Vancouver’s stunning geography makes it a perfect playground for helicopter flights and tours. With dramatic cityscapes, rugged coastlines, and snow-capped mountains all within reach, a helicopter ride offers a perspective you simply can’t get from the ground. Whether you want sweeping views of Vancouver’s skyline, explore the wild Coast Mountains, or land in remote wilderness, this city has a range of options that will satisfy your sense of adventure. Among the favorites we’ve seen, the Vancouver: Coastal Mountain Landing Helicopter Tour stands out for combining incredible scenery with an actual landing in the alpine countryside—a rare treat that turns a scenic flight into a memorable adventure. For those wanting a broader look at BC’s backcountry, the BC Backcountry Helicopter Tours offer multiple flight durations with ample opportunities for photography and learning about the region’s natural highlights.
This list below features the best helicopter experiences around Vancouver, from city skylines to backcountry exploration. Each offers something unique, whether it’s a shorter city tour, a longer backcountry adventure, or special features like landings in remote wilderness or craft beer tastings. Read on to find the perfect aerial tour for your Vancouver visit.
1. Vancouver: Coastal Mountain Landing Helicopter Tour
At number 1, this tour combines spectacular aerial views with a ground-level experience in the Coast Mountains. Flying for 45 to 75 minutes, you’ll explore British Columbia’s renowned wilderness. The highlight is the landing in alpine countryside, where you’ll step out among snow-capped peaks, waterfalls, and alpine lakes. This is a rare opportunity to enjoy Canada’s mountain scenery from both the air and the ground, with the added benefit of learning about the area’s geological and cultural history from your experienced pilot. Rated 5/5 from 21 reviews, travelers praise both the stunning vistas and the personalized touch of the landing experience.
The flight is led by an expert pilot, making it suitable for those seeking a safe, high-quality adventure. If you’re after a balanced mix of flight and land exploration, this tour delivers. The price of $347 per person is on the higher side, but for a tailored mountain experience with landings, many find it well worth the cost.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want to combine aerial sightseeing with the thrill of setting foot in the mountains.
2. Vancouver: BC Backcountry Helicopter Tour
Number 2 on our list offers a flexible experience, with options from 30 minutes up to 90 minutes. This tour showcases the diversity of British Columbia’s west coast, flying over forests, fjords, alpine lakes, and rugged mountain ranges. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive look at BC’s wild side. Rated 5/5 from 15 reviews, participants love capturing stunning photographs of the coastline and mountain scenery from high above, which makes this tour a favorite for photography enthusiasts.
The pilot’s engaging commentary adds depth to the experience, revealing insights into the region’s geology and ecology. The multiple duration options mean you can tailor the trip to your schedule and budget, with prices starting at $301. This tour is well-suited for travelers eager to see the diverse landscapes of the province in a single flight.
Bottom Line: A versatile and beautiful flight that provides a broad view of BC’s natural wonders, ideal for those with limited time but big curiosity.
3. Vancouver: Backcountry Helicopter Tours with Hotel Pickup
Number 3 offers a similar experience to the previous, but with the added convenience of hotel pickup. For 30, 45, or 60 minutes, you’ll enjoy scenic views of British Columbia’s backcountry while being transported comfortably from your hotel to the helicopter base. Rated 5/5 from 9 reviews, travelers appreciate the seamless logistics and the opportunity to capture images of the mountain peaks, forests, and glaciers from a vantage point few get to see.
This tour emphasizes accessibility, making it ideal for those staying in Vancouver who want an easy, hassle-free experience. The pilot’s friendly manner and expert guidance make this a smooth and memorable outing. The price of $301 per person offers good value considering the inclusions and proximity.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a convenient, scenic backcountry helicopter experience with professional support.
4. Helicopter Tour of Vancouver City (Depart SKY Hangar)
Number 4 is all about city sights and iconic Vancouver landmarks. Departing from the centrally located SKY Hangar, this approximately 30-minute flight offers a thrilling overview of Vancouver’s urban and natural highlights. You’ll glide over Stanley Park, the Vancouver skyline, Burrard Inlet, and the North Shore mountains. The tour is especially valued by travelers who want a quick but memorable experience of the city from above.
Rated 5/5 from 7 reviews, visitors mention how the urban and mountain views combined create a fascinating perspective on Vancouver’s unique geography. The experience is suitable for those short on time or wanting a taste of aerial Vancouver, with a price of $310.10 per person.
Bottom Line: An excellent city-focused helicopter tour for those wanting to see Vancouver’s skyline, parks, and mountains in half an hour.
5. Coast Mountain Landing Helicopter Tours
Number 5 takes you into the heart of the Coast Mountains for about 45 minutes of breathtaking scenery. Starting from the SKY Hangar, this tour provides a landing in remote backcountry—the highlight of the experience. Rated 5/5 from 4 reviews, travelers rave about the stunning remote wilderness, with views of alpine lakes, glaciers, and rugged peaks. The tour offers the chance to step out into untouched BC wilderness, making it stand out for those who want more than just a scenic flight.
Pricing at $358.40 per person reflects the premium experience of landing in an inaccessible, pristine area. The tour is suited for nature lovers who appreciate the rugged beauty of BC’s mountain ranges and are ready for a more adventurous outing.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers craving a truly remote wilderness experience combined with mountain vistas.
