While they might be shrouded in controversy, there is no denying that drones are a technological marvel. One of the most amazing things about these remote-controlled devices is their ability to reach incredible heights and take images of previously unreachable locations. From mind-boggling bird’s-eye views to death-defying heights, here are some of the most impressive drone images that have been taken in recent memory.
Attack of the Giant Bunny
Some drones capture the most bizarre images from above. Take this image, for example. Whoever was operating this drone was bewildered to see a giant pink bunny lying motionless on a mountainside. It was right next to his house.
However, he soon learned that a Viennese art group had created the bunny as part of an art project. While it was designed to shock hikers who were passing through, it was also intended as a spot for them to relax midway through their adventures.
Aquatic Time Machine
Historians are often fascinated by what they can find from shipwrecks. They usually provide plenty of valuable information about the time in which the ship was sunk or abandoned. This shipwreck ended up in the Philippines, specifically in the Palawan province of Coron.
The ship was used during World War II, and it seems fitting that it would end up in this place. More shipwrecks can be found in this place, which many believe is one of the most visually pleasing locations in the world.
The Whampoa From Above
We would forgive you if you actually thought that an abandoned ship had been left in the middle of this busy cityscape. You might be wondering: “How did this ship get there, and why was it left there?” It turns out, though, that it only looks like a ship.
The Whampoa is actually a popular shopping center in the heart of Hong Kong that many people enjoy going to for a number of reasons. There is no denying that drone images from above provide a truly remarkable sight.
Go Away!
While many of these images show the world’s diverse beauty from above, this one simply shows how annoying and invasive drones can be to us humans. This young lady was sunbathing on the roof of her building when, all of a sudden, she noticed a drone hovering above her.
She quickly grabbed her broom and chased the drone, yelling expletives as it flew away. Plenty of people are concerned with how intrusive drones can be in our everyday lives.
What a Place to Propose!
Out of all of the things that have been caught on a drone, this has to be the cutest thing, right? When someone sent their drone over a range of mountains, they discovered that a couple were on the edge of one of the cliffs.
Lo and behold, the drone caught the perfect moment when the guy got down on one knee and asked for his partner’s hand in marriage. We sincerely hope that the person was able to share the footage with these new fiances…
Now You Zee Them…
When this drone image originally surfaced online, people were scratching their heads at what they were seeing. For some, it took a few minutes to realize that the photo was taken from above as the shadows played tricks on people’s eyes.
Obviously, if you focus a bit more on the details, you can see that a drone is hovering over a group of zebras. You could say that this is a perfectly natural optical illusion. But once you do see the zebras, you can’t unsee them.
A Whale of a Time
The world’s oceans are simply full of wonders. With such a diverse range of marine life all around the globe, there is always some majestic creature to encounter. This swimmer got incredibly close to a humpback whale, which can easily grow up to 52 feet long.
Moreover, they can live up to 50 years. This drone image clearly shows how big the whale is in comparison to its human neighbor. While the snorkeler is in absolute awe, he keeps his distance just to stay safe.
The Grand Belvedere Hotel
Believe it or not, but the Belvedere Hotel of the Swiss Alps was once one of the famous locations in a James Bond movie. That’s right, Sean Connery graced this cute hotel for the classic Goldfinger. It appears that the hotel is located in the middle of nowhere.
Specifically, though, it was built on what is known today as the Furka Pass, a windy road with tons of bends. The hotel certainly earned its title, “The Jewel in the Mountains,” and has been open to guests since 1882.
Too Hot to Handle
If you are a Star Wars fan, this might remind you of the volcanic planet that Anakin and Obi-Wan fought on at the end of Revenge of the Sith. In reality, this volcanic region is located in Iceland, and drone technology has now given us the chance to capture images in dangerous locations around the world like this one.
The lava in the region runs between two mountains. Maybe the best way to describe it is like a river that’s on fire.
Barcelonely at the Top
If there is one place in the world where there are plenty of amazing locations for drones to take stunning photos, then it is Barcelona. Sagrat Cor Church is undoubtedly a beautiful building to visit.
