Planning a trip to South Africa’s Western Cape and want to add a splash of adventure to your wine experience? This 20-minute helicopter tour over the Durbanville Wine Region promises a blend of breathtaking scenery and exclusive access to some of the area’s top wineries. While it’s a relatively short flight, it offers a memorable perspective on the landscape, paired with the chance to enjoy some exceptional wines and culinary delights.
What grabs our attention about this experience? First, the spectacular views of Table Mountain and Table Bay that you can enjoy from the sky. Second, the luxury of private helicopter travel, which adds an extra layer of comfort and exclusivity. Lastly, the opportunity to taste wines directly at Durbanville Hills, one of the most renowned estates in the region. One consideration to keep in mind: the tour price is quite steep, so it’s probably best suited for travelers seeking a special, once-in-a-lifetime experience or celebrating a special occasion.
This tour is perfect for those who appreciate the finer things — stunning visuals, fine wine, and gourmet food — all wrapped into one. It’s ideal for couples, honeymooners, or anyone wanting to elevate their South African adventure with a touch of luxury and unique perspective. If you’re after a memorable, scenic, and indulgent experience, this helicopter tour may just be your perfect match.
Key Points
- Incredible Views: Spot Table Mountain and Table Bay from the air, offering a perspective few travelers get on the ground.
- Luxury Experience: Private helicopter and vehicle make this a smoothly curated adventure.
- Wine Tasting & Food: Enjoy tastings of Durbanville Hills’ top wines, often paired with chocolates or biltong, and finish with a gourmet meal.
- Convenient Location: Just 10 minutes by air from the V&A Waterfront, making it a quick yet memorable detour.
- Flexible & Transparent: Book with the option to reserve now and pay later, plus full cancellation up to 24 hours before.
- Additional Costs: Tastings, meals, and drinks are extra; the main expense is the flight itself.
An In-Depth Look at the Helicopter Tour Experience
Looking for more options in Durbanville? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Itinerary and Duration
This private helicopter flight lasts approximately 20 minutes, offering an aerial sweep of the Durbanville Wine Region, which is remarkably close to Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront. Booking requires a minimum of two participants, ensuring a more intimate experience. As the helicopter takes off from Durbanville Hills, you’ll immediately be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and the iconic backdrop of Table Mountain.
The flight’s short span means you’ll want to focus on the vistas and the scenery — a quick but impactful way to see the landscape from a completely different perspective. The flight is designed to be smooth and comfortable, with live commentary onboard that helps you identify landmarks and understand the region’s unique geography.
What Makes the Flight Special?
The core appeal lies in the spectacular aerial views of the Western Cape’s famed scenery. Flight paths are planned to maximize view of both the mountains and the coastline, giving you a sweeping picture of the area’s diverse terrain. Many reviews mention how stunning the scenes are, especially the sight of Table Mountain from the air, which adds a sense of grandeur to the experience.
The Wineries and Durbanville Hills
After landing at Durbanville Hills, you are invited to indulge in wine tastings of their Collectors Reserve range or exclusive cellar door wines. The estate’s reputation for exceptional Sauvignon Blanc is well-founded, thanks to the cool climate on their south-facing slopes. But the estate also boasts a range of reds, benefiting from the warmer valley sides and northern slopes, providing a well-rounded tasting experience.
Guests often comment on the quality of the wines and the friendliness of staff. One reviewer noted that they loved tasting wines paired with chocolates or biltong, which added an extra layer of enjoyment. The winery’s modern setup offers a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere, perfect for sipping and appreciating the flavors.
More Great Tours NearbyFood and Additional Experiences
While tastings and pairings are additional costs, many find that the culinary offerings at Durbanville Hills are a highlight. The estate boasts a contemporary restaurant where you can enjoy a meal with a glass of wine, rounding out the day. The views from the restaurant are often praised, creating a perfect setting for a leisurely lunch or late afternoon snack.
Transportation & Comfort
Your experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off in a private vehicle, which means no hassle getting to and from the helicopter pad. The private vehicle and air-conditioned comfort contribute to a stress-free, luxurious day. Onboard the helicopter, water is provided, and live commentary keeps you engaged during the flight.
Price & Value
At $1,152 per person, this experience leans toward the premium side. While it isn’t a budget option, the value lies in the combination of scenic flight, private transportation, and exclusive tastings. For those seeking a memorable, picture-perfect moment that combines adventure with gourmet indulgence, many feel it’s worth the splurge.
Authentic Reviews and Insights
One traveler shared, “The views were breathtaking, and the whole process felt very exclusive.” Others appreciated the smooth flight and attentive service, noting that the wine tastings were a delightful bonus. Some mentioned that the flight was a perfect length — not too long to become tiring but long enough to enjoy the scenery.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This helicopter tour is best suited for luxury travelers, couples celebrating something special, or those wanting a unique perspective of Cape Town’s wine country. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a combination of adventure and indulgence. It might not be ideal for travelers on a tight budget or those with limited mobility, given the cost and the need for brief flight comfort.
Final Thoughts
This helicopter tour of the Durbanville Wine Region offers a chance to see some of South Africa’s most beautiful scenery from a fresh angle, combined with the opportunity to savor top-tier wines and enjoy a gourmet meal. The private, luxury feel makes it an excellent choice for special occasions, or for anyone who wants to elevate their Cape Town visit with a dash of adventure and elegance.
While the price is on the higher side, the combination of breathtaking views, exclusive access, and quality tastings provides solid value for those seeking a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you’re after spectacular scenery, quality wine, and a touch of luxury, this tour is well worth considering.
FAQ
Is the helicopter tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is designed for adults and requires participants to meet weight restrictions if over 100kg. Children are typically not included, so it’s best for adults or those comfortable with aerial travel.
Can I book the tour now and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, providing flexibility in your planning.
What is included in the tour price?
The flight, private transportation to and from your hotel, live onboard commentary, fuel surcharge, parking fees, and a bottle of water are included. Tastings, meals, and drinks are extra.
How long is the entire experience?
The helicopter flight lasts about 20 minutes, but the total experience including transfers and visits to the winery will likely take several hours.
Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
Yes, wine tastings, pairings, meals, and drinks are additional. Also, if you weigh more than 100kg, an extra fee applies.
Is the experience weather-dependent?
Like all outdoor and aerial activities, it is weather-dependent. Cancellations are possible if conditions are unsafe, with full refunds if canceled by the provider.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for flying and the weather on the day are recommended. Layers are advisable, especially if you plan to stay for a meal at the winery.
This helicopter tour of Durbanville offers an excellent blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and wine indulgence — perfect for those wanting to see Cape Town’s stunning landscape from above while enjoying some of its best wines.
You can check availability for your dates here: