Rio de Janeiro: Helicopter Flight Over Christ & Beaches

Summary

Soar above Rio’s icons from Christ to Copacabana in 30 minutes

You’ll fly by helicopter over Rio de Janeiro’s most iconic sights—from Christ the Redeemer up close to sweeping views of Copacabana and Ipanema beaches. Glide above lush mountains, spot landmarks like Rocinha and Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, and enjoy small comforts like coffee and water onboard. It’s a rush you’ll remember every time you see Rio’s skyline again.

What’s the experience like?

"You ready for this?" the pilot grinned as we squeezed our headphones on, rotors already thumping over the helipad near Lagoa. I wasn’t sure if my heart was racing from excitement or just nerves—maybe both. The city looked different from up here, all tangled green and blue with flashes of white sand. Our guide (I think his name was Paulo?) pointed out Rocinha below—he said it’s one of the largest favelas in South America. The houses looked like tiny colored blocks stacked up the hillside. It was loud in the cabin but somehow peaceful at the same time.

We curved out over Copacabana Beach and Ipanema, sunlight bouncing off apartment windows and that wild Atlantic surf. I could smell salt even through the glass—maybe it was just my imagination. Someone behind me laughed when we passed Morro Dois Irmãos; apparently, they’d tried to hike it last year and gave up halfway (no shame). The helicopter dipped a little as we swung over Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon and then suddenly there was Christ the Redeemer—so close you could almost see his fingers. I didn’t expect to feel so small or so lucky at that moment, honestly.

The whole flight lasted about 30 minutes but felt like less—I kept trying to memorize every angle: Leblon’s curve, Pedra da Gávea rising sharp out of nowhere, Barra da Tijuca stretching forever west. At one point Paulo handed me a bottle of water and made some joke about Carioca coffee being “fuel for flying”—not sure if he meant for us or him. When we landed I had that weird feeling where your legs are still buzzing but your head is somewhere above the clouds. Still thinking about that view days later.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Helicopter tour over Rio landmarks

• Fly over Barra da Tijuca
• See Pedra da Gavea from above
• View Sao Conrado Beach
• Fly over Rocinha
• See Morro Dois Irmaos
• View Leblon Beach
• See Ipanema Beach
• Fly over Copacabana Beach
• View Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon
• See Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden
• Finish at Christ the Redeemer statue

Top questions

How long does the Rio helicopter tour last?

The flight lasts approximately 30 minutes from takeoff to landing.

Is pickup included for this helicopter tour?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at the helipad near Lagoa.

What sights do you see during the helicopter ride?

You’ll see Christ the Redeemer, Copacabana Beach, Ipanema Beach, Leblon Beach, Morro Dois Irmãos, Rocinha, Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, Pedra da Gávea, Barra da Tijuca, São Conrado Beach, and Jardim Botânico from above.

Are drinks provided during the flight?

Coffee and bottled water are included with your flight.

Is this helicopter tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible.

Can infants join this Rio helicopter tour?

Yes, infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap during the flight.

Will I have a window seat on the helicopter?

Seats are assigned by draw between passengers; window seats are not guaranteed.

What happens if there aren’t enough passengers for my booking?

The flight may be cancelled or rescheduled if minimum passenger numbers aren’t met.

What’s included

Your experience includes a 30-minute shared helicopter ride over Rio de Janeiro with all fees covered. You’ll get bottled water and coffee onboard before or after your flight. The helipad is wheelchair accessible and service animals are allowed too.