Air Safaris in Tekapo gives you a bird’s-eye view of some of the most spectacular landscapes in the South Island. The flight takes you over turquoise lakes, braided rivers, and the Southern Alps, with Mount Cook standing out as the star of the show. It’s not the cheapest activity you’ll find, but the value comes in the sheer scale of what you get to see in such a short time. The planes have large windows so everyone gets a clear view, and the pilots share stories and details along the way that make the scenery even more impressive. If you’re into photography, this is one of those rare chances to capture alpine peaks and glacial valleys from a completely different perspective. Morning flights often have calmer skies and softer light, which makes both the views and the photos even better.