Queenstown Helicopter Tour | 1hr Earnslaw Burn & Waterfalls
Queenstown-Lakes District, Otago, Queenstown
Our most popular and exclusive experience. Fly to the remote Earnslaw Burn, home to a dramatic hanging glacier and cascading waterfalls — a truly unforgettable location loved by both guests and crew.
Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Scenic Flight, Queenstown – Suitable for adventure and nature lovers
This helicopter experience offers a 60-minute scenic flight from Queenstown to Earnslaw Burn, featuring exclusive landing access and alpine glacier views.
Highlights
- See the hanging glacier and waterfalls featured in films and TV series
- Exclusive landing at Earnslaw Burn, accessible only with Heliworks Queenstown
- Scenic flight over Skippers Canyon and historic gold mining landscapes
- Explore a remote alpine valley surrounded by towering peaks and glacial scenery
- Seasonal views: snowy glacier in winter, waterfalls in warmer months
Description
Your journey begins with a scenic flight over rugged schist slopes and historic gold mining sites in Skippers Canyon, before descending into the Earnslaw Burn valley floor. The valley features a dramatic hanging glacier and numerous waterfalls in warmer months.
Heliworks Queenstown is the only operator permitted to land at Earnslaw Burn, providing an exclusive chance to explore this remote and largely untouched alpine location.
The area has been featured in The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, and other notable travel productions, showcasing its unique landscapes.
During winter (June to August), waterfalls are fewer but the glacier displays deep blue tones under fresh snow, creating a distinctive alpine atmosphere.
Includes
- 60-minute helicopter flight to Earnslaw Burn
- Exclusive 20-minute landing at Earnslaw Burn valley
- Aerial views of Skippers Canyon and gold mining heritage sites
- Close-up seasonal glacier flyover
- Time on the valley floor for photos and exploration
- Commentary by experienced local pilot
- Optional hotel pickup and dropoff
Excludes
- Food
Important Information
- Shared experience: flights may include 6 to 9 passengers; minimum numbers required to confirm
- Seating assigned for safety and balance, no guaranteed seat preferences
- Accurate passenger weights required at booking; discrepancies may affect manifest or incur charges
- Flight and landing subject to weather and operational conditions; routes may change for safety
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For best experience, book in advance and bring warm clothing. The flight operates year-round with different seasonal highlights to enjoy.
