• Cairns helicopter flight combining the lush green rainforests and the azure blue waters of the Great Barrier Reef on a 60 minute scenic flight is the ultimate way to explore these two World Heritage Listed sites. 
• Some of the sights you will see from the seat of your helicopter are Cape Grafton, Mission Bay, False Cape, Mt Yarrabah, Green Island, Arlington Reef, and Vlasoff sand cay.  
• On the rainforest section of your 60 minute helicpter flight you will see the Barron Gorge falls, Kuranda, Crystal Cascades, Lake Morris, Redlynch Valley, Palm cove and Double Island.

Cairns helicopter scenic flight combining a spectacular rainforest and Great Barrier Reef land and sea flight. In 60 minutes, cruise over 120km from Cairns city and surrounding beaches.

What to Expect

This 60-minute Cairns helicopter scenic flight delivers an unparalleled aerial experience by showcasing both the Great Barrier Reef and the lush tropical rainforest of Tropical Far North Queensland. Covering over 120 kilometres, this helicopter tour offers the best of both worlds—explore the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and the incredible landscapes of the World Heritage-listed rainforest all in one scenic flight journey.

With the helicopter ride departing from Cairns, you’ll ascend over the Great Dividing Range, soar past cascading waterfalls, and take in sweeping views of pristine beaches before heading out to the highlights of the Great Barrier Reef, including Upolo and Vlasoff Sand Cays, Arlington Reef, and the iconic Green Island.

Features and Highlights

• Scenic Flight Over the Great Barrier Reef and Rainforest: Fly over both the stunning reef and dense rainforest in a single flight, offering a unique perspective of two of Australia’s most iconic landscapes.
• Rainforest Exploration: Begin your journey with views over Lake Morris, Kuranda, and the spectacular Barron Falls, cascading down 850 feet into the Barron Gorge below. Experience the rich green hues and the dense canopy of the World Heritage-listed rainforest as you fly over the Great Dividing Range.
• Great Barrier Reef Experience: Continue your adventure towards the vibrant blue waters of the Great Barrier Reef. Fly above Green Island, Arlington Reef, and Vlasoff Cay—a secluded sand cay perfect for an unforgettable photo opportunity. You may even have the option to land on Vlasoff Cay for an up-close experience.
• Coastal and Island Views: As you track back towards Cairns, take in the panoramic views of the northern beaches, including Palm Cove and Double Island, while soaring over Cape Grafton and Mission Bay.
• Capture the Ultimate Memory: If conditions allow land on Vlasoff Cay to get your feet wet and take that perfect Instagram-worthy shot in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef.
• Expert Commentary and Personalised Experience: Your experienced helicopter pilot will provide insightful commentary throughout the scenic flight, sharing fascinating details about the landscapes and ecosystems you’re flying over.

Itinerary Overview

1. Departure from Cairns Airport: Begin your helicopter flight with a breathtaking climb over the Great Dividing Range, taking in views of Lake Morris and the surrounding rainforest.
2. Fly Over Barron Falls and Kuranda: Experience the dramatic Barron Falls and the lush rainforest village of Kuranda from above.
3. Track Towards the Great Barrier Reef: Glide over the coast, passing Green Island, Arlington Reef, and Upolo Cay, before arriving at Vlasoff Sand Cay.
4. Optional Sand Cay Landing: Depending on conditions, you may have the chance to land at Vlasoff Cay, a pristine sand cay in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.
5. Return Over the Northern Beaches and Rainforest: Take in views of Palm Cove, Double Island, and the rainforest-covered slopes of the Great Dividing Range as you make your way back to Cairns.
6. Descent Over Lake Morris and Cairns City: Conclude your helicopter flight with stunning aerial views of Cairns as you descend over the city and return to the airport.

Additional Information

• Tour Duration: 60 minutes
• Departure Location: Cairns General Aviation Airport
• Inclusions: Scenic helicopter flight, expert commentary, optional sand cay landing (subject to conditions)
• What to Bring: Camera, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure!

This unique fusion of reef and rainforest is the perfect way to experience the best that Cairns has to offer, combining two World Heritage sites in one unforgettable adventure. The perfect scenic flight for cruise ship passengers visiting Cairns. 

Explore more scenic helicopter flights from Cairns and Port Douglas and discover the variety of Great Barrier Reef tours available to complete your ultimate Queensland experience.

View our Great Barrier Reef and helicopter combo tours.

Learn more on our Great Barrier Reef Blog.

Tour Languages Offered

• English

Departs From

Cairns

Departure Time

Departure time confirmed at time of booking

Destinations

• Great Barrier Reef
• Great Barrier Reef
• Michaelmas Cay
• Arlington Reef

Months of Operation

January - December

Days of Operation

Daily

Duration

60 Minutes

Available for Purchase / Hire

In flight video

Fitness Level Required

Low

Restrictions

Weight variances greater than 10% of that advised at the time of booking may incur additional charges and/or luggage allowances being reduced. Operator reserves the right to refuse travel and charge a 100% cancellation fee.

Weight: Up to 130 Kg / 287 Lb

Camera (charged)

• Children 2 years and above are legally required to be seated in their own seat and are therefore required to pay the full ticket price.
• Children aged 2 years to 13 years must be accompanied by an adult on all flights.
• Children who have not yet reached their 2nd birthday are classified as infants and may travel free of charge (seated on a parent/guardian’s lap utilising a company provided infant seat belt restraint).
• Only one (1) infant is permitted to travel in an aircraft.
• Please notify us at the time if booking advise if passengers are travelling with infants