When it comes to seeing Cape Town’s breathtaking scenery, few experiences match the thrill of soaring above the city and its iconic landmarks. The Two Oceans Helicopter Tour offers an unforgettable aerial perspective on the city’s most famous sights, from the rugged coastline to the majestic mountains. With a perfect blend of scenic beauty and expert commentary, this tour is a fantastic way to appreciate the Cape’s natural wonders.
What we love most? The stunning panoramic views of Cape Town and the surrounding landscape, the live on-board commentary that highlights key landmarks, and the luxury of a glass of sparkling wine at the end. However, a potential consideration is that the tour is weather-dependent—poor weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling. This experience is ideal for travelers craving a unique, Instagram-worthy perspective and those who enjoy a touch of adventure with comfort.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This helicopter ride is perfect for anyone interested in spectacular scenery, photography, or special occasions like honeymoons or anniversaries. It’s also great for travelers who want an efficient, high-value way to see Cape Town’s highlights without dedicating an entire day to land-based tours. Keep in mind, the tour is suitable for most ages, but passengers over 130 lbs may need to purchase an extra seat for comfort.
Key Points
- Unmatched aerial views of Cape Town, Table Mountain, and the Cape Peninsula.
- Live commentary enriches the experience with interesting facts about landmarks.
- Group discounts and flexible departure times add convenience.
- 30-minute flight means plenty of time for a comprehensive scenic overview.
- Includes a glass of bubbly to toast your safe landing.
- Weather-dependent — clear skies are essential for optimal views.
Looking for more options in Cape Town? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
What to Expect from the Experience
This helicopter tour is a well-paced journey of about 25 to 30 minutes, starting from Cape Town’s helipad. You’ll be flying over some of the most iconic scenery, with the pilot providing commentary on points of interest like Chapmans Peak Drive, Hout Bay, and the Twelve Apostles. The flight path is thoughtfully designed to maximize the stunning vistas of both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, giving you a true sense of Cape Town’s awe-inspiring geography.
Itinerary Breakdown
The tour kicks off with a takeoff from the helipad, where you’ll immediately be treated to stunning views of the Cape Town coastline. Flying over Clifton and Camps Bay, you’ll see the pristine beaches and luxurious villas lining the coast. The pilot then guides you past the Twelve Apostles, a dramatic mountain range that drops sharply into the ocean, before heading into Hout Bay.
One of the highlights is passing over Chapmans Peak Drive, often called one of the world’s most scenic coastal roads. From there, your flight continues over False Bay, where you might spot the vibrant surf town of Muizenberg and the lush expanse of the Constantia Wine Valley. Approaching Table Mountain, you get a bird’s-eye view of the flat-topped peak, a symbol of the city.
The final leg takes you back over the City Bowl, with sights like Green Point Lighthouse, Signal Hill, and Lion’s Head clearly visible. The entire journey offers a sweeping perspective of Cape Town’s diverse landscape, with ample opportunities for photos and awe-inspired gasps.
Authentic Experiences and Insights
According to reviews, the live commentary is a highlight—“your pilot points out landmarks such as the Twelve Apostles, Signal Hill, and Green Point Lighthouse”—adding context and stories that bring the scenery to life. Several travelers appreciated the personalized touch, noting their pilot’s friendly approach and ability to point out lesser-known sights.
The Practicalities
The tour departs at 3:00 pm, making it a perfect mid-afternoon activity that complements other land-based explorations. The meeting point is conveniently located at the Cape Town helipad near the V&A Waterfront, with easy access to public transportation.
Pricing is around $265.71 per person, which many consider a worthwhile investment given the views and experience. This price includes live commentary and a glass of champagne to celebrate your flight. Group discounts are available, and you can book well in advance—on average, travelers reserve their spots about 48 days ahead.
- Wine Tour to Stellenbosch & Franschhoek with Tastings & Lunch
- Franschhoek wine Tram & Stellenbosch Town Full day tour
- Stellenbosch Winelands Experience
- 3 Wineries Private Tour in Stellenbosch, Paarl Tasting Included
- Whale Watching Tour in Hermanus with Hotel Pickup
- Hermanus Whale Watching & Penguins Shared Tour from Cape Town
Considerations and Tips
- The total weight per passenger is capped at 287 lbs; heavier guests will need to buy an additional seat.
