Monday, 29 October 2012

Seeing All of Rio de Janeiro by Helicopter

By Kimberly Murgatroyd


Rio de Janeiro has one of the most unique and beautiful topographies in the world. Just off the sea you'll find large, dark, oblong-shaped rocks surrounded by the lush, tropical green forests. Also, don't forget the miles of soft, sandy coastline boasting some of the most famous beaches in the world: Ipanema, Leblon and of course, Copacabana.

A helicopter ride is one of the most popular ways of being able to fully see the beauty that Rio has to offer. Helisight is the most recommended company that can take you on a helicopter ride over Rio. Their helicopter services per person are from R$150 (USD $60) to R$875 (USD $365), accepting both cash and credit cards, American Express included. Lagoa and Sugar Loaf are the two areas where you can find the company's heliports. We choose to recommend using the heliport in Lagoa if you're the kind who prefers to be in a much quieter place and also getting a glimpse of the famous Christ the Redeemer. Your choice of peace and quiet is found in Lagoa since it's traffic-free and no waiting in lines too. We generally don't recommend using their heliport in Sugar Loaf but if you actually like being in the midst of some bustle, then this is where you should head.

Rob and I travelled through Lagoa heliport, down to Ipanema, around the famous beach of Copacabana and ending the trip passing twice the very well known as the new wonder of the world, Christ the Redeemer. I could always say that this is one of the most unforgettable times we had in Rio.

Here are a few tips for your helicopter trip:

#1: All flights are for a minimum of 3 people. If you can't find anyone to go with you then you can wait 30 minutes for them to sell the remaining seats. If they cannot sell the remaining seats then you can fly without paying for those seats yourself. If you want a private helicopter and are unwilling to wait the 30 minutes, then you must pay for the third seat.

2. There is no limit as to how many photos and videos you're going to take so get those cameras and video cameras ready.

3. Low hanging clouds are common in Rio therefore it's better to choose the day where there are only clear skies ahead. Complete visibility is important for you to get the most out of your helicopter tour especially if you're circling around Christ the Redeemer.

4. Make sure that Christ the Redeemer is included in whichever package you choose if you want to experience flying so close that you'll have this amazing feeling of actually being able to reach and touch this infamous statue.

If you still prefer to fly from Sugar Loaf Heliport, here are some tips:

1. As early as you can, get yourself in line in order to be one of the first few passengers to take the cable car that is going to take you to the first rock station.

2. Helicopter rides and cable car rides are to be paid separately. Tickets for the cable car are at $20.00

3. Be prepared of the traffic you will encounter going to and coming from Sugar Loaf. It is advised to provide yourself enough extra time on your itinerary.




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