3 Must-Experience Helicopter Safaris in Africa, Recommended by a Leading Travel Expert

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Imagine being lifted high above the ground, with blades slicing through the air and a cool breeze against your skin, as you take in the breathtaking views of Africa’s most secluded regions far below.

Helicopter safari tours offer a distinct and exclusive opportunity to navigate the wild, remote areas of this diverse continent. For those adventurous souls seeking genuine isolation and a unique perspective, these tours provide a dreamlike experience. As a travel advisor focused on east and southern African safaris, I frequently recommend several standout helicopter safari experiences.

Lake Turkana Flights in Northern Kenya

This incredible helicopter safari is a full-day adventure through Kenya’s Big North, showcasing a mesmerizing array of landscapes. The journey begins over the verdant hills of Laikipia along the equator, transitioning to the stark sand dunes of Suguta Valley, and culminating in vibrant lakes teeming with flamingos. Your pilot will expertly select the best landing spots, allowing you to interact with remote tribes, stroll across sandy dunes, and even take a dip in pristine waters. A special lunch stop beside a dormant volcano at the southern shore of Lake Turkana adds to the day’s unforgettable memories.

The return flight is equally stunning, soaring above the rugged Matthews mountain range—a majestic and isolated region characterized by steep cliffs, cycads, and meandering rivers. This tour encapsulates the essence of Africa’s Big North: an opportunity to engage with the natural world in its rawest form, far removed from the hustle and bustle of civilization.

Miavana Flights to Madagascar

Madagascar, often overlooked and expansive, presents its own unique adventures best explored from the air. A short helicopter ride from the luxurious Miavana resort on Nosy Ankao island allows travelers to discover the northern parks of Madagascar. The aerial views reveal captivating landscapes, featuring surreal rock formations, towering baobab trees, endemic lemurs, and striking cliffs that are best appreciated from above.

Private Island Flights in Botswana’s Okavango Delta

The extraordinary floodplains of Botswana’s Okavango Delta are yet another natural marvel that is best experienced from the sky. Imagine the sensation of wind in your hair as you embark on a thrilling helicopter ride with the doors removed, heading towards the heart of this remarkable inland delta. Every year, thousands visit Botswana to witness the life-sustaining waters that define this UNESCO World Heritage site, yet only a fortunate few get to see it from this exhilarating aerial perspective.

From the helicopter, there’s an excellent chance to observe wildlife thriving in their natural habitats. Nile crocodiles bask in the sun along riverbanks, while hippos and elephants navigate the waters below. You can also enjoy a refreshing drink on a secluded delta island, immersing yourself in the tranquility of unspoiled nature. Each flight offers its own unique experience, with varying wildlife sightings, diverse routes, and distinct picnic locations, ensuring that no two adventures are ever the same.

Why It’s Worth It

Africa is undoubtedly one of the world’s last great wildernesses, defined by its stunning landscapes, graceful wildlife, and warm-hearted people. Helicopter safaris are, without a doubt, one of the most exhilarating ways to engage with this majestic continent, allowing travelers to forge a deep connection with its natural beauty in an unforgettable manner.

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