Mount Tibidabo is where this church is located, and it is so high up that the statues at the top are often covered in clouds. Spanish architect Enric Sagnier designed this church, which is also known as the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
So Spiritually High
A truly unique natural structure is the Katskhi Pillar, which can be found in the western part of Georgia. Back in the 9th or 10th century, a group of monks built a church at the top of this limestone monolith. It was and always will be a true challenge to get to.
Somehow… someway, though, they managed to complete its construction, and people have been ascending the pillar ever since to pray. Followers supply Monk Maxime with food and supplies twice a week via its 131-foot ladder.
This Is a Garden?
It’s amazing to think that this is a photo of a real landscape. The beautiful Dubai Miracle Garden was constructed in 2013 and is full of amazing flower assortments. If you are ever in the United Arab Emirates, make sure to visit this awe-inspiring garden complex in Dubailand.
It should come as no surprise then that at 72,000 square meters, it is the largest garden of its kind on the planet. Bachir Moukarzel captured this image of the Airbus A4280.
It’s Not What it Seems
While it might appear to be a small boat stuck on a cracked desert floor, at first, it is actually something else entirely. Drone photographer Milo Allerton named this photo “Cracked Mud Boating,” and depicts a family enjoying some time on Burke Lake, located in Virginia.
This lake is situated in Fairfax Station and spans a whopping 218 acres. Owned by the local authority, there are plenty of families and individuals alike who like to travel along this body of freshwater via boat.
The Road Less Traveled
The following drone image shows what might be one of the greatest marvels in the history of engineering. This is the Atlantic Ocean Road of Norway, and it is a real sight for sore eyes.
This beautiful road was constructed over thirty years ago and connects many islands—five miles of islands, to be precise. It starts from one part of mainland Norway and connects all the way to another part. With many rocks and cliffs, there is no denying its danger.
Mega Mexico
One of the most densely populated capital cities in the world, Mexico City is a sight to behold from above. The most populated city in the Western Hemisphere, it has a staggering 21 million people, and this photo seems to capture one of the busiest parts of the entire city.
This hilly part of Mexico City is laden with homes and buildings. Of course, Mexico’s capital is home to a number of historically important landmarks such as the 13th-century Aztec temple Templo Mayor, as well as the Cathedral Metropolitana.
One by One
This beautiful area view of the red sand dunes of Saudi Arabia was taken by talented drone photographer Abdullah Al Nassar. The photo gives a fascinating look at white camels moving in a bending line in search of some water. This photo was taken in the desert area of north-east Riyadh.
Seeing that the area is surrounded by towering mountains, the “Hidden Valley,” as it is also known, is a popular place for locals to visit during the weekend.
Duck, Duck…Duck
Was there ever a time that one person was surrounded by more ducks than in this photo? There are plenty of duck farmers in Asian countries such as Vietnam, and the man in the middle of this photo is one of them.
Here, ducks are used for both feathers and meat and it’s the farmer’s job to do daily rounds. He makes sure to feed all of the ducks and as he moves through the middle, the duck’s group up and form fascinating shapes along the water’s surface.
Mortal Danger
Back in 2016, when the International Drone Footage photography awards were first launched, this photo was first prize winner, and it’s not hard to see why. Taken from an angle that is bound to scare a lot of people with a fear of heights, a climber carefully scales down this Moab, Utah mountain face.
“Two years ago, I started flying drones, and I quickly realized their potential to capture stunning, never-before-seen views,” photographer Max Seigal said. “I’ve been hooked ever since!”
Stairway to Heaven
If you haven’t been before, make sure to add the Algarve, Portugal to your list of places to visit in your lifetime. It is a truly beautiful part of the world, and this is just one example of this southern region of Portugal’s vast array of natural (and man-made) beauty.
This long staircase helps direct beachgoers to one of the most secluded and beautiful beaches in the Faro area. If you are looking from the beach though, the stairs look like they’ll take you to heaven!
Downward Spiral
Don’t worry, this wasn’t constructed by aliens or simply by chance. American artist Robert Smithson is responsible for this stunning earthwork structure. Spiral Jetty was first put together in April 1970 and this drone image gives a stunning view of the artwork on the beach that it was built on.
