Exploring the volcanic wonders of Mount Aso is a breathtaking experience that combines stunning aerial views and immersive on-the-ground discovery. This private tour and helicopter excursion offers a unique opportunity to witness the majesty of one of Earth’s largest calderas, soaring over the iconic Five Peaks and Nakadake crater. With a focus on both natural beauty and local cuisine, the tour promises an unforgettable day of adventure, relaxation, and cultural appreciation – but there’s much more to uncover about this extraordinary volcanic landscape.
Key Points
- Enjoy a 6.5-hour private tour that includes a helicopter ride over Mount Aso’s volcanic caldera and guided exploration of the picturesque Five Peaks.
- Experience the serene Kusasenri grasslands and savor a lunch featuring premium Aso-raised beef and fresh dairy products.
- Choose from convenient pickup locations in Yatsushiro, Shin-Yatsushiro, or Kumamoto, with transportation provided in a private vehicle.
- The tour is not suitable for children under 2, pregnant women, individuals with heart or respiratory issues, and people over 95 years.
- Dress warmly and adhere to health and safety restrictions to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The "Volcanic Wonders: Private and Helicopter Tour to Mount Aso" offers a comprehensive 6.5-hour experience that showcases the stunning natural beauty of one of Earth’s largest volcanic calderas.
Priced from $396.46 per person, the tour includes a private helicopter ride over Mount Aso, a guided exploration of the Five Peaks, and free time to stroll through the serene Kusasenri grasslands.
With pickup and drop-off at three convenient locations, the tour provides unparalleled access to this volcanic wonder.
Guests can enjoy the included lunch featuring premium Aso-raised beef and fresh dairy products before their return.
Want to keep it personal? More private experiences we love in Aso
Itinerary and Transportation
The tour begins with pickup from one of three convenient locations – Kumamon Port Yatsushiro, Shin-Yatsushiro Station, or Kumamoto Station.
The 80-minute drive to Mount Aso allows guests to admire the scenic countryside. After a brief shopping stop, the highlight of the day begins – a helicopter tour over the volcanic caldera.
Guests then embark on a guided tour, exploring the Kusasenri grasslands and taking in the dramatic views of the Five Peaks of Aso.
Finally, there’s free time to wander and enjoy a local lunch featuring premium Aso-raised beef and fresh dairy products before the return to your starting point.
Experience Highlights
A helicopter ride over Mount Aso showcases one of Earth’s largest volcanic calderas, offering guests a breathtaking perspective of the volcanic landscape.
Soaring over the iconic Five Peaks, visitors can admire the stunning Nakadake crater, the most active volcano in the region.
After the aerial tour, guests can stroll through the serene Kusasenri grasslands, taking in the natural beauty and serenity of the area.
The experience is complemented by a delectable lunch featuring premium Aso-raised beef and fresh dairy products, providing a true taste of the local culinary delights.
Inclusions and Comfort
Along with the helicopter tour fare, the tour package includes admission fees for accessing the volcanic crater and grasslands. An English-speaking guide and driver accompany the group, providing comfortable private transportation. Pickup and drop-off are offered within a 15-minute drive from Shin-Yatsushiro Station.
Inclusions | Comfort |
---|---|
Helicopter tour | Private vehicle |
Admission fees | English-speaking guide |
Guide and driver | Hotel pickup/drop-off |
Guests are advised to dress warmly due to the cooler temperatures at higher altitudes. Smoking and bare feet are prohibited during the tour.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information and Restrictions
Although not suitable for children under 2, pregnant women, individuals with heart or respiratory issues, and people over 95 years, the tour offers an exhilarating experience for most guests.
Participants are advised to dress warmly, as temperatures can be cooler at higher altitudes. Smoking and going barefoot are prohibited.
Guests are encouraged to bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a camera, and sunscreen to make the most of the tour.
Certain health and safety restrictions are in place to ensure the well-being of all participants. Adhering to these guidelines will contribute to an enjoyable and memorable volcanic adventure.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Aso
Exploring the Volcanic Landscape
Soaring high above the dramatic landscape, the private helicopter tour offers guests a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the volcanic wonders of Mount Aso.
