All you need to know about helicopter flights in Réunion: full FAQ

Nestling in the heart of the Indian Ocean, between Mauritius and Madagascar, Réunion is a spectacular island where nature reigns supreme. This volcanic jewel, dominated by the Piton de la Fournaise, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, offers a breathtaking diversity of landscapes: grandiose mountain cirques (Cilaos, Salazie and Mafate), lush tropical forests, sheer cliffs and impressive waterfalls such as Takamaka and Trou de Fer. Its turquoise lagoons, particularly in Saint-Leu and Saint-Gilles, protected by a coral reef, complete this picture of paradise where raw nature and exceptional biodiversity coexist.

Whether you're a thrill-seeker or simply looking for spectacular views, flying over Réunion Island in a helicopter is one of the most incredible experiences you can have on the island.

Why take a helicopter flight in Réunion?

A helicopter flight in Réunion is an unforgettable experience, a total immersion in the island's most spectacular landscapes. From the air, you'll have access to some of the island's most spectacular natural sites, some of which are otherwise inaccessible.

A tête-à-tête with an active volcano

Fly over Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world's most active volcanoes, and see its smoking craters, frozen lava flows and, if you're lucky, a live eruption!

The three majestic cirques: Mafate, Cilaos and Salazie

These natural amphitheatres, shaped by thousands of years of erosion, offer a unique spectacle from the air. Mafate, only accessible on foot or by helicopter, reveals its wild relief, while Cilaos and Salazie impress with their vertiginous peaks and spectacular waterfalls.

Vertiginous gorges: Trou de Fer and Takamaka

Admire the island's highest waterfalls, including those of Trou de Fer, which plunge into a chasm more than 300 metres deep. Takamaka, with its sheer cliffs and rushing rivers, is a breathtaking sight.

The dazzling lagoons and coral reef

Fly over the turquoise waters of Saint-Leu and Saint-Gilles, where the coral reefs form a heavenly setting contrasting with the deep blue of the Indian Ocean.

An immersive and intense experience

Unlike an aeroplane, a helicopter offers unrivalled freedom of movement: it can fly close to topography, descend into valleys and follow the course of rivers, offering incredible sensations and spectacular views from every angle.

What are the different circuits available?

In Réunion, several helicopter companies offer a variety of tours, ranging from panoramic flights over the whole island to more specialised routes around volcanoes, waterfalls or the lagoon. Depending on your budget, the time you have available and the landscapes you want to admire, there are plenty of options!

The best helicopter flights in Réunion

• Complete flight over the island - The grand tour : Panoramic flight over Piton de la Fournaise, the cirques, waterfalls and lagoons. Total immersion in the island's most spectacular landscapes.
• Flight over the volcanoes and cirques - A breathtaking itinerary exploring the Piton de la Fournaise and the cirques of Mafate, Cilaos and Salazie, with their lunar landscapes and rugged terrain.
• Exclusive flight over the Piton de la Fournaise - A unique opportunity to fly over one of the most active volcanoes on the planet and admire its smoking craters and frozen lava flows.
• Flight over the waterfalls and cirques - A magical flight over the Takamaka gorges, the Trou de Fer and the lush cirques, with their dizzying waterfalls.
• Waterfalls and pools" flight with meal - An exclusive experience, combining a flight over the island's most beautiful waterfalls with a meal in an exceptional setting.

Good to know: Weather conditions affect itineraries and timetables. Book in advance to choose the best time slot and optimise your experience.

Mafate Hélicoptère

How much does a helicopter flight in Réunion cost?

The price of a helicopter flight in Réunion varies according to a number of factors, including the itinerary, the duration of the flight and the company chosen.

Fares by type of flight

• Short flights (15-25 min): From €200 → Fly over lagoons or waterfalls.
• Intermediate flights (25-40 min): From €280 → Exploring the cirques and volcanoes.
• Full flights (45-55 min): From €340 → Complete tour of the island, combining volcano, cirques, waterfalls and lagoon.

Good to know: Prices may vary depending on the season, availability and type of flight (private or shared). Weather conditions affect departures, so it's best to book in advance to guarantee your flight.

When is the best time for a helicopter flight in Réunion?

Helicopter flights in Réunion are possible all year round, but certain periods offer optimal conditions for a successful overflight.

What's the best time of year for a helicopter flight?

• May to November (austral winter) - The best period for clear skies, optimum visibility and little precipitation.
• December to April (austral summer) - A wetter season with frequent rainfall, particularly from January to March when cyclones can affect flights.

Tip: If you're coming during the austral summer, it's advisable to book your flight at the start of your stay so that you can reschedule in the event of bad weather.

What's the best time of day for a helicopter flight?

• Early morning (6am-9am) - The ideal time to enjoy clear skies, perfect light and less turbulence. Clouds tend to settle over the higher ground in the late morning, particularly around the Trou de Fer, Piton de la Fournaise and the cirques.
• Late morning and afternoon - Flights possible, but with an increased risk of cloud over the higher ground, especially in the cirques of Mafate, Cilaos and Salazie.

