The experience provides a bird’s-eye view of the region’s natural beauty, making the 75-minute duration seem to fly by. Many travelers describe the return as equally spectacular, with the vastness of the landscape stretching in every direction.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour offers a 75-minute scenic helicopter experience, with one 20-minute landing in Earnslaw Burn and a 10-minute alpine landing. An experienced pilot provides informative commentary, helping you understand both the scenery and the region’s geology and history.

Optional hotel pickup and dropoff make logistics easier, and the cancellation policy is flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. With seating arranged for safety and balance, your seats will be assigned based on weight, so specific seat requests cannot be guaranteed.

Price and Value

At $651 per person, this tour is a premium experience. You’re paying for the exclusive landings, expert pilot guidance, and the opportunity to visit a location usually inaccessible to the public. For adventure lovers and photography enthusiasts, many reviewers mention that the scenery alone justifies the cost.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress warmly: Even in summer, mountain and glacier environments can be chilly. Layering is advisable.
• Bring a camera: The views are unforgettable, and you’ll want to capture waterfalls, glaciers, and mountain panoramas.
• Be aware of weather: Flights depend on weather conditions, and routes or landings may be adjusted or rescheduled.
• Weight considerations: Accurate individual weights are necessary for safety, and seating is assigned accordingly.
• Seasonal changes: Summer offers more waterfalls flowing from melting ice, while winter features snow-covered glaciers, each providing a different visual treat.

Authenticity and Authentic Experience

Many reviews highlight the authenticity of the experience. This isn’t a scripted tourist ride, but a personalized flight with an experienced local pilot. The landscape itself is genuine, and the remote landing spot in Earnslaw Burn is a rare privilege. Plus, the experience’s appearance in films like The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit lends a touch of cinematic magic to your adventure.

Final Thoughts

This helicopter tour offers a rare glimpse into New Zealand’s most stunning and inaccessible landscapes. The exclusive landing in Earnslaw Burn paired with spectacular glacier views and alpine landings makes for an unforgettable journey. While the price is on the higher side, the quality of scenery, the sense of adventure, and the potential for incredible photographs make it a worthwhile splurge for many travelers.

If you’re after a mix of adventure, photography, and remote wilderness, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially suitable for those comfortable with helicopter travel and eager to see landscapes that few get to experience firsthand.

FAQ

How long does the entire helicopter experience last?
The tour lasts approximately 75 minutes, including the flight time and landings.

What is included in the tour?
It includes a 75-minute scenic helicopter flight with one 20-minute landing in Earnslaw Burn and a 10-minute alpine landing, plus commentary from an experienced pilot.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, hotel pickup and dropoff are optional, making it easier to plan your day.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the booking can be made with flexible payment options.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Accurate individual weights are required for safety reasons, and seating is assigned based on weight and balance.

Is this experience suitable for everyone?
It’s suitable for most people, including those who are comfortable with helicopter travel; however, it’s best for those prepared for cold weather and outdoor landings.

What kind of weather can affect the flight?
All flights are weather-dependent, and routes or landings may be adjusted or rescheduled for safety.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing, a camera, and comfortable clothes are recommended.

Is it accessible for those with mobility issues?
While the tour offers hotel pickup and dropoff, wheelchair accessibility details are not specified, so check with the provider beforehand.

To sum it up, the Earnslaw Burn Glacier & Waterfalls helicopter tour offers a rare chance to witness some of New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes from a perspective few travelers experience. It’s best suited for those seeking adventure, beautiful scenery, and memorable photography, all wrapped into one spectacular 75-minute experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby