• Take in the spectacular views on our 45 minute Great Barrier Reef & Rainforest helicopter ride 
• On this helicopter ride you are seeing two of the World Heritage listed icons so make sure you are camera ready
• Tropical islands, sand cays, reefs and tropical rainforests, there is  no better optional Cairns tour that can offer these views  

Embark on a 45-minute scenic helicopter flight that offers 30 minutes of exhilarating exploration over the Great Barrier Reef. The journey continues, taking you past Double Island, and then onwards to Kuranda, Barron Gorge, and Stoney Creek.

What to Expect

45-Minute Reef and Rainforest Helicopter Flight from Cairns

Prepare for an unforgettable scenic flight adventure as you take off on a 45-minute helicopter ride that showcases the stunning diversity of Tropical Far North Queensland. This Cairns scenic flight offers you a unique chance to experience the majestic Great Barrier Reef and the lush tropical rainforest from a breathtaking aerial perspective in the window seat of a helicopter.

The helicopter ride begins with spectacular views of the inner Great Barrier Reef, where you’ll soar above Green Island, Arlington Reef, and the iconic Vlassoff Cay, marvelling at the vibrant hues of the coral and crystal-clear waters. As you continue, the helicopter flight route takes you along the picturesque coastline past Double Island and Palm Cove before climbing to 2500 feet over the scenic tropical mountain ranges.

From this elevated position, you’ll witness the beauty of Kuranda’s lush rainforests, the cascading Barron Falls, and the winding Stoney Creek as you make your way back to Cairns, all with the shimmering Great Barrier Reef visible in the distance.

Features and Highlights

• Dual Adventure Experience: This 45-minute Cairns helicopter ride seamlessly combines the best of both worlds, offering a stunning aerial view of the Great Barrier Reef and the verdant tropical rainforests of the Cairns Atherton Tablelands.
• Iconic Reef Views: Fly over world-famous spots like Green Island, Arlington Reef, and Vlassoff Cay, capturing the dazzling colours and intricate patterns of coral formations and the expansive blue waters.
• Coastal and Island Flyover: Soar along the pristine coastline, taking in sights like Double Island and Palm Cove, where the rainforest meets the sea in a stunning display of nature.
• Rainforest Exploration: Ascend over the mountains to explore Kuranda, Barron Gorge, and Stoney Creek from above, all while enjoying a panoramic view that stretches from the rainforest to the Great Barrier Reef.
• Perfect for All Travellers: This Cairns scenic flight is ideal for adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience the full beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and the surrounding region from a unique vantage point.

Expand Your Experience

After enjoying this spectacular helicopter flight, consider diving deeper into the region by exploring other scenic helicopter tours from Cairns and Port Douglas or fixed-wing scenic flights for different perspectives on the stunning landscapes.

For those who want to experience the reef up close, there are plenty of Great Barrier Reef boat tours departing from Cairns and Port Douglas, allowing you to snorkel, dive, and fully immerse yourself in the wonders of this World Heritage site on our helicopter and reef combo package tour deals.

Discover a wide selection of helicopter and boat tours to make the most of your time in Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef region.

Note you must book your helicopter rides in advance as seat capacity is limited daily.

Learn more about Great Barrier Reef scenic flights on our Blog.

Tour Languages Offered

• English

Departs From

Cairns

Departure Time

Departure time can be selected when booking online

Departure Instructions

Please arrive 20 minutes prior to departure

Destinations

• Great Barrier Reef
• Arlington Reef
• Barron Falls
• Stoney Creek

Months of Operation

January - December

Days of Operation

Daily

Duration

45 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).
• Please notify us at the time if booking advise if passengers are travelling with infants
• Only one (1) infant is permitted to travel in an aircraft