Good to know: Flights may be postponed depending on weather conditions, so it's advisable to book early in your stay. Flexibility is key: in the event of bad weather, the airline will offer you a rescheduled flight in better conditions.

Who can take a helicopter flight in Réunion?

The good news is that a helicopter flight in Réunion is an experience accessible to almost everyone! Whether you're a thrill-seeking adventurer, a nature enthusiast or simply curious to discover the island from a new angle, this flight promises unforgettable memories.

Who can board?

• Adults and children - Flights are open to all ages! Children can fly as soon as they are able to wear a helmet, accompanied by an adult.
• No particular physical condition required - You don't need to be a seasoned sportsman to enjoy this aerial adventure.
• Ideal for a magical moment with your partner, family or friends - Whether it's an unforgettable gift, a marriage proposal or a unique experience to share, a helicopter flight turns every moment into a living postcard.

A few restrictions to bear in mind?

• Pregnant women should seek medical advice before flying.
• People suffering from severe heart problems or extreme dizziness should consult their doctor.
• A maximum weight per passenger may apply depending on the airline (generally around 120 kg).

Are there any weight or height restrictions for a helicopter flight in Réunion?

Before taking off, it is important to be aware of the weight and height restrictions imposed by helicopter companies in Réunion.

Weight restrictions

• General limit: Most airlines set a weight limit per passenger of between 110 and 120 kg.
• Above this limit: A supplement may be applied, or a specific distribution of passengers in the aircraft may be necessary to ensure the balance of the flight.

Good to know: If you weigh more than 110 kg, it's best to inform the airline at the time of booking to avoid any surprises on the day of the flight. For private flights, these restrictions may be more flexible depending on the total number of passengers on board.

Size restrictions

• There are no strict restrictions, but tall people (+1m90) may have more limited legroom, particularly if they sit in the rear.
• On-board seating: In most helicopters, the allocation of seats depends on the weight of the passengers to ensure a balanced distribution.

Can I choose my seat in the helicopter on Réunion?

Placement in the helicopter is generally determined by the crew to ensure optimum balance. However, it is possible to request a specific seat, under certain conditions.

How are places allocated?

• Weight balance: Passengers are distributed according to their weight to ensure flight stability.
• Possible preferences on request: If you wish to be on the window side or at the front, we recommend that you indicate this at the time of booking.
• Optimum visibility for all: Wherever you sit, the large panoramic windows offer an uninterrupted view of the Réunion landscape.

Good to know: For a seat in the front, some airlines require a supplement or a weight below a certain limit (generally around 100 kg), but this is never guaranteed.

What is a helicopter flight like?

Taking to the skies in a helicopter on La Réunion is a unique and unforgettable experience.

Course of a helicopter flight on Reunion Island

Welcome and safety briefing

As soon as you arrive, you'll be greeted by the ground staff, who will explain how the flight will work. A quick safety briefing is given to tell you :

• How to get on and off safely.
• The use of headphones to communicate with the pilot and listen to his explanations of the landscapes overflown.
• Safety instructions to be observed during the flight.

Good to know: The pilots are often passionate and educational, enthusiastically sharing anecdotes about the island!

Installation on board and take-off

• Once equipped, you take your place in the helicopter. Seats are assigned according to the weight of the passengers to ensure optimum balance in the aircraft.
• Take-off is always a magical moment: you feel the helicopter gently rise, and in a matter of seconds, the island reveals all its splendour beneath your feet.
• Flying over exceptional landscapes
• The pilot will take you on a tour of Réunion's most impressive natural sites:
  • The Piton de la Fournaise and its smoking craters.
  • The majestic cirques of Mafate, Cilaos and Salazie.
  • The vertiginous waterfalls of Trou de Fer and Takamaka.
  • The turquoise lagoons of Saint-Leu and Saint-Gilles.
• Thanks to the headphones, you can enjoy the pilot's commentary, as he shares fascinating facts about the island's history and geology.

Return and landing

After 20 to 55 minutes of flight, depending on the tour chosen, the helicopter begins its return to base. The landing is gentle, and once on the ground you'll have the chance to chat with the crew and take a few souvenir photos.

A little extra: some airlines offer a video of the flight for an unforgettable souvenir of your experience!

What should you do if the weather is bad during your helicopter flight in Réunion?

No need to worry! Safety is the top priority for helicopter companies on Réunion, and flights are always subject to weather conditions.

What happens in the event of bad weather?

• Flight postponed → If the weather does not allow you to fly safely, your flight may be postponed to another date, subject to availability.
• Guaranteed refund or credit note with Manawa → Thanks to our weather guarantee, you can benefit from a refund or credit note if a postponement is not possible.
• Advance notice → You will be given advance notice of adverse weather conditions to avoid unnecessary travel.

