Everything you need to know about the Fox Glacier Helicopter Hike Experience

In New Zealand’s Southern Alps foothills lies Fox Glacier. This cosy little town is the site of some of the most incredible glacier hikes, flights, and scenic walks you’ll experience in the country - and the world. Remote, untouched, and dramatic, Fox Glacier will get your heart pumping, your adrenaline flowing, and immerse you into an experience you’ll struggle to forget - especially if you experience the glacier via the renowned Fox Glacier Helicopter Hike experience! This is a two-in-one adventure that gives you the thrill of taking to the skies before an up-close-and-personal hiking experience right in the heart of a personalised glacier exploration.

What is the Fox Glacier Helicopter Hike Experience?

The Heli Hike - Fox Glacier Guiding experience gives you the chance to walk across this world-famous glacier, exploring the constantly changing glacial ice formations that define it. In this experience, participants are flown into the Fox Glacier, giving the advantage of access to parts of the glacier where its natural forces are hard at work, creating incredible ice caves and arches.

Your helicopter flight begins over the pinnacles of the lower icefall, before whisking you up to a breathtaking part of the Fox Glacier that’s 800 metres above sea level. Here, your experienced guide will fit you with crampons that are purpose-designed for the conditions you’re going to experience. They’ll then cut ice steps, allowing you to follow safely in their footsteps.

With up to 3 hours on the ice, this is the most immersive way to experience this natural and evolving environment for yourself, with features changing constantly from visit to visit. There’s a reason why there’s so many repeat bookings when it comes to making the most of what this corner of the world has to offer! 

Who is this experience designed for?

The Fox Glacier Helicopter Hike experience is designed to be inclusive, with no previous experience required for you to enjoy this hiking adventure for yourself. While a moderate fitness level is required, the nature of a helicopter trip in and out means more people are able to access this experience and enjoy it for themselves. Children aged 9 years and over are also welcome, meaning more members of the family can join in on your Fox Glacier exploration!

What to expect on the glacier

If this is your first time ice hiking or hiking in the snow, never fear: you’re in great hands. Your trustworthy guide will show you how to navigate at every turn, leading you safely through unbelievable ice formations and through winding paths across the glacier’s natural beauty.

You’ll also get the chance to learn more about the glacier’s natural history, as well as how climate plays a key role in defining the area’s nuanced features. For those who may be experiencing New Zealand for the first time, this is a powerful way to get an immersive taste of just how varied its landscape can be.

How to prepare for your Fox Glacier adventure

Booking your Fox Glacier helicopter guided hike adventure is simple, with the majority of the planning and preparation done for you. With some simple prep, however, you can make sure you’re comfortable and ready for what this hike will bring.

The weather on Fox Glacier can change quickly, meaning it’s important to dress in layers that allow for flexibility. Waterproof and windproof jackets are crucial to keep you warm and dry in the midst of unknown weather elements! Gloves, a hat, and ankle-supporting hiking boots can finish your outfit off, leaving you ready to face the day comfortably and confidently.

Since this is a hugely popular tour, it’s important to book in advance. Daily departures year-round at 8:50am and 11:50am give you plenty of opportunities to experience the Fox Glacier by helicopter and by foot. However, you don’t want to leave it to chance when it comes to securing your preferred date. 

Of course, you’ll also want to pack a camera! With so much natural beauty on full display at Fox Glacier, make sure you’re armed with a camera to capture your experience as the hike continues. 

Finally, don’t forget to apply sunscreen before setting off. Just because it’s cold doesn’t mean you’re safe in the sun, and with plenty of reflective ice in every direction, sun safety is paramount. 

New Zealand offers an incredible range of adventures in all directions, but the Fox Glacier Helicopter Hike Experience is not to be missed. Enjoy the best of both worlds as you take in the expansive beauty of the Southern Alps region while you’re flown in by helicopter, then immerse yourself in a hike that offers breathtaking sights in every direction. Your Fox Glacier adventure is just a few clicks away - what are you waiting for? It’s time to experience the glacier for yourself!