Cape Town: Helicopter Tour Camps Bay, Hout Bay & Table Mountain

Summary

Helicopter ride over Cape Town’s coast and mountains with city views

You’ll lift off right from Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront for a helicopter ride sweeping over Camps Bay, Table Mountain, and Hout Bay. Expect live stories from your local pilot and a glass of sparkling wine after landing. The city looks completely different from above — it might stick with you longer than you expect.

What’s the experience like?

We barely had time to get nervous before the rotors started spinning at the V&A Waterfront helipad. I could smell the sea — that salty, kelpy tang — even through my mask. Our pilot, Sipho, grinned at us as we climbed in. He pointed out Lion’s Head right away, but honestly I was still trying to figure out where to put my feet (there’s less space than you’d think). I caught a glimpse of Table Mountain just as we lifted off — it looked flatter from above than I ever imagined.

The city shrank fast. You see all these tiny white lines of surf along Camps Bay and then the 12 Apostles just sort of rise up behind it, like someone dropped a row of stone teeth along the coast. Sipho kept up this gentle commentary (“that’s Clifton Beach… expensive houses there!”) but mostly I stared out, trying not to blink too much so I wouldn’t miss anything. The wind rattled us a bit over Hout Bay — nothing scary, just enough to remind you you’re actually flying. The water down there was this weird blue-green that doesn’t quite show up in photos.

I tried taking a video but ended up laughing because my hands were shaking (nerves or excitement? maybe both). When we landed back at the Waterfront, someone handed me a glass of sparkling wine and I realized my cheeks hurt from smiling so much. It was over faster than I expected. Still thinking about that feeling — floating above everything familiar but seeing it all new.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Helicopter tour over Cape Town

• Depart from V&A Waterfront helipad
• Fly over V&A Waterfront and city
• View Table Mountain and 12 Apostles
• Fly over Hout Bay
• Receive complimentary sparkling wine
• Transport back to V&A Waterfront

Top questions

How long is the helicopter tour from Cape Town?

The flight itself is short; exact duration isn’t listed but most similar tours last around 15-20 minutes.

Where does the helicopter tour depart in Cape Town?

The tour departs from Sport Helicopter's helipad at the V&A Waterfront.

Is transportation included after the helicopter ride?

Yes, transport back to the V&A Waterfront Shopping Center is included after your flight.

Do you get a drink on this Cape Town helicopter tour?

Yes, you receive a complimentary glass of sparkling wine after landing.

Are children allowed on this helicopter tour?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult; infants sit on an adult’s lap or use specialized seats.

Is this Cape Town helicopter tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible and transportation options accommodate wheelchairs.

What will I see on this Camps Bay & Hout Bay helicopter ride?

You’ll fly over V&A Waterfront, central Cape Town, Table Mountain, 12 Apostles range, Camps Bay and Hout Bay.

What’s included

Your day includes departure from the V&A Waterfront helipad with live commentary onboard from your pilot as you fly over Table Mountain and along the coastline. After landing you'll be offered a complimentary glass of sparkling wine before transport back to the shopping center — all pretty smooth and easygoing.