Hong Kong Island & Victoria Harbour from Jardine's Lookout

This drone image of Hong Kong Island and Victoria Harbour was taken from Jardine's Lookout. First, I recommend taking a taxi to the trailhead or parking in the public lot near Wilson Trail - Hong Kong Parkview (22.258096, 114.197878). Then, follow the Hong Kong Trail Sec. 5 past Osborn Memorial until it turns into Hong Kong Trail Sec. 2. Reference the GPS coordinates and eventually, you'll reach Jardine's Lookout — it should be about a 22-minute hike directly north. Launch your drone from the lookout spot and you'll be able to get a north-facing view of the island and harbour.

Hong Kong Island and Victoria Harbour from Jardine's Lookout will look the same no matter the time of year.

I shot this photo midday, but you could also find similar lighting conditions in the morning or late afternoon.

Before launching your drone, check and follow local drone regulations and permit requirements.

Make sure to fly your drone high enough so you can capture the varying layers of the buildings, as well as the body of water off in the distance.

For a sense of balance, aim to have Happy Valley Racecourse on the left and Hong Kong Stadium in the foreground.

If the sunlight is harsh, you can use a polarizing filter to cut the glare.

Fly around to try out different perspectives. You can even put yourself in the foreground if you fly the drone behind you (south) on the hill. It adds a fun element of scale to have a person in the shot.

You can either return to Hong Kong Parkview after hiking up to Jardine's Lookout or you can follow the hike down to Quarry Bay (6.5km) where you can grab some food and drinks at One Island East as a reward for your long trek.