8 Best Ottawa Helicopter Tours in 2024 (Local’s Guide)
As an Ottawan who’s always seeking out the most unforgettable adventures, helicopter tours are always a bonus in my itinerary, and I highly recommend trying one out during your trip to Ottawa!
You’ll fly over the Ottawa River, the Parliament Buildings, and even Gatineau Hills. Ottawa is such a pretty city, so get your camera ready!
If you’re looking to try a variety of helicopter tours, I’d suggest exploring nearby cities, too. I love this 1000 Islands Helicopter Tour that adds lunch and cider tastings to the experience!
To help you search for the best helicopter tour in Ottawa, here’s a list of my top picks for helicopter tours in and around Ottawa that are actually worth adding to your travel plans.
My Top 3 Picks
#1 TOP PICK
#2 PICK
#3 PICK
1. Ultimate Ottawa Helicopter Tour (Parliament Hill, Gatineau Park & More)
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 30 minutes max | ✅ Book it!
Meeting Point: Canada Aviation & Space Museum, Ottawa
On this helicopter tour of Ottawa, you’ll catch the city’s best sights from the panoramic curved windows of a Robinson R44 helicopter. I recommend the full 30-minute tour to get the complete Ottawa city tour experience!
“Our pilot Martin was very professional, knowledgeable, and courteous. Great views, smooth ride, so much fun.” – Travis (Read more reviews)
This 90km (56 miles) helicopter ride from the Aviation Museum of Ottawa starts with a safety briefing before your flight. Enjoy an aerial view of top attractions like Parliament Hill and Rideau Hall, as well as the sprawling Gatineau Hills of Ottawa and the scenic Meech Lake.
This ultimate helicopter flight over Ottawa includes headsets and your choice of a 10, 20, or 30-minute helicopter ride. The private Ottawa sightseeing flight can accommodate 3 passengers at a time.
If you’re spending a few days in Ottawa, here are other fun ways to explore the city too:
- Bus tours of Ottawa: This is a great way to learn more about the city’s most famous attractions
- Ottawa River Tours: Awesome scenic sightseeing option
- Ottawa wine tours: Sample the best local wines and ciders
You can also customize your own city tour of Ottawa with my guide on the best things to do around town!
2. 1000 Islands Helicopter Tour with Lunch & Cider Mill Visit
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 hours | ✅ Book it!
Meeting Point: Gananoque Heliport, Gananoque (1.5-hour drive from Downtown Ottawa)
1000 Islands helicopter tours are among the most popular Ottawa, Canada tours, thanks to the stunning views of crystal-clear waters, old-timey castles, and ancient shipwrecks. The storybook-like sights make you feel like a kid on an adventure!
“Martine, our pilot, was a lovely lady! She was very knowledgeable. The cider mill had a lovely lunch for us and the cider flights were delish!” – GetYourGuide traveler (Read more reviews)
The tour includes lunch and a guided visit to the family-owned craft cidery BUSL Cider (cider tastings included), and the helicopter can accommodate up to 3 passengers. The bonus cider-tasting activity makes the tour a fun gift idea for family and friends.
The 1000 Islands Helicopter Tour with Lunch & Cider Mill Visit includes a roundtrip helicopter ride (about 30 minutes each way), the cider mill tour and tasting, a light lunch, and local taxes and fees.
3. 1000 Islands Helicopter Tour with Lunch & Brewery Visit
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1.5 hours | ✅ Book it!
Meeting Point: 1000 Islands Helicopter Tour, Gananoque (1.5-hour drive from Downtown Ottawa)
This 1000 Islands helicopter tour includes a pizza lunch and a visit to an off-grid brewery for craft beer tastings.
On the helicopter flight over the 1000 Islands archipelago, you’ll see the two famous castles, Boldt Castle and Singer Castle, which the president of the Singer sewing machine company previously owned.
“Loved it! So fun! The views & brews were great.” – Ashley from Canada (Read more reviews)
The 1000 Islands Helicopter Tour with Lunch & Brewery Visit includes a 30-minute helicopter tour, headset and microphones, pizza lunch, and a craft beer flight, and can accommodate up to 6 passengers.
If you love sampling unique local brews, check out more of Ottawa’s best brewery tours!
4. 30-Minute 1000 Islands Helicopter Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 30 minutes | ✅ Book it!
Meeting Point: 1000 Islands Helicopter Tour, Gananoque (1.5-hour drive from Downtown Ottawa)
If all you’re looking for is an aerial tour of 1000 Islands without the extra excursions, this 30-minute helicopter ride is for you.
“Our pilot was very informative and answered all of our questions without hesitation. We felt safe and comfortable at all times during our tour. Crossing helicopter ride off my bucket list.” – Diane (Read more reviews)
Enjoy guided sightseeing of the top sites around the area, including the castles, Thousand Islands Bridge, the Manhattan group of islands, and the Sisters Island Lighthouse.
The 30-Minute 1000 Islands Helicopter Tour includes headsets and all taxes, fees, plus handling charges, and can accommodate 3 passengers.
5. 10-Minute 1000 Islands Helicopter Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10 minutes | ✅ Book it!
