— Adventure Tours
Montgomery Reef & Horizontal Falls Highlights from Derby: A True Bucket-List Experience
Get ready for an adventure that will take your breath away! Departing from Derby, this exciting helicopter journey showcases two of the Kimberley’s most spectacular natural wonders. Horizontal Falls and Montgomery Reef! Watch as the ocean rushes through ancient rock gorges creating waterfalls that flow sideways, then witness an entire reef rise from the sea as the tide drops. With sweeping views of rugged ranges, shimmering mudflats, and vibrant turquoise waters, this is the Kimberley as few ever get to see it, wild, powerful, and utterly unforgettable.
Departure Times and Tides: This flight is carefully scheduled around the tides to ensure the best possible experience of Horizontal Falls. Once your booking is received, we will confirm the exact departure time based on tide conditions and send you an updated confirmation. This tour does not operate during neap tides.
Please note: This is a flyover tour only. There is no landing at the falls.
Maximum single seat weight limit: 136kg
Some of the imagery used on this page is courtesy of Tourism Western Australia.
Tour Details
Departure Location: Derby (or Broome)
Helicopter Flight Time: 150-minutes
Total Tour Duration: 150-minutes
Departure Time(s): Varies based on tides (between 6am and 3pm)
Price: $2,224 per person (includes fuel surcharge)
What You’ll See from the Air:
As the helicopter ascends, the vast and intricate Derby mudflats unfold beneath you, shaped by some of the largest tidal movements in the world… up to 14 metres! Keep an eye out for saltwater crocodiles sunbaking in the shallows below.
Soar across the Kimbolton and McLarty Ranges, where rich ochres and deep reds reveal the ancient geological story of this timeless land. Continue toward the turquoise waters of Talbot Bay, home to the world-famous Horizontal Falls. Here, powerful ocean tides surge through narrow rock gorges, creating a waterfall that appears to flow sideways, a phenomenon described by Sir David Attenborough as “one of the greatest natural wonders of the world.”
From Talbot Bay, follow the remote Kimberley coastline, a stretch of untouched wilderness dotted with secluded coves, pristine beaches, and dramatic cliffs. The journey crescendos as you approach Montgomery Reef, a living reef system that rises spectacularly from the ocean as the tide drops. Watch as cascading waterfalls stream off its surface, revealing vibrant marine life such as turtles, rays, and reef sharks below.
After taking in these breathtaking views, you’ll return to Derby, reflecting on a once-in-a-lifetime experience of nature’s power and beauty.
Tour Highlights
• 150-minute scenic helicopter flight from Derby over Horizontal Falls & Montgomery Reef
• Iconic aerial views of two of the Kimberley’s greatest natural wonders
• Fly over Derby mudflats, Talbot Bay, and the McLarty & Kimbolton Ranges
• Live in-flight commentary from an experienced local pilot
• Panoramic photo opportunities of tidal flats, ranges, and remote Kimberley wilderness
• Every passenger guaranteed a window seat for the best possible views
Travelling solo?
While our tours do require a minimum of two paying passengers to book, we often have available seats on already scheduled flights! We know it can be tricky to lock in experiences as a solo traveller, so we’re here to help. Call us on 1300 405 545 or email tours@frontierhelicopters.com.au to check current availability for single passengers. If we can’t find a suitable tour to book you on, we will add you to a waitlist. Please note: all bookings are subject to weight limits.
How long is the tour?
This experience lasts 150-minutes.
Where do we depart from?
This tour departs from Derby Airport, Hangar 5. You’ll receive exact details in your confirmation email. Please note that we are unable to provide a pick up and drop off service in Derby.
What’s included?
- 150-minute scenic helicopter flight
In-flight commentary from your experienced pilot
Headsets for clear two-way communication
Safety briefing before departure
Window seats for every passenger
How much does it cost?
This Derby helicopter tour is: $2,224 per person (includes fuel surcharge)
Can I book if I’m a solo traveller?
Yes! While we require a minimum of 2 passengers to operate the tour, solo travellers can sometimes join existing bookings. Contact us at 1300 405 545 or tours@frontierhelicopters.com.au to check availability.
What should I wear or bring?
- Wear comfortable clothing
- Sunglasses and/or cap that will fit under a headset
Is the tour suitable for children?
Please contact us directly if you have children that you would like to book on this flight.
Will I hear the pilot during the flight?
Yes, all passengers wear headsets so you can clearly hear the pilot’s commentary throughout the flight.
What if my preferred date is unavailable?
Contact us on 1300 405 545 or email us at tours@frontierhelicopters.com.au and we’ll do our best to accommodate or place you on a waitlist.
Are there weight restrictions?
Yes, the maximum single passenger weight: 136kg. All bookings are subject to weight and balance/combined limits.