Milford Sound and Big Five Glaciers Scenic Flight: A Stunning Aerial Journey Over Fiordland
Experience Fiordland from above with a 60-minute scenic flight over Milford Sound and five major glaciers. This aerial tour reveals towering peaks, ancient ice fields, and cascading waterfalls in a single unforgettable journey.
The Experience
Before You Go
Check Weather Before Booking
Flight departures depend heavily on weather; always confirm your flight status 1 hour and 15 minutes prior to departure.
Dress in Layers
Temperatures can drop higher up—bring a jacket and dress in warm layers for comfort throughout the flight.
Bring a Fully Charged Camera
You’ll want to capture expansive glacier views and dramatic fiords, so make sure your devices have ample battery.
Stay Hydrated Before Flight
Though the flight is short, proper hydration helps you feel alert and comfortable while absorbing the spectacular scenery.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •The Olivine Ice Plateau - a remote glacial amphitheater rarely seen except from the air
- •The Arthur Valley views including Sutherland Falls, New Zealand’s highest waterfall
Wildlife
- •Kea parrots often seen in alpine regions
- •Fiordland crested penguins occasionally spotted near coastal areas
Conservation Note
Fiordland and Mt Aspiring National Parks are protected areas with strict conservation measures to preserve native flora and fauna; visitors are encouraged to minimize their environmental footprint.
The Shotover River area was a major center of New Zealand’s gold rush in the 1860s, second only to Alaska’s Klondike region for gold concentration.
Photographer's Notes
- • Overhead Milford Sound with Mitre Peak
- • Above glacier alley in Fiordland
- • Along the Southern Alps near Mt Aspiring
What to Bring
Warm JacketEssential
To stay comfortable in varying cabin temperatures during the flight.
Camera or SmartphoneEssential
To capture panoramic views of glaciers and Milford Sound.
Binoculars
Helpful for spotting wildlife and distant features during flight.
Sunglasses
To reduce glare from snow and water surfaces.
Common Questions
How long is the scenic flight?
The flight lasts approximately one hour from takeoff to landing back in Queenstown.
What glaciers will I see on this tour?
You will see the Rob Roy, Bonar, Jura, Volta, Dart, Olivine, and Donne Glaciers, among others.
Is the flight suitable for people with limited mobility?
Yes, the flight and transportation options are wheelchair accessible, and no special physical fitness is required.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure. Flights may also be canceled due to weather with options for rescheduling or refund.
Are infants allowed on the flight?
Infants under one year can fly free when seated on an adult’s lap with an infant lap belt; otherwise, a child ticket is required.
Is airport pickup provided?
Yes, complimentary pickup and drop-off are offered from centrally located Queenstown accommodations.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1 hour
Location
Queenstown, Otago
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as this is a seated scenic flight requiring no physical exertion.
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