Bernese Oberland helicopter tours offer breathtaking aerial views of the Swiss Alps, including iconic peaks like Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. These tours range from quick 26-minute flights to full-day excursions, accommodating various preferences and budgets. Passengers can witness glaciers, lakes, and picturesque villages from heights up to 3,000 meters. With options for sightseeing, heli-skiing, and exclusive packages, these tours provide unforgettable experiences in one of Switzerland’s most stunning regions.
What Are the Key Features of Bernese Oberland Helicopter Tours?
Bernese Oberland helicopter tours are renowned for their spectacular aerial views of the Swiss Alps. Here are the key features that make these tours stand out:
- Breathtaking scenery: Fly over iconic peaks like Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau
- Flexible duration: Tours range from 26 minutes to full-day experiences
- High-altitude flights: Reach altitudes of up to 3,000 meters
- Diverse tour options: Choose from sightseeing, heli-skiing, or exclusive packages
- Year-round availability: Tours operate 365 days a year, weather permitting
How Long Do Bernese Oberland Helicopter Tours Last?
The duration of Bernese Oberland helicopter tours varies significantly, catering to different preferences and schedules:
- Short sightseeing flights: As brief as 26 minutes
- Mid-range tours: 30 minutes to 2 hours
- Full-day excursions: Up to 8 hours for activities like heli-skiing
Tour operators offer flexibility in duration to accommodate various interests and budgets. Longer tours often include additional experiences such as glacier landings or gourmet meals.
What Landmarks Can You See During the Tour?
Bernese Oberland helicopter tours showcase some of Switzerland’s most iconic natural wonders. Here’s a list of landmarks you can expect to see:
- Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains
- Kleine Scheidegg/Männlichen ski area
- Faflertal Valley
- Lötschental Valley
- Tschingelfirn glacier
- Oberhornsee Lake
- Grindelwald village
- Interlaken town
- Glacial ice avalanches
- Crevasses and ice formations
How Many Passengers Can a Tour Accommodate?
The passenger capacity for Bernese Oberland helicopter tours depends on the aircraft model used:
Helicopter Type | Maximum Passenger Capacity |
---|---|
Ecureuil AS350 | 5 passengers |
Other models | 4-6 passengers |
It’s important to note that the exact capacity may vary based on the specific tour package and weight restrictions. Group bookings are often available, but larger groups may need to split across multiple flights.
What Safety Measures Are in Place for These Tours?
Safety is a top priority for Bernese Oberland helicopter tour operators. The following measures are typically in place:
- Pre-flight safety briefings
- Mandatory use of safety equipment
- Experienced pilots with extensive mountain flying expertise
- Regular aircraft maintenance and inspections
- Strict adherence to aviation regulations
- Weather monitoring and flight cancellations when conditions are unsafe
- Age and health restrictions for certain tour types (e.g., heli-skiing)
Passengers are required to follow all safety instructions provided by the crew to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience.
How Much Do Bernese Oberland Helicopter Tours Cost?
The cost of Bernese Oberland helicopter tours varies widely based on the duration, type of tour, and services included:
- Short sightseeing flights (26 minutes): EUR 190-260 per person
- Exclusive helicopter flights: EUR 1,650-3,650+
- Full-day heli-skiing tours: Prices vary, typically higher than standard tours
Factors affecting price:
– Tour duration
– Number of passengers
– Included services (e.g., glacier landings, meals)
– Season and demand
Some operators offer discounts for group bookings or through special promotions, such as a 15% discount for telephone bookings.
When Is the Best Time to Take a Bernese Oberland Helicopter Tour?
Bernese Oberland helicopter tours are available year-round, but the best time depends on your preferences:
- Summer (June-August): Ideal for clear views and longer daylight hours
- Winter (December-March): Perfect for snow-covered landscapes and heli-skiing
- Spring (April-May): Witness the transition from winter to summer scenery
- Autumn (September-November): Enjoy fall colors and potentially fewer tourists
Keep in mind that tours are weather-dependent, and conditions can change rapidly in the mountains. Booking with flexibility in your schedule is advisable.
How Can You Book a Bernese Oberland Helicopter Tour?
Booking a Bernese Oberland helicopter tour is straightforward. Here are the steps to secure your aerial adventure:
- Research tour operators (e.g., Swiss Helicopter, Mountainflyers)
- Choose your preferred tour package
- Contact the operator via phone, email, or website
- Select a date and time (subject to availability and weather)
- Provide necessary passenger information
- Make a payment or deposit
- Receive confirmation and pre-flight instructions
For specific booking inquiries, contact:
- Swiss Helicopter: Head office in Chur (phone numbers available on their website)
- Mountainflyers: Website, email, or provided phone numbers
- Tobias von Wolffersdorff (for flights from Lauterbrunnen or Interlaken): Phone or email
What Should You Bring on a Bernese Oberland Helicopter Tour?
To make the most of your Bernese Oberland helicopter tour, consider bringing the following items:
- Warm, layered clothing (even in summer)
- Sunglasses to reduce glare
- Camera or smartphone for photos/videos
- Motion sickness medication if prone to airsickness
- Valid ID or passport
- Comfortable, closed-toe shoes
- Small backpack for personal items
- Water and snacks (if allowed by the operator)
- Sunscreen for high-altitude UV protection
- Cash for potential additional expenses or gratuities
Always check with your tour operator for specific recommendations or restrictions on what to bring aboard the helicopter.
By offering a unique perspective of the Swiss Alps, Bernese Oberland helicopter tours provide an unforgettable experience for visitors. Whether you’re seeking a quick aerial overview or an extended adventure, these tours cater to a range of preferences and offer a chance to witness the breathtaking beauty of the region from a truly spectacular vantage point.