British Columbia’s helicopter tours offer practical ways to experience the region’s spectacular wilderness from above. Operating mainly from Pitt Meadows Regional Airport, these flights combine comfort with adventure. I’m particularly impressed with the craft beer tasting tours, which smartly blend local culture with stunning alpine views. The Vancouver scenic flights are another standout – they provide the perfect introduction to the city’s geography and coastline.
The tours I recommend come with experienced pilots who double as guides, plus convenient hotel pickups and flexible cancellation options. Many are surprisingly affordable, especially the shorter city tours.
Check out these top-rated helicopter experiences in British Columbia, ranked for value and scenery:
Good To Know
- SKY Helicopters offers a variety of helicopter tours in British Columbia, including a backcountry beer tasting tour, pre/post cruise tours, and city/backcountry scenic flights.
- The backcountry beer tasting tour provides a 45-minute flight with a craft beer tasting experience, exploring BC’s wilderness.
- The pre/post cruise tour offers complimentary hotel pickup, luggage handling, and aerial views of inaccessible landscapes, praised for pilot knowledge, safety, and scenery.
- The city and backcountry helicopter tours provide 5-star rated memorable flights with scenic views, with a maximum capacity of 10 travelers.
- The Coast Mountain Helicopter Tour offers a 15-minute backcountry landing experience, starting at $334.66 per person, with a maximum capacity of 10 travelers.
Backcountry Beer Tasting Helicopter Tour & Landing (Depart YPK)
This Backcountry Beer Tasting Helicopter Tour & Landing departs from the Pitt Meadows Regional Airport (YPK), offering an exhilarating 45-minute flight into the stunning landscapes east of downtown Vancouver.
Priced from $357.53 per person, the tour includes a craft beer flight tasting, fuel surcharge, landing and facility fees, gratuities, and GST.
Accommodating up to 10 travelers aged 19 and older, the experience features non-alcoholic options and a 275-lb weight limit per passenger.
With 5-star reviews across the board, this unique helicopter adventure provides an unforgettable way to explore British Columbia’s wilderness while sampling the region’s finest craft brews.
Read our full review: Backcountry Beer Tasting Helicopter Tour & Landing (Depart YPK) Review
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Pre/Post Cruise Helicopter BC Backcountry Tour With Hotel Pickup
The Pre/Post Cruise Helicopter BC Backcountry Tour With Hotel Pickup offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the vast and untamed wilderness of British Columbia from the air.
Operated by SKY Helicopters Inc., this tour provides a seamless experience with complimentary hotel pickup and luggage handling.
Soar over the stunning landscapes, taking in views that are inaccessible by land. The tour is priced at $288.92 per person, with a maximum capacity of 10 travelers.
Customers praise the pilot’s knowledge, safety, and the incredible scenery.
Whether you’re embarking on or returning from a cruise, this helicopter tour is a must-do for experiencing the breathtaking beauty of British Columbia’s backcountry.
Read our full review: Pre/Post Cruise Helicopter BC Backcountry Tour With Hotel Pickup Review
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Helicopter Tour of Vancouver City (Depart YPK)
Operated by SKY Helicopters the Helicopter Tour of Vancouver City departs from Pitt Meadows Regional Airport (YPK), located approximately 45 minutes east of downtown Vancouver.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers and is priced from $288.92 per person. Passengers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
The tour includes fuel surcharge, landing and facility fees, gratuities, and GST. Travelers should note the total weight limit of 300 lbs per passenger.
With an overall 5-star rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews, the tour offers memorable flights and scenic views of Vancouver’s landmarks.
Read our full review: Helicopter Tour of Vancouver City (Depart YPK) Review
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Helicopter Tour of BCs Backcountry (Depart YPK)
SKY Helicopters Inc.’s Helicopter Tour of BC’s Backcountry departs from the Pitt Meadows Regional Airport (YPK), located approximately 45 minutes east of downtown Vancouver.
Accommodating up to 10 travelers, this tour provides a breathtaking aerial experience of BC’s remote and rugged landscapes. The tour includes fuel surcharge, landing and facility fees, gratuities, and GST.
Passengers must weigh no more than 300 lbs total. Although not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.
With a 5-star rating based on a single review, the pilot is described as friendly, knowledgeable, and patient, offering insightful commentary despite challenging weather conditions during the flight.
Read our full review: Helicopter Tour of BCs Backcountry (Depart YPK) Review
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Coast Mountain Helicopter Tour & Backcountry Landing (Depart YPK)
Departing from the Pitt Meadows Regional Airport (YPK), the Coast Mountain Helicopter Tour & Backcountry Landing provides a thrilling aerial experience showcasing British Columbia’s stunning mountainous landscapes.
The 15-minute backcountry landing tour has a maximum capacity of 10 travelers, with prices starting at $334.66 per person. The tour includes fuel surcharge, landing and facility fees, gratuities, and GST.
Passengers are limited to 300 lbs total weight, and infants must sit on laps. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate.
Bookings are confirmed upon purchase, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Coast Mountain Helicopter Tour & Backcountry Landing (Depart YPK) Review
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Pre/Post Cruise Helicopter Vancouver City Tour With Hotel Pickup
Visitors to Vancouver can experience the city’s iconic skyline and stunning natural landscapes from the air with the Pre/Post Cruise Helicopter Vancouver City Tour.
Priced from $288.92 per person, this helicopter tour offers a maximum of 10 travelers a 30-40 minute flight over the city. Complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off, luggage handling, and all fees are included.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. Customers praise the tour’s excellent customer service and recommend it highly.
With a 5-star rating based on a single review, this tour is likely to sell out, so visitors should reserve their spot in advance.
Read our full review: Pre/Post Cruise Helicopter Vancouver City Tour With Hotel Pickup Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Generally, passengers can bring their own food and drinks on helicopter tours, but it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. Some may have restrictions or provide refreshments as part of the experience.
How Do I Dress for the Helicopter Tour?
Passengers should dress comfortably in layers, as the temperature can vary during the flight. Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and avoid bulky outerwear that could hinder movement. The tour operator may provide additional guidance on appropriate attire for the helicopter ride.
What Should I Bring to the Helicopter Tour?
Guests should bring a few key items for a helicopter tour: a camera to capture stunning aerial views, sunscreen and sunglasses to protect against the sun’s glare, and light, comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement. Plus, snacks and water are recommended to stay refreshed during the flight.
Is the Helicopter Tour Suitable for Children?
Helicopter tours can be suitable for children, but it’s important to consider the child’s age, comfort level, and safety requirements. Many operators have specific policies and recommendations for bringing children on their flights. It’s best to check with the tour provider beforehand.
Are There Any Age or Weight Restrictions for the Tour?
Most helicopter tour operators have age and weight restrictions to ensure passenger safety. It’s common for tours to have a minimum age of 2-3 years old and a maximum weight limit of around 300 lbs. Specific requirements can vary, so it’s best to check with the tour provider.
The Sum Up
British Columbia offers a wealth of helicopter tour options, from beer tasting in the backcountry to panoramic city vistas. Travelers can depart from the Penticton Airport (YPK) for a variety of experiences, including customizable pre- or post-cruise tours. With diverse landscapes and convenient pickup/drop-off, these helicopter excursions provide an unforgettable way to explore the natural beauty of British Columbia.