Beijing: Helicopter Tour over the Mutianyu Great Wall

Traveling to Beijing and eager to see the Great Wall from a fresh perspective? This helicopter tour over the famous Mutianyu section promises a memorable aerial glimpse of one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. Whether you’re seeking a breathtaking photo opportunity or simply want to add a dash of adventure to your trip, this experience offers a unique way to appreciate the grandeur of the Great Wall without the strenuous climb.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, you’ll enjoy stunning panoramic views from a reliable Robinson R44 helicopter, fly at a comfortable low altitude of about 100 meters, and appreciate the well-preserved architecture of Mutianyu. It’s also notably family-friendly and perfect for those who want to avoid the physical challenge of hiking up the Wall. That said, it’s worth considering that the flight duration is relatively short—around 15 to 22 minutes—so if you’re hoping for an extensive aerial tour, you might find this a bit brief.

This helicopter experience is best suited for travelers who love spectacular scenery, photography, or a special thrill during their Beijing visit. It offers a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and awe-inspiring views, making it a top choice for families, couples, or solo adventurers wanting a memorable highlight.

Good To Know

• Stunning Aerial Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of the Great Wall, watchtowers, and surrounding mountains.
• Reliable Helicopter: Travel in a trusted Robinson R44, known for stability and comfort.
• Flexible Routes: Choose between a 15-minute or 22-minute flight, with extensions to the wild Jiankou section.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for a wide range of travelers, excluding children under 3.
• Convenient Departure: Easy access from the Mutianyu Scenic Area with a quick shuttle to the helipad.
• Authentic Experience: Gain a new perspective on the scale, curves, and architecture of the Great Wall.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Departure and Access

The tour begins at the Hongli Mountain Villa (Great Wall Zhi Jiaxi), conveniently located across from the entrance of the Mutianyu Great Wall. Traveling there is straightforward; you’ll find the location easily via Apple Maps using the coordinates (40.41621398925781, 116.5438003540039). The meeting point is just a short shuttle ride—about 500 meters—from the main scenic entrance, making the transition from sightseeing to flying smooth and hassle-free.

The Helicopter Ride

Once aboard the Robinson R44 helicopter, which comfortably seats three passengers, you’ll notice its reputation for stability and trustworthiness. The wide windows offer excellent visibility, allowing everyone to take in the sweeping views. The pilot, experienced and knowledgeable, guides you toward the Wall with confidence, ascending to roughly 100 meters above the structure. You’ll be flying at a low altitude, which is ideal for capturing sharp photos and appreciating the Wall’s intricate features up close.

Route Options and What They Cover

• Route A: This is the shorter, 15-minute flight covering the entire accessible Mutianyu section, from the Dajiao Tower in the south to the Mao Zedong characters in the north. With approximately 30 km of flying distance, it’s a fantastic overview of the Wall’s curvature, watchtowers, and surrounding mountains.

• Route B: Extending to about 45 km with 22 minutes of flight time, this route includes the full Mutianyu section plus a visit to the Jiankou section, known for its wild, unrestored segments. While Jiankou isn’t open to travelers on foot, it provides a dramatic contrast to the well-preserved Mutianyu, giving you a sense of the Wall’s rugged history.

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What You’ll See

From the air, you’ll marvel at the dramatic curves of the Wall, the watchtowers punctuating its length, and the surrounding mountain landscape. Reviewers highlight that the views are stunning, with one describing the flight as “incredible value for the price,” and the hour of flying feeling “fairly generous.” You’ll spot hikers on the steps, tiny specks walking along the ancient stones, and the verdant peaks that frame this UNESCO site.

Post-Flight and Accessibility

After landing back at the helipad, you’ll be escorted back to the scenic area via shuttle. The entire process is smooth, with minimal wait times, letting you focus on capturing photos or simply soaking in the landscape. The experience lasts between 15 to 22 minutes, depending on the route chosen, making it an ideal addition to a day of sightseeing rather than a full-day commitment.

Practical Details and Considerations

How to Book and Payment Flexibility

You can reserve your spot with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which adds flexibility to your travel plans. Payment can be made later, so you can secure your place without immediate commitment—a smart move if you’re planning a busy itinerary.

What’s Included

The tour price covers the helicopter ride, guide service in English and Chinese, and transportation to and from the helipad. The experience is organized as a private group, ensuring a more personalized and intimate atmosphere.

Important Tips

• Bring your passport or ID card for registration.
• Sunglasses are recommended, especially on sunny days.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, or those with certain health conditions like heart problems or altitude sickness.
• Travelers over 220 lbs (100 kg) should be aware of weight restrictions for safety reasons.

Price and Value

While the specific cost isn’t listed here, many reviewers mention that the value for the experience is excellent. Considering the rarity of aerial views and the comfort of a reliable helicopter, it’s an investment in lasting memories and epic photos.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One verified traveler from Denmark shared, “Service was top-notch, communication excellent, and the flight time was more than fair for the price.” This echoes the sentiment that the experience is not only thrilling but also well-organized and worth every penny.

Another reviewer appreciated the guides’ professionalism and the stunning views they got to enjoy, emphasizing how the low-altitude flight made all the difference in seeing details of the Wall that would be missed from afar.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This helicopter experience is perfect for those wanting a unique perspective of the Great Wall, especially if hiking isn’t appealing or feasible. It suits adventure lovers, photography enthusiasts, or families seeking a safe, comfortable way to elevate their sightseeing. It’s also an excellent choice for travelers craving a luxury touch during their Beijing trip.

The Sum Up

In terms of value, this helicopter tour offers an unparalleled view of the Great Wall with the convenience of a short, well-organized experience. The reliability of the helicopter, combined with the stunning scenery, makes it a memorable highlight for many travelers. The tour’s flexibility, friendly guides, and stunning vistas make it a compelling option for those seeking something beyond the usual walk along the Wall.

While the flight duration may seem brief, the panoramic views and the sense of scale captured from above provide a perspective that simply cannot be matched from the ground. It’s a fantastic way to see the Wall’s impressive architecture and natural setting in a relaxed, family-friendly manner.

If you want a memorable, comfortable, and visually stunning way to experience the Great Wall, this helicopter tour is well worth considering. It’s an experience that combines adventure, comfort, and breathtaking scenery—perfect for creating lasting memories of your Beijing visit.

FAQ

How long is the helicopter tour?
The flight duration is approximately 15 minutes for Route A, or about 22 minutes if you choose Route B, which includes the Jiankou extension.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at the Hongli Mountain Villa (Great Wall Zhi Jiaxi), just across the road from the entrance of Mutianyu Great Wall. It’s easy to find via Apple Maps using the provided coordinates.

Can I book this experience in advance?
Yes, you can reserve your spot with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour, giving you flexibility in your planning.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It is not recommended for children under 3 years old. Always check with your group organizer if you have concerns about specific health conditions.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card, and sunglasses are recommended for sunny days to protect your eyes and enhance your viewing experience.

What if I weigh more than 220 lbs (100 kg)?
There are weight restrictions for safety reasons; travelers over 220 lbs should confirm before booking to ensure they can participate.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, transportation to and from the helipad is included, making the experience convenient and stress-free for travelers.

This helicopter tour over the Mutianyu Great Wall combines comfort, stunning views, and a touch of adventure, making it a memorable highlight for your Beijing trip. Whether for photos, thrill-seeking, or simply a unique way to see the Wall, it’s an experience worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby