If you love the rush of ziplining and have an eye for stunning aerial shots, you're in luck. Around the world, a handful of ziplines double as natural camera platforms, giving you elevated perspectives that would otherwise require a helicopter or a costly drone permit. Below are some of the most photogenic ziplining experiences, each paired with practical tips for capturing the perfect shot---whether you're hanging from a harness or flying a drone overhead.
Maui, Hawaii -- Haleakalā Zipline Adventure
Why It Works for Photographers
- Volcanic Landscape: The line cuts across old lava fields, offering dramatic textures and a backdrop of the island's iconic silhouette.
- Sunrise Access: Early flights coincide with the first light hitting Haleakalā's crater rim, producing a warm, gradient sky that's perfect for silhouettes.
Photo & Drone Tips
| Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Camera Gear | Use a wide‑angle lens (16‑35mm on full‑frame) to capture the sweeping terrain. A lightweight tripod with a quick‑release plate can be clipped to the harness for stability. |
| Drone Timing | Hawaiian State Parks often restrict drone use within 5 mi of the crater. Fly after the zipline session, from a designated launch zone outside the park, and keep the line of sight on your UAV at all times. |
| Settings | Shoot RAW, ISO 100‑200, f/8‑f/11 for depth of field. For sunrise, bracket exposures (+/- 2 EV) to blend later. |
Safety Note
Check the park's drone policy in advance. If drones are prohibited, focus on handheld or harness‑mounted shots and bring a gimbal for smooth video.
Canton, Ontario, Canada -- The Zip Tourist Mega‑Zipper
Why It Works for Photographers
- Forest Canopy & Lake Views: A 450‑meter zipline arches over the Lake St. Clair and dense maple forest, providing both water‑reflective and green‑rich compositions.
- Fall Colours: Late September to early October turns the canopy into a tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows---ideal for vibrant, Instagram‑ready images.
Photo & Drone Tips
| Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Camera Gear | Polarizing filter to manage glare from the lake and enhance foliage saturation. |
| Drone Usage | Drone activity is allowed in the surrounding park, but not directly over the line. Launch from a clear clearing 200 m away, and keep altitude below 120 m to stay within the "visual line of sight" range. |
| Creative Angles | Shoot from the zipline looking downward to capture the curvature of the lake. For drones, try a low‑fly pass parallel to the line for a "ribbon" effect. |
Safety Note
Carry a spare battery in a waterproof case---as the forest can be damp, you'll thank yourself when the temperature drops.
Costa Rica -- Monteverde Cloud Forest Canopy Tour
Why It Works for Photographers
- Mist‑Enshrouded Canopy: The ultra‑long (1,200 m) zipline glides through cloud‑kissed treetops, delivering ethereal light shafts.
- Wildlife Opportunities: Hummingbirds, butterflies, and even howler monkeys can appear just meters away, adding life to your frames.
Photo & Drone Tips
| Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Camera Gear | Fast lens (f/2.8 or wider) to capture low‑light mist scenes. Bring a waterproof rain cover for both camera and zipline harness. |
| Drone Use | Drone flights are restricted in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Instead, bring a foldable action camera (e.g., GoPro) with a suction mount to record from the line itself. |
| Timing | Mid‑morning (9--11 am) when the sun pierces the canopy, creating dramatic spotlights. |
Safety Note
The mist can make harnesses slippery---dry off any water as soon as you finish a run. Keep your equipment in sealed bags until you're ready to shoot.
Petra, Jordan -- Al Khubeyz Zipline
Why It Works for Photographers
- Ancient Architecture Meets Adventure: The line runs over the Wadi al‑S'ayeh with Petra's rose‑colored cliffs in the background---a blend of history and adrenaline.
- Golden Hour Magic: The sandstone glows brilliantly at sunrise and sunset, providing a natural filter for your images.
Photo & Drone Tips
| Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Camera Gear | Bring a telephoto lens (70‑200mm) to isolate rock formations from the zipline, and a warm filter (ND8) for the intense midday sun. |
| Drone Policy | Drones are prohibited in the Petra Archaeological Park. If you must fly, obtain a special permit from the Jordanian Civil Aviation Authority and stay outside the UNESCO zone. |
| Composition | Frame the line as a leading line that draws the eye toward the Treasury or the Siq. Capture the moment the zipline crosses a natural arch for high impact. |
Safety Note
Desert heat can be brutal. Hydrate constantly and protect your equipment from sand---use lens hoods and sealed camera bags.
South Island, New Zealand -- Queenstown Skyline Luge & Zip
Why It Works for Photographers
- Alpine Panorama: Snow‑capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and rugged cliffs stretch across the horizon. The zipline hugs the ridge for unobstructed 180° views.
- Seasonal Versatility: Summer brings vivid greens; winter offers pristine white contrasts.
Photo & Drone Tips
| Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Camera Gear | A sturdy, weather‑sealed mirrorless body (e.g., Sony A7 IV) with a 24‑70mm zoom---versatile for wide landscapes and tighter details. |
| Drone Options | New Zealand's Civil Aviation Authority allows drones up to 120 m AGL in many public areas. Fly from the Queenstown Hill launch site (outside the zipline corridor) and capture the line as a bright thread weaving through the scenery. |
| Exposure | Use HDR bracketing to balance the bright sky with shadowed mountains. A circular polarizer will reduce glare off the lake. |
Safety Note
Wind can be unpredictable near the ridge. Check the local forecast and secure any loose gear before boarding the zipline.
General Tips for Aerial Photography on Ziplines
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Secure Your Gear:
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Mind the Rules:
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Plan for Light:
- The best natural lighting occurs 30‑45 minutes after sunrise or before sunset (the "golden hour").
- Overcast days provide soft, even light---great for capturing texture without harsh shadows.
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Post‑Processing Secrets:
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Backup, Backup, Backup:
Closing Thoughts
Combining the thrill of ziplining with aerial photography (and, where allowed, drone work) opens a rare window onto some of the planet's most breathtaking vistas. Whether you're chasing the misty clouds over Costa Rica's canopy or the rugged cliffs of Petra, the key is pre‑planning ---know the regulations, prepare your gear, and respect the environment. With the right approach, you'll walk away not only with an adrenaline rush but also with a portfolio of images that truly soar.
Happy flying---and happy shooting!