6 Tips for Your Mount Cook Heli Hike Adventure

Have you set your sights on conquering New Zealand’s largest glacier with a Mount Cook heli-hike adventure? If this is the adventure you’ve been yearning for, then prepare for an experience that will pump your heart with adrenaline and leave you breathless amidst unparalleled natural beauty. It’s a wilderness escapade that will etch its place in your personal history, and you’ll find yourself eagerly anticipating another thrilling helicopter ride back.

If you’re booked in for a Mount Cook heli-hike adventure, we’ve gathered all the tips you will need to make the most of every moment. It’s time to lace up those hiking boots and get ready to revel in the sights. Here’s what you need to know so you don’t miss a moment.

1. Allow plenty of time to travel there

When it comes to your Mount Cook adventure, the journey there is half the fun. On route into the rugged New Zealand wilderness, you will drive along the famous Mount Cook Road. Make sure to allow plenty of time before your heli-hiking adventure begins to take in the spectacular scenery and stop for pictures.

Heli Hike - Mount Cook Tasman Glacier departs from Mount Cook Airport, starting with a safety briefing and equipment check. Make sure you check-in at least 10 minutes before so you don't miss out!

2. Pack for the elements you’re likely to encounter

Mount Cook’s weather is known for its unpredictable nature. Even in summer, temperatures can drop far further than most visitors anticipate if they’re not well prepared. By dressing in layers, you can be ready for all kinds of weather, removing or adding another as needed throughout your heli-hike. Long trousers and windproof jackets with fleece or wool layers underneath are the best way to go to protect yourself against the elements and prepare for the unexpected. 

Of course, you'll also need to wear hiking boots that keep your ankles supported and protected - these are provided if you don't have your own! Gloves, a warm hat, sunscreen and sunglasses are also necessary companions for the adventure you’re about to experience. You’ll be kicking yourself if you happen to leave them behind, and you will be far less comfortable throughout your hike as a result. 

3. Don’t forget to bring water and snacks

Trust us - hiking is hungry work! By packing some light snacks and a water bottle in a small backpack, you’ll be able to refuel at key points throughout your hike. Opt for snacks that are helpful for giving you the energy boost you need, rather than sugary snacks, so you can keep going for longer - this isn’t the best location for a mid-afternoon sugar crash. 

4. Pay close attention to your experienced guides

With a heli-hiking adventure to Mount Cook, you can enjoy the benefits of authoritative local guides who’ve done this hike time after time. Look to them for the safety advice you need, as well as knowledge on how to navigate the terrain in either snowshoes or with the use of crampons. Not only can these experienced guides help to keep you safe and moving along at a great pace throughout your hike, but they’ll also provide rich and unique insights into the area itself, noting changes that take place daily. There’s always something exciting to see, and their eagle eye means they don’t miss a moment of it!

5. Make sure to respect the environment

It likely goes without saying that it’s important to minimise your footprint throughout your Mount Cook hike - after all, if you’re making the effort to go on a Mount Cook heli-hike, you know that you’re about to witness unforgettable natural beauty. This is a fragile ecosystem that requires cooperation from the people who visit it. You can help to do this by remaining on designated paths as noted by your guide, taking your rubbish with you, and leaving no trace of your visit behind. Mount Cook, and its locals, will thank you for your efforts.

6. Drink in every moment

With so much beauty unfolding around you, it can be easy to get overwhelmed. Don’t get so caught up in the hike that you forget to look around every few steps. This is the largest glacier in New Zealand, and you’ve just been flown in via helicopter to hike it! Take your time in enjoying the world around you, making the most of the beauty and the atmosphere. It’s these moments you’ll take with you to savour once your Mount Cook heli-hiking adventure is over.

A Mount Cook heli-hike adventure is certainly one for your personal history books. Enjoy a helicopter tour and a hike packed into one adrenalin-filled wilderness adventure, staying safe and secure while you enjoy every moment. Book your Mount Cook heli-hike in today and get ready to have your expectations blown away!