This 10-minute tour is perfect for a short and sweet helicopter ride over 1000 Islands. A quick trip like this is especially great if you’ve never been on a helicopter tour before and just want to get a feel for it.
“Was nervous about my first helicopter experience but the professionalism was fantastic. Our captain’s calm manner was truly appreciated and his stories of the 1000 Islands and Boldt Castle were fascinating.” – TripAdvisor reviewer (Read more reviews)
The 10-Minute 1000 Islands Helicopter Tour includes headsets plus all taxes and handling charges. The ride can also accommodate up to 3 passengers.
You’ll get to enjoy sweeping views of the 1000 Islands area. The blue waters and lush green islands are absolutely gorgeous!
6. Mont-Tremblant Helicopter Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 20 minutes max. | ✅ Book it!
This ride over the rolling mountains of Mont-Tremblant is one of the best Canada helicopter tours for its unforgettable views!
“Smooth ride, beautiful weather and the colors were amazing. Great pilot who pointed out areas of interest including Green Mountain, which we hiked the next day for more fantastic sights.” – Joanne (Read more reviews)
Mont-Tremblant has a charming French village vibe that looks even prettier when you’re on a helicopter flying overhead. The rolling mountains and the Quebecois-style buildings look especially magical in the winter!
The Helicopter Ride Over Mont-Tremblant includes a 10 or 20-minute helicopter flight with a certified guide. The private tour can accommodate up to 3 passengers.
7. Montreal Helicopter Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 30 minutes max. | ✅ Book it!
Meeting Point: Helicraft Helicopter School, Saint-Hubert (2.5-hour drive from Downtown Ottawa)
Looking for helicopter rides in Ottawa with a big-city feel but can’t seem to find one?
Switch your helicopter ride from Ottawa to Montreal instead! Montreal has a stunning city skyline, and you’ll get front-row seats to its big city magic on this helicopter tour.
Accommodating up to 6 passengers, this 30-minute Montreal helicopter tour gives you a complete overview of the city, flying over Olympic Park, Downtown Montreal, Old Port of Montreal, Jacques Cartier Bridge, and the Boucherville Islands.
“Our pilot was knowledgeable and funny which helped with my daughter’s first-time nerves. Great way to see the city from a different perspective in the air.” – Steve (Read more reviews)
If you prefer a shorter helicopter ride, the 20-minute Saint-Laurent Circuit takes you over Jean Drapeau Park, the Formula 1 Track, and the Biosphere Environmental Museum.
The Montreal Helicopter Tour includes headsets, live commentary on board, and all taxes, fees, and handling charges.
8. Quebec City Helicopter Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 30 minutes | ✅ Book it!
Meeting Point: Quebec Airport, Quebec City (1-hour flight from Ottawa)
Looking for something a little different? Switch from Ottawa to Quebec City tours for a different view.
I love the grandness of the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, perched oh-so-dramatically over the river. You’ll see this beautiful heritage hotel and more on your helicopter ride over Quebec City.
“Beautiful flight and super knowledgeable pilot!” – GetYourGuide traveler (Read more reviews)
This Quebec City Helicopter Tour can accommodate up to 3 people for a 15 or 30-minute helicopter ride with a pilot and guide.
The 15-minute city tour shows you the Quebec Bridge, the St. Lawrence River, and Old Town Quebec. The 30-minute city tour includes additional flight time over Orleans Island and Montmorency Falls.
Best Time To Go
Helicopter tours in Ottawa and beyond are available throughout the year (except for the Quebec City Helicopter Tour, which only runs from June to October). If you are visiting the city and decide, “Hey, I wanna fly in a helicopter over Ottawa today,” you totally can!
If you are curious about which season is best for a tour, autumn (September and October) is a great time. You’ll have a beautiful view of pretty places like 1000 Islands in the most amazing fall colors!
I also love the perks of taking a helicopter ride in winter (December to March). There’s just something so magical about flying over a city all covered in snow.
Spring (April and May) is a crowd-favorite time to travel to Ottawa, and you can see the city in full bloom, especially around the time of the Tulip Festival. Remember that spring is the peak travel period, and things can be more expensive. Plan your budget accordingly!
As for the timing, morning time slots are great for a helicopter ride. Morning flights are less prone to turbulence, offering a smoother ride. Plus, the morning light is great for photos!
How to Get To (& Around) Ottawa
These are the 3 main ways to get to Ottawa:
- Flight: Ottawa International Airport is a 20-minute car ride to Ottawa’s downtown area.
- Train: The Ottawa Train Station is conveniently located in Downtown Ottawa.
- Drive: Ottawa is a pleasant drive from nearby areas like Gananoque and Montreal.
Downtown Ottawa is accessible by foot and has an extensive public bus system.
If you plan to go on a helicopter ride in areas like 1000 Islands and Mont-Tremblant, renting a car and driving to the meeting point is best.
FAQs
Are Helicopter Tours Worth It?
Yes, helicopter tours are worth it if you love the thrill of a helicopter ride and unforgettable aerial views. They can be pretty pricey, but they’re such a special way to explore a city. Plus, you can rack up some unique travel photos too!