6. Pre/Post Cruise Helicopter Vancouver City Tour with Hotel Pickup
Number 6 is an extended city and mountain tour, designed for cruise passengers or those with a flexible schedule. It includes hotel pickup, a 30-minute helicopter flight, and a scenic tour of Vancouver’s highlights. Rated 5/5 from 3 reviews, travelers love the convenience and the chance to see the city from above before or after a cruise, with the added bonus of a guided ground tour.
For around 2.5 hours, the experience combines city landmarks like Stanley Park and the North Shore suspension bridge with the aerial perspective, providing excellent value for those seeking a comprehensive Vancouver experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for cruise travelers and those wanting an all-in-one Vancouver sightseeing package.
7. Vancouver: Helicopter Tour with Backcountry Beer Tasting
Number 7 blends scenery with a taste of local craft beer. This 1-hour experience includes a 30-minute helicopter flight over the Coast Mountains and a 30-minute landing in the backcountry where you can sample four West Coast craft beers. The tour is rated 5/5 from 3 reviews, with many praising the unique combination of adventure and relaxation.
The backcountry landing at a remote spot makes this tour distinctive, and the craft beer tasting adds a fun, social element. It’s perfect for those who want a bit of everything—scenery, land, and local brews—making it one of the most memorable ways to explore BC’s wilderness.
Bottom Line: A fun, relaxed tour that combines spectacular views with a casual beer tasting in the wild.
8. Victoria Excursion from Vancouver by Helicopter and Sea Plane
Number 8 offers a full-day experience that combines helicopter and seaplane travel to Victoria. For about 8 hours, you’ll enjoy scenic flights over the coast and islands, with pickup and drop-off included. Rated 4.5/5 from 13 reviews, travelers love skipping ferry lines and soaking up bird’s eye views of Victoria, the coastline, and the Gulf Islands.
This experience is perfect for those wanting an extra-special day trip. The round-trip flights are personalized, and the inclusion of lounge access adds a touch of luxury. Costing $615.40 per person, it’s on the higher end but offers an unforgettable way to see Vancouver and Victoria efficiently.
Bottom Line: A premium, all-inclusive day trip ideal for travelers who want maximum scenic views and convenience.
9. BC Backcountry Helicopter Tours
Number 9 features a shorter, but equally impressive backcountry experience starting from the SKY Hangar. With options from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, it emphasizes remote wilderness—mountain peaks, lush valleys, and waterfalls—flying over the pristine Coast Mountains. Rated 5/5 from 2 reviews, this is a favorite for those who want a quick immersion into BC’s rugged terrain.
This tour’s value lies in its focus on remote, inaccessible areas, with panoramic views that highlight the mountain majesty of the region. It is suited for travelers with limited time but a strong desire to see BC’s wilderness up close.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick, high-impact wilderness flight that leaves you craving more.
10. Pre/Post Cruise Helicopter BC Backcountry Tours with Hotel Pickup
Number 10 offers an extended, flexible adventure into BC’s backcountry, with options from 20 to 60 minutes. Starting with hotel pickup and a guided tour, the focus is on mighty rivers, waterfalls, lakes, and rocky peaks—an excellent way to see the diversity of the region. Rated 5/5 from 2 reviews, travelers appreciate the smooth logistics and breathtaking views of untouched wilderness.
This tour is suited for travelers with more time, looking to explore beyond the typical scenic routes, in a tour that combines convenience with high-quality scenery.
Bottom Line: A flexible, comprehensive wilderness experience perfect for those wanting to maximize their time in BC’s backcountry.
11. Vancouver: Beer Tasting Helicopter Tour with Hotel Pickup
Rounding out the list is a tour similar to the previous beer experience but rated from a single review, still making it a unique option. It features a 30-minute flight and a 30-minute backcountry landing with craft beer sampling. The premium scenery combined with a social, relaxed atmosphere makes it stand out. It offers a taste of BC’s craft beer scene in an unforgettable setting, perfect for social groups or beer lovers.
Bottom Line: A distinctive, laid-back way to combine scenic beauty with local brews, best suited for those who want an extra memorable experience.
$371 per person
How to Choose Your Vancouver Helicopter Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time available, and interests. If you’re short on time but want a quick city overview, the Vancouver: Helicopter Tour of Vancouver City is perfect. For a full day of adventure and sightseeing, the Victoria Excursion offers a luxurious, multi-modal experience. For nature lovers eager to land in remote wilderness, tours like the Coastal Mountain Landing or Coast Mountain Landing are ideal.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months, and think about the weather—clear days make for the best views. If you’re interested in landings or special experiences like beer tastings, prioritize those when planning.
Vancouver’s helicopter tours provide a range of ways to see the city and surrounding wilderness, from quick aerial snapshots to immersive mountain adventures. The options discussed above highlight the best of what’s available, whether you want a scenic city tour, a wilderness landing, or a combination of both with special touches like craft beer or seaplane trips. Consider what excites you most, and don’t delay—these experiences tend to fill quickly. Book early, and prepare for a perspective-shifting journey through one of Canada’s most beautiful regions.