What to Expect on This Helicopter Experience
Hey there, I’m Justin, and after years of coordinating shore excursions in Hawaii, I thought I’d seen everything the islands had to offer. Then I experienced the Hamakua Coast & Valleys Safari with Safari Helicopters, and honestly? It completely redefined what I thought was possible from a Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour.
Safety & Operator Credentials: Safari Helicopters
With over three decades of experience flying Hawaii’s dramatic landscapes, Safari Helicopters combines seasoned expertise with top-tier safety standards. Travelers can trust this well-established operator to deliver a thrilling yet secure aerial adventure over the Big Island’s volcanoes and coastlines.
Safari Helicopters operates under FAA Part 135 certification with strict compliance to all federal aviation safety regulations.
The company maintains an excellent safety record with rigorous maintenance protocols and pre-flight safety inspections on every tour.
Safari Helicopters operates a fleet of Airbus AS350 (AStar) helicopters, known for their reliability, large windows, and superior visibility for sightseeing.
All pilots are FAA-certified commercial helicopter pilots with extensive flight hours and specialized training in Hawaii’s unique terrain and weather conditions.
Safari Helicopters is highly rated on Viator and TripAdvisor, consistently earning praise for their professional pilots and breathtaking Big Island volcano tours.
📅 Check Availability for Your Dates
Tours sell out fast — especially on weekends and during peak season. Enter your travel dates on Viator to see what’s available before it’s gone.
This Hamakua Coast & Valleys Safari Review is going to walk you through exactly why this particular flight stands out among dozens of helicopter experiences I’ve taken across the Hawaiian Islands. Safari Helicopters isn’t just another tour operator — they’re the longest-running helicopter company on the Big Island, with over 35 years of family-owned expertise. That kind of experience translates directly into the quality of your flight, the knowledge of your pilot, and the overall attention to detail that makes a helicopter tour review worth writing about in the first place.
During this one-hour aerial adventure, you’ll soar along the dramatic Hamakua Coast, witness cascading waterfalls plunging down emerald cliffs, and hover over some of the most sacred valleys in Hawaiian history. From $379, you’re getting access to landscapes that most visitors to the Big Island never see — and that’s exactly what makes this the best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour for anyone seeking authentic, awe-inspiring beauty. Ready to experience it yourself? You can book this Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour on Viator and secure your seat today.
Everything That’s Covered in Your Tour
When you book the Hamakua Coast & Valleys Safari, here’s exactly what’s included in your experience:
Is This Tour Right for You? ✅
- All fees and taxes — no surprise charges at checkout
- Doors-on helicopter flight — comfortable, climate-controlled viewing
- Expert narration from pilots who know every waterfall and valley by name
- One full hour of flight time exploring the north shore
- Departure from Hilo at the commuter terminal with the green roof
What I appreciate about this helicopter tour review is that there are no hidden costs. The price you see — starting at $379 — is the price you pay. Safari Helicopters has built their reputation on transparency and genuine aloha spirit, and that family-friendly atmosphere shines through from the moment you check in.
Helicopter Tour Tip
Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time. The meeting point is at the small commuter terminal alongside the main terminal in Hilo — look for the building with the green roof.
Sights You’ll See from the Sky
Let me break down the jaw-dropping landmarks you’ll encounter on this best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour. Each stop on the itinerary offers something truly unique.
The Magnificent Hamakua Coast
The Hamakua Coast is often called one of the most beautiful coastlines on the entire Big Island, and from the air, you’ll understand why. This dramatic stretch of northeast shoreline features towering sea cliffs draped in tropical vegetation, with waterfalls cascading hundreds of feet down into the ocean below.
Your pilot will navigate along these cliffside formations, giving you unobstructed views of scenes that feel almost prehistoric. The lush green against the deep blue Pacific creates the kind of contrast that makes photographers weep with joy. You can check availability and pricing here to lock in this incredible experience.
Sacred Waipio Valley
Next comes what many consider the spiritual heart of the Big Island — Waipio Valley. This is a very sacred place in Hawaiian culture, once home to Hawaiian royalty and still revered as a place of immense spiritual significance.
From above, you’ll see why it earned the nickname “Valley of the Kings.” The lush vegetation creates an emerald carpet stretching toward black sand beaches, while multiple waterfalls — including the famous Hi’ilawe Falls — tumble down the valley walls. This helicopter tour review wouldn’t be complete without emphasizing just how moving it is to witness this sacred landscape from the air.
Legendary Waimanu Valley
The flight continues to Waimanu Valley, which local legends say was once the home of the great king of Hawaii himself. This remote valley is virtually inaccessible by land, making helicopter the only practical way for most visitors to experience its beauty.
Waimanu feels untouched by time — a pristine wilderness where waterfalls feed into ancient taro fields and the energy of old Hawaii still pulses through the land. Seeing it from the helicopter gave me goosebumps, and I’ve flown over countless valleys across the islands.
Pristine North Shore Valleys
Beyond these famous landmarks, your pilot will take you over the pristine valleys of the Big Island’s north shore before returning to Hilo. Each valley offers its own character — some draped in mist, others catching sunlight that illuminates hidden waterfalls you won’t find on any tourist map.