The image would be amazing to look at without the spiral, simply due to the texture and the relationship between land, water, and sky. The artwork can only be seen when water levels fall below 4,195 feet.
Field of Dreams
It is unclear where this drone image was taken. However, it is common to see women in this part of the world picking marigolds in a field. While it looks pretty normal on the ground level, there is something extremely aesthetically pleasing about seeing this from above.
It must have something to do with the bright colors and the symmetry that creates a peaceful quality. Many backpackers like to walk through these fields and have their photos taken.
I Can See a Rainbow…
Best known for its turquoise waters at the bottom, Cascade de Tamul is where the Santa Maria River and the Gallinas River meet to form a truly remarkable waterfall. While you can get great views while using a traditional wooden canoe called a panga, this drone certainly captured the very best view.
Apparently, there is also a stunning cave around the middle that is worth checking out. “Suddenly, you are in a river, bluer than anything you’ve seen,” MSalazar said. “Freshwaters, nice canoes to row, and an amazing waterfall.”
Winter Wonderland
A truly stunning image saw photographer Bryan Dumas fly his drone over New York’s iconic Central Park during one of the winter’s coldest mornings. The end result was this incredible photo. While it is surrounded by skyscrapers, the park stands out even more because of its snowy blanket.
People who live in New York City appreciate having Central Park to get away from the busy city life every once in a while. The snow just emphasizes how unique this part of the city really is.
City of Angles
There is no denying that Christ the Redeemer is one of the most iconic tourist attractions in the world. This gigantic statue watches over Rio de Janeiro and attracts millions of visitors every year.
Despite images of the statue being readily available online, these drone images capture Christ the Redeemer from some truly unique angles. The shot from above is especially different from what we are used to seeing in travel brochures. It also shows just how big it actually is.
The Ultimate Fortress
While Amsterdam has plenty to offer for tourists, there are many other beautiful parts of the Netherlands worth visiting. Take Fort Bourtange, for example, which is located in the village of the same name in Groningen. This stunning star-shaped fort was constructed about 300 years ago.
These days, though, tourists are able to visit it as it has reopened as a historical museum. While it’s a beautiful place to see from the ground, this drone image truly captures the sheer grandeur of its design.
The Road Not Taken
It was a great winter day for a drone to be hovering over this part of the Pacific Northwest. The snow had perfectly rested on the surface, while the trees retained their bright red color, creating a beautiful contrast from above.
“The temperature was about -5ºF at sea level, but -20ºF at 14,000 to 15,000 feet. It was also extremely windy,” the photographer said. If there was an opportunity to drive straight through a winter wonderland, then this is it.
The Universal Language
This drone image was taken in the Norwegian archipelago of Lofoten, which has its very own soccer field for people from the local community to play on. It just goes to show how far the beautiful game has come.
Norway is experiencing something of a renaissance in soccer, with many believing that the current crop of players in the national team is the country’s golden generation. It’s remote fields like this one that are bringing more opportunities to young, talented players.
Yin & Yang
Unlike other drone images on this list, this one shows the exact same location with a long, winding road through the middle.
What makes it unique is that the photographer took the exact same image twice, one in the summer and the other in the winter. With a bit of editing magic, the effect was created that different seasons were happening on either side of the road. It is almost reminiscent of the yin and the yang.
Iconic Railway
If you haven’t seen the Landwasserviaduct in a movie or a TV show over the last 50 years, then you simply haven’t watched enough.
This incredible six-arched viaduct is located in Graubunden, Switzerland, and was designed over a hundred years ago by the revered Alexander Acatos. Surrounded by snowy mountains and thousands upon thousands of trees, you can consider yourself a true traveler if you ever end up passing through this viaduct on one of the iconic red trains.
Night Dunes
Unlike many of the other drone images on this list, this one was given a black-and-white filter through the power of editing. This photo was taken in Phan Rang, Vietnam, where there is a copious amount of sand dunes.
The figures in the center of the image are a group of kids who are running through the dunes as a form of exercise during the early hours of the morning. The city also has plenty of green areas too.
