Matterhorn helicopter tour – longest scenic flight from Bern over the Swiss Alps

The Matterhorn helicopter tour offers a breathtaking 1 hour and 15 minutes of flight time, making it one of the longest scenic helicopter experiences available over the Swiss Alps. Starting from Bern, this private tour is priced at $6,584.70 per group of up to 4 people, providing an exclusive adventure for those eager to see the iconic mountains from a unique perspective. With most bookings made about 100 days in advance, it’s clear this experience attracts serious enthusiasts of alpine scenery and helicopter travel.

This tour combines spectacular views of the Matterhorn, glaciers, lakes, and Swiss mountain villages, all from the comfort of a helicopter equipped with headsets for clear commentary. While the price might be on the higher side, the private setting and extensive flight duration make it stand out as a premium experience. It’s especially suitable for travelers looking for an unforgettable, personalized aerial tour that covers more ground than shorter flights.

Key Points

• Long, private helicopter tour from Bern, lasting 1 hour 15 minutes
• Up to 4 guests per booking, with a cost of $6,584.70 for the group
• Spectacular views of the Matterhorn, glaciers, lakes, and Swiss villages
• Educational commentary about the region provided via headsets
• Bookings are typically made approximately 100 days in advance
• Weather-dependent; cancellations are possible in poor conditions

Starting Point and Booking Details in Bern

The tour begins at Flugplatzstrasse 9, 3123 Belp, Switzerland. Travelers meet here for check-in, where the helicopter awaits to take you on this spectacular journey. The activity ends back at the same location, making the logistics straightforward. Since the experience is private, only your group rides together, ensuring a personalized adventure.

Booking this tour requires some planning, as it is most often booked about 100 days ahead. The total weight per passenger is 276 lbs (125 kg), and the minimum age to participate is 6 years old, making it accessible for families with children. The tour does not include amenities like WiFi, snacks, or restrooms onboard, so travelers should prepare accordingly.

Exploring the Swiss Alps from the Sky

This helicopter flight from Bern delivers an unparalleled panoramic view of the Swiss Alps, with the Matterhorn as the central highlight. Seen from the air in its triangular shape, the mountain is a truly majestic sight and looks even more impressive when viewed from the cockpit, where all corners of this iconic peak can be appreciated.

Flying between snow-capped peaks, the tour flies over glaciers, allowing you to observe the ice walls and the changing size of the largest glacier in Switzerland. The colors of the ice are particularly striking from above, offering a vivid contrast against the white snow and blue water. This part of the flight also showcases mountain huts like the Bluemlisalhuette, situated at over 2,840 meters altitude, giving insight into the region’s hiking culture.

Unique Views of Glaciers and Mountain Huts

One of the most impressive elements of this scenic flight is the opportunity to see glaciers up close. The flight over the largest glacier in Switzerland reveals the spectacular ice walls and their color variations. Observing the glacier’s melting patterns from the air provides a glimpse into how climate change is affecting these massive ice formations.

Plus, from the cockpit, you’ll see mountain huts like the Bluemlisalhuette, visible as tiny structures amid the snow and rock, illustrating the region’s alpine lifestyle. These details help to enrich the experience beyond just the visual spectacle, providing context about the region’s history and local culture.

The Iconic Matterhorn from Every Angle

The Matterhorn is the star of this flight, and the tour allows for circle-around views of this iconic peak. Its triangular shape is especially striking when seen from above, with all corners visible in the helicopter’s sweeping view. The pilot provides commentary about the mountain’s geological formation and historical significance, adding educational value to the adventure.

Flying around the Breithorn also offers a different perspective on the eternal ice lying adjacent to the summit. This part of the flight highlights the mountain’s size and grandeur, making it clear why it’s one of Europe’s highest and most recognizable peaks.

Lakes and Alpine Waterways Seen from the Air

This tour doesn’t only focus on mountains; it also offers spectacular views of lakes, with the Oeschinensee standing out. Its turquoise-blue waters shine vividly against the mountain backdrop, offering one of the most visually captivating sights on the flight. The play of colors in the water is unique to the Bernese Oberland region.

