Cape Town is one of the most visually stunning cities in the world, with natural landmarks like Table Mountain, Cape Point, and the Twelve Apostles.
While you can hike or drive to many of these spots, there’s no better way to see Cape Town’s breathtaking beauty than from the sky.
Whether you’re looking for a short city tour or a full day of adventure, helicopter tours offer a unique and unforgettable perspective.
Since it is an important part of your holiday experience in Cape Town, it is best to find out about all the available helicopter tours in the city, their cost, discounts, timings, duration, departure helipads, weight restrictions, etc., before booking your time above the port city.
Top Tickets
# Cape Town Helicopter Flight, Wine Tasting & Picnic Lunch Private Tour
# Cape Town: 2 Oceans Helicopter Flight with Free Boat TourIt’s highly recommended to book your helicopter tours in Cape Town tickets in advance. These tickets sell out quickly, so securing your spot early ensures you don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience.
What’s Ahead
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Cost of Helicopter Tours
Prices for Cape Town helicopter tours vary depending on the duration, landmarks, and the level of experience you’re looking for
The cheapest helicopter ride in Cape Town will cost approximately US$149 per person.
The most popular helicopter ride in Cape Town is priced at US$545 per person.
So, it is important to know the tour costs in advance to plan your trip and factor it in with other considerations.
Discover the best Instagram-worthy captions to perfectly capture your thrilling helicopter ride over Cape Town’s stunning skyline and landscapes.
Best Cape Town Helicopter Tours
Helicopter Flight, Wine Tasting & Picnic Lunch Private Tour
- Rating: 4.8/5 (4,219 reviews)
- Flight Time: 12-minutes
- Tour Highlights:
- 12-minute helicopter flight over Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope
- Wine tasting & gourmet picnic lunch at Fairview, Warwick, and Delaire Graff estates
- Hotel pick-up & drop-off
- Ideal for: Wine lovers, foodies, and those seeking a luxurious, private experience
- Price: From $512
2 Oceans Helicopter Flight with Free Boat Tour
- Rating: 4.9/5
- Flight Time: 25 minutes
- Tour Highlights:
- 360-degree aerial views of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans
- Free Harbour Cruise included
- Fly over Cape Point, Hout Bay, and Twelve Apostles
- Ideal for: Adventure seekers who want to experience both the air and the water
- Price: From $291
Cape Peninsula Scenic Helicopter Flight
- Rating: 5/5
- Flight Time: 50 minutes
- Tour Highlights:
- Aerial views of Cape Point, Cape of Good Hope, and Twelve Apostles
- Fly over False Bay, Hout Bay, and the stunning Atlantic Seaboard
- Ideal for: Nature lovers who want to explore the entire Cape Peninsula from above
- Price: From $512
24-Minute Two Oceans Scenic Helicopter Flight
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Flight Time: 24 minutes
- Tour Highlights:
- Stunning views of Cape Point, Noordhoek Beach, and Signal Hill
- Soar over the Twelve Apostles and False Bay
- Ideal for: Travelers wanting a longer scenic flight with views of both oceans
- Price: From $282
Atlantic Coast Helicopter Tour
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Flight Time: 20 minutes
- Tour Highlights:
- Fly over Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, and Camps Bay
- Stunning views of the Atlantic Seaboard and the Twelve Apostles
- Ideal for: Those on a budget who want to experience Cape Town’s best coastline landmarks from the sky
- Price: From $195
12 Apostles Scenic Helicopter Flight
- Rating: 5/5
- Flight Time: 16 minutes
- Tour Highlights:
- Views of Twelve Apostles and Camps Bay
- Fly over the Atlantic Ocean with panoramic coastal views
- Ideal for: A short but thrilling flight over one of Cape Town’s most iconic landmarks
- Price: $197
12-Minute City Scenic Helicopter Tour
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Flight Time: 12 minutes
- Tour Highlights:
- Quick views of Table Mountain, City Bowl, and Camps Bay
- Perfect option for those with limited time in Cape Town
- Ideal for: First-time visitors and those on a tight schedule
- Price: $149
20-Minute Helicopter Flight and Free Harbour Tour
- Rating: 4.9/5
- Flight Time: 20 minutes (helicopter flight)
- Tour Highlights:
- 360-degree views of Cape Town, including Table Mountain and Lion’s Head
- Enjoy a Free Harbour Cruise post-flight
- Ideal for: Those who want a quick flight with the added bonus of a harbour cruise
- Price: $217
Recommended
What’s Included in Cape Town Helicopter Tours
Each helicopter tour in Cape Town includes several standard features, but some tours also offer exclusive extras. Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:
- Helicopter flight (duration varies by tour)
- Pilot commentary (in English and other languages for some tours)
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off (for most tours)
- In-flight headsets for clearer commentary
- Video recording or photos (optional add-ons)
What’s Not Included
- Food and drinks (unless specified in the tour package)
- Tips & gratuities (optional)
- Souvenir photos (can be purchased separately)
Before you take off, make sure to read our guide on how to prepare for your first helicopter tour—packed with tips on what to wear, expect, and bring along.
From Where do Helicopters Take Off
A hotel pick-up facility is available for all of the above Cape Town helicopter rides.
However, if you have not opted for pick-up, you can head straight to the meeting point.
The aircraft for Cape Town helicopter tours take off from V&A Helipad.
Address: Breakwater Edge, 220 E Pier Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town. Get Directions
You will meet the tour operator at the Cape Town Helicopters base. The first Red Building is on East Pier Road, just past the circle.
The tours end back at the meeting point.
There are multiple take-offs daily, so book early to get your preferred time slot.