Trippy Shot
Photographer Panvelvet captured this incredible image through some neat camera work. It was taken in Hong Kong, a country blessed with numerous bustling metropolises and an unfathomable number of skyscrapers.
This particular drone image is reminiscent of the scene from the classic Christopher Nolan movie Inception. You know, the scene where the characters experience in their dreams that the shapes of city landscapes can be modified. That’s how we feel right now when looking at this stunning photo.
Tranquil Flowers
This drone image, similar to one that was previously shared on the list, shows a group of farmers washing each water lily meticulously. This followed by a process in which they group a certain number of lilies into a bundle.
The final step is to take these beautiful bundles to the local markets. During this washing process, though, the workers lay out the lilies in a beautiful, circular display. Their clothes also match the flowers.
The Rise & Fall
As each year passes by, Iceland is becoming an even greater tourist location to visit than it already was. One of the attractions that people flock to from around the globe is the Gullfoss, the most famous waterfall in the entire country.
With an impressive double cascade, the “Golden Falls,” as they are known in English, are even more mesmerizing when observed from tremendous heights — like in this drone image. Make sure to visit the next time you’re in Iceland.
Little Pyramids
Located in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam, the Bac Lieu is a majestic part of the world for a number of reasons. The reason that is evident in this drone image is the fact that it is the salt basket of this region.
Large salt fields can be found here, where workers collect to form large piles of salt that they can even stand on. When the sun is shining on them, they are almost reminiscent of little pyramids.
Water Patterns
The largest city in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai, boasts some truly stunning locations, especially surrounding its many bodies of water — such as the Ping River. This drone image shows two people riding scooters on one of the city’s bridges.
However, the most unique thing about this photo is how small the bridge and the scooters look against the crashing waves and patterns created by the waters. It’s amazing how such a chaotic scenario can create something such beautiful patterns.
Easy Rider
This drone image might not capture the natural beauty of the world the same way that many of these other images do. However, it presents a really cool view of a couple driving along the iconic Will Rogers Highway, better known as Route 66.
They are enjoying themselves in a classic blue Ford Mustang Convertible, as many others have over the years. If you are ever able to drive the entirety of Route 66, then that is one huge thing to tick off your bucket list.
The Bluest Lagoon
This drone image captures the Melissani cave on the Greek island of Kefalonia from the most unique of angles. It is a popular location, attracting many visitors each year.
Due to the extremely clear, blue waters in the cave’s lagoon, many believe that the boats that reach these parts look like they are floating in the air. What’s remarkable about this image is that from above, it hardly looks like a cave, and simply like a lake that is surrounded by trees.
A Unique Cabin in the Woods
This drone image captured a seemingly abandoned Boeing 727 that rests in the woods outside of Portland, Oregon. However, it turns out that a retired engineer bought the plane, placed it in these woods and converted it into a home.
The man in question spent a lot of time and resources making the inside of the plane actually liveable. Upon completing the transformation, he was able to enjoy his huge “garden.” The space in which the plane rests is almost like a heart-shape from above.
The Tide Is Very High
People often forget how close New York actually is to Canada. This drone image was taken in Alexandria Bay, a village that is home to just 1,078 people. Due to its location, the village is often a victim of high water levels.
This is just one of many remote homes that were built to sustain the rising waters. It is around this time of the year (early fall) that many vacationers and boaters come to enjoy boat tours and other activities.
Peak of Its Powers
Without a shadow of a doubt, Mont Blanc is the mountain of the French Alps that most climbers are determined to reach the summit of. Some of the most iconic skiers on the planet can be seen in this drone image on the mountain’s summit.
The Dynastar ski team can be seen walking up to the 15,781-foot peak before they eventually ski the north face of the mountain during sunset. For light purposes, this is certainly one of the most beautiful times of the day to ski.
The Castle in the Clouds
While the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum might be some of the more popular tourist attractions in France, one shouldn’t ignore Mont-Saint Michel.
This beautiful tidal island is surrounded by empty beach space and only has a population of 50 people. It is a commune and has seen plenty of history over the last few hundred years. It is currently on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites and attracts more than three million people every year.