Need-to-Know Info Before You Fly
Before booking this helicopter tour, here’s the practical information you’ll want to know:
| Tour Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Tour Name | Hamakua Coast & Valleys Safari |
| Operator | Safari Helicopters |
| Price | From $379 |
| Duration | 1 hour |
| Departure Location | Hilo (commuter terminal with green roof) |
| Check-in Time | 30 minutes before departure |
| Door Configuration | Doors on |
| Rating | 5 out of 5 stars |
Weight and seating considerations: Like all helicopter tours, weight distribution matters for safety. Be prepared to provide accurate weights when booking, and understand that seating assignments are made by the pilot based on balance requirements.
What to wear: Dress in dark, solid colors to reduce reflections in the windows. Avoid white or bright clothing that can create glare in photos. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended.
Photography tips: The doors-on configuration means no wind interference, so you can easily use your smartphone or camera. Polarizing filters help reduce window glare if you’re serious about photography.
Booking Flexibility & Refund Policy
Safari Helicopters offers a generous cancellation policy that takes the stress out of booking:
- Full refund available if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure
- Weather-related cancellations are handled with rebooking options or refunds
- Changes to your booking can typically be accommodated with advance notice
This flexibility is especially important for a helicopter tour review to mention because Hawaiian weather can be unpredictable. The Hamakua Coast is known for afternoon showers, so morning flights often offer the best visibility. But if conditions aren’t safe for flying, Safari Helicopters prioritizes your safety above all else — they’ve been doing this for over 35 years, after all.
Insider Tips from Justin
Hey everyone, Justin here. After coordinating countless helicopter tours during my time with Norwegian Cruise Line and experiencing dozens more as a travel writer, I’ve learned a few things that can make or break your flight. Here are my top tips for the Hamakua Coast & Valleys Safari:
- Book the earliest morning flight available. The Hamakua Coast is notorious for afternoon clouds rolling in from the ocean. Morning flights typically offer crystal-clear visibility and better lighting for photos. This is especially true if you want those iconic shots of waterfalls catching the first rays of sunlight.
- Skip breakfast if you’re prone to motion sickness. The valleys create some mild turbulence as wind moves through them. Flying on a light stomach (or taking motion sickness medication beforehand) will help you enjoy every minute of this one-hour adventure.
- Charge your camera battery completely. One hour sounds like plenty of time, but you’ll be taking photos almost constantly. Bring a backup battery if possible, or consider a portable charger. Trust me, you don’t want your phone dying over Waipio Valley.
- Tell the pilot it’s a special occasion. Whether it’s a honeymoon, anniversary, or birthday, mentioning this at check-in can sometimes result in special touches or extra commentary. Safari Helicopters prides itself on their family-friendly atmosphere, and they genuinely want to make your experience memorable. You can secure your spot on Viator before it sells out to guarantee your preferred date.
- Ask questions during the flight. Your pilot knows these valleys intimately — their history, their legends, their hidden waterfalls. Don’t be shy about asking for more information. Some of my best memories from Hawaiian helicopter tours came from the stories pilots shared about sacred sites and local traditions.
The Best Times to Book
Timing matters significantly for this best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour. Here’s what my experience has taught me:
Morning flights (8-10 AM) typically offer the clearest conditions. The Hamakua Coast receives significant rainfall, and morning hours usually precede the daily buildup of clouds along the mountainous terrain.
Seasonal considerations: The Big Island is a year-round destination, but winter months (December-February) can bring more frequent rain showers. Summer and early fall often provide the most consistently clear days. That said, even cloudy conditions can create dramatic, moody photography opportunities.
Day of the week: Weekday flights sometimes have fewer passengers, potentially giving you better seating options. Weekend flights tend to book up faster, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Spots Fill Fast – Reserve Your Flight Before It’s Gone!
Top-rated helicopter tours often sell out weeks in advance. Book now to lock in your spot before peak dates disappear.
Why This Helicopter Tour Gets Incredible Reviews
Breathtaking Views
Visitors are blown away by the stunning Hamakua cliffside scenery and spectacular waterfalls around every turn.
Family-Owned Excellence
Travellers appreciate the warm, personal touch that comes from this family-run business with 35+ years of experience.
Exceptional Customer Service
Guests consistently praise the friendly, attentive staff who go above and beyond to ensure a memorable experience.
Unforgettable Valley Scenery
Reviewers rave about the magnificent north shore valleys, describing them as truly unique and absolutely breathtaking.
The numbers speak for themselves — the Hamakua Coast & Valleys Safari holds a perfect 5-star rating from verified travelers. Here’s what makes this helicopter tour review match what other visitors have experienced:
- Overall Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
- Review Count: 3 verified reviews
- Starting Price: From $379
- Experience Level: Family-owned operation with 35+ years of expertise
What consistently impresses visitors about this best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour:
- The expertise and genuine enthusiasm of Safari Helicopters pilots
- The breathtaking, less-touristy route focusing on the Hamakua Coast
- The cultural context provided about sacred sites like Waipio Valley
- The value for money compared to longer tours that cover less meaningful terrain
- The family-owned atmosphere that makes every guest feel welcomed
Safari Helicopters has built their reputation on authentic Hawaiian hospitality. As they say themselves: “We know you will love this tour as much as we love giving it!” — and that passion is evident in every aspect of the experience.
