When you think of Rio de Janeiro, images of pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and iconic landmarks like Christ the Redeemer come to mind.
A tour on foot around a city as vibrant as Rio doesn’t truly capture its spirit.
The best way to explore the city in its Brazilian glory is a helicopter tour that lets you witness its world-famous landmarks, enchanting landscapes, and picturesque vistas.
This article will explain everything you need to know before booking the Rio de Janeiro helicopter tours.
Top Rio helicopter tours
# Sugar Loaf and Christ the Redeemer Helicopter Flight
# Rio de Janeiro Helicopter Tour
Table of contents
Cost of Rio helicopter tours
Helicopter rides can be a costly affair.
So, it is important to know the tour costs in advance to plan your trip and factor it in with other considerations.
But there is no doubt that a helicopter tour in Rio is nothing short of a joyride.
The cheapest Rio de Janeiro helicopter ride will cost approximately US$178 (R$901) per person, which is also the most popular tour of its kind.
And at the higher end is the Private Helicopter Tour Samba, the tickets can go up to US$1,800 (R$9,115) per person.
Prices of helicopter tours in Rio depend on many factors. For instance:
- Airtime
- Off or peak season
- If the helicopter ride is part of a combo tour. For example, a helicopter tour with a cruise tour.
For the most scenic tour above the city, look no further than the Sunset Helicopter Tour in Rio.
Best Rio helicopter tours
Below, we have curated a list of some of the best helicopter tours in the city, which also happen to provide the most value for your money.
Rio de Janeiro Helicopter Tour
Soar above the charming city of Rio, a treasure trove of geological wonders- mountains, beaches, forests, rich culture, and much more!
There is no end to the takeaway of memories on this Rio helicopter tour, which provides 360° views of this Brazilian city with Christ at its heart.
Fly past famous landmarks like the Botanical Garden, Corcovado Mountain, Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, and much more.
Duration: 7 to 8 minutes
Timings: 10 am and 3 pm
Departure and end point: Heliponto da Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas (SDRJ) Parque dos Patins Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas – Av. Borges de Medeiros, s/n – Lagoa, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 22470-004, Brazil. Get directions
Note: Borges de Medeiros Avenue – Rio de Janeiro City Helipad – Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon | Next to the Skating Park, with the entrance in front of the BR Post (17.44 km)
Cost
Adult (12+ years): US$178 (R$901) per person
Child (2 to 11 years): US$178 (R$901) per person
Does a longer-duration helicopter tour with included transfers feel like music to your ears? Check out the Helicopter Ride for 25 to 30 minutes with Transfer service, and thank us later!
Sugar Loaf and Christ the Redeemer Helicopter Flight
Glide through the skies to marvel at the views of the towering Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) and get an unobstructed panoramic cityscape, golden stretches of sand at Copacabana and Ipanema Beach, and Guanabara Bay.
Behold the mind-blowing perspective of the Christ the Redeemer statue, a UNESCO World Heritage site and defining city symbol.
Connect with the heart of Rio’s natural beauty as you fly past the Tijuca Forest, the world’s largest urban rainforest.
A flyover of the colossal Maracanã Stadium is the icing on the cake for sports enthusiasts.
Duration: 30 minutes
Timings: 8 am to 5 pm
Departure and end point: Av. das Américas, 13750 – Recreio dos Bandeirantes, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 22790-702, Brazil. Get directions
Cost
Adult (13+ years): US$290 (R$1,399) per person
Child (2 to 12 years): US$290 (R$1,399) per person
Sunset Helicopter Tour in Rio
Witnessing Rio from an aerial angle as the sun dips below the horizon is nothing short of magical as it bathes Sugarloaf in a warm, ethereal glow.
The city’s natural beauty peaks during the twilight hours when beholding Christ the Redeemer statue feels like a truly spiritual experience, and the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema take on a new life.
Pedra da Gavea, Rocinha, Maracana, and all the other landmarks that you pass over are accentuated during this twilight on this Rio helicopter tour.
Duration: 3 to 4 hours with a flight time of 40 to 45 minutes
Timings: 4 pm
Departure and end point: Hotel transfer facility is available for this tour
Note: Pickup is available from most hotels in the areas of Leblon, Ipanema, and Copacabana, with Meeting Points in Botafogo, Flamengo, Catete, and Centro. Contact the tour operator to adjust the pickup time
Cost: US$350 (R$1,772) per person
A beginning-to-end convenient trip, where all you have to do is enjoy the experience with your group, is the Rio Helicopter Private Tour with Transfer.