The Island Hotel
The following drone image is a truly remarkable sight. It shows the hotel of Aman Sveti Stefan, which virtually encompasses the entirety of this islet on the Adriatic coast of Montenegro.
In total, the resort is believed to have about 50 rooms, suites, and cottages, as well as eight grand suites in Villa Milocer. While it is just as beautiful from the ground, the many orange roofs are an amazing thing to see from a bird’s eye view.
What’s “Mine” Is Yours
The historical significance surrounding Russia’s Mir mine is unquestionable. One of the largest excavated holes on the planet, it has been active as a diamond mine for over half a century, while open-pit mining was discontinued in 2001.
This aerial shot from a drone shows just how big Mir Mine is compared to its neighboring villages. Completely man-made, it also shows the huge impact that humans have had on this landscape over the years.
Too Close for Comfort
One of the more intimate drone images on this list got a close-up image of a lion looking up from the ground. It is believed that the “king of the jungle” in this image was disturbed by the sounds the drone was making and couldn’t keep its eyes off it from that point onward.
All cats have this in common. As soon as they notice something out of the ordinary, they put everything else to one side and give it all of their attention.
Two by Two
What strikes us most about this photo upon first glance is the symmetry between the two people on the beach and the two manta rays in the water. From a visual standpoint, it almost looks as if they are enjoying some sort of interspecies double date.
The photo was taken in Sri Lanka, and in a strange way, evokes the classic tale of Noah’s ark, in which two of each animal species were brought onto the vessel before the flood.
The Jam of All Jams
One thing that a drone can perfectly capture is a large traffic jam that must be frustrating thousands of drivers below. This photo was taken over a motorway in China during rush hour.
While all the cars are somehow driving adjacently, there aren’t any real technical lanes, and there are no lines separating them. It’s amazing how all these cars manage to drive in such an orderly fashion. People often get out of their cars during these long, packed hours.
Norway Knows How to Do Waterfalls
One of the highest waterfalls in all of Europe has to be Mardalsfossen. Located in Romsdal, Norway, this incredible waterfall has a terrifying 1,175 ft drop, and the clouds below create an illusion that it meets no end whatsoever. The water comes from a nearby valley and passes along the Mardola river.
Lake Eikesdalsvatnet rests at the bottom of the waterfall and carries the water along. While there are plenty of good locations to take photos of the waterfall, the drone seems to get the best view.
A Record-Breaking Dive
While this might appear to be an incredibly dangerous thing to do, which it is, there are those who are able to do it without causing any damage to themselves. However, it does require skill and meticulous timing.
According to the person who took this photo with a drone, the diver in question is over 60 years of age and “is the world record holder for the Guinness waterfall diving.” This photo was taken at a waterfall in China’s Yellow River in the Heilongjiang province.
A Bird’s Eye View
They don’t call it a bird’s eye view for nothing. Members of the aviary community have such an incredible view of the world, similar to that of a drone. But what happens when a drone is hovering over an eagle in mid-flight? That’s right — you get this kind of amazing view.
However, large birds are known to be aggressive towards the drones that they share the sky with, and even have a reputation of plucking at their machinery. Dutch police even used eagles to take out some illegal drones.
As Light as a Lily
Even the simpler photos on this list can be just as beautiful as the jaw-dropping, epic vistas. Take this photo, for example, which was taken by a drone in the Mekong Delta in Vietnam.
Helios1412 took the photo of a woman harvesting water lilies and submitted it for 2017’s International Drone Photography Contest. Amazingly, it ended up winning second prize in the People category. The area’s fertile land means that both animals and plants thrive here. No wonder this pond area is referred to as “Vietnam’s rice bowl.”
Have You Seen Bigfoot? Not Yeti
Different from most of the other drone images on this list, this one was taken by someone who ended up getting pranked by his friend. A drone enthusiast explained to his friend that he loves flying his drone over the countryside.
After finding out where exactly he flew the drone, the friend devised an elaborate plan. The next time he flew his drone over the field, a bigfoot seemed to appear out of nowhere. However, he discovered the next day that it was just his friend dressed up!
