Horizontal Falls Helicopter Adventure from Broome

Travelers often seek out Australia’s wild, untouched landscapes, and this tour offers a front-row seat to one of the Kimberley region’s most spectacular marvels—the Horizontal Falls. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itineraries paint a clear picture of a truly memorable experience.

What stands out? The aerial views that reveal vast, intricate mudflats, the adrenaline rush of a powerboat cruise through the falls, and the chance to enjoy fresh barramundi on a floating platform. The only catch? It’s a full-day adventure, so be prepared for an early start. Still, if you’re craving both scenery and adventure, this tour is hard to beat.

It’s ideal for those who love a combination of nature, scenic flights, and boat rides, especially if you’re after something more exclusive and memorable than a standard sightseeing tour. Just keep in mind the price point, which reflects a high-value experience but may be outside some budgets.

Good To Know

• Stunning aerial views of Derby’s mudflats and Broome’s coastline provide a unique perspective.
• The powerboat cruise through the Horizontal Falls delivers both excitement and awe.
• The guided commentary from experienced pilots and guides enhances the understanding of the landscape.
• The fresh barramundi lunch on the floating pontoon offers a relaxing way to enjoy local cuisine.
• Includes multiple scenic flights—fixed wing and helicopter—for comprehensive sightseeing.
• The small group size (max 3 travelers) ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour is designed to maximize your time exploring one of Australia’s most iconic natural wonders while offering plenty of variety through flights, boat rides, and land-based sightseeing. It begins early, with a 7:00 am pickup from Broome, setting the tone for a full day of adventure.

Scenic Flights from Broome to Derby

The journey kicks off with a 100-minute fixed wing flight, offering sweeping views of Broome’s vibrant coastline, with its red pindan cliffs meeting the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. This is a great chance to appreciate the contrasts of the Kimberley landscape—magnificent tidal flats, mangroves, and the shimmering ocean.

Next, you’ll transfer to a helicopter for a 120-minute flight over Derby’s mudflats and Horizontal Falls. Reviewers frequently mention how these flights reveal patterns shaped by massive tidal movements, creating a natural mosaic across the landscape. One reviewer, Taya, noted that the pilots, including Lachlan, Cessna, and Pedro, were incredibly knowledgeable, making the aerial portion both scenic and educational.

Horizontal Falls: The Main Event

The Horizontal Falls are an extraordinary tidal phenomenon where water is squeezed through narrow cliffs, creating what looks like an open-air water slide. This feature is so captivating that Sir David Attenborough himself has called it a natural wonder. As you cruise through the falls on a powerboat, you’ll experience the thrill of fast-paced water rushing past you—an adrenaline-pumping highlight that many reviews describe as “exhilarating” and “a bucket list must-do.”

Beyond the adrenaline, you’ll have the opportunity to explore secluded bays, far from crowds, and even swim or snorkel in shark-free enclosures. This aspect adds a layer of interaction with marine life that enthusiasts will appreciate.

Lunch on the Floating Pontoon

A relaxing barramundi lunch awaits on a floating pontoon, providing a welcome break amid the adventure. The freshness of the fish, paired with the stunning views, makes this meal a highlight. Vegetarian or other dietary requests can typically be accommodated, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.

Optional Snorkel and Swim

Reviewers like Grant appreciate the chance to swim or snorkel with marine life during the cruise. The shark-free enclosures are particularly popular, allowing a safe and intimate encounter with marine creatures that many travelers find unforgettable.

Ending with a Serene Creek Exploration

The tour wraps up with a relaxed cruise and creek exploration guided by passionate and experienced guides. This segment offers a more tranquil contrast to the adrenaline-filled boat rides, giving you time to absorb the scenery and listen to expert commentary.

Practical Aspects and What It Means for You

Transport and Group Size

One of the notable features is the complimentary transfer to and from your accommodation, simplifying logistics. The small group size—limited to 3 travelers—ensures you receive personalized attention, which many reviewers, like Taya, found especially valuable.

Duration and Timing

With approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, this is a full-day commitment. The early start at 7:00 am is typical, giving you plenty of time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed. The tour’s timing is ideal for those wanting a comprehensive experience rather than a hurried overview.

Price and Value

At over $2,000 per person, this tour is an investment. However, considering the included flights, boat cruises, meals, and expert guiding, many feel it offers exceptional value for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. The fact that you get both aerial and water-based perspectives makes it a premium, immersive experience.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’re offered a different date or full refund. Flexibility is built into the policy, providing peace of mind for travelers worried about weather disruptions.

What Reviewers Say

Grant called it “the easiest and quickest way to explore the falls,” emphasizing how the combination of scenic flights and boat trips made the experience smooth and efficient. Meanwhile, Taya described it as “an amazing day” that exceeded expectations, especially praising the guides’ knowledge and the balance of adventure and relaxation.

Multiple reviewers highlight the knowledgeable pilots and guides, who add depth to the experience with insightful commentary. The stunning views from the flights and the exhilaration of the boat cruise consistently stand out as highlights.

The Sum Up

This Horizontal Falls Helicopter Adventure from Broome is best suited for travelers seeking a comprehensive, high-end experience packed with adventure, stunning scenery, and expert insight. It offers a rare opportunity to see one of Australia’s natural wonders from multiple perspectives—air, water, and land—creating a richly layered adventure.

While the price point is on the higher side, the inclusions—flights, boat rides, meals, and guided commentary—justify the cost for many. The small group size ensures a more personal experience, ideal for those who prefer intimate tours over large group excursions.

Overall, if you’re after adventure, spectacular views, and memorable marine encounters, this tour delivers in spades. It balances adrenaline with relaxation, making it suitable for adventurous travelers, nature lovers, and those wanting to tick off a bucket list experience in Australia’s Kimberley region.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:00 am, allowing plenty of time for a full day of exploration.

Is pickup offered?
Yes, complimentary transfers to and from your accommodation are included, making logistics easier.

How long is the entire tour?
Approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, including flights, boat cruises, meals, and sightseeing.

What kind of flights are included?
You’ll enjoy a 100-minute fixed wing flight from Broome to Derby and a 120-minute helicopter flight over the Kimberley landscape and Horizontal Falls.

Can I swim or snorkel during the tour?
Yes, there are opportunities to swim or snorkel in shark-free enclosures, as well as explore secluded bays.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 3 travelers, providing a more personalized experience.

What’s included in the lunch?
A fresh barramundi lunch is served on a floating pontoon, with other options available upon request.

Is alcohol included?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included in the tour price.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked 12 days ahead, so early planning is recommended to secure your spot.

In summary, this adventure offers a carefully curated blend of aerial views, marine thrills, and relaxing moments. Designed for those craving an authentic, immersive Kimberley experience, it’s a journey that promises memories to last a lifetime.