For a unique and unforgettable experience of the beauty of Cape Town, consider taking a scenic helicopter flight with Sport Helicopters from the V&A Waterfront.
We offer a range of helicopter flights, from a 12-minute “Hopper” to Clifton and up to a 48-minute “Cape Point full Cape Peninsula” flight. The latter takes you along the coast to Cape Point nature reserve and back, allowing you to visit both bays, Table Bay and False Bay.
From high above, you’ll be able to take in stunning views of iconic landmarks and landscapes, like Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, and Robben Island, as well as the sparkling coastline and the bustling city below. Whether you’re a local looking for a new perspective on your hometown or a visitor hoping to make the most of your time in Cape Town, a helicopter flight with Sport Helicopters is a thrilling and unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss. Soaring over the Mother City in a helicopter is a truly memorable adventure that will leave you with lasting memories of this breathtaking destination.
On this page, we have listed a few of the noteworthy landmarks, landscapes and beaches you can expect to see along the way.
Landmarks
Cape Town is a city filled with landmarks that reflect its unique history and culture. The city’s bustling harbor is home to the popular V&A Waterfront, a hub of shopping, dining, and entertainment. The colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood is known for its charming pastel-colored houses, while the imposing Castle of Good Hope is a symbol of the city’s colonial past. The Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the city and are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. With so many fascinating landmarks to explore, Cape Town is a city that never fails to captivate and inspire. As you take off from the V&A Waterfront helipad you expect to see the following landmarks:
Signal hill
Signal Hill is a prominent landmark in Cape Town, located just next to Lion’s Head and offering stunning views of the city and its surroundings. Historically, the hill was used to signal the arrival of ships to the harbor, hence its name. During the apartheid era, Signal Hill was also used as a lookout point by the South African military. Today, Signal Hill is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and paragliding. On New Year’s Eve, locals use to gather on the hill to watch the fireworks display over the city. The hill is also home to the Noon Gun, a historic cannon that is fired every day at noon to signal the time.
Lion’s head
Lion’s Head is one of the most iconic landmarks in Cape Town, South Africa. This distinctive mountain, named for its resemblance to a Lion’s head, is located between Table Mountain and Signal Hill, offering breathtaking views of the city, the Atlantic Ocean, and Table Mountain National Park.
The mountain is a popular hiking destination, with a well-maintained trail that takes hikers to the summit. The hike is not particularly difficult, but it does involve some scrambling and a bit of climbing. The views from the top are well worth the effort, with panoramic vistas of Cape Town and its surroundings.
In addition to hiking, Lion’s Head is also a popular spot for paragliding, offering a thrilling way to experience the mountain and its incredible views. Many locals and tourists alike also visit the mountain to watch the sunrise or sunset, which are both particularly spectacular from this vantage point.
Twelve Apostles
A range of mountains located along the Atlantic coast above Camps Bay, South Africa. These towering peaks offer incredible views of the ocean and Camps Bay. The Twelve Apostles is a popular destination for hikers, nature lovers, and anyone looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The Twelve Apostles get their name from the biblical reference to the twelve apostles of Jesus. The mountain range is known for its rugged beauty and its unique geology, with dramatic cliffs, steep gorges, and rocky outcrops. The range is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare fynbos vegetation and a variety of bird species.
The Twelve Apostles is also a popular destination for outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking. The trails that wind through the mountain range offer stunning views of the coastline and the ocean, making it a popular spot for photographers as well.
Many visitors to Cape Town choose to stay in one of the luxurious hotels or resorts located along the Twelve Apostles, offering easy access to this natural wonderland.
Robben Island
Robben Island is a small island located off the coast of Cape Town, South Africa, and is a place of great historical and cultural significance. For centuries, the island served as a place of exile and imprisonment, with political prisoners and others being held there under harsh conditions.
