What You Need to Know: On the mainland we book ProFlight Helicopters: scenic flights over Kilimanjaro, Meru and the Ngorongoro highlands cost US$2,900 per flying hour for the helicopter (up to 5 passengers, or 3 over Kilimanjaro), and a helicopter descent from Kilimanjaro costs US$2,700 per flight. On Zanzibar, helicopter transfers from the airport to resorts start from US$720 per helicopter.
Mainland Flights with ProFlight Helicopters
Our mainland flights are operated by ProFlight Helicopters, which also flies rescue and evacuation missions on Kilimanjaro. Flights start from Moshi; if you are collected or dropped elsewhere, a positioning charge is added.
| Service | Price (per helicopter) | Passengers |
|---|---|---|
| Scenic flight over Kilimanjaro, Meru or the Ngorongoro highlands | US$2,900 per flying hour | Up to 5 (up to 3 over Kilimanjaro, because of the altitude) |
| Kilimanjaro descent after the summit | US$2,700 per flight | Up to 2 from Kibo or Barafu camps, up to 4 from lower camps |
| Transfers between Arusha, the parks and the coast | Quoted by route | Up to 5 |
Flying Over Kilimanjaro
A Kilimanjaro scenic flight climbs past the forest and moorland to the summit glaciers and the crater, with views of Mawenzi and, on clear days, Mount Meru. Morning is best, before the clouds build. Because of the altitude the helicopter carries at most 3 passengers.
The descent flight is for climbers who want to skip the long walk down after the summit: from Kibo or Barafu camps the helicopter takes up to 2 people, from lower camps up to 4. Medical evacuation is separate: it is arranged by the park and your guide in an emergency and should be covered by your travel insurance.
Zanzibar Helicopter Transfers and Scenic Flights
On Zanzibar, helicopters fly between the airport and private landing sites at many resorts, and to Pemba and Dar es Salaam. Prices are per helicopter, one way, for up to 4 passengers from June to December 2026:
| Flight from Zanzibar Airport to | June–December 2026 (up to 4 passengers) |
|---|---|
| Kiwengwa, Pongwe, Uora and Bawe Island | US$720 |
| Pingwe, Dongwe, Matemwe and Kijambani | US$900 |
| Paje, Jambiani, Nungwi, Kendwa and Kilindi | US$1,080 |
| Pemba: Fundu Lagoon | US$2,340 |
| Pemba: north coast resorts | US$3,060 |
| Dar es Salaam | US$2,340 |
| Extra scenic time added to a transfer | 10 minutes US$360; 20 minutes US$630 |
- Prices are per helicopter, not per person, one way
- Landing fees are extra: US$40 per person at Zanzibar Airport and US$65 per person at Dar es Salaam Airport
- Luggage: up to 15 kg per person in soft bags, about 50 × 25 × 30 cm; hard cases and wheeled suitcases don't fit, but extra luggage can follow by road
- Fast-track arrival service at Zanzibar Airport on request
- From January to May, larger 5–6 seat helicopters fly, at higher rates: from US$1,160 to the closest resorts and US$1,740 to Paje or Nungwi
Helicopter Safety and Weather
- Flights depend on the weather; if it is unsafe, the pilot decides, and we rebook the flight or agree an alternative with you
- Weight limits matter: we ask for each passenger's weight when you book
- Wear soft-soled shoes and dark clothing (for fewer reflections on the windows if you photograph)
- Pack light, in soft bags
Ideas for Helicopter Trips in Tanzania
- A sunrise flight over Kilimanjaro on a rest day after your climb
- Skip the long walk down: the Kilimanjaro descent flight from Kibo or Barafu
- Fly straight from Zanzibar Airport to your beach resort
- Add 10 or 20 minutes of scenic flying to a Zanzibar transfer, over reefs and sandbanks
See also our Serengeti balloon flights.
Who Are Helicopter Flights For?
Helicopter flights suit travelers who want a special experience: couples celebrating, photographers wanting aerial views, climbers who have finished Kilimanjaro and want to see it from above, and anyone short of time on Zanzibar who would rather fly to the beach than spend an hour on the road.
Prices are per helicopter, so they work out best for small groups sharing the flight. Tell us your group size and plans, and we suggest the right flight.
How to Book a Helicopter Flight
Helicopter flights depend on availability and weather, so book early, especially for Kilimanjaro scenic flights in the dry season. We confirm the time, the meeting point and the weight details with you before the flight.
Helicopter Rescue on Kilimanjaro
ProFlight Helicopters also flies rescue missions on Kilimanjaro. In an emergency, your guide coordinates with the park and the rescue team, and climbers are flown from the higher camps to hospital when the weather allows. Rescue costs should be covered by your travel insurance, which must include high-altitude trekking and evacuation.
Common Questions About Helicopter Tours in Tanzania
How much does a helicopter flight over Kilimanjaro cost?
US$2,900 per flying hour for the helicopter, with up to 3 passengers over Kilimanjaro.
Can I fly down from Kilimanjaro after the summit?
Yes, from Kibo or Barafu camps, for US$2,700 per flight with up to 2 passengers.
Who operates the flights?
On the mainland, ProFlight Helicopters, which also flies rescues on Kilimanjaro.
How much is a helicopter transfer on Zanzibar?
From US$720 per helicopter to east-coast resorts, and US$1,080 to Paje, Jambiani, Nungwi or Kendwa, plus landing fees.
Can I take photos through the helicopter windows?
Yes. Wear dark clothing to reduce reflections, and keep your camera strap secure.
How many people fit in the helicopter?
Up to 5 on mainland scenic flights (3 over Kilimanjaro), and up to 4 on Zanzibar transfers from June to December 2026.
How long is a Kilimanjaro scenic flight?
Usually about an hour, billed per flying hour.
Can I book a helicopter flight as a gift?
Yes. Tell us the date and group, and we arrange the flight and the details.
What should I wear on a helicopter flight?
Comfortable clothes, closed shoes and dark colors to reduce window reflections.
The Bottom Line
A helicopter flight is the highlight many guests remember most: Kilimanjaro's glaciers, or a flight straight to your Zanzibar beach. Book early for July to October.
Send us your dates and what you need through the booking form, on WhatsApp +255 678 992 599 or by email to jaynevytours@gmail.com. Our team works 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and replies with a written quotation.