Are Helicopter Tours Worth It? What to Expect, Costs and How to Choose the Right One

Thinking about taking a helicopter tour but not sure if it’s worth it? You’re not alone. For many travelers, booking a helicopter ride is a bucket list experience, but it can also come with a higher price tag than other types of tours. So, what do you really get for your money, and is it worth it?

Are Helicopter Tours Worth It?

A helicopter tour gives you something few other experiences can: an entirely new perspective. Whether you’re flying over waterfalls, city skylines, mountains, or coastlines, the views are simply unmatched. Helicopters also reach remote locations that cars, boats, and even planes can’t access, giving you a chance to see parts of the world most people never will.

It’s not just about the scenery either. Helicopter tours are often narrated by expert pilots who share history, geology, and fun facts during the flight. Many tours also include upgrades like sunset departures, doors-off flights for photographers, or even landings on glaciers or remote beaches.

Who Are Helicopter Tours Great For?

• First-Time Flyers: Short, scenic rides in Las Vegas or NYC are exciting and affordable.
• Couples: Romantic sunset tours or private wedding flights create unforgettable moments.
• Families with Teens: Doors-on tours with narrated guides are both fun and safe.
• Photographers & Creators: Opt for doors-off flights in places like Kauai or Iceland for the best shots.

A More Detailed Look: The Sensory Experience of a Helicopter Tour

So, what does it actually feel like to be in a helicopter? It’s an experience that engages all the senses.

Your adventure begins at the heliport with a thorough safety briefing. As you walk toward the aircraft, you’ll feel the wind from the massive rotor blades and hear their distinctive “whomp-whomp” sound. Once you’re securely strapped in and have your headset on, the world outside goes quiet, replaced by the crystal-clear voice of your pilot and often some cinematic music.

The take-off is perhaps the most magical part. Unlike a plane that needs a runway, a helicopter lifts straight up, a sensation of gently floating off the ground. The ride is surprisingly smooth. You’ll feel a slight vibration, but it’s far less bumpy than a typical airplane flight. As you bank and turn over landmarks, the panoramic windows give you a feeling of being suspended in the air, with the world laid out like a map below. It’s a calm, awe-inspiring, and incredibly graceful way to fly.

Let’s Talk About the Jitters: Addressing Common Concerns

It’s totally normal to have questions (and a few butterflies!) before your first helicopter flight. Let’s tackle some of the most common worries.

• Is it Safe?
  Absolutely. The helicopter tour industry is highly regulated. Reputable companies adhere to strict maintenance schedules and safety protocols set by aviation authorities like the FAA (in the U.S.) or EASA (in Europe). Pilots are highly trained professionals with thousands of hours of flight experience. Safety is their number one priority, always.
• What if I Get Motion Sickness?
  This is a common fear, but most people are pleasantly surprised by how smooth the ride is. Helicopters don’t experience the same kind of turbulence as planes. If you are prone to motion sickness, here are a few tips:
  • Book a morning flight when the air is typically calmer.
  • Ask for a seat near the front or middle of the aircraft.
  • Keep your eyes on the horizon.
  • Take a non-drowsy motion sickness remedy an hour before your flight.
• What if the Weather is Bad?
  Helicopter companies will not fly in unsafe weather conditions. If your tour is canceled due to high winds, heavy rain, or fog, the operator will almost always offer you two choices: reschedule your flight for another day or receive a full refund. They constantly monitor the weather to ensure your flight is both safe and scenic.

What Affects the Cost of a Helicopter Tour?

Several factors influence how much you’ll pay:

• Tour Duration – Longer flights cost more but cover more ground.
• Private vs. Shared Flights – Private tours are often double the price.
• Aircraft Type – Newer or quieter helicopters often come with premium pricing.
• Location – Remote or exclusive spots (like Alaska or Kauai) tend to cost more.

How Much Do Helicopter Tours Cost?

Prices can vary widely depending on location, tour length, and exclusivity. Here’s a general range:

• Short city or scenic tours (10–15 minutes): $40–$150
• Mid-length tours (20–45 minutes): $150–$350
• Premium tours with landings or special features: $400–$800+

Destinations like the Grand Canyon, Hawaii, or Alaska often offer excellent value for the scenery and access they provide. Always check what’s included, some tours may bundle in transportation, photo packages, or champagne toasts.

Helicopter Tour Cost Comparison by Destination

👉 Tip: Shorter flights are great for first-timers or travelers on a tighter budget. Longer tours often include landing experiences or multiple highlights.

Tips for Choosing the Right Tour

Doors on vs. doors off: If you’re into photography, a doors-off tour may be worth the upgrade.

Read reviews: Look for tours with consistently high ratings and verified customer experiences.

Check the route: Make sure the flight path includes the sights you really want to see.

Know the operator: Choose certified, experienced providers with strong safety records.

Consider flight time: Sometimes a 25-minute flight hits all the highlights you need without the premium cost.

So, Is It Worth It?

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind experience that you’ll never forget, yes, helicopter tours are absolutely worth it. The views, the thrill, and the chance to see the world from above make it an investment in memories you’ll talk about for years.

Ready to find the perfect tour for your trip? Browse our hand-picked list of the best helicopter tours around the world and book early, seats fill fast, and the sky’s waiting!

Justin’s Guide: My Top 5 Tips for an Unforgettable Flight

Hey everyone, Justin here. I’ve been lucky enough to take helicopter tours all over the world, and I’ve picked up a few tips that can turn a great flight into a truly epic one.

1. Book the First Flight of the Day. If you have the choice, an early morning flight is often the best. The weather is typically calmer, the light is beautiful for photos, and there are usually fewer crowds at the heliport.
2. Wear Dark, Solid-Colored Clothing. This is my number one photography tip! Bright colors and busy patterns can reflect off the helicopter’s windows, creating a glare that can ruin your photos. Dark, plain clothes will give you a much clearer shot of the incredible views outside.
3. Sit on the “Correct” Side (If You Can). For tours that fly a loop, one side of the helicopter will often have a better view on the way out, and the other on the way back. Do a quick search for your specific tour (e.g., “best side to sit on Grand Canyon helicopter tour”) to see what other travelers recommend. However, don’t stress—pilots are great at making sure everyone gets to see the key sights.
4. Put the Camera Down for a Minute. It’s so tempting to experience the entire flight through your phone screen, but I promise you, the memory you’ll cherish most is the one you see with your own eyes. Take your photos, but make sure to take a few moments to just sit back, look out the window, and soak in the awe of it all.
5. Trust Your Pilot and Ask Questions! These pilots are passionate about what they do and where they fly. They are your personal guides in the sky. Listen to their stories, ask them about what you’re seeing below, and let them know if you’re feeling nervous. They are pros at making everyone feel comfortable and are a huge part of what makes the experience so special.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are helicopter tours safe?

Yes. Most tours in the U.S. are operated by FAA-certified companies with experienced pilots and top-tier maintenance standards.

What should I wear on a helicopter tour?

Dress comfortably, avoid loose items, and wear darker clothing to reduce glare if you’re taking photos.

Can you take pictures or video?

Absolutely. Many tours even allow GoPros or phones mounted to the window, and some provide in-flight video footage for purchase.

Are they scary?

Most riders say it’s smoother than expected! Nervous travelers usually relax after the first few minutes.