There is no doubt that Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, often referred to as the “Mother City.” From Table Mountain to the sparkling turquoise waters of the Atlantic, the city’s natural beauty is second to none. There’s no better way to experience Cape Town’s charm than from the air. Taking a helicopter ride offers a unique perspective, giving you a bird’s eye view of the coastline, mountains, and landmarks that make this city so famous.
Here are the top 6 helicopter rides in Cape Town that will leave you breathless. No matter if you are a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, these flights offer an unforgettable experience. So, let’s buckle up and take off into the skies!
1. The Hopper: 12-Minute Table Mountain Heli Flip
Duration: 12 minutes
Cost: R2,420
If you’re short on time but want to get a taste of Cape Town’s beauty from the sky, the Hopper is your perfect choice. This 12-minute flight whisks you away from the V&A Waterfront Heliport and gives you a close-up view of Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, Cape Town Stadium, and the stunning Clifton Beaches.
As the helicopter lifts off, you’ll soar above the city, with Camps Bay‘s palm-lined beach coming into view, looking like something straight out of a postcard. The flight makes a loop, taking you around the majestic Table Mountain, offering unparalleled views of the city below. You’ll get to see everything from the iconic Lion’s Head peak to the glistening waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
Flight Duration: ~12 minutes
Cost (2025): R2,420 per person
View Flight Map
What You’ll See:
- Table Mountain (fly level with the summit)
- Cape Town Stadium (Bird’s Nest-style architecture)
- Lion’s Head & Signal Hill
- Clifton & Camps Bay Beaches
- Atlantic Seaboard’s turquoise waters
Why I Love It:
“This flight offers the perfect balance of speed and spectacular views. You get the best of Cape Town’s iconic landmarks in just 12 minutes, which makes it a perfect option for a quick but memorable experience.”
Pros & Cons:
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable entry-level option | Short duration |
| Stunning views of Table Mountain & beaches | Doesn’t cover Hout Bay or Cape Point |
| Great for families & first-timers | No complimentary add-ons |
Best For: Travelers wanting a taste of helicopter flight without a big time or budget commitment.
2. The Twelve Apostles: 16-Minute Heli Flip
Duration: 16 minutes
Cost: R3,190
For a slightly longer journey, the Twelve Apostles tour extends your flight along the stunning Atlantic coastline. After flying over Signal Hill and Lion’s Head, you’ll get a closer look at Clifton and Camps Bay before heading further south to take in the grandeur of the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range. As you glide towards Llandudno, you’ll be treated to mesmerizing ocean views, with the horizon stretching as far as the eye can see.
Flight Duration: ~16 minutes
Cost (2025): R3,190 per person
View Flight Map
What You’ll See:
- Signal Hill & Lion’s Head
- Clifton’s four secluded beaches
- Camps Bay’s famous palm-lined shore
- Twelve Apostles mountain range
- Llandudno’s hidden cove
Why I Love It:
“Flying over the Twelve Apostles is like something from a dream. The combination of jagged mountain peaks and the deep blue ocean below is absolutely stunning, and the 16 minutes fly by in a flash.”
Pros & Cons:
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| More coastline coverage than the Hopper | Still doesn’t reach Hout Bay |
| Excellent for photography | Slightly pricier than the Hopper |
| Great balance of duration & sights | No added perks (e.g., boat cruise) |
Best For: Those who want a mid-length flight with more coastal scenery.
3. The Atlantico: 20-Minute Heli Loop to Hout Bay
Duration: 20 minutes
Cost: R3,520
Bonus: Complimentary Harbour Cruise from V&A Waterfront Heliport
The Atlantico tour is the epitome of scenic joy. Over 20 minutes, this flight takes you from the V&A Waterfront along the dramatic stretch of coastline, past the iconic Twelve Apostles peaks to Llandudno and Hout Bay. This route offers diverse views, from the bustling cityscape to sweeping mountain vistas and tranquil ocean scenes. Look out for dolphins and whales while cruising above the water, or enjoy panoramic views of The Sentinel mountain, the famous Dungeons Surf Spot, and Hout Bay’s charming harbor.
Flight Duration: ~20 minutes
Cost (2025): R3,520 per person
View Flight Map
What You’ll Experience:
- Full Atlantic coastline from V&A Waterfront to Hout Bay
- Dramatic Twelve Apostles mountain range
- Llandudno’s secluded beach (often with surfers below)
- The Sentinel & famous Dungeons surf break
- Chance to spot dolphins/whales (seasonal)
- Bonus: Free harbour cruise ticket included
Why I Love It:
“This flight offers one of the most comprehensive coastal experiences you can get. It’s a perfect balance of ocean views, mountain landscapes, and even a chance to spot some marine life.”
Pros & Cons:
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Best extended Atlantic Coast views | Doesn’t cross to False Bay |
| Free harbour cruise adds value | Whale sightings not guaranteed |
| Great marine life spotting opportunities | Slightly pricier than shorter flights |
Best For: Ocean lovers wanting to see Cape Town’s wilder coastline.
4. The Two Oceans: 25-Minute Heli Flip
Duration: 25 minutes
Cost: R4,675
Bonus: Complimentary Day Catamaran Cruise from V&A Waterfront
The Two Oceans tour expands on the Atlantico ride, offering a stunning flight that covers both the Atlantic and Indian Ocean coasts. After exploring Camps Bay, Llandudno, and Hout Bay, this tour takes you past Chapman’s Peak Drive and Noordhoek, before crossing over to the serene False Bay coastline. You’ll get views of Fish Hoek Beach, Muizenberg, and the beautiful Constantia Winelands. This flight offers one of the most diverse scenic experiences in Cape Town.
