Information
Landmark: Scenic Helicopter FlightCity: Bora Bora
Country: French Polynesia
Continent: Australia
Scenic Helicopter Flight, Bora Bora, French Polynesia, Australia
Overview
Soaring in a helicopter over Bora Bora, with the lagoon flashing turquoise beneath you, is one of the most thrilling ways to take in the island’s stunning landscapes.From high above, this aerial tour sweeps you over the island’s brilliant blue lagoons, coral reefs, and rugged mountains, with tiny motus dotting the water like emeralds, so you can drink in the full sweep of this tropical paradise.Here’s a detailed look at scenic helicopter flights in Bora Bora-picture turquoise lagoons and coral reefs unfolding beneath you.Scenic helicopter tours in Bora Bora usually trace routes that show off the island’s most iconic sights, like the turquoise lagoon shimmering beneath the rotors.One standout is Mount Otemanu, the island’s tallest peak-a dormant volcano that towers over the turquoise lagoon like a dark green crown.Your flight may sweep right over or curve around the towering mountain, its slopes casting deep shadows, before gliding above Bora Bora’s glassy lagoon where blues shift from pale turquoise to deep navy and coral reefs form delicate lace patterns below.You’ll spot the tiny, untouched motus encircling the island, their white-sand beaches gleaming in the sun, and drift past Faanui Bay with its thick green foliage and calm lagoon waters.Depending on the tour, the whole journey lasts anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour.Shorter flights give you sweeping views of the turquoise lagoon and Mount Otemanu, while longer trips can carry you out over remote stretches of the island and nearby motus; the standard scenic tour is the most popular and budget-friendly choice, offering a simple yet breathtaking look at the island from above.You’ll soar past Mount Otemanu, skim the turquoise lagoon, and glide over tiny motus scattered like beads on the water.Private Helicopter Tour: Make it your own with a private flight, just you and your group, the rotor’s thrum in your ears as the city unfolds beneath you.You can pick the route you like best, linger over landmarks that catch your eye-like a sunlit lighthouse on the coast-and enjoy the freedom of a flight plan tailored just for you.Sunset Helicopter Tour: A few companies run evening flights, letting you watch the island’s fiery orange horizon fade into dusk from high above.Golden hour bathes everything in warm gold, turning the scene into something magical-ideal for a quiet kiss or a glass of wine at sunset.For a truly lavish escape, you can book a luxury helicopter tour that comes with private transfers, a chilled glass of champagne, and other indulgent touches.These tours are perfect for honeymooners, couples marking an anniversary, or anyone chasing that one unforgettable adventure-like watching the sun sink behind a distant mountain.Number three.What to Expect During the Flight: You’ll ride in a modern helicopter built for safety and comfort, with wide windows framing views like snowy peaks or winding rivers below.Many of these helicopters have wide, clear windows, so you can take in the mountains and valleys without anything blocking your view.Most of these helicopters are compact, seating just three to six people, so everyone can lean toward the window and take in the full sweep of the view.Experienced Pilots: They’ve spent years honing their skills and know the island’s every curve, from the jagged cliffs to the quiet, hidden coves.During the flight, many will chime in with lively commentary, pointing out jagged mountain peaks, explaining Bora Bora’s unique geography, and weaving in stories from the island’s history and culture.From above, you’ll see Bora Bora spread out like a painting-its turquoise lagoon shimmering, green peaks rising sharply, and dense palms swaying in the breeze.Bright blue waves lap against the lush green of the island, a pairing that feels almost unreal, like something glimpsed in a half-remembered dream.All eyes go to Mount Otemanu, its jagged ridges catching the light as the peak rises high above the lagoon.The vivid turquoise of Bora Bora’s lagoon stands out against the island’s dense green jungle and the sun-baked volcanic peaks, while a flight over the motus reveals their quiet isolation-tiny ribbons of white sand edged by glassy, clear water.From above, the coral reefs spread out like delicate lace under the water.Don’t forget your camera or phone-you’ll want shots of those stunning aerial views.Many companies offer professional photography, so you can take home crisp photos or smooth video of your flight-maybe even a shot of you grinning mid-air.Wear clothes you can move in and that suit the day’s weather.With the helicopter doors wide open, you’ll feel the wind rush in, so bring a light jacket or layer up.Wear sunglasses and put on sunscreen before you go-the sun can be fierce up there.For the best views, book your flight on a clear, sunny day.The soft glow of early morning or the warm light late in the day often makes photos and views shine.In Bora Bora, scenic helicopter flights range in price depending on how long you’re in the air, the type of helicopter, and whether it’s just you or a shared ride.Short flights usually run $200 to $300 per person, but splurging on a longer private tour or a luxury ride can push the price to $500–$1,000 or more.Some resorts and tour companies knock a bit off the total if you bundle activities-say, pairing that scenic flight with a sunset cruise.Ask your hotel or a local tour operator if they’ve got any special deals, and plan your scenic helicopter ride for a clear day-when the sky’s wide open and the mountains look sharp against the blue.The island’s tropical skies may burst into brief rain showers, but the sun usually breaks through quickly, especially in the soft light of morning.Golden Hour and Sunset: If you’re after something romantic or striking, book your flight just before sunset, when the light turns honey-gold and the sky begins to blush.At this hour, the light turns golden and soft, casting a glow that makes the island shimmer when seen from above.Why book a scenic helicopter ride in Bora Bora?From high above, you’ll glide past jagged green peaks and watch the turquoise lagoon shimmer against white-sand motus, with coral reefs curling like ribbons around the island.It lets you catch the island’s beauty from viewpoints you’d never reach on foot or by boat, like a hidden cove glinting in the afternoon sun.For couples, a helicopter ride over Bora Bora turns into a romantic escape, with just the two of you soaring above turquoise lagoons and the island’s lush green peaks.Just right for S, like a warm mug of coffee on a quiet morning.