Flying over Lake Thun, travelers see the glacier-fed waters with their deep, vibrant hues. The steep valley walls surrounding the lake are also visible from the sky, showcasing the dramatic landscape shaped by glaciers and tectonic forces over millennia.

Flying Over Sion and the Rhone Valley

As the helicopter traverses the region, it passes over Sion, the capital of Valais canton. From the air, the densely built houses along the valley floor appear as a patchwork of structures, demonstrating how communities are built on steep slopes. The long valley is visually punctuated by the Rhone river, flowing through the steep walls, forming a natural corridor that has supported settlement for centuries.

This view helps put into perspective the human element amid the vast natural scenery, providing a full sense of the Swiss landscape’s diversity.

The Route Over the Bernese Oberland and Beyond

The flight begins with a scenic traverse over the first Alpine chain, where you see white-capped mountains and snow fields stretching into the distance. The tour then guides the helicopter toward Lake Thun, offering insights into its glacier-fed waters and the surrounding peaks.

As the journey continues, the pilot guides you over Sion, the alpine villages, and the glacial lakes, providing commentary on each region’s significance. The tour’s extensive coverage allows for an understanding of how interconnected these landscapes are, from glaciers to mountain peaks and rivers.

The Breithorn and Its Eternal Ice

Flying past the Breithorn, the tour emphasizes the mountain’s impressive size and the permanent ice near the summit. These icy areas provide a vivid demonstration of the perpetual cold that sustains glaciers and snowfields throughout the year. Observing this part of the flight offers a striking contrast to the lush valleys and lakes below.

The size of Breithorn and its permanent ice are both remarkable sights that underscore the enduring power of the Swiss Alps’ natural features.

Included Amenities and What You Need to Know

All participants receive headsets to hear the pilot’s commentary clearly, ensuring they don’t miss any details about the scenery or region. The tour includes all fees and taxes, and the helicopter is air-conditioned for comfort during the flight.

While WiFi, toilets, and snacks are not provided onboard, the experience’s exclusive nature and extensive flight time compensate for these amenities. Service animals are allowed, and the tour is accessible for most travelers aged 6 and above. It’s worth noting that the maximum weight per person is 125 kg (275 lbs).

The Experience of a Private Helicopter Tour

This private tour guarantees a personalized experience, with only your group onboard. The professional crew and knowledgeable pilot ensure a smooth, informative, and safe flight. The friendly communication and expertise of the pilot, as highlighted in reviews, contribute heavily to making this a memorable adventure.

The souvenir from FunFlights adds a nice touch, giving you a keepsake of this once-in-a-lifetime journey.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexibility if weather conditions threaten to disrupt the experience. Since the flight is weather-dependent, poor weather will result in rescheduling or a full refund, ensuring peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This helicopter flight is ideal for those seeking an intimate, high-end experience of the Swiss Alps, with a focus on sea-to-sky views of the Matterhorn, glaciers, and lakes. It suits families, couples, or small groups willing to invest in a memorable, private adventure. It’s especially suited for those comfortable with helicopter travel and interested in geographical, scenic, and cultural insights.

The Matterhorn helicopter tour from Bern delivers an exceptional aerial perspective of the Swiss Alps, covering more scenery than shorter flights through its long duration and extensive route. The chance to circle the Matterhorn, fly over glaciers, lakes, and historic villages makes this a comprehensive journey through some of Switzerland’s most stunning landscapes.

While the price point reflects the private and premium nature of this experience, the quality of views, the expert commentary, and the personalized service justify the investment for those seeking a luxury scenic adventure. It’s a must-do for anyone eager to see Switzerland’s mountain majesty from the sky with a high degree of comfort and exclusivity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 6 and above can participate, provided they meet the weight limit of 125 kg.

What should I wear or bring?
Since the helicopter is air-conditioned and the flight is outdoor, comfortable clothing and sunglasses are recommended. No onboard snacks or drinks are included, so plan accordingly.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent. If weather conditions prevent flying, the tour is rescheduled or fully refunded.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 100 days ahead, but early reservation is encouraged due to limited availability and high demand.