- The tour is weather-dependent—if poor weather cancels your flight, you can reschedule or get a full refund.
- Children must be accompanied by an adult, and service animals are allowed.
- There’s no included hotel transfer, so plan accordingly.
- Remember to arrive a little earlier for check-in and to allow for any safety briefings.
Authentic Reviewer Insights
One traveler, Dimitri_T, described the experience as “Adembenemend,” or breathtaking, emphasizing the “incredible views of Cape Town and its surroundings.” He also noted that the trip around Table Mountain was particularly worthwhile but pointed out that there are other routes available, offering flexibility for different interests.
Another guest appreciated the “excellent wine selection” offered at the end of the flight, elevating the experience from just sightseeing to a relaxing celebration of South Africa’s renowned wine country.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value
In essence, this helicopter ride combines luxury, adventure, and education in one package. While the cost might seem steep at first glance, the quality of the views and the convenience of seeing so many landmarks in a short time make it feel like a worthwhile splurge. It’s especially attractive for those who want a snapshot of Cape Town’s beauty, ideal for photographs and sharing stories back home.
The inclusion of champagne and live commentary enhances the experience, making it not just a sightseeing trip but a memorable event. The fact that it’s bookable well in advance and offers flexible departure times adds to its practicality for travelers with busy itineraries.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This helicopter tour suits travelers who value visual storytelling and want to see Cape Town from a unique vantage point. It’s ideal for special occasions or those wanting an extra touch of luxury during their trip. If you’re a photo enthusiast, the views from above are unmatched, and the ability to capture the city, mountains, and oceans simultaneously is priceless.
Those with limited time will appreciate how much scenery can be covered in just half an hour. However, it’s not the best option if weather conditions are poor or if you’re on a tight budget, as similar land-based tours can be less costly but won’t deliver the same spectacular aerial perspective.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the helicopter tour?
The flight lasts approximately 24 minutes, with the total experience close to 25-30 minutes including boarding and disembarking.
What landmarks will I see on the tour?
You’ll fly past landmarks such as the Twelve Apostles, Signal Hill, Green Point Lighthouse, and the beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay, along with the Cape Point area and Table Mountain.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome when accompanied by an adult, but all passengers are subject to weight restrictions and safety guidelines.
What should I wear?
Dress comfortably; consider layers as temperature can vary at altitude, and wear good shoes for easy boarding.
Are there group discounts?
Yes, group discounts are available, and the tour typically books 48 days in advance.
What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes the flight, live commentary, and a glass of champagne for toast after your landing.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a rescheduled flight or a full refund.
Is there a maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 100 travelers, but individual flights will be smaller, ensuring a personal experience.
Can I book the tour for a specific time?
Yes, multiple departure times are available throughout the day, with the standard time being 3:00 pm.
Final Thoughts
The Two Oceans Helicopter Tour offers an exceptional way to see Cape Town’s highlights from a fresh perspective. Its combination of stunning landscapes, expert narration, and a touch of luxury makes it a standout experience for many travelers. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or simply want to tick off a bucket-list activity, this tour delivers a memorable snapshot of South Africa’s natural beauty.
If you’re after breathtaking views, easy access, and a luxurious experience, this helicopter tour is worth considering. It pairs well with other land-based adventures, like visiting Table Mountain or exploring the Cape Winelands, creating a well-rounded South African adventure.
This experience is best suited for those who appreciate scenic splendor, are comfortable with heights, and want a convenient, high-impact activity that makes the most of their time in Cape Town. Just remember to check the weather forecast and book in advance to secure your spot for an unforgettable flight above the two oceans.
More Tickets in Cape Town
More Tour Reviews in Cape Town
Still browsing? Here are more Cape Town experiences we've covered recently
- White Shark Cage Full Day Tour in Cape Town
- 3 Day Cape Town Holiday South Africa
- 3 Day Luxury Aquila Private Game Reserve
- 4-7 Passenger Private Cape Town – Airport Transfer
- 4 Day Table Mountain 13 Peaks Challenge
- 1.Cape Town Airport Transfer (&Private tour trips during yo Stay)
- Addo Elephant National Park Full Day Private Tour
- Abseiling Table Mountain
- Full-Day Tour to Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope
- Airport Transfer (Cape Town)
- Private Airport & Hotel Transfers in Cape Town
- Big Five Game Reserve Wildlife Safari from Cape Town