
Victoria Falls Helicopter Flight - Flight of Angels
About This Experience
Experience the most breathtaking aerial view of Victoria Falls with the iconic 'Flight of Angels' helicopter tour. Named after David Livingstone's famous quote about angels in flight, this spectacular journey takes you soaring over the world's largest sheet of falling water. You'll witness the full grandeur of the 1.7km-wide cascade, the dramatic Batoka Gorge, and the meandering Zambezi River from a bird's eye perspective.
The flight offers unparalleled photographic opportunities as you hover above the churning mist and see rainbows forming in the spray below. Your experienced pilot will provide commentary about the geological formation of the falls and point out wildlife along the riverbanks. The helicopter's large windows and strategic flight path ensure every passenger gets optimal views.
Available in 13-minute and 25-minute options, this activity is suitable for all ages and provides a thrilling introduction to Victoria Falls that helps you appreciate its massive scale—something impossible to grasp from ground level alone.
What's Included
Why This Activity is Popular
This is the single most booked aerial activity at Victoria Falls because it provides perspective impossible to get from ground level. The relatively short duration makes it affordable while still delivering incredible value. It's also suitable for people of all fitness levels and ages.
What to Expect
Your Flight of Angels experience begins at the departure lounge where you'll check in and receive a safety briefing from your pilot. After a weight distribution assessment (for optimal balance), you'll be escorted to your helicopter. The cabin accommodates up to 6 passengers, with large panoramic windows ensuring everyone gets spectacular views.
As you lift off, the helicopter rises above the Victoria Falls National Park, and within moments, the full scale of Victoria Falls comes into view. Your pilot will make several passes over different sections of the falls, allowing you to see the Main Falls, Rainbow Falls, Horseshoe Falls, Armchair Falls, and Eastern Cataract. The helicopter banks and turns to give each side of the aircraft optimal viewing angles.
You'll fly over the Zambezi River both upstream and downstream from the falls, spot wildlife along the riverbanks, and see the historic Victoria Falls Bridge from above. The mist from the falls creates rainbows that shimmer in the sunlight, and on clear days, you can see up to 70 kilometers in every direction. Your pilot provides live commentary through headsets, sharing geological history and pointing out landmarks. The experience concludes with a smooth landing back at the helipad, where you'll receive your flight certificate.
Important Information
Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing in neutral colors. Avoid loose items like hats or scarves that could blow away. Sunglasses are essential for glare protection. Cameras and phones are permitted—most operators encourage photography and videography.
There are no specific fitness requirements; this activity is suitable for all ages and abilities. Children are welcome (minimum age varies by operator, typically 3+ years), and infant seats can be arranged. Maximum weight restrictions apply per aircraft (usually 130kg per passenger), though this rarely causes issues as weight is distributed across the cabin.
Flights operate year-round but may be cancelled due to poor visibility, high winds, or electrical storms. Morning flights (7-9am) typically offer the clearest conditions and best light for photography. The spray from the falls is most dramatic from February to July during high water season. Hotel pickup is usually included within Victoria Falls town; confirm your pickup time and location when booking. Arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled departure. Flight duration does not include transfer time.
Best Time to Book
Victoria Falls helicopter flights operate year-round, each season offering unique perspectives. February through July (high water season) provides the most dramatic spray and mist, creating spectacular rainbows but sometimes obscuring the gorge floor. The 'Flight of Angels' name is most fitting during this period when the spray reaches hundreds of meters into the air.
August through January (low water season) offers crystal-clear visibility into the gorge and better views of the falls' geological structure. You'll see the rock formations and individual cascades more clearly, ideal for photography. October and November provide the best balance—enough water for impressive flow without excessive mist.
For optimal lighting and conditions, book morning flights between 7-10am. The sun is lower, creating better colors for photography, and winds are typically calmer. Afternoon flights after 3pm also offer good light but can encounter more turbulence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the helicopter flight safe?
Yes, helicopter flights over Victoria Falls have an outstanding safety record. All operators use well-maintained aircraft and experienced pilots with thousands of flight hours. Aircraft undergo regular inspections and maintenance according to strict aviation standards. Pilots are trained in emergency procedures and flights are only conducted in suitable weather conditions.
Which flight duration should I choose - 13 or 25 minutes?
The 13-minute flight covers the falls and immediate gorge area, which is sufficient for most visitors to see all the highlights. The 25-minute flight includes extended views of the Zambezi River upstream and downstream, Zambezi National Park, and more time for photography. If budget allows, the longer flight provides better value per minute and a more relaxed experience.
Can I take photos and videos during the flight?
Absolutely! Photography is encouraged and most of your best Victoria Falls photos will come from this flight. Large windows provide unobstructed views. For best results, use a fast shutter speed (1/500 or faster) to avoid blur from helicopter vibration. Clean your lens before the flight, and if using a phone, hold it securely with both hands.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Flights may be postponed or cancelled due to poor visibility, high winds, or thunderstorms. Operators will contact you and offer to reschedule or provide a full refund. Victoria Falls weather can change quickly, so flexibility in your schedule is helpful. Morning flights have the highest success rate.
Will I get a window seat?
All seats in the helicopter have excellent views thanks to large panoramic windows. The pilot strategically banks the aircraft so both sides get optimal viewing angles of key features. Weight distribution means you can't always choose your exact seat, but everyone gets spectacular photos.
Can I request a private flight?
Yes, private charters are available for a premium price. This is popular for special occasions, proposals, or when you want complete control over timing and flight path. Private flights can also accommodate specific photography requests.
Pro Tips & Insider Advice
Book your helicopter flight for your first or second day in Victoria Falls. The aerial perspective helps you understand the layout and plan your ground-level activities. Many visitors wish they'd done the flight first to appreciate the scale.
Bring two devices for photography—a camera and a phone. The helicopter environment can be challenging (vibration, reflections), so having backup options ensures you get great shots. Clean your lens/screen before boarding and use a lens hood if possible to reduce glare.
Consider the combo packages that pair the helicopter flight with other activities like the Zambezi sunset cruise or a guided tour of the falls. These combos offer better value than booking separately. If you're prone to motion sickness, take medication 30-60 minutes before the flight, though helicopter motion is generally much smoother than small fixed-wing aircraft.
Don't stress too much about perfect photos—many operators offer professional photo/video packages at reasonable prices, letting you focus on enjoying the experience. Sit back, take it all in, and let the magnitude of Victoria Falls imprint itself on your memory.
per person
Perfect For
Location
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe & Zambia border