Earnslaw Burn Glacier & Waterfalls | 75min from Queenstown
Queenstown-Lakes District, Otago, Queenstown
This unforgettable 75-minute heli experience takes you to our exclusive Earnslaw Burn landing, featuring a hanging glacier and waterfalls, plus one other stunning alpine landing location.
This scenic helicopter flight from Queenstown suits nature lovers and photographers seeking remote alpine landings and panoramic views.
Highlights
- Exclusive landing in Earnslaw Burn valley
- View the immense waterfalls and blue ice in Earnslaw Burn
- Scenic sights of historic Skippers Canyon and Lake Whakatipu
- Available year-round with seasonal changes in waterfalls and snow
- Remote alpine landing site chosen by your pilot
Description
The journey begins with a helicopter flight over Moonlight Saddle and the historic gold-mining terrain of Skippers Canyon. Pass by majestic Mt Earnslaw before landing exclusively in Earnslaw Burn valley, a location only accessible by this operator. Surrounded by cascading waterfalls and a hanging glacier, this spot offers compelling photo opportunities.
In summer, numerous waterfalls flow from the ice while winter highlights the glacier covered in snow. After the Earnslaw Burn landing, the flight continues toward Glenorchy at the northern tip of Lake Whakatipu. Your pilot selects an alpine landing site based on current weather conditions, offering panoramic views of rugged peaks and remote wilderness.
The Earnslaw Burn area has featured in The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, and various travel documentaries. While water flow reduces in winter months (June to August), the snow-draped glacier creates a striking alpine scene throughout the year.
Includes
- 75-minute scenic helicopter flight from Queenstown
- One 20-minute landing in Earnslaw Burn basin
- One 10-minute alpine landing
- Experienced local pilot with informative commentary
- Optional hotel pickup and dropoff
Excludes
- Food
Important Information
- Shared Experience: This is a shared flight with 6 to 9 passengers onboard. Minimum numbers are required to confirm a flight.
- Seating: Seats are assigned based on aircraft weight and balance for safety. Specific seat requests cannot be guaranteed.
- Weight Restrictions: Accurate passenger weights must be provided at booking. Discrepancies may affect the flight manifest or incur extra charges.
- Scenic Landings: Includes two landings, one exclusive Earnslaw Burn landing and one alpine landing chosen by your pilot.
- Weather Dependent: Flights depend on weather and operational conditions. Routes and landings may change or be rescheduled for safety.
Easy Cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Book early to secure your seat. Dress warmly and bring a camera to capture the alpine landscape. The best flight times are late morning to early afternoon for optimal lighting and weather.