Private Helicopter Flight in Rio De Janeiro
Doesn’t an exclusive helicopter flight over one of the most chic cities in the world sound like something right out of the dream book?
This private helicopter ride in Rio is for all those companions who share a love for thrill and traveling.
Fly and hover above some of the most popular landmarks of Rio De Janeiro with ample airtime, delicious beverages, and absolute privacy at your disposal.
Duration: 30 minutes
Timings: 8 am and 5 pm
Departure and end point: Av. das Américas, 13750 – Recreio dos Bandeirantes, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 22790-702, Brazil. Get directions
Cost: US$622 (R$2,999) per group (up to 2)
Want a private tour but for three people? Check out the Private Helicopter Tour over Rio de Janeiro. However, if 30 minutes sounds like too short a duration for all the fun awaiting an aerial tour, you can opt for the 45-minute Private Helicopter Tour over Rio or the 60-minute Private Helicopter Tour over Rio.
Private Helicopter Tour Samba for four
Feel at home with your friends or family thousands of feet in the air on this private helicopter tour in Rio de Janeiro.
With no unfamiliar crowd and an entire helicopter to yourself, you can have some unforgettable moments as you fly over a city with one of the seven wonders of the world.
Get a bird’s eye view of Rio’s defining landmarks, popular across the world.
Duration: 30 minutes
Timings: 9.30 am, 11.30 am, 2.30 pm, and 4.30 pm
Departure and end point: Hotel transfer facility is available for this tour
Cost
Adult (12+ years): US$1,800 (R$9,115) per person
Child (2 to 11 years): US$1,800 (R$9,115) per person
There is a helicopter tour for everyone. And those who want a private tour on budget exceptions are no exceptions to this. Check out the Private tour over Rio for four with shorter airtime but equal adventure.
Timings of the tours
Many Rio de Janeiro helicopter tours take off as early as 8 am and continue until 5 pm.
While most of the tours operate daily, they may get affected by the weather conditions.
There are multiple take-offs daily, so book early to get your preferred time slot.
Most tour operators prefer their participants reach the meeting point 30 minutes before the aircraft’s departure.
Restrictions strictly followed
Weight limits apply for safe and comfortable helicopter rides in Rio de Janeiro.
A minimum and maximum number of passengers are required on these tours, failing which, it will be canceled.
Infants and children are allowed onboard, but infants must sit on the caregiver’s lap throughout the flight.
The tours are not recommended for pregnant travelers or guests with back problems.
A valid passport is required.
No pets are allowed onboard except service animals.
Check in at least 30 minutes early.
Flight times are approximate based on winds, weights, and conditions.
Seating arrangements may often be in the hands of the tour organizers for a safe and stable flight.
Exclusions of the air tour
Rio heli tours do not include food and drinks and hotel transfers unless stated otherwise.
The value of Bondinho, comfort surcharge, and personal expenses are excluded from your ticket.
Your ticket price is also not inclusive of gratuities.
FAQs about Rio helicopter rides
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Rio de Janeiro helicopter rides:
The best time for a helicopter tour in Rio de Janeiro is during the early morning or late afternoon when the weather is typically more stable, and you can enjoy beautiful lighting for photos. Sunset tours, in particular, are highly recommended for their stunning views.
Many helicopter tours in Rio charge the same price for adults and children over 2-3 years. However, most helicopter tours allow free entry to infants aged between 0-2 years, as they are required to be seated on their caregiver’s lap throughout the flight.
Comfortable clothing is recommended. You may want to dress in layers, as temperatures can vary. Don’t forget to wear sunscreen and sunglasses, and it’s a good idea to secure loose items, such as hats, during the flight to prevent them from flying away.
Absolutely! Most helicopter tours encourage passengers to take photos and videos during the flight. In fact, it’s one of the best ways to capture the breathtaking views of Rio de Janeiro. Just be sure to secure your camera or smartphone to prevent accidental drops.
Yes, reputable helicopter tour companies prioritize safety. They use experienced pilots and well-maintained helicopters and adhere to strict safety regulations to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience.
Yes, Rio heli tours are accessible to guests with disabilities. However, it is advisable to inform the tour operators in advance in case of reduced mobility so that necessary accommodations can be made for a comfortable flight.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before your tour date.
If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, a 100% percent cancellation fee is applicable.
No changes are allowed within 24 hours of the experience’s start time.
Helicopter tours require good weather.
If the tour is canceled due to poor weather or non-fulfillment of the minimum number of passengers, you may be offered a different date or a full refund.
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