When it comes to visiting the world’s most beautiful places, a scenic view from above might just be the experience you are looking for. From stunning aerial views of glacier parks to admiring the sunset hues on dazzling skyscrapers, here are our picks for the best places to tour by helicopter.

1. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is the darling of any tourist’s bucket list. Composed of thousands of jaw-dropping reefs and islands, the world’s largest coral reef system deserves to be viewed in all its glistening turquoise glory.

Nautilus Aviation offers several flightseeing tour packages of the Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef region, from 30-minute scenic flights to half-day excursions on one of the islands. Select a tour package or tailor one to your liking by chartering a private helicopter tour.

2. Iceland’s National Parks

It’s the land of ice and fire—home of the descendants of Vikings, the dwelling place of volcanoes, hot springs, fjords, geysers, and waterfalls. All laid out in one of the world’s most extraordinary landscapes, Iceland’s so wonderful that it is worth exploring from above.

Book a helicopter tour from Reykjavik Domestic Airport to get on a glacier tour or opt for a scenic flight of the Glymur Waterfall, the second-tallest waterfall in the country.

3. Grand Canyon National Park, USA

The Grand Canyon is the national park of all national parks. Formed over centuries through the planet reshaping itself, with history so ancient that if these walls could talk, they would blow our minds.

You can take a helicopter ride from Las Vegas with Maverick Helicopters. There are different packages and excursions to choose from. Some take you over the Grand Canyon West, while others take you through the South Rim for a full view of the Grand Canyon, or include a landing in the park where you can walk on the Skywalk (a glass-bottom observation deck).

4. Alaska’s Glaciers

Few places compare to the vast beauty and remote wilderness of Alaska. Surrounded by stunning national parks, mountain terrains, glacier valleys, and abundant wildlife, a flightseeing tour here truly is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Alpine Air Alaska takes you on a breathtaking ride over Girdwood Valley, showing you the gorgeous backcountry views before touching down on a glacier so you can explore the valleys and scenic destinations in the region. Plan a trip with the pilot who will guide you to all the best spots for a memorable journey.

5. New York City, USA

Known as one of the greatest cities in the world, New York City’s allure is undeniable. Acting as the backdrop to a number of iconic films and the subject of many songs, every street seems to sing, “Welcome to New York. It’s been waiting for you”. The Big Apple certainly has a way with people.

Book a short 15 to 30-minute flight over Manhattan and take in views of the downtown skyline. See Lady Liberty like you’ve never seen her before, as well as the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, and other notable sites.

6. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

A city of the future, filled with modern architecture, luxury hotels, malls, and impressive museums. The city of Dubai creates a strong contrast to its desert surroundings, making it a travel destination like no other.

See engineering marvels from the skies when you book a helicopter ride over the city. Experience dazzling views of the Palm Jumeirah and the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Spot famous sites and architectural landmarks like Caesars Bluewaters Dubai, the Ain Dubai, the Burj Al Arab and more.

7. Antarctica

There are some experiences that you only dream of having. Taking a flight over Antarctica feels like one of those experiences. With temperatures from -10ºC to as low as -80ºC in the winter, there’s a reason Antarctica is known as the final frontier.

Yet, opportunities like taking a helicopter tour with Swoop Antarctica allow you to witness the sheer magnificence of the Southernmost continent of the globe. Made up of mostly glaciers, ice shelves, icebergs, and thick blankets of snow, some places are only accessible by air. The excursions here are very much season and weather dependent, so you will need to plan ahead.