Kangaroo Island helicopter tours offer an unparalleled aerial experience, combining breathtaking scenery with unique wildlife encounters. These tours provide a bird’s-eye view of the island’s diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to lush national parks. Departing from various locations, including Strathalbyn, these tours typically last around 5 hours, with 2.5 hours of flight time and 2.5 hours on the ground. Visitors can expect to see stunning vistas, interact with native wildlife, and enjoy exclusive wine tastings, making it a truly comprehensive island experience.
What Are the Key Features of Kangaroo Island Helicopter Tours?
Kangaroo Island helicopter tours are renowned for their comprehensive aerial packages that showcase the island’s natural beauty and wildlife. Here are some key features:
- Scenic Flight Routes:
- Fly over the Fleurieu Peninsula
- Cross the Back Stairs Passage
- View Kingscote and Bay of Shoals
- Observe Deep Creek Conservation Park
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Fly over Victor Harbor and Granite Island
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Wildlife Encounters:
- Exclusive tour of Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park
- Opportunities to see koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, and more
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Guided experiences with Sam and Dana Mitchell
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Wine Tasting:
- Visit Springs Road Wines
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Enjoy tastings at Bay of Shoals Wines
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Expert Commentary:
- Guided narration throughout the tour
- Insights into the island’s history and ecology
What Is the Duration and Departure Point for These Tours?
Kangaroo Island helicopter tours typically operate as follows:
- Total Duration: Approximately 5 hours
- Flight Time: 2.5 hours
- Ground Time: 2.5 hours
- Primary Departure Point: South Coast Helicopters’ Strathalbyn base
- Alternative Departure Points: Various locations in the Fleurieu Peninsula
The flight route usually begins by tracking southwest down the center of the Fleurieu Peninsula, offering diverse views before crossing to Kangaroo Island.
What Wildlife Can Be Observed During These Aerial Tours?
Kangaroo Island is home to a rich variety of native Australian wildlife. During the helicopter tour and the ground excursion to Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park, visitors can expect to encounter:
- Koalas
- Kangaroos
- Wallabies
- Penguins
- Echidnas
- Dingoes
Many of these animals at the wildlife park have been hand-raised, offering a unique opportunity for close and friendly interactions. The private tour led by Sam and Dana Mitchell enhances this experience, providing personal insights and encounters with the animals.
How Much Do Kangaroo Island Helicopter Tours Cost?
The pricing for Kangaroo Island helicopter tours can vary based on the package and operator. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular package:
The Ultimate Kangaroo Island Aerial Package
- Base Price: From $2250 per person
- Inclusions:
- Scenic helicopter flight
- Private wildlife park tour
- Wine tastings at two locations
- Expert commentary throughout
It’s important to note that prices may be subject to change based on factors such as seasonality and group size. For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, it’s recommended to contact the tour operators directly.
What Are the Group Size Limitations for These Tours?
While specific group size limitations are not explicitly stated for all tours, Kangaroo Island helicopter tours generally cater to small to medium-sized groups. This ensures a personalized experience and allows for comfortable seating within the helicopter.
Here’s a general guide to group sizes:
Tour Type | Typical Group Size |
---|---|
Private Tours | 2-4 passengers |
Small Group Tours | 4-6 passengers |
Custom Group Tours | Up to 8 passengers (may require multiple helicopters) |
It’s advisable to check with the tour operator for exact group size limitations when booking, as these can vary based on the helicopter model and specific tour package.
Are There Any Seasonal Considerations for Kangaroo Island Helicopter Tours?
While Kangaroo Island helicopter tours operate year-round, there are some seasonal considerations to keep in mind:
- Summer (December-February):
- Peak tourist season
- Warmer temperatures, ideal for aerial views
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Possible higher prices due to demand
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Autumn (March-May):
- Mild weather, great for sightseeing
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Less crowded than summer months
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Winter (June-August):
- Cooler temperatures
- Potential for clearer skies, offering excellent visibility
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Whale watching opportunities from the air
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Spring (September-November):
- Wildflowers in bloom, enhancing landscape views
- Increasing wildlife activity
It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and time.
What Should Visitors Wear and Bring for a Kangaroo Island Helicopter Tour?
To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience on your Kangaroo Island helicopter tour, consider the following recommendations:
- Clothing:
- Comfortable, layered clothing
- Closed-toe shoes
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Light jacket or windbreaker
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Accessories:
- Sunglasses
- Hat (for ground portions of the tour)
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Sunscreen
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Photography Equipment:
- Camera or smartphone
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Extra batteries or power bank
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Personal Items:
- Water bottle
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Any necessary medications
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Documentation:
- Photo ID
- Booking confirmation
Remember, space in the helicopter may be limited, so pack light and efficiently.
How Can Visitors Book a Kangaroo Island Helicopter Tour?
Booking a Kangaroo Island helicopter tour is a straightforward process. Here are the steps to secure your aerial adventure:
- Research Tour Operators:
- South Coast Helicopters
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Adelaide Helicopters Tours
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Choose Your Package:
- The Ultimate Kangaroo Island Aerial Package
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Custom tours (if available)
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Contact the Operator:
- Via their official website
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By phone for direct inquiries
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Provide Required Information:
- Preferred date and time
- Number of passengers
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Any special requirements
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Confirm Booking:
- Review tour details and pricing
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Pay deposit or full amount as required
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Receive Confirmation:
- Booking confirmation email
- Tour itinerary and instructions
It’s advisable to book well in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability and potentially benefit from early booking discounts.
Kangaroo Island helicopter tours offer an unforgettable way to experience the island’s beauty and wildlife. From stunning aerial views to exclusive ground experiences, these tours provide a comprehensive and luxurious adventure for visitors seeking a unique perspective on one of Australia’s most captivating destinations.
References:
1. [https://southaustralia.com/products/adelaide/tour/adelaide-helicopters-tours/the-ultimate-kangaroo-island-aerial-package]
2. [https://southcoasthelicopters.com.au/23/the-ultimate-kangaroo-island-aerial-package]
3. [https://www.helilunch.com.au]