One of the most famous prisoners to be held on Robben Island was Nelson Mandela, who spent 18 years of his 27-year imprisonment there. Today, the island is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist attraction, with visitors from around the world coming to learn about its history and the struggles of those who were held there.
Visitors to Robben Island can take a guided tour of the prison and other significant sites on the island, including the limestone quarry where Mandela and other prisoners were forced to work. The tours are led by former political prisoners, who provide firsthand accounts of their experiences on the island.
In addition to its historical significance, Robben Island is also home to a variety of wildlife, including African penguins and seals. Visitors can take a boat tour around the island to view these animals in their natural habitats.
V&A Waterfront
The V&A Waterfront is a bustling hub of activity located in the heart of Cape Town, South Africa. Originally built in the 19th century as a harbor, the waterfront has been transformed into a world-class shopping and entertainment destination while still retaining its historical charm.
Named after Queen Victoria and her son, Prince Alfred, the V&A Waterfront boasts a rich history as a key trading port for the city. Today, it is home to over 450 retail outlets, ranging from high-end designer stores to local crafts and souvenir shops.
In addition to shopping, the V&A Waterfront offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. Take a ride on the Cape Wheel for a spectacular view of the city, visit the Two Oceans Aquarium to see marine life up close, or take a boat tour of the harbor.
For those interested in history, the V&A Waterfront is home to the Nelson Mandela Gateway, the departure point for boat tours to Robben Island. The waterfront also features the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, housed in a repurposed grain silo and showcasing some of the most innovative contemporary African art.
Foodies will delight in the variety of dining options at the V&A Waterfront, with everything from fine dining to casual street food available. And for those looking for some nightlife, the waterfront offers live music, comedy shows, and theater performances.
With its mix of history, culture, and entertainment, the V&A Waterfront is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Cape Town.
Cape Town Stadium
The Cape Town Stadium is a modern, world-class sports and entertainment venue located in Green Point, Cape Town, South Africa. The stadium was built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, hosted by South Africa, and is now a prominent landmark in the city.
The history of the Cape Town Stadium dates back to 2004 when South Africa was awarded the hosting rights for the 2010 World Cup. The original plan was to renovate the existing Green Point Stadium, but it was ultimately decided to build a brand new stadium on the same site.
Construction of the Cape Town Stadium began in March 2007 and was completed in December 2009, just in time for the World Cup. The stadium has a capacity of 55,000 spectators and features a distinctive, elliptical shape with a translucent roof that can change color depending on the event.
In addition to hosting soccer matches, the Cape Town Stadium has also been used for various other events, including music concerts, conferences, and cultural festivals. The stadium has also been used as a filming location for movies and TV shows.
One of the most striking features of the Cape Town Stadium is its location, with stunning views of Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean. The stadium is also easily accessible by public transport, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Since its opening, the Cape Town Stadium has become an important part of the city’s cultural and sporting landscape, hosting major events and attracting visitors from around the world. Its modern design and state-of-the-art facilities have earned its recognition as one of the best stadiums in the world, cementing Cape Town’s reputation as a premier destination for sports and entertainment.
Sea Point Lighthouse
The Sea Point Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located in Sea Point, a coastal suburb of Cape Town, South Africa. Built in 1824, it is one of the oldest lighthouses in South Africa and still functions today as an active aid to navigation.
The history of the Sea Point Lighthouse dates back to the early 19th century when ships began to frequent the Cape of Good Hope on their voyages around the world. The lighthouse was built to help guide ships safely around the rocky coastline of the Cape Peninsula.
Originally, the lighthouse was powered by a large, open flame fueled by oil, which was later replaced by a more efficient and reliable Fresnel lens in the 1860s. Today, the lighthouse is automated and operates on electricity.
In addition to its navigational duties, the Sea Point Lighthouse also has historical and cultural significance. The lighthouse has been declared a National Monument and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding coastline.
The Sea Point Lighthouse is also used as a landmark and a symbol of the city, featuring in many postcards, photographs, and artworks. It has become an important part of Cape Town’s cultural heritage and a testament to the city’s maritime history.