Passengers marvel at the sheer scale of the massive caldera, one of the largest in the world. The helicopter glides over the Five Peaks, with Nakadake’s active crater as the star attraction.
On the ground, visitors explore the Kusasenri grasslands, a scenic expanse within the volcanic basin.
Strolling through the lush meadow, guests soak in the tranquil atmosphere and snap photos of the stunning vistas surrounding them.
Savoring the Local Cuisine
After taking in the stunning volcanic landscapes from above, visitors are in for a true culinary treat.
The tour includes a lunch featuring premium Aso-raised beef and fresh dairy products. This local cuisine highlights the region’s agricultural heritage and high-quality ingredients.
Aso is renowned for its fertile grasslands, which provide ideal grazing conditions for the cattle. The tender, flavorful beef and creamy dairy items showcase the bountiful resources of this volcanic area.
Savoring these specialty dishes completes the immersive experience, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the gifts of the land during their private Aso adventure.
Preparing for Your Adventure
Preparing for your adventure to Mount Aso begins with ensuring you pack the right gear. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and dress in warm layers. Bring sun protection like sunscreen and sunglasses, and don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning volcanic landscapes.
Prohibited Items | Recommended Gear |
---|---|
Smoking | Warm Clothing |
Bare Feet | Comfortable Shoes |
– | Sunscreen |
– | Camera |
Given the cooler temperatures at higher altitudes, dressing appropriately is crucial for your comfort and enjoyment throughout the tour. With the right preparation, you’ll be well-equipped to fully learn about the volcanic wonders of Mount Aso.
FAQ
Is There an Option for a Private Helicopter Tour?
Yes, the tour offers a private helicopter ride over Mount Aso, showcasing the volcanic crater and surrounding landscape. This is one of the key highlights of the 6.5-hour excursion.
Can We Customize the Tour to Visit Specific Sites?
Yes, the tour can be customized to visit specific sites. The private nature of the tour allows flexibility to adjust the itinerary and focus on the traveler’s interests within the overall experience of the Mount Aso volcanic region.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for Larger Groups?
The tour company offers discounts for larger groups. They provide package deals for groups of 4 or more, with savings of up to 10% off the per-person rate. Inquire about group pricing when booking the tour.
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Helicopter Ride?
The minimum age requirement for the helicopter ride is 2 years old. Children under 2 are not permitted on the helicopter tour due to safety regulations and restrictions on the tour.
Are There Any Special Dietary Accommodations for the Lunch?
The tour doesn’t mention any special dietary accommodations for the lunch. However, it notes that the meal features premium Aso-raised beef and fresh dairy products, suggesting some flexibility to accommodate common dietary requirements like vegetarian or lactose-free options.
Sum Up
The "Volcanic Wonders: Private and Helicopter Tour" offers an unforgettable journey through Mount Aso‘s breathtaking volcanic landscape. Guests will soar above the majestic caldera, explore the serene Kusasenri grasslands, and savor a delicious lunch featuring the region’s premium beef. This immersive experience provides a unique opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring power and beauty of one of Earth’s largest volcanic wonders.
You can check if your dates are available here:Not for you? Here's more things to do in Aso we have recnetly reviewed
- 2 Best Guided Tours In Aso
- Enjoy a Walk, Lunch, and Tea Time at the 2000 Years Old Teno Farm Village.
- The Aso Caldera & WAGYU Lunch One Day Tour From Fukuoka
- Kyushu: Aso Volcano, Aso Shrine, Kurokawa Onsen 1-Day Tour
- Experience a Starry Sky and Drinks in Millennium Grassland
- Aka Beef Barbecue to Enjoy in the Superb View of Aso
- Experience Zen Meditation or Sutra Copying, and Enjoy Vegetarian Food With Monk
- View the Sunrise and Sea of Clouds Over the Aso Caldera
- 3-Day Experience to Immerse in the Nature of Aso
- Valley of the Wind Experience Hiking With Lunch
- Walking Through the Aso Caldera, Historical Walk Along the Bungo Kaido
- Aso Caldera and Farm Experience Tour