Rio de Janeiro: Doors-Off Helicopter Tour at Christ the Redeemer

Summary

Fly above Rio’s beaches & Christ the Redeemer with open skies and city sounds all around

You’ll feel wind on your face during this doors-off helicopter tour in Rio de Janeiro as you fly above famous beaches and circle Christ the Redeemer for unreal city views. Snap photos with your feet dangling over Ipanema and Copacabana, guided by locals who know every landmark by heart. It’s quick but unforgettable — you might still feel your heart racing after landing.

What’s the experience like?

“Stick your feet out — trust me!” That’s what our pilot said as we hovered over Ipanema, and honestly, my heart was pounding so hard I almost didn’t hear him. The doors were off, just pure air between us and the city. I could smell salt from the ocean below, mixed with that hot tarmac scent from the heliport back in Barra da Tijuca. Our guide — Flávio, who had this calm way of explaining everything — pointed out where Leblon fades into São Conrado. He even joked about Cariocas never wearing shoes unless absolutely necessary. I laughed but kept my sneakers on tight.

The flight path took us right over Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, which looked like a mirror for the sky that day. You can spot surfers down at Barra Beach if you squint (I tried; my sunglasses nearly flew off). There’s this part where you get to dangle your legs out for a photo — first at the stone between Ipanema and Copacabana, then again when we circled Cristo Redentor. That second time, honestly? My hands shook a bit taking the selfie. The statue felt close enough to touch, sunlight bouncing off its arms. You see Sugarloaf Mountain in the distance and it just hits you how big Rio really is.

I didn’t expect to notice so much sound up there — wind roaring past my ears, but also little bursts of laughter from other passengers when someone tried to say “Lagoa” with a heavy accent (Flávio grinned but didn’t correct anyone). The whole thing only lasted about half an hour but it felt longer somehow. Maybe because every second was loud and bright and kind of wild. When we landed back at base, my legs were jelly but in a good way. Still not sure if I’ll ever top that view of Christ the Redeemer from above.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Helicopter tour over Rio landmarks

• Fly over Praia da Reserva
• Pass Barra Beach
• Pass São Conrado Beach and favelas
• Pass Leblon Beach
• Pass Ipanema Beach
• Stop at stone between Ipanema and Copacabana
• Pass Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas
• Stop at Christ the Redeemer for photos
• Return to base

Top questions

Is this Rio de Janeiro helicopter tour without doors safe?

Yes, safety equipment is provided for both passengers and smartphones during the flight.

How long does the helicopter ride last?

The flight lasts around 30 minutes from takeoff to landing.

Can I bring my phone or camera on board?

Yes, safety gear is included so you can safely use your phone or camera for photos.

Are hotel pickups included in this tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at the heliport in Barra da Tijuca.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible for this experience.

What happens if there’s bad weather?

If weather conditions are poor, you’ll be offered a new date or a full refund.

Are infants allowed on this helicopter tour?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap; strollers are also allowed at the heliport.

Which landmarks will I see during the flight?

You’ll fly over Barra Beach, São Conrado Beach, Leblon Beach, Ipanema Beach, Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, and Christ the Redeemer.

What’s included

Your day includes a doors-off helicopter flight over Rio de Janeiro with safety equipment provided for smartphones so you can take those wild photos mid-air; local guides share stories as you pass each landmark before returning to base after about 30 minutes aloft.