How Much Does It Cost To Go Up In A Helicopter?
The cost to go up in a helicopter differs depending on the tour and flight duration you pick. On average, the price for an Ottawa helicopter tour ranges between $100 to $300 USD per person.
Are Helicopter Tours Cold?
Helicopter tours can get a little cold, especially if you’re flying in a doors-off helicopter. The wind makes it feel quite chilly, so a jacket is a good idea. Flying in winter gets especially cold, so dress appropriately for the weather.
Should You Tip Helicopter Pilots?
Tipping helicopter pilots is optional, but it’s good to tip if you’re happy with the pilot’s service. Most of the time, the pilot doubles as the tour guide. A tip of 10%-20% of the tour cost is a reasonable amount.
What Is The Weight Limit For A Helicopter Ride?
Most helicopter rides have a weight limit of 125kg (275lb) per person for safety reasons. Passengers who exceed the weight limit are usually charged a fee for an additional comfort seat.
Are Helicopter Tours Wheelchair-Accessible?
Helicopter tours are not always wheelchair-accessible. It’s best to check with the tour operator to ensure they can accommodate your travel needs. For a wheelchair-friendly helicopter tour, I recommend the 1000 Islands Helicopter Tour with Lunch & Cider Mill Visit.
Are Service Dogs Allowed On A Helicopter Tour?
Not all helicopter tours can accommodate service dogs. I highly recommend confirming this with the tour operator before making your booking. Check out the 30-Minute 1000 Islands Helicopter Tour for a service animal-friendly helicopter tour.
Are Children Allowed On A Helicopter Tour?
Yes, children are allowed on a helicopter tour. If your children are under 2, they can sit on your lap during the tour. You’ll need to book a separate seat for children any older than 2 years old.
Can I Wear A Dress On A Helicopter Tour?
Wearing a dress on a helicopter tour is not a good idea. It’s best to avoid flowy fabrics, which can get caught in the door or window openings. Go for a basic outfit of jeans, a shirt, a jacket, and close-toed shoes.
Conclusion
Ottawa is a great place for a helicopter tour, with various options to choose from.
For a classic Ottawan experience, I recommend the Ultimate Ottawa Helicopter Tour.
If you love the thought of flying over a scenic island and ancient castles, go for the 1000 Islands Helicopter Tour. The trip includes a cider mill guided tour and tastings for a fulfilling experience.
Which Ottawa helicopter tour will you be checking out? For more fun ideas, check out my ultimate guide on things to do in Ottawa!
Read More Fun Things to Do in Ottawa this Summer
- 13 Best Gatineau Park Hiking Trails for Summer
- 60 Epic Things to Do in Ottawa in Summer (Local’s Guide)
- 25 Best Beaches in Ottawa From a Local!
- 5 Best Drive-in Theatres Ottawa (A Local’s Guide)
- Ottawa Zipline Experience: Why You Need to Zipline Between Provinces!
- 6 Best Ottawa Wine Tours & Tastings
- 12 Best Ottawa Hotels With Jacuzzi In Room
- A Local’s Guide To Pink Lake in Gatineau Park
- Complete Guide to Parc Omega Wildlife Park from Ottawa
- 4 Best Places for Go Karting in Ottawa (Local’s Guide)
- Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival: The Ultimate Guide
Ottawa Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy Ottawa travel insurance?
100% YES! — There’s a misconception that Canada has “free healthcare” for everyone. Nope! Only Canadians. So you’ll need to get travel insurance to visit Ottawa. I recommend this one.
💧Can you drink the tap water in Ottawa?
Yes – ish — While you can technically drink the tap water in Ottawa, as a local I don’t recommend it. Old hotels especially can have some nasty things in their pipes. Instead, get a filtered water bottle. (Read more)
🚙💨 Do I need to rent a car in Ottawa?
Yes — Renting a car in Ottawa is one of the best ways to get around! You’ll be able to see more of the city and beyond, like the epic hiking trails. I recommend Discover Cars for the cheapest rates possible.
📲 Do I need to know French in Ottawa?
Nope! — The primary language of Ottawa is English. While French is also spoken and on some signs, you can easily get by without knowing any French. (Read more)
🏩 What’s the best way to book my Ottawa accommodations?
For Ottawa hotels, Booking is the best site. If you’re considering an Ottawa Airbnb, don’t forget to also check VRBO, which is often cheaper than Airbnb. My #1 hotel recommendation in Ottawa is the Fairmont Chateau Laurier.
✈️ What’s the best site to buy Ottawa flights?
For finding cheap Ottawa flights, I recommend Skyscanner. You can even set a price alert to find out when flights are on sale.
🎫 Do I need a Visa for Ottawa?
Likely Not — U.S. and most European Passport holders don’t need a Visa to visit Canada.
📍 Where is Ottawa? And what’s nearby?
Ottawa is the capital city of Canada, located in Ontario. It’s right on the border of Quebec. It’s about 2 hours from Mont Tremblant, 3 hours from Montreal, or 5 hours from Toronto. You can take a road trip to get to other places or fly.