Sea Point Promenade
The Sea Point Promenade is a popular attraction located in the coastal suburb of Sea Point, Cape Town, South Africa. It is a long, paved walkway that runs along the Atlantic coastline, stretching for several kilometers from Mouille Point to Bantry Bay.
The history of the Sea Point Promenade dates back to the early 20th century when it was first constructed as a means of preventing coastal erosion. Over the years, it has been renovated and expanded to become the scenic and recreational hub it is today.
The Sea Point Promenade offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding mountains, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll or jog along the promenade, take in the fresh sea air, and watch the waves crashing against the rocks.
The promenade is also home to a variety of attractions, including playgrounds, outdoor fitness equipment, picnic areas, and public art installations. It is a hub of activity with locals and tourists engaging in activities such as cycling, rollerblading, and skateboarding.
Furthermore, the promenade has numerous restaurants, cafes, and food stalls, providing a variety of options for visitors to enjoy a meal or snack while taking in the stunning views.
Boss 400
The Boss 400 is a shipwreck that lies just off the coast of Hout Bay, a picturesque coastal suburb in Cape Town, South Africa. The wreck has become a popular attraction for divers and snorkelers, as well as a scenic spot for those who prefer to take in the views from the shore.
This vessel was a fishing trawler that ran aground in 1994 while attempting to enter the Hout Bay harbour. The shipwreck remains largely intact and is visible from the shore and the surrounding waters. The wreck is home to a variety of marine life, including colourful fish, octopuses, and starfish, making it an ideal spot for underwater photography and exploration.
Divers can explore the Boss 400 wreck and its surrounding reefs, which are home to a variety of fish species, including the endangered red roman fish. The surrounding waters are also popular for recreational fishing, with anglers casting their lines in the hope of catching a variety of fish, including yellowtail, snoek, and kob.
The Boss 400 shipwreck has become an iconic attraction in Cape Town, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich maritime history and providing a unique underwater experience. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in diving, snorkelling, or simply taking in the scenic beauty of the Cape Town coastline. However, visitors should exercise caution and follow safety guidelines while exploring the wreck, as it can be dangerous to navigate without proper training and equipment.
Landscapes
The coastline of Cape Town is one of the most scenic in the world, with pristine beaches, rocky cliffs, and charming coastal towns dotted along the shore. As you soar over this stunning landscape, you’ll gain a new perspective on Cape Town’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, a helicopter flight over Cape Town is an experience you won’t soon forget.
Cape Town harbour
Cape Town Harbour, also known as the Port of Cape Town, is the largest commercial port in South Africa and one of the busiest in Africa. Located on the shores of Table Bay, the harbour has a rich history that dates back to the 17th century when it was first used as a refreshment station for the Dutch East India Company.
Today, Cape Town Harbour is a bustling hub of activity, handling a diverse range of cargo including vehicles, containers, and bulk commodities such as coal, fruit, and wine. The harbour is also a popular destination for cruise ships, which visit Cape Town throughout the year.
Visitors to Cape Town Harbour can explore the Victoria & Alfred (V&A) Waterfront, which is located within the harbour precinct.
Another attraction at Cape Town Harbour is the Cape Town Diamond Museum, which showcases the history of the diamond industry in South Africa. Visitors can learn about the discovery of diamonds in South Africa in the late 1800s and view a range of rare and valuable diamonds on display.
Cape Town Harbour has played a significant role in the history and development of Cape Town and South Africa as a whole. It has been a vital link in the country’s trade and commerce for centuries, and today it continues to be a key economic driver for the region.
Hout Bay Harbour
Hout Bay Harbour is a picturesque working harbour situated in the seaside town of Hout Bay, located on the Atlantic seaboard of the Cape Peninsula in Cape Town, South Africa. The harbour has a rich history, dating back to the early 1800s, and today it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Originally established as a small fishing village, Hout Bay Harbour has grown into a bustling port that is home to a variety of fishing vessels, pleasure boats, and yachts. The harbour is also a popular departure point for boat trips to nearby Seal Island, which is home to a colony of Cape fur seals.
