Activity Description
The only way to truly appreciate the incredible Natural Wonder that is the Victoria Falls is from the air. Our Helicopter flight, affectionately known as the “Flight of Angels” does this and more. We guarantee that you will not be able to take your eyes away from the view before you. It is utterly indescribable!
Our Helicopters have purpose built bubble windows that stick out of the aircraft, greatly enhancing your viewing pleasure. Further to this, we do not offer middle seats. No one wants to be the sorry sod who ends up stuck in the middle. Everyone gets an equal viewing opportunity in these scenic helicopter flights over the Victoria Falls.
Whilst up in the air, there is so much more to see than just the waterfall. Being surrounded by a National Park it is common to spot some of the larger wildlife species that call this area home, such as elephant and buffalo. As well as the wildlife opportunities, you also an incredible appreciation of the might Zambezi River snaking its way back from the plunging waterfalls. A gaping seeming endless supply of water plunging at hundreds of thousands of liters a second over this impressive sight.
At high water, you aerial view includes a thick column of spray forced up by the continual cascading water. Almost looks like steam rising off a cold pond. During the low water months, you will notice rocky outcrops jutting out of the waterfall, with torrents of water forcing its way around it. You will also notice many more islands in the river, often scattered with elephant or hippo, who have made the most of the lower water to reach the delicacies growing from the untouched vegetation.
Helicopter Flight Activity Requirements
Age Limit: There are no age restrictions, although children must be accompanied by an adult. Children under 3 fly for free, sitting on a parent’s lap. Children over 3 pay full price and have a seat.
Maximum Height: No maximum height
Maximum Weight: There is generally a weight limit of 120kg per passenger, but this can often be worked around depending on the weight of other passengers.
Fitness Level: No Fitness Requirement.
Experience Level: No Experience Requirement.
Additional Information
Duration: The whole excursion from time of pickup to drop off at your hotel is approximately 1 hour for the 15min flight and 1.5 hours for the 25min flight.
Seasonal Activity: The helicopter flight is done throughout the year.
What to wear: Clients are advised to wear comfortable clothing items and either closed or shoes is acceptable.
What to bring: Your camera!
How safe is a Helicopter Flight over Victoria Falls?
The Helicopter Flight is one of the safest aerial activities available in Victoria Falls. Governed by very strict maintenance checks, these aircrafts are in the best possible condition. The helicopters are maintained to the highest industry standards as specified by the manufacturer, Bell Textron. Operators follow the South African Maintenance Organisation and Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe guidelines and the service centre is the only one in Africa that’s International Business Aviation Council and Helicopter Association International accredited.
Flown by very experienced pilots, some of whom have several thousand hours flying experience. As is with all aerial transportation, the health and safety regulations are extremely strict. Regular maintenance is done, and always many hours before their due date.
Scenic helicopter flights over Victoria Falls have been happening for several decades now, and they maintain a 100% accident free track record.
What is the difference between a Helicopter Flight and a Microlight Flight?
The biggest difference between the two major aerial activities is that a Helicopter Flight can be enjoyed at the same time with friends or family. Many Helicopters are able to take multiple passengers at the same time. A microlight flight is done alone with the pilot. Whilst still a great experience, when in a group of four or five people, the waiting can get a bit tedious as friends or family take their turn having their flight.
Another major difference is that Microlight Flights can only be offered during the cooler parts of the day. Due to their much smaller engine size and carry capacity, light aircrafts struggle during the heat of the day with the updrafts caused by the hot air rising. Microlight Flights are generally limited to the first and last few hours of the day. They are also very weather dependent. By contrast, Helicopter flights can be done throughout the day and have far more flexibility when it comes to weather conditions.
The final significant difference between the two is that Microlight Flights only happen from Zambia. This means that if you are staying in Zimbabwe and wish to do a microlight flight, you will need to cross the border into Zambia to do this. Whilst this is easy enough to do, it often does come with extra visa charges. Helicopter flights are offered in both Zimbabwe and Zambia.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Included: Transfers from your hotel/lodge.
Excluded: National Parks and fuel surcharge fees currently US$25 per person.