Book Hamakua Coast & Valleys Safari before it’s too late!
If you’ve made it this far in this Hamakua Coast & Valleys Safari Review, you already know this isn’t just another tourist helicopter ride. This is your chance to witness sacred Hawaiian history from an angle that few ever experience, guided by pilots whose families have been sharing this aloha spirit for over three decades.
Safari Helicopters maintains limited availability to ensure every guest receives personalized attention, which means popular departure times can book out weeks in advance. Don’t let your Big Island trip pass without experiencing the dramatic beauty of the Hamakua Coast, the sacred energy of Waipio Valley, and the legendary landscapes of Waimanu.
Spots Fill Fast – Reserve Your Flight Before It’s Gone!
Top-rated helicopter tours often sell out weeks in advance. Book now to lock in your spot before peak dates disappear.
Things to Do Near Your Helicopter Tour
While you’re in the area, make the most of your trip! Here are some top things to do near Big Island of Hawaii — from beaches and local eats to landmarks worth exploring.
one sentence
35 min drive from Kona
Home to two active volcanoes including Kilauea, offering dramatic volcanic landscapes and hiking trails.
2.5 hour drive from Kona
A magical experience where you can swim alongside giant manta rays attracted by lights in Kona waters.
10 min drive from Kona
Popular oceanfront restaurant and bar serving fresh seafood with stunning sunset views.
5 min drive from downtown Kona
Features a spectacular 442-foot waterfall surrounded by lush tropical rainforest and bamboo groves.
15 min drive from Hilo
Ancient Hawaiian sacred site and place of refuge with restored temples and royal grounds.
25 min drive from Kona
Helicopter Tour FAQ’s
Question: How long is the Hamakua Coast & Valleys Safari flight?
Answer: The tour lasts approximately 1 hour of actual flight time. Combined with the required 30-minute early check-in, plan for about 1.5-2 hours total for your experience.
Question: What is the cancellation policy for this helicopter tour?
Answer: Safari Helicopters offers a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure time. This generous policy allows flexibility for weather changes or unexpected schedule conflicts.
Question: Is the Hamakua Coast & Valleys Safari a doors-off flight?
Answer: No, this tour operates with doors on. This provides a comfortable, climate-controlled environment that’s perfect for all ages and allows for excellent photography without wind interference.
Question: Where do I check in for this Big Island helicopter tour?
Answer: Check in at the small commuter terminal alongside the main terminal in Hilo. Look for the building with the green roof. All guests must arrive at least 30 minutes before their scheduled departure time.
Question: How much does the Hamakua Coast & Valleys Safari cost?
Answer: Pricing starts at $379 per person, which includes all fees and taxes. There are no hidden charges at checkout.
Question: What sights will I see on this helicopter tour?
Answer: You’ll fly over the dramatic Hamakua Coast with its cliffside waterfalls, the sacred Waipio Valley with its lush vegetation and cascading falls, and the legendary Waimanu Valley, said to be the former home of Hawaii’s great king.
Question: Is this tour suitable for children?
Answer: Yes! Safari Helicopters specifically emphasizes their family-friendly atmosphere. The doors-on configuration makes this a comfortable experience for guests of all ages.
Question: What should I wear on the helicopter tour?
Answer: Wear dark, solid-colored clothing to reduce reflections in the windows. Avoid white or bright colors. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended.
Question: Can I take photos during the flight?
Answer: Absolutely! Photography is encouraged. The doors-on configuration provides a stable platform for cameras and smartphones. Bring a fully charged battery and consider a polarizing filter to reduce window glare.
Question: What happens if weather forces a cancellation?
Answer: Safari Helicopters prioritizes safety and will reschedule or refund your booking if weather conditions aren’t suitable for flying. With 35+ years of experience, their pilots know exactly when conditions are safe.
Question: Why should I choose Safari Helicopters over other operators?
Answer: Safari Helicopters is the longest-running helicopter company on the Big Island with over 35 years of family-owned expertise. Their focus on quality over quantity, combined with genuine Hawaiian hospitality, consistently earns them perfect 5-star reviews.
Question: When is the best time of day to book this helicopter tour?
Answer: Morning flights typically offer the best visibility on the Hamakua Coast. Afternoon clouds often roll in from the ocean, so booking an early departure maximizes your chances of crystal-clear views.
The Hamakua Coast & Valleys Safari represents everything I love about Hawaiian helicopter tours — authentic cultural significance, jaw-dropping natural beauty, and operators who genuinely care about sharing their island home with visitors. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to experience the best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour available, this flight with Safari Helicopters delivers on every level. Don’t miss your chance to book your Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour today and create memories that will last a lifetime.