Visitors to Hout Bay Harbour can explore the vibrant market that operates daily, selling a range of local produce, crafts, and souvenirs. The market is an ideal spot to pick up some fresh seafood or sample some traditional South African dishes.
One of the main attractions at Hout Bay Harbour is the working fishing boats, which return to the harbour daily with their catch. Visitors can watch as fishermen unload their haul, and there are several seafood restaurants in the area that serve up fresh fish and seafood dishes.
In addition to its attractions, Hout Bay Harbour has a rich history that is reflected in the many buildings and landmarks in the area. The oldest building in Hout Bay is the original Harbour master’s cottage, which dates back to 1860, and there is also a museum on the site that showcases the history of the harbour and the local fishing industry.
Chapmans Peak drive
Chapmans Peak Drive is a scenic route that winds along the Atlantic coastline between Noordhoek and Hout Bay in Cape Town, South Africa. The drive is renowned for its spectacular views of the ocean, mountains, and surrounding landscapes, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
The history of Chapmans Peak Drive dates back to the 1900s, when the need for a more direct route between Hout Bay and Noordhoek was recognized. However, it was not until the 1920s that construction of the drive began. The route was officially opened in 1922 and quickly became a favorite among motorists and nature enthusiasts.
Today, Chapmans Peak Drive is known as one of the most spectacular coastal drives in the world, with 114 curves and steep cliffs that drop down into the ocean. The drive spans 9 kilometers and takes approximately 15 minutes to complete, offering a thrilling and unforgettable experience for visitors.
Along the route, there are several lookout points where visitors can stop and admire the stunning views. One of the most popular is the Chapmans Peak Lookout Point, which offers panoramic views of Hout Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.
Chapmans Peak Drive is also home to several hiking trails that offer a closer look at the natural beauty of the area. The Silvermine Nature Reserve, located at the start of the drive, features several trails that wind through indigenous fynbos and lead to panoramic views of the coastline.
Despite its popularity, Chapmans Peak Drive has not been without its challenges. The road was closed for several years due to damage caused by rock falls and had to undergo extensive renovations to ensure the safety of motorists and visitors.
Noordhoek
Noordhoek Beach is a beautiful, unspoiled beach situated on the Atlantic Coast in Cape Town, South Africa. It stretches for approximately 8 km, and is backed by the dramatic slopes of Chapman’s Peak and the scenic Ou Kaapse Weg mountains. The beach is popular with surfers and horse riders, and is also a great spot for long walks or picnics. Noordhoek is known for its natural beauty and peaceful surroundings, making it a popular escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The beach is easily accessible and offers ample parking, as well as a few restaurants and cafes nearby. It is truly a gem of the Western Cape and a must-visit destination for those exploring the area.
Cape Point
Cape Point Nature Reserve is one of the most spectacular natural attractions in Cape Town, South Africa. Located at the southern tip of the Cape Peninsula, the reserve covers an area of over 7,750 hectares and is home to an abundance of wildlife, flora and fauna. The reserve offers a magnificent landscape of rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and beautiful bays. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints, where they can take in breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean and coastline. The reserve is also home to a variety of animals, including baboons, zebras, and ostriches, as well as over 250 species of birds.
The lighthouse at Cape Point is also a popular attraction, offering visitors a chance to learn about the history of the area and its significance as a navigational landmark.
Table Mountain
The Mountain
The Cable Way
Hiking trails
Beaches
- Clifton 1st to 4th beach
- Camps Bay
- Llandudno
- Hout Bay
- Noordhoek
- Witsand / Misty Cliffs
- Scarborough Beach
- Platboom
- Boulders Beach
- Simons Town
- Fish hoek
- Muizenberg
