Today we are going on a breathtaking scenery flight among New Zealand's highest peaks with Air Safaris, based in Lake Tekapo.

 

"The Grand Traverse of Mt Cook and Glaciers" offered by Air Safaris is a unique 45-minute flight which will take you above two world heritage national parks, including some stunning views of Mount Cook National Park and Lake Tekapo.

 

Based in Lake Tekapo, Air Safaris has been operating all year-round since 1970 and daily runs numerous shuttles from the town to the aerodrome situated about a 10-minute drive outside Lake Tekapo. The company prides itself in now operating the largest scenic aeroplane fleet in NZ with no less than 10 aircrafts and a bunch of experienced and dedicated pilots.

 

Before embarking on our plane, our pilot Richard briefly draws our attention on some important safety procedures and also gives us a quick insight into the flight's itinerary.

 

High above Lake Tekapo, we are able to observe the amazing lake and its milky turquoise colour backed by some impressive glaciers.

 

Covering about 200 km of land in 45 min, this truly amazing flight allows us to see a vast amount of different things. Among others, we fly over the Mt Cook National Park and the Westland National Park which both encompass several spectacular world-known glaciers such as the Tasman Glacier, the Fox Glacier, the Franz Josef Glacier and many other incredible glaciers, snowfields and icefalls.



These two national parks are classified as world heritage and the contrasts offered between glaciers, valleys and turquoise lakes make the scenery an unsuspected wonderland.





Heading West, we get a close look at the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers;



We also get a glimpse of the West Coast on this perfect sunny day;

 

The informative and sometimes funny comments from our pilot Richard throughout the flight make the journey a pleasant and enriching moment for all of us.

 

Air Safaris also provides flexible inter-airport options to allow passengers to meet with their buses at the end of the Grand Traverse and thus continue on with their plans. Options are available between Lake Tekapo, Pukaki, Glentanner Park and Mount Cook.

 

The Grand Traverse flight offered by Air Safaris consists in an unforgettable journey which will take you high above some of the prettiest landscapes in the world. It is really a once-life opportunity to get a close look at some of the most beautiful views that NZ has to offer while enjoying the comfort and knowledge of Air Safaris. The quality and kindness of the crew combined with the gorgeous scenery will ensure that your flight is an absolute delight!