• Take in the spectacular views on our 45 minute Great Barrier Reef & Rainforest helicopter ride 
• On this helicopter ride you are seeing two of the World Heritage listed icons so make sure you are camera ready
• Tropical islands, sand cays, reefs and tropical rainforests, there is  no better optional Cairns tour that can offer these views  

This 45 minute scenic helicopter ride combines 30 minutes over the stunning Great Barrier Reef before heading past Double Island and then up over the range to Kuranda, Barron Gorge and Stoney creek before returning to the airport.

What to Expect

This reef and rainforest helicopter scenic flight from Cairns offers a unique opportunity to witness the stunning natural beauty of both the Great Barrier Reef and lush tropical rainforest in a 45-minute helicopter ride. Jump into your helicopter seat to discover the wonders of both the Great Barrier Reef and the lush tropical rainforest with this 45-minute scenic helicopter flight from Cairns. Combining breathtaking aerial views over the vibrant reef and lush rainforest, this tour captures the diversity of Tropical Far North Queensland’s landscape. Your helicopter ride includes highlights like Green Island, Arlington Reef, and Vlassoff Cay, before tracing the coast past Double Island and Palm Cove. The scenic flight then ascends to 2,500 feet, where you’ll soar over Kuranda, Barron Gorge, and Stoney Creek before returning to the airport with unforgettable panoramic views.

Our 45 minute Cairns helicopter scenic flight offers a unique perspective of the Great Barrier Reef and rainforest, ideal for capturing the true beauty of these iconic Australian locations.

Features and Highlights

Great Barrier Reef and Tropical Islands

• Great Barrier Reef Highlights: Enjoy sweeping views over iconic spots including Green Island, Arlington Reef, and Vlassoff Cay, with the vibrant turquoise waters of the inner reef creating a stunning backdrop.
• Coastal Flyover: Experience a scenic route along the coastline, passing over Double Island and the serene beaches of Palm Cove.

Rainforest Scenic Flight

• Ascend Over the Range: Climb to 2,500 feet as you cross over the mountains, providing a unique vantage point over the dense rainforest canopy.
• Spectacular Waterfalls and Creeks: Fly over Kuranda and witness the powerful Barron Falls and the winding beauty of Stoney Creek, all while glimpsing the Great Barrier Reef in the distance.

Sample Helicopter Scenic Flight Itinerary

1. Departure from Cairns Airport: Take off and begin with panoramic views over the city and coastal landscape.
2. Great Barrier Reef Flyover: Soar over Green Island, Arlington Reef, and Vlassoff Cay, witnessing the coral formations and marine life.
3. Coastal Route Over Double Island and Palm Cove: Follow the coastline as you head toward the rainforest, passing over picturesque beaches and tropical islands.
4. Rainforest Scenic Loop: Ascend over the mountains, with views of Kuranda, Barron Gorge, and the winding Stoney Creek.
5. Return to Cairns: Circle back towards Cairns with views of both reef and rainforest in the distance.

Why Choose Our Cairns 45-Minute Reef and Rainforest Helicopter Tour?

• Diverse Scenery: This flight combines two of Tropical North Queensland’s most famous landscapes, offering views of both the Great Barrier Reef and the rainforest.
• Incredible Photography Opportunities: Capture expansive views of coral reefs, tropical islands, dense rainforests, and waterfalls, all in one flight.
• Expert Local Pilots: Your experienced helicopter pilot will share insights and knowledge about these natural wonders, enhancing your understanding of the region.

This 45-minute helicopter flight is the ultimate way to see the Great Barrier Reef and rainforest in one tour, creating a memorable experience of North Queensland’s most iconic landscapes. Book now for an unforgettable scenic journey.

See all Cairns and Port Douglas helicopter scenic flights.

Read The Tour Specialists Blog for all the things you need to know before you go.

Tour Languages Offered

• English

Departs From

Cairns

Departure Time

Departure time can be selected when booking online

Departure Instructions

Please arrive 20 minutes prior to departure

Destinations

• Arlington Reef
• Barron Falls
• Stoney Creek
• Great Barrier Reef

Months of Operation

January - December

Days of Operation

Daily

Duration

45 Minutes

Available for Purchase / Hire

In flight video

Fitness Level Required

Low

Restrictions

Weight variances greater than 10% of that advised at the time of booking may incur additional charges and/or luggage allowances being reduced. Operator reserves the right to refuse travel and charge a 100% cancellation fee.

Weight: Up to 130 Kg / 287 Lb

Camera (charged)

• Children 2 years and above are legally required to be seated in their own seat and are therefore required to pay the full ticket price.
• Children aged 2 years to 13 years must be accompanied by an adult on all flights.
• Children who have not yet reached their 2nd birthday are classified as infants and may travel free of charge (seated on a parent/guardian’s lap utilising a company provided infant seat belt restraint).
• Please notify us at the time if booking advise if passengers are travelling with infants
• Only one (1) infant is permitted to travel in an aircraft