A helicopter tour over Bora Bora is, without a doubt, one of the most breathtaking experiences you can have. Forget postcards – witnessing the island’s volcanic peaks and dazzling turquoise lagoons from above is a memory that will stay with you long after you’ve packed your bags. This guide will dissect everything you need to know about taking to the skies in Bora Bora, from what to expect to how to make the most of your aerial adventure.
Why Choose a Helicopter Tour in Bora Bora?
Let’s be honest, Bora Bora is already pretty spectacular from the ground. So why spend extra money on a helicopter tour? Simply put, it offers a completely different perspective. The iconic Mount Otemanu, often shrouded in mist, becomes a majestic spectacle when viewed from eye level. The motus (small islets) that fringe the main island transform into shimmering jewels scattered across the vast expanse of the Pacific. And the sheer scale and clarity of the lagoon, renowned for its diverse shades of blue, is truly awe-inspiring from above.
Imagine soaring over the famous Matira Beach, its white sands stretching out like a welcoming embrace. Picture yourself circling Mount Otemanu, capturing panoramic views of the lush valleys and hidden waterfalls. Or consider flying over the outer reef, spotting manta rays, sharks, and other marine life frolicking in their natural habitat. It’s a photographic dream come true, and an unforgettable way to appreciate the natural beauty of Bora Bora.
What to Expect on Your Helicopter Tour
Most helicopter tours in Bora Bora last between 15 and 60 minutes, depending on the chosen itinerary. The shorter tours tend to focus on the main lagoon and Mount Otemanu, while longer tours may include flights over neighboring islands like Taha’a (the Vanilla Island) and Raiatea (the Sacred Island). Here’s a breakdown of what a typical tour involves:
Pre-flight briefing: Upon arrival at the heliport (usually located near the airport), you’ll receive a safety briefing from the pilot. This will cover essential information about the helicopter, safety procedures, and what to expect during the flight. Listen carefully and don’t hesitate to ask any questions you may have.
Boarding the helicopter: Helicopters in Bora Bora typically accommodate between four and six passengers. You’ll be assigned a seat based on weight distribution and visibility. While some passengers may prefer a window seat, all seats offer excellent views, thanks to the helicopter’s large windows. Consider arriving early to express your seating preference.
Takeoff and flight: Once everyone is safely buckled in, the helicopter will take off smoothly. The initial climb provides a gradually-revealing panorama of the island. The pilot will typically provide commentary throughout the flight, pointing out landmarks, sharing local knowledge, and answering questions. Be prepared to take lots of pictures and videos! The ride itself is surprisingly smooth, although you may experience slight turbulence depending on the weather conditions.
Landing: The landing is generally gentle and uneventful. After the flight, you’ll have a chance to take more pictures and thank the pilot for the incredible experience.
Choosing the Right Helicopter Tour
Several tour operators offer helicopter tours in Bora Bora, each with its own unique itineraries and pricing. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a tour:
Tour Duration: The longer the tour, the more you’ll see. However, longer tours also come with a higher price tag. Consider your budget and how much time you want to spend in the air. A 30-minute tour is a good option for a comprehensive overview of Bora Bora, while a 45- or 60-minute tour allows you to explore neighboring islands.
Itinerary: Review the tour itinerary carefully to ensure it includes the landmarks and attractions you’re most interested in seeing. Some tours may focus on specific aspects of the island, such as marine life or volcanic landscapes.
Type of Helicopter: While most helicopters in Bora Bora are well-maintained and comfortable, some may be newer or offer better visibility than others. Ask about the type of helicopter used by each operator.
Price: Helicopter tours in Bora Bora are not cheap, but the experience is well worth the investment. Prices typically range from around $300 to $800 per person, depending on the tour duration and itinerary. Compare prices from different operators to find the best deal. Look out for special offers or discounts, especially during the off-season.
Reputation: Read reviews from other travelers to get an idea of the quality of service and the overall experience offered by each tour operator. Check sites like TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, and Yelp for unbiased opinions.
Sunset tours: a lot of companies offer sunset tours. If your budget allows and if you enjoy sunset the sunset tour is highly recommended.
Top Helicopter Tour Operators in Bora Bora
Here are a few reputable helicopter tour operators in Bora Bora to consider:
Tahiti Nui Helicopters: One of the most well-established operators in French Polynesia, Tahiti Nui Helicopters offers a range of tours over Bora Bora and other islands. They are known for their experienced pilots and well-maintained helicopters.