Key Differences vs. Atlantico:
| Two Oceans | Atlantico |
|---|---|
| Covers both coastlines | Atlantic only |
| Longer flight time | Shorter duration |
| Includes catamaran cruise | Harbour cruise instead |
Best For: Those who want to see both sides of the peninsula in one flight.
Why I Love It:
“The contrast between the rugged Atlantic coast and the calm, sheltered False Bay is so striking. It’s amazing how much variety you get in just 25 minutes!”
5. The Full Peninsula: 55-Minute Heli-Odyssey
Duration: 50 minutes
Cost: R9,075
Bonus: Complimentary Day Catamaran Cruise
If you want to experience the Cape Peninsula in all its glory, the Full Peninsula tour is the ultimate choice. This 55-minute flight takes you on a comprehensive journey, from Chapman’s Peak Drive and Kommetjie to the Cape of Good Hope. You’ll pass through Table Mountain National Park, with its unspoiled beaches and dramatic coastal views. The flight continues past Cape Point, around False Bay, and over the vineyards of Constantia, offering a perspective of Cape Town that few others will ever see.
Flight Duration: ~55 minutes
Cost: R9,075 per person
View Flight Map
Why This Flight is Special:
- Only tour that flies to Cape of Good Hope
- See entire Table Mountain National Park from above
- Spot hidden beaches like Olifantsbos & Buffels Bay
- Fly over Cape Point’s shipwrecks (visible in clear water)
- Bonus: Includes catamaran cruise + champagne toast
Why I Love It:
“This is the ultimate helicopter tour for anyone looking to see it all. From stunning coastlines to the wild beauty of the Cape of Good Hope, this ride is a true visual feast!”
Is It Worth the Price?
✔ Yes if: You want the most comprehensive tour & can afford it
✖ Consider alternatives if: You’re budget-conscious (Two Oceans covers key highlights)
Best For: Bucket-list seekers and photography enthusiasts.
6. The Robben Island: 20-Minute Scenic Heli Flip
Duration: 20 minutes
Cost: R3,630
Bonus: A chance to view marine life from above
For history buffs or those who want to see Robben Island up close, the Robben Island flight is a must. This 20-minute journey takes you over Table Bay, where you’ll circle the island, getting a bird’s-eye view of the famous prison and the limestone quarry where Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners worked. The flight offers stunning views of Cape Town, including Table Mountain and Signal Hill, as well as the surrounding marine life.
Flight Duration: ~20 minutes
Cost: R3,630 per person
View Flight Map
Unique Perspective:
- Circle Robben Island (Nelson Mandela’s prison)
- See the limestone quarry where prisoners worked
- Best postcard view of Table Mountain & city bowl
- Chance to spot seals & whales in Table Bay
Note: This flight doesn’t land on the island—combine with a ferry tour for full experience.
Best For: Those interested in history who want iconic cityscape photos.
Why I Love It:
“Flying over Robben Island is powerful and humbling. It’s an emotional experience, especially when you realize the history that unfolded in the very place you’re flying over.”
About Your Flight: What to Expect
All Cape Town Helicopters flights depart from their Hangar at the V&A Heliport, conveniently located on the East Pier of the V&A Waterfront. You’ll be provided with high-quality, noise-canceling BOSE aviation-grade headsets, allowing you to chat with the pilot and ask questions about the landmarks you’re flying over. The pilots are not only friendly and professional but also deeply knowledgeable about Cape Town’s history, geography, and culture.
Eco-Friendly Helicopters
Cape Town Helicopters stands out for its eco-friendly approach. Their fleet includes Airbus H120 and H130 helicopters, which are some of the quietest and most comfortable machines in the industry. These helicopters feature a fenestron tail rotor, making them perfect for flying over eco-sensitive areas like Table Mountain, without disturbing wildlife or hikers.
FAQs
Q: Do the helicopter rides land at any of the destinations?
A: Most helicopter tours do not land at the destinations. However, you’ll get a comprehensive bird’s-eye view of all the landmarks.
Q: Are the flights weather-dependent?
A: Yes, all flights are weather-permitting. If your flight is canceled due to poor weather conditions, you will be rescheduled or refunded.
Q: How do I book a helicopter ride in Cape Town?
A: You can easily book your flight directly through Cape Town Helicopters via their official website or at the V&A Waterfront Heliport.
Q: Can I take photos during the flight?
A: Yes! You’re encouraged to bring your camera or phone to capture the stunning views.
Where to Find Cape Town Helicopters
Address:
Hangar, Unit 3, 36 East Pier, V&A Helipad, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa
Hours of Operation:
7:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Flights available daily)
Phone: +27 21 434 2111
Instagram: @CapeTownHelicopters
Facebook: Cape Town Helicopters
Website: www.capetownhelicopters.com
Final Thoughts
Cape Town offers some of the most jaw-dropping helicopter rides in the world. Whether you’re looking to take a quick spin around Table Mountain or embark on a comprehensive journey down the Cape Peninsula, these helicopter tours provide a perspective of the city that you simply can’t get anywhere else. If you’re ready to make unforgettable memories while soaking up spectacular views, don’t hesitate to book a tour with Cape Town Helicopters.
So, what are you waiting for? Take flight and discover Cape Town from the skies!
Disclaimer:
WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors, such as price, cost, time, and location. Please refer to official channels for accurate and up-to-date contact information, including the right Instagram, Facebook, phone numbers, addresses, and map links.
