Tourist helicopter rides offer a unique and exhilarating way to experience scenic destinations from a bird's-eye view. Here are some different types of tourist helicopter rides that you might encounter:
1. City Tours: Helicopter tours of major cities provide a thrilling aerial perspective of iconic landmarks, skyscrapers, and urban landscapes. These tours often fly over famous attractions like the Statue of Liberty in New York City, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, or the Sydney Opera House in Australia.
2. Grand Canyon Tours: Helicopter tours of the Grand Canyon offer breathtaking views of one of the world's most famous natural wonders. These tours often depart from nearby cities like Las Vegas or Phoenix and fly over the canyon's vast expanse, towering cliffs, and winding Colorado River.
3. Island Hopping: In destinations with multiple islands or archipelagos, helicopter tours offer a convenient way to explore different islands and their scenic landscapes. For example, in Hawaii, helicopter tours can take you over the lush valleys of Kauai, the volcanic landscapes of the Big Island, or the dramatic coastline of Maui.
4. Glacier Tours: In regions with glaciers, such as Alaska, New Zealand, or Iceland, helicopter tours offer a thrilling way to experience these icy landscapes up close. Tours may land on remote glaciers, allowing passengers to explore ice caves, walk on the ice, or even enjoy a glacier landing with a champagne toast.
5. Waterfall Tours: Helicopter tours of waterfall-rich regions, such as Niagara Falls in North America or Victoria Falls in Africa, offer stunning aerial views of these natural wonders. Passengers can witness the sheer power and beauty of cascading water from above.
6. Volcano Tours: In destinations with active or dormant volcanoes, helicopter tours provide a unique opportunity to witness volcanic landscapes, steaming vents, and lava flows from a safe distance. Popular destinations for volcano tours include Hawaii, Iceland, and New Zealand.
7. Wine Country Tours: Some helicopter tours combine scenic flights with visits to vineyards and wine tastings in picturesque wine regions. For example, tours of California's Napa Valley or New Zealand's Marlborough region offer aerial views of vineyards and surrounding landscapes.
8. Sunset Tours: Sunset helicopter tours provide a romantic and memorable experience as passengers soar above scenic landscapes bathed in the golden light of the setting sun. These tours often include champagne toasts and panoramic views of city skylines or natural landmarks.
9. Custom Tours: Many helicopter tour operators offer custom tours tailored to specific interests or preferences. Whether you're interested in photography, wildlife viewing, or adventure activities like heli-skiing or heli-fishing, there's likely a helicopter tour option to suit your needs.
These are just a few examples of the different types of tourist helicopter rides available around the world. Each type offers a unique perspective and experience, allowing passengers to explore and appreciate the beauty of their chosen destination from a thrilling vantage point in the sky.