Bora Bora Helicopter: This company specializes in helicopter tours of Bora Bora and provides a variety of options, including private tours and customized itineraries. From a quick scenic 15-minute tour around the lagoon to the 30 minute escape to Tupai (Heart Island). They offer a premium service, including hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Air Archipels: They have a longer and shorter tour options. Air Archipels also offers air transport between islands in French Polynesia. This can be useful if you are island hopping.
Booking Your Helicopter Tour
It is highly recommended to book your helicopter tour in advance, especially during the peak season (May to October). This will ensure availability and allow you to secure your preferred date and time. You can book directly through the tour operator’s website or through a travel agent.
When booking, be sure to provide accurate information about your weight and any medical conditions that may affect your ability to fly. Most operators have weight restrictions in place for safety reasons.
Confirm the cancellation policy before booking. Some operators may offer a full refund if you cancel your tour at least 24 hours in advance, while others may have stricter policies.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Helicopter Tour
Here are some tips to help you have the best possible experience on your helicopter tour:
Dress comfortably: Wear light, comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. The helicopter cabin can get warm, especially during the day. Avoid wearing loose clothing that could get caught in the helicopter’s controls.
Bring sunscreen and sunglasses: The sun can be very strong at high altitudes, so it’s essential to protect your skin and eyes. Apply sunscreen liberally before the flight and wear sunglasses to reduce glare.
Charge your camera: You’ll want to capture plenty of photos and videos during your helicopter tour, so make sure your camera is fully charged. Consider bringing an extra battery or a portable charger.
Bring motion sickness medication (if needed): If you are prone to motion sickness, take medication before the flight to prevent nausea. Ginger capsules or ginger ale can also help to soothe your stomach.
Communicate with the pilot: Don’t be afraid to ask the pilot questions or point out things you’re interested in seeing. They are usually happy to share their knowledge and provide insights into the island’s history and culture.
Relax and enjoy the view: A helicopter tour is a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Relax, soak in the stunning scenery, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Photography Tips for Aerial Shots
Taking stunning photos from a helicopter requires a bit of preparation and technique. Here’s how to capture those postcard-worthy shots:
Use a fast shutter speed: The helicopter is moving, so use a fast shutter speed (at least 1/500th of a second) to avoid motion blur. Increase the ISO if necessary to achieve a faster shutter speed.
Shoot in aperture priority mode: Aperture priority mode allows you to control the depth of field, which is important for creating sharp images. Use a mid-range aperture (f/5.6 to f/8) for optimal sharpness.
Turn off image stabilization: Image stabilization can actually introduce blur when shooting from a moving platform. Turn it off to achieve sharper results.
Use a polarizing filter: A polarizing filter can reduce glare and reflections from the water, resulting in richer, more vibrant colors.
Shoot through the windows: The helicopter windows can sometimes be scratched or dirty, so clean them before you start shooting. Avoid touching the windows with your bare hands, as this can leave smudges. If possible, shoot through an open window for clearer shots. This may require special permission and could be dependent on the helicopter type and safety regulations.
Compose your shots carefully: Think about the composition of your shots before you press the shutter button. Use the rule of thirds to create visually appealing images. Include interesting foreground elements, such as boats or reefs, to add depth and scale to your photos.
Alternative Activities in Bora Bora
While a helicopter tour is a fantastic way to experience Bora Bora, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy on the island. Diversifying activities would be valuable.
Snorkeling and Diving: The crystal-clear waters of Bora Bora are teeming with marine life, making it a paradise for snorkeling and diving. Many resorts and tour operators offer snorkeling trips to the coral gardens and outer reef, where you can see colorful fish, manta rays, and sharks.
Scuba diving is a great experience. Top Dive is a well-known and respected diving center.
Lagoon Cruise: A lagoon cruise is a great way to explore the different motus and enjoy activities like swimming, snorkeling, and feeding stingrays and sharks. Many cruises include a traditional Polynesian lunch on a private island.
Jet Skiing: Jet skiing is a fun and exhilarating way to explore the lagoon. You can rent a jet ski and explore on your own or join a guided tour.
Hiking: If you’re feeling adventurous, hike to the top of Mount Pahia or Mount Otemanu for panoramic views of the island (a guide is recommended). Many hiking opportunities are available, but caution is advised due to steep terrain and weather conditions.
