Taking to the skies over Western Australia’s Goldfields offers a perspective like no other. While many travelers admire the vastness of the outback from the ground, this scenic flight from Kalgoorlie provides a stunning aerial look at some of the region’s most iconic features—the Super Pit, Lake Lefroy, and the Kambalda nickel smelter.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the amazing views of the enormous Super Pit reveal just how colossal the mining operations are. Second, the sight of Lake Lefroy, a giant swirling salt lake, offers a stark contrast to the red dirt of the outback—a true natural spectacle. Third, flying over Kalgoorlie’s historic townscape gives a sense of the area’s rich mining heritage from a new angle.
One thing to consider? The flight’s cost of $347.17 per person might seem steep for an hour, but when you factor in the exclusive views and the uniqueness of the experience, it’s more about the quality and perspective than just ticking a box.
This tour is best suited for adventure lovers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone eager to get a bird’s-eye view of Western Australia’s mining industry and arid beauty. If you’re after a quick but memorable glimpse of Kalgoorlie’s landscape, this is definitely worth considering.
- Unmatched aerial views of Kalgoorlie’s Super Pit and Lake Lefroy.
- Expert pilot-guided flight offers insightful commentary on the region.
- Small group size (maximum 3 travelers) ensures personalized attention.
- Convenient meeting point at Kalgoorlie Boulder Airport.
- Cost reflects an exclusive, intimate experience with high-value scenery.
- Weather-dependent activity, with flexible rescheduling or full refund.
This one-hour scenic flight provides more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s an adventure that unlocks a new appreciation of the scale and beauty of the Goldfields region. From the moment you step into the small plane at Goldfields Air Services, you’ll notice the intimacy of the experience—limited to just three travelers—which means you’re in for a more personal and detailed commentary from the pilot, Ollie, who has been praised for his friendly demeanor and wealth of knowledge.
Itinerary Breakdown and Highlights
Starting Point: Goldfields Air Services Flight School
Your adventure begins at the Kalgoorlie Boulder Airport, a practical and accessible meeting spot. The pilot takes off smoothly, and as you climb, the vastness of the Western Australian outback unfolds beneath you.
The Super Pit
Arguably the star of the show, the Super Pit is one of the world’s largest open-cut gold mines. From the air, its enormous scale becomes startling. Reviewers have described it as “700 meters deep,” and the view clearly illustrates the cavernous size of this mining operation. One reviewer pointed out how “it was so amazing” to see just how profound this man-made scar on the landscape is. Flying above the Super Pit offers a perspective that’s impossible to grasp from the ground, making it a must-see for geology buffs or photography enthusiasts.
Lake Lefroy
Next, the flight brings you over Lake Lefroy, a sprawling salt lake that appears as a swirling white canvas against the red outback. The contrast between the stark white salt flats and the surrounding red terrain is striking. Several travelers have noted that this is the “big salted lake in all the mines area,” and the visual impact of seeing the lake’s swirling patterns up close is unforgettable. It’s an excellent spot for photography, especially for anyone interested in capturing the vastness and stark beauty of the Australian desert.
Kambalda and the Nickel Smelter
The flight also takes you over Kambalda, an important hub in Western Australia’s nickel industry. You’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the Nickel Smelter, a key piece of industrial infrastructure that highlights the region’s mining prowess. Seeing these industrial sites from above adds context to the region’s economic backbone—it’s not just about natural beauty, but also the human ingenuity transforming the landscape.
Kalgoorlie City
The flight concludes with a quick tour over Kalgoorlie itself. From above, the town’s layout and historic buildings come into focus, giving a sense of the town’s rich Gold Rush past. Reviewers appreciated the pilot’s explanations, which provided insights into the town’s history and ongoing mining activities.
The entire tour lasts approximately one hour, making it a concise yet richly rewarding experience. The small group size (up to 3 travelers) means you’ll likely have ample opportunity to ask questions and get a detailed narrative from Ollie, who is praised for being “very nice” and highly informative.
Transport and logistics are straightforward with the meeting point at the Kalgoorlie Boulder Airport. While food, drinks, and hotel transfers aren’t included**, the focus remains squarely on the flight itself. Most travelers find the timing to be ideal—just enough to see all the main sights without fatigue.
Weather plays a crucial role in this activity. Since it’s an outdoor, aerial experience, poor weather might lead to cancellations or rescheduling. The tour provider offers full refunds or alternative dates if weather conditions aren’t suitable.
How does this compare to similar experiences?
If you’re used to standard sightseeing tours, you’ll find the focused scope of this flight makes it stand out. The intimate group size and knowledgeable pilot ensure a more personalized experience. Plus, the cost—while higher than a typical sightseeing flight—corresponds to the premium views and the opportunity to see the region from a perspective few get to enjoy.
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Authentic insights from reviewers
Travelers have described this as a “fantastic” experience, with one saying, “it was so amazing” to see the Super Pit from above, and another praising the “amazing sights” like Lake Lefroy and the township of Kalgoorlie. Reviewers also appreciated the pilot’s explanations, which added context to the stunning visuals.
- Booking: Book well in advance (average of 42 days ahead) as this is a small, popular experience.
- Cost: At $347.17 per person, it’s an investment in a memorable, high-quality view. Consider it more than just a scenic flight—it’s an educational experience that highlights the region’s geology and industry.
- Group size: Limited to 3 travelers, so it’s quite intimate.
- Age restrictions: Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.
- Weather: Confirmations are weather-dependent; be flexible with dates.
- What to bring: Dress comfortably, bring sunglasses, and prepare for some exposed seating in the small plane.
This scenic flight is ideal for photography lovers eager to capture unique outback vistas, geology buffs interested in mining operations, or anyone who enjoys seeing landscapes from a new angle. It’s particularly suited for travelers wanting a quick but impactful overview of Kalgoorlie’s expansive mining scene and natural salt lakes, all delivered with expert commentary.
If you prefer a more leisurely or ground-based tour, this might not be the best fit. But for true adventurers and those craving a short, high-impact experience, this flight hits the mark.
This scenic flight over Kalgoorlie’s Super Pit, Lake Lefroy, and Kambalda offers a vivid, memorable look at Western Australia’s rugged beauty and industrial might. The one-hour journey delivers a rare perspective that transforms your understanding of the region’s scale, both natural and man-made. The small group setting and knowledgeable pilot make for an engaging, personalized experience that’s well worth the price for those seeking a unique adventure.
Travelers who value stunning views, authentic insights, and a comfortable, intimate atmosphere will find this tour a worthwhile addition to their Australian itinerary. It’s a swift but profound glimpse into the vastness of the outback and the ingenuity behind its mining industry.
How long is the flight?
The entire experience lasts approximately one hour, including takeoff, sightseeing, and landing.
Where does the flight depart from?
Flights start at the Goldfields Air Services Office at Kalgoorlie Boulder Airport.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.
What’s included in the price?
The fee covers all taxes, fees, handling charges, GST, landing, and facility fees.
Are meals or drinks included?
No, these are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy at the airport if needed.
What happens if the weather isn’t suitable?
The activity is weather-dependent. If canceled, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled flight.
How many travelers will be on the flight?
The flight is a small group experience, limited to a maximum of 3 travelers for a more personal journey.
This scenic flight from Kalgoorlie promises not just stunning vistas, but also a chance to see the region’s natural and industrial landscape from a fresh, captivating perspective. Whether you’re into geology, photography, or just love an adventure, it’s an experience worth considering.
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