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Exclusive Glacier Heli Hike Experience

Experience Overview

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Tucked deep within the breathtaking Forbes Mountain Range beyond Glenorchy and Mount Earnslaw lies the Grant Glacier – a remote, untouched oasis accessible only by helicopter.BLACK brings you an exclusive opportunity to explore this pristine ice terrain on a bespoke glacier helicopter hiking experience.

Departing from Queenstown, you’ll set out on a scenic helicopter flight offering exceptional views of the mountainous area, as well as its lakes and braided rivers. Upon landing on the glacier, you will don your crampons and step into an icy realm under the full guidance of a senior ice climbing specialist and your dedicated host from BLACK.

Designed to suit your personal preferences, whether you prefer a more relaxed exploration of the glacier features and crevasses or a more adventurous ice climbing challenge, your guide will tailor your ice experience safely to meet your desires. This activity is unmatched in this region. With exclusive access to the glacier and an estimated less than 70 years
remaining in the glacier’s lifespan, you’ll be among the select few who will ever step foot on this extraordinary terrain.

Tour highlights & inclusions

DURATION
3 - 5 Hour Experience

SUITABLE FOR
For Adventures Aged 10+

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This experience safely offers expertly guided, private glacier exploration. After a well-briefed
introduction and equipped with top-of-the-line gear, a spectacular scenic flight provides
private access to the Grant Glacier. Your adventure can be customised to your desires;
simply share your preferences with your guide, who will tailor an experience that adheres to
safe glacier practices.

Inclusions:

  • Private helicopter transfers (approximately 25–30 minutes each way from
    Queenstown)
  • Expert guidance from a senior ice climbing specialist
  • Glacier Exploration & Ice Climbing tailored to your fitness level and adventure desire
  • Gourmet picnic lunch with tea and coffee on the glacier
  • Professional-grade ice equipment, including crampons

3-4 hour Glacier Exploration Experience

PICK UP / MEET YOUR HOST & GUIDE

Your personalised adventure begins when your host from BLACK and a professional senior ice guide greet you at your accommodation. Enjoy a comprehensive briefing to ensure the highest safety standards, and get fitted with top-of-the-line gear, setting the tone for the day.

SCENIC HELICOPTER FLIGHT FROM QUEENSTOWN

Take off on a private helicopter ride from Queenstown, flying over the waters of Lake Wakatipu and the landscapes of the Southern Alps as you approach Mount Aspiring National Park and the Grant Glacier.

GLACIER LANDING

Touch down on the hard ice of the Grant Glacier, a remote realm far removed from the everyday world. As the helicopter flies away, the silence and scale of the Forbes Mountains are sure to amaze you.

GLACIER EXPLORATION

After you step off the helicopter and don your crampons as you prepare to explore. Spend up to two hours uncovering the glacier’s stunning features, including deep crevasses and blue ice formations.

GOURMET PICNIC LUNCH

During your glacier exploration enjoy a delicious picnic lunch complete with hot tea and coffee on the ice, surrounded by extensive views. Before resuming further ice exploration.

RETURN FLIGHT / DROP OFF

After your two-hour glacier adventure, return to the helicopter for a scenic flight back to Queenstown. Reflect on your remarkable experience as you enjoy a comfortable transfer back to your accommodation, concluding a day that few will ever forget.

4 - 5 Hour Ice Climbing & Glacier Adventure

PICK-UP / MEET YOUR HOST & GUIDE

Your personalised adventure begins when your host from BLACK and an experienced senior ice climbing guide greet you at your accommodation. Enjoy a thorough safety briefing and be equipped with the highest-quality gear to prepare for an unforgettable day of exploration and adventure.

SCENIC HELICOPTER FLIGHT FROM QUEENSTOWN

Board a private helicopter for an impressive flight over the waters of Lake Wakatipu and the landscapes of the Southern Alps as you approach Mount Aspiring National Park and the Grant Glacier.

GLACIER LANDING

Touch down on the hard ice of the Grant Glacier, a remote realm far removed from the everyday world. As the helicopter flies away, the silence and scale of the Forbes Mountains are sure to amaze you.

ICE CLIMBING ADVENTURE

Step out onto the glacier’s icy expanse, where your expert guide will introduce you to the techniques of ice climbing. Challenge yourself on the glacier’s vertical walls and explore deep crevasses, feeling the excitement of climbing and taking in the views of the unique ice formations. This portion of the adventure is tailored to your skill level and interests, allowing you to push your limits while remaining in a safe environment.

GOURMET PICNIC LUNCH

Pause to refuel with a gourmet picnic lunch, served on the glacier amidst the ice landscape. Enjoy lunch with a hot drink, as you relax and take in the extraordinary landscape around you.

RETURN FLIGHT / DROP OFF

After your ice climbing experience, board the helicopter for a scenic return flight to Queenstown. Reflect on your amazing and unique day before your transfer back to your accommodation, concluding an experience

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