See natural wonders by helicopter or hot air balloon.
April 25, 2025
The most luxurious and adventurous way to see some of the world’s natural wonders is from the air. Pin a helicopter or hot air balloon flight over the following landmarks to the top of your wishlist.
The best way to experience the Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier of New Zealand’s South Island is by helicopter. Scenic flyovers showcase the icy terrain, turquoise lakes, and verdant rainforest surrounding the Southern Alps. Most tours include glacier landings followed by either a short walk on the ice or heli-hiking.
Such companies as Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters and Alpine Adventures offer private charters with customizable itineraries and a glass of mid-flight Champagne. November through March bring stable weather and clearer views, although flights do operate in all seasons.
The hot air balloons of Cappadocia are an iconic sight and a unique experience for photography enthusiasts and romantic getaways. Taking flight at sunrise, they allow an aerial perspective of “fairy chimneys” and ancient cave dwellings.
This surreal experience is made all the more magical by operators such as Royal Balloon and Butterfly Balloons, who offer Champagne breakfasts and VIP extras. April through October is the most reliable time of year in terms of weather conditions.
Straddling the border between Argentina and Brazil, Iguazú Falls is often considered the 8th Wonder of the World. Helicopter tours – available only from the Brazilian side due to environmental laws – express the scale of the waterfall system in a way you simply cannot appreciate from the ground or even from a boat trip.
Helisul offers private flights with panoramic views of the full arc of the falls and surrounding jungle. March to May or August to October is the best time to visit the South American national park.
Hot air balloon safaris are the most luxurious way of observing the Great Migration in Tanzania. After a dawn lift-off, balloons drift over herds of wildebeest, zebras, and elephants with the possibility of catching sight of lions. This is a serene activity for nature lovers seeking to elevate the African safari experience.
Serengeti Balloon Safaris offers premium rides followed by a Champagne bush breakfast. Balloon rides operate year-round in the Serengeti. June to October is the best time to travel for the dry season and experience the migration.
Helicopter tours offer the best views of South Africa's majestic flat-topped mountain. Coastal flights typically soar over Table Mountain and Lion’s Head before cruising down over the sandy beaches of the Cape Peninsula alongside the Twelve Apostles mountain range.
Cape Town Helicopters and NAC Helicopters run “doors-off” flights served with Champagne. Private charters come with the option to tailor the coastal route. Choose a month between October and April for clear skies and less wind.
Helicopter tours over the Great Barrier Reef grant jaw-dropping views of coral formations and turquoise waters – many fly over Heart Island. Upon touching down on a private sand cay, a luxury picnic is laid out and snorkeling is imperative.
HeliReef, Hamilton Island Air, and Nautilus Aviation present a variety of scenic flights and private charters. Any flight should be combined with an excursion by yacht. May to October is ideal as the dry season brings calmer seas and sharper visibility.
Contact Darby at Darby’s Destinations to design a luxurious escape complete with a scenic helicopter or hot air balloon flight.
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Darby’s Destinations LLC, an accredited IATAN Travel Agency, located at 221 Tremont Street, Mansfield, MA 02048 USA. While our clients have had great experiences with the travel suppliers featured on this website, Darby’s Destinations LLC is not an employee, agent, or representative of these suppliers and, therefore, cannot make any promises regarding the service clients will receive with a particular supplier. Before booking a trip, clients are responsible for reviewing the services offered by the supplier, along with any terms, conditions, and exclusions.
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