The Manawa Weather Guarantee: Book with peace of mind!

When you book with Manawa, the outdoor activities specialist, you benefit from an exclusive weather guarantee which ensures :

• Free postponement in the event of bad weather.
• A refund or credit note if no postponement is possible.
• Personalised support from our team to find the best solution for you.

Practical tip: To maximise your chances of getting a flight in good conditions, book your flight at the start of your stay. In the event of bad weather, you'll have more flexibility to reschedule for another day!

Mafate hélicoptère

Can I take photos or videos during a helicopter flight in Réunion?

Yes, and it's even highly recommended! A helicopter flight in Réunion offers breathtaking panoramas, perfect for immortalising your experience:

• The Piton de la Fournaise and its impressive craters,
• The majestic cirques of Mafate, Cilaos and Salazie,
• The vertiginous waterfalls of Trou de Fer and Takamaka,
• Turquoise lagoons and the coral reef.

What equipment should I use?

You can use any camera you're used to, but a good zoom is a real plus for capturing the details of Réunion's landforms and waterfalls from the helicopter.

• Recent smartphone → Sufficient for great photos.
• Compact camera or SLR → Ideal for a more powerful zoom.
• GoPro or stabilised camera → Perfect for filming underwater.

A word of advice: avoid reflections on the glass by sticking the lens to the Plexiglas and wearing dark clothes.

Is it possible to privatise a helicopter on Réunion?

Yes, and it's the perfect option for a 100% exclusive experience! Whether it's for a special event, a romantic flight, a unique occasion or a photo/video report, the privatisation of a helicopter offers you optimal comfort and total flexibility on the itinerary.

Why choose a private flight?

• Tailor-made experience → You choose the itinerary and duration of the flight.
• Comfort and exclusivity → The helicopter is reserved exclusively for you and your loved ones.
• Unforgettable moments → Perfect for a marriage proposal, anniversary or romantic sunset flight.
• Ideal for photography and video → More flexibility to capture perfect images without being obstructed by other passengers.

What do customers think about helicopter flights in Réunion?

⭐ Opinions are unanimous: a helicopter flight in Réunion is an unforgettable experience!

The breathtaking scenery, the professionalism of the pilots and the thrill of the flight make this a unique and magical experience.

Here are a few testimonials from our Manawa customers

• "Fabulous and unmissable experience on Intense Island" - Christèle P. (France), 25/01/2025
• "For me, one of the most beautiful helicopter baptisms in the world" - Fabrice E. (France), 01/01/2025
• "A great flight, breathtaking views of the cirques and volcanoes" - Camille L. (France), 15/12/2024
• "Very nice service... magnificent landscapes, top welcome, unforgettable memories" - Christel C. (France), 08/11/2024
• "Impressive, breathtaking, one of the best spots for a helicopter flight if not the best!" - Sylvie M. (Belgium), 18/09/2024

What customers love

• Experienced pilots with a keen eye for learning.
• Breathtaking views of the Piton de la Fournaise, the cirques and the lagoons.
• Smooth organisation and a warm welcome.

Good to know: We are constantly collecting customer feedback to ensure the highest quality of service, and look forward to reading your post-flight feedback!

How do I book a helicopter flight in Réunion?

There are several ways to book a helicopter flight in Réunion:

• Directly with the companies → Each operator has its own site and availability.
• Via a local agency → Some agencies offer flights among other activities.
• Manawa is the simplest and most cost-effective solution!

Why book your helicopter flight in Réunion with Manawa?

• Access to the best flights with trusted partners.
• Weather guarantee → Postponement or refund in the event of bad weather.
• Easy comparison of options and rates.
• Fast, secure booking with no hidden charges.
• Dedicated customer service if you need it.

Good to know: Helicopter flights are very popular, especially in high season. Book in advance to guarantee your place!

Ready to discover Réunion from a whole new angle?

In short, a helicopter flight in Réunion is much more than just a tourist activity: it's a unique, immersive and unforgettable experience. With its spectacular scenery, active volcanoes, majestic cirques and crystal-clear lagoons, this adventure will allow you to discover the intense island from a whole new angle.

With Manawa, you benefit from the best options, a weather guarantee and transparent prices. Book your flight easily and let yourself be transported by the magic of the air.

Customer reviews confirm that a helicopter flight in Réunion is an experience well worth the diversions. And we look forward to reading your feedback after your own flight!

🚁 Don't wait any longer! Book your helicopter flight on Reunion Island today and get ready to experience an exceptional moment.

Want to find out more about other activities on Réunion Island?

Discover our guides and articles to help you make the most of your stay on the intense island!

• The best things to do in Réunion to make your stay even more memorable
• How to visit Réunion Island: advice and itineraries
• 12 outdoor activities on Réunion Island
• Which Réunion flight to choose? Comparison of the best options
• Paragliding in Réunion: questions and answers
• See all the things to do in Réunion and book here