Relaxing on the Beach: Matira Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Spend a day relaxing on the soft white sand, swimming in the turquoise water, and soaking up the sun.
Practical Considerations: Weather and Safety
The weather in Bora Bora is generally warm and sunny year-round, but there can be occasional rain showers and tropical storms. The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to October), when the weather is most predictable. However, you can still enjoy a helicopter tour during the wet season (November to April), as long as the weather is clear.
Safety is paramount when it comes to helicopter tours. All reputable operators adhere to strict safety regulations and maintain their helicopters to the highest standards. Before booking a tour, check the operator’s safety record and ensure they are properly licensed and insured.
Follow the pilot’s instructions carefully and wear your seatbelt at all times. Avoid touching any of the helicopter’s controls or interfering with the pilot’s operation. If you have any concerns about safety, don’t hesitate to speak up.
Cost Breakdown of a Bora Bora Helicopter Tour
To give you a clearer idea of the costs involved, here’s a hypothetical breakdown of typical expenses:
- Base Helicopter Tour (30 minutes): $400 – $600 per person
- Extended Tour (45-60 minutes, including neighboring islands): $600 – $900 per person
- Private Tour (custom itinerary): $1000+ per person
- Optional Photo/Video Packages (professional photos/videos of your tour): $100 – $300
- Hotel Transfers (if not included in the tour price): $50 – $100 per person
Keep in mind that these are estimated prices, and actual costs may vary depending on the tour operator, time of year, and any special promotions.
Getting to the Bora Bora Heliport
Most helicopter tour operators include hotel transfers in their tour packages. If not, you can easily reach the heliport by taxi or rental car. The Bora Bora Airport (also known as Motu Mute Airport) is located on a separate motu, so you’ll need to take a short boat ride to reach the main island. From there, the heliport is usually a short drive away.
Personal Anecdotes from Helicopter Tours
Hearing from others who’ve experienced a Bora Bora helicopter tour can add a personal touch and provide valuable insights.
“I was absolutely blown away by the vibrant colors of the lagoon from above. The different shades of blue were incredible, and seeing the manta rays swimming near the reef was a highlight. It’s something you can’t truly appreciate from the ground,” says Sarah, a recent visitor.
Another traveler, Mark, shares, “We initially hesitated due to the cost, but after taking the helicopter tour, we both agreed it was the best money we spent on our trip. The view of Mount Otemanu was simply breathtaking, and the pilot was very knowledgeable and friendly.”
“The pictures I took during the helicopter tour are now my most prized possessions. I captured incredible aerial shots of the lagoon, the resorts, and the surrounding islands. It’s a memory I’ll cherish forever,” adds Emily.
These personal experiences highlight the unique and unforgettable nature of a helicopter tour in Bora Bora, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking extraordinary memories.
Addressing Common Concerns About Helicopter Tours
Here are some common concerns and their clarifications:
- Safety Concerns: Reputable companies follow strict safety guidelines and have experienced pilots.
- Motion Sicknesses: Take preventive medication and sit near the front of the helicopter.
- Cost Issues: Compare options, consider shorter tours, and book in advance for better pricing.
FAQ Section
Is a helicopter tour worth the cost?
Yes, for many visitors, the unique aerial perspective and stunning views make it a worthwhile investment. The breathtaking panoramas and unforgettable experience often outweigh the cost.
What should I wear on a helicopter tour?
Light, comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended. Avoid loose clothing that could get caught.
Are there age or weight restrictions for helicopter tours?
Weight restrictions vary by operator. Contact the tour operator ahead of time to confirm any restrictions. Age limitations are usually less of an issuance.
What if the weather is bad on the day of my tour?
Most tour operators will reschedule or offer a refund. Check the tour operator’s cancellation policy regarding weather-related issues.
Can I bring my camera on the helicopter tour?
Yes, cameras are welcome. Ensure your battery is fully charged to capture the scenic views. Drones usually are not allowed on the helicopter.
References List
- Tahiti Tourisme (Official Website)
- TripAdvisor Reviews
- Individual Tour Operator Websites
Ready to take your Bora Bora adventure to new heights? Don’t miss out on the opportunity to witness the island’s unparalleled beauty from above. Book your helicopter tour today and prepare for an experience that will leave you breathless. Imagine the photos, the memories, and the sheer awe of seeing Bora Bora like never before. Don’t just dream it – experience it! Start planning your aerial adventure now!
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