Magpie
4.6(55 reviews)

Mt Cook Ultimate Alpine Experience

FromNZ$824
12 hours
Queenstown, New Zealand

About this activity

Experience the majestic Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park with a guided tour and scenic flight over the Southern Alps, including a visit to the Tasman Glacier.

Highlights

  • Explore Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park
  • Scenic flight over Southern Alps
  • Guided tour of alpine landscapes
  • Visit Tasman Glacier
  • Breathtaking mountain vistas

Full description

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park on this full-day adventure from Queenstown. Begin with a scenic flight over the Southern Alps, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and rugged terrains. Upon arrival, embark on a guided tour through alpine landscapes, including a visit to the Tasman Glacier. Learn about the region's unique flora and fauna, and capture stunning photographs of the towering mountains and pristine environment. This excursion is perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers looking to immerse themselves in New Zealand's alpine wonders.

Included / Excluded

  • Round-trip transportation from Queenstown
  • Guided tour of Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park
  • Scenic flight over Southern Alps
  • Meals and beverages

Itinerary

1

Pass by: Your tour starts in the stunning city of Queenstown. As we drive out of the city your guide will not only set the scene for your adventurous day but also point out and guide you past some of the area’s top highlights.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2

Pass by: Departing Queenstown we then make our way through the Kawarau Gorge passing stunning views, the Kawarau Suspension Bridge and the famous Roaring Meg Lookout. Time and light permitting we will stop for that first great shot of the tour.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3

Exiting the Kawarau Gorge we enter the fruit and wine growing region of Cromwell. Passing huge fields of vines, we cross Lake Dunstan and follow this beautiful lake towards Lindis Pass.

Duration: 5 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4

Climbing in altitude, Lindis Pass has amazing views down through the valleys. Being one of only three alpine roads through the otherwise impassable Southern Alps, we stop at the famous lookout at the top of the pass for an essential photo.

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5

While driving through the endless plains of the Mackenzie district we will spot several of the famous Merino breed of sheep before stopping at the quaint township of Omarama. While in Omarama we have time for a break or even to try the best creamy chicken pie in NZ (in our opinion)!

Duration: 30 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6

Turning west we begin to enter the Aoraki National Park and Lake Pukaki begins to emerge in front of us. Lake Pukaki is one of the bluest lakes you will ever see and is stunningly framed by the backdrop of Aoraki/Mt Cook and the Southern Alps. We stop for some amazing photos and to marvel at the sight that we are beholding. It’s not hard to see why many Lord of the Rings scene were filmed nearby and we will point them out for you.

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
7

Check-in and get ready for an unforgettable experience flying in a ski plane and a helicopter, on the same day, for the ultimate experience of Aoraki/Mount Cook! This amazing scenic adventure includes a glacier snow landing on the Tasman Glacier. ** Please note - our airline partner has a fuel surcharge of NZ$20 per person in place until further notice. This is to be paid directly to the airline upon check-in **

Duration: 30 minAdmission: YES
8

As part of you ultimate alpine experience you will land on the Tasman glacier and get a chance to explore this amazing location.

Duration: 20 minAdmission: YES
9

While in the national park you have 30 minutes free time to enjoy free walks/hikes or one of the extra optional activities. Some of our recommendations include Kea Point Track or the Sir Edmond Hillary Alpine Centre. Whatever you decide to do we will pick you up and drop you off where you need to go and make sure you are well looked after.

Duration: 30 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
10

After your flight we arrive at the Mt Cook Village, weather depending, we should get some amazing shots of the mountain itself. At 3724m, Aoraki/Mt Cook is New Zealand’s highest peak, however, the mountain can be viewed without any acclimatisation whatsoever from the village which is just 750m above sea level.

Duration: 30 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
11

Farewelling Aoraki/Mt Cook Village and making our way back to Queenstown we stop in at High Country Salmon, a local salmon farm, where you can feed the fish and taste some of the freshest salmon in New Zealand.

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
12

During summer months when the sun is still up and as we get close to Queenstown, we often stop at Jacksons Orchard to try or buy some delicious local fruit or real fruit ice cream.

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
13

Sadly the tour must come to an end as we re-enter Queenstown and say our goodbyes.

Duration: 1 hourAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Meeting point

Start Location

The Station - Home of Adventure in Queenstown, Corner of Shotover & Camp Streets, 25 Shotover Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

Important information

Know before you book

  • Tour operates in all weather conditions; flights may be subject to cancellation due to weather
  • Children under 2 years old can join for free if seated on a parent's lap
  • Please inform of any dietary restrictions in advance

Know before you go

  • Dress in layers to accommodate varying temperatures
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery
  • Wear sturdy walking shoes suitable for alpine terrain

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Easy Public Transport
  • Infant Seats Available

Good to know

  • Flight activities are subject to availability and require confirmation with our airline partner. As dates are not always available, we will inform you accordingly.
  • It is important to note that Ultimate Alpine Flight is very dependent on the weather. The decision to fly is made by our flight partner on the day and may be cancelled last minute due to weather conditions
  • The bus tour operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
  • Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. If you don't have a car seat one can be provided (with 24 hours’ notice).
  • Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
  • Please note - our airline partner has a fuel surcharge of NZ$20 per person in place until further notice. This is to be paid directly to the airline upon check-in.

Traveler reviews

4.6
55 reviews
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1

A must do in Mount Cook!

The Ultimate Alpine Combo was one of the coolest experiences I have ever had! Mount Cook is so vast and diverse in the scenery and it is absolutely stunning. We had a PERFECT bluebird day and landed on a pristine, untouched glacier. Very cool to experience the helicopter and ski plane in the same outing! 10/10 would recommend.

brittparkesMay 16, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Aussies on holidays

The helicopter ride was great. Unfortunate the plane wasn't operating on the day we went. Our flight was dropped from 45mins (plane and helicopter) to a 25min helicopter ride. Upon reflection I should have asked to be placed on a longer flight. The operators were all lovely, our bus driver was quite knowledgeable and full of stories on the drive. We will definately try again next time we visit

Lynette_RApr 23, 2026VIATOR

What a day!

This was an awesome experience that is highly recommend to anyone! Our driver, Olly, was personable and informative, and really nice on top of it all. The pilots for the flights, Roger and Blair, were great. Honestly, though, those mountains... The glacier.... Truly awe-inspiring. Also, just as a side, Cheeky Kiwi is an awesome company to deal with!

Beth_MMar 24, 2026VIATOR

Amazing experience!

The Mt Cook tour and ultimate alpine experience was amazing. Well priced for everything that was included and our your slide Rob was the best. Very knowledgeable while at the same time charming and hilarious. The helicopter ride was a blast and landing on the glacier was definitely a unique experience. Definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a fun adventure.

yojarpMar 4, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Best alpine experience

We had the best day. Jess our guide was lovely and knowledgeable. The van had everything we needed. The glacier was amazing.

naikearJan 12, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Additional information

Flight activities are subject to availability and require confirmation with our airline partner. As dates are not always available, we will inform you accordingly. It is important to note that Ultimate Alpine Flight is very dependent on the weather. The decision to fly is made by our flight partner on the day and may be cancelled last minute due to weather conditions The bus tour operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately. Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. If you don't have a car seat one can be provided (with 24 hours’ notice). Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
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