Big Game Heli is a Hoedspruit-based helicopter service flying scenic trips, private charters and wildlife conservation work across the Lowveld, the Greater Kruger National Park and the Blyde River Canyon. We fly a Robinson R44 from Hoedspruit Civil Airfield, supporting conservation teams, private reserves, lodges and private clients with reliable helicopter access into remote and sensitive areas.
Our pilot, Gerry McDonald, has been flying since 2004, after decades working in conservation and game capture on the ground. That mix is rare. He reads the bush and the animals from the air because he has done the work beneath it. For larger conservation operations we often fly as a team with a fixed-wing spotter pilot, Gerry's twin brother, Bruce McDonald, covering far more ground for safer, calmer game capture and counts. Gerry's conservation flying is featured in the Rhino Man film.
Our services include conservation helicopter support, wildlife management and game capture, scenic helicopter flights and private charters and transfers. We work closely with conservation organisations, game reserves and local response groups including Hoedspruit Farm Watch, supporting wildlife protection, aerial monitoring and anti-poaching across the region.
Whether you are after a scenic flight over the Blyde River Canyon or aerial support for your reserve, get in touch. Call or WhatsApp +27 79 660 2475.
★★★★★"Fantastic experience with Big Game Heli. Everything was professional and well organised, and the views were absolutely spectacular. Our pilot Gerry was friendly, knowledgeable and so smooth behind the controls that we could simply relax and take in the scenery. A truly memorable experience."- Muriel Beugelink
★★★★★"One of the best experiences of my life. The flight over the canyon and wildlife surpassed my expectations, and Gerry is one of a kind, an awesome human being."- Nico Hintz
★★★★★"The most beautiful experience ever in South Africa. Spectacular views above the canyons, waterfalls, the river and especially above Kruger. Gerry is a fantastic person and pilot. We will definitely come back."- Martin Weststrate
★★★★★"Best experience ever. If you're even considering this, just book it. A true once-in-a-lifetime experience."- Dean
Our helicopter services are comprised of (but not limited to):
Anti-Poaching
Aerial anti-poaching patrols and rapid response helicopter support helping protect wildlife across Hoedspruit and surrounding reserves.
Conservation Services
Professional aerial support for wildlife darting, collaring and conservation operations, provided by helicopter in Hoedspruit and Limpopo.
Scenic Flips
Private scenic helicopter flights offering unforgettable aerial views of Hoedspruit, wildlife reserves and the Lowveld landscape.
Special Events
Private helicopter flights for special events, including proposals, weddings, scenic picnics and exclusive experiences across Hoedspruit and Limpopo.
Game Capture
Experienced helicopter support for safe and efficient wildlife capture and relocation in Hoedspruit and conservation areas across Limpopo.
Essential Services
Reliable helicopter support for emergency response, aerial inspections and specialised essential services across Hoedspruit and Limpopo.
Aerial Photography
Professional aerial photography services capturing wildlife, lodges and landscapes with helicopter access across Hoedspruit and Limpopo.
Charters & Transfers
Private helicopter charter and transfer flights connecting Hoedspruit with lodges, reserves and destinations across the greater Limpopo region.
Game Census Counts
Accurate aerial wildlife census counts with instant detailed reporting, conducted by helicopter in Hoedspruit and surrounding reserves.