How to Reach the Heliports
The primary departure point for all Cape Town helicopter tours is the V&A Waterfront Helipad, located just behind the Table Bay Hotel.
Hotel pick-up is available for most tours within a 16km radius of Cape Town City Centre. If you’ve opted for pick-up, your driver will drop you off at the helipad.
The heliport is easily accessible by public transportation.
For those arriving by car, there is parking available nearby. Please check with your tour operator for specific parking details
Booking & Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before your flight
- Reserve now & pay later options for flexible travel plans
- Weather cancellations are possible, with full refunds or rescheduling offered
- Most flights are weather-dependent, so always check conditions before booking.
What to Wear and Bring on Your Helicopter Tour
- Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes
- Sunglasses for sun protection
- Cameras to capture stunning aerial views
- No large bags allowed (lockers are provided)
Which Cape Town Helicopter Tour is Best for You?
Want to combine flight with relaxation? The Wine Tasting & Picnic Lunch Tour is perfect for wine lovers and those seeking a luxurious experience.
Short on time and budget? Try the 12-minute City Scenic Helicopter Tour for a quick aerial overview.
Looking for a longer adventure? The Cape Peninsula Scenic Helicopter Flight or Two Oceans Scenic Helicopter Flight offers expansive views.
If you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, book a Tandem Paragliding Flight and glide over Cape Town’s stunning landscapes. Experience incredible aerial views of Table Mountain, Sea Point, and Lion’s Head with an experienced pilot.
Helicopter Tour Timings
Cape Town chopper rides are operational throughout the week.
The first batch of these tours depart at 10 am.
Tours may continue departures in multiple slots up to 5 pm.
How Many People can Fly in One Helicopter?
Generally, tourist helicopters are either four-seaters or six-seaters.
Depending on the tour you opt for and the number of passengers booked on the helicopter ride, you may get a four or a six-seater.
Therefore, sometimes a minimum of two and sometimes four passengers are required for the heli tour to be confirmed.
Note: Before takeoff, the pilot and the ground staff will ensure the passengers’ weight is distributed evenly in the helicopter. To achieve this balance, they may even seat you in the middle. Sitting in the middle may affect your view, but not so much as to risk your safety.
Rules & Restrictions for Cape Town Helicopter Tours
- Weight limits apply for safe and comfortable helicopter rides over Cape Town.
- A minimum and maximum number of passengers are required on these tours, and if they fail, they will be canceled.
- Infants and children are allowed onboard, but infants must sit on the caregiver’s lap throughout the flight.
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- A valid passport is required.
- No pets are allowed onboard except service animals.
- Check-in at least 30 minutes early.
- Flight times are approximate based on winds, weights, and conditions.
- Seating arrangements may often be in the hands of the tour organizers for a safe and stable flight.
Are the Heliports and Helicopters Accessible?
Cape Town helicopter rides are completely accessible to guests with disabilities.
The aircraft, transportation, and surfaces are completely wheelchair accessible, preventing any inconvenience for the guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions visitors usually ask before taking a Cape Town helicopter tour.
What factors determine the cost of a Cape Town air tour?
The cost can vary widely depending on the duration, time, and season of the tour, as well as facilities like hotel transfers and food and drinks, add-ons, customizations, the tour provider, and the package. Private tours can cost significantly more as they are more tailor-made and personalized experiences where you have a whole aircraft to yourself.
Do I need to book the helicopter tour in advance? If so, how far in advance?
Booking in advance is usually recommended, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Some tours might require booking a few weeks in advance.
What time of day is best for a Cape Town chopper tour?
The best time depends on personal preference. Some prefer morning for the soft lighting, while others prefer afternoon for the bright, clear views. Some choose the evening for a sunset or night view.
Can I request a specific route or landmark to fly over on a Cape Town aerial tour?
This depends on the helicopter tour company. Some tours might be flexible with their routes, while others will have a set path.
What languages do the pilots or guides speak on a helicopter tour?
English is standard in all heli tours in Cape Town, and some companies might have guides who speak other languages. It’s best to check in advance.
Is there a dress code or specific attire required on a Cape Town heli ride?
While there’s usually no specific dress code for a helicopter tour, it’s recommended that you dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Loose items like hats and scarves might need to be removed for safety reasons. Footwear should be comfortable and secure as you will be climbing in and out of the helicopter.
How early should I arrive before my scheduled flight time?
It’s typically recommended that passengers arrive at least 30 minutes to 45 minutes before their scheduled tours. This allows for check-in, safety briefings, and any last-minute instructions.
How long is a typical Cape Town chopper tour?
Most helicopter tours last between 12 minutes to an hour.
Is there a minimum or maximum number of people on Cape Town air rides?
The number of participants in a heli flight will depend on the size of the helicopter, but many tours can accommodate between 4 to 6 passengers.
Are the helicopter tours safe? What safety measures are in place?
Reputable helicopter companies adhere to strict safety regulations, including regular maintenance checks, safety briefings before each flight, and ensuring pilots are well-trained and licensed.
Are the pilots licensed and experienced?
All pilots operating commercial helicopter tours in Cape Town should be properly licensed and trained. Most companies will provide information about their pilots’ experience.
Can I take photos or videos during a helicopter tour?
Yes, taking photos or videos is usually allowed and encouraged. However, selfie sticks and large camera equipment may not be permitted for safety reasons.
Are headphones provided for communication or noise reduction?
Usually companies provide headphones to all passengers. These often serve the dual purpose of reducing noise from the helicopter’s rotor blades and allowing passengers to hear information from the pilot during the tour.
Are the helicopter tours safe?
Yes, all tours are operated by licensed pilots following strict safety protocols.
