A helicopter tour in Iceland is a breathtaking journey that elevates your travel experience to new heights, literally. These tours offer a unique perspective on Iceland's stunning landscapes and vistas, showcasing the country's dramatic contrasts of fire and ice.
The convenience and speed of helicopters allow you to cover significant ground in a short time, making it possible to witness a variety of natural wonders in a single tour. Depending on the helicopter trip you book, you may see glaciers, waterfalls, mountains, volcanic areas, and more landscapes from a bird's-eye view.
Whether chasing adventure or seeking a unique perspective, helicopter tours in Iceland promise an unforgettable journey.
Popular Helicopter Tours in Iceland
Iceland’s helicopter tours are much more than just a flight—they’re a gateway to exploring the country’s most breathtaking sights in a way few travelers ever experience. These tours cater to diverse interests, from short scenic flights to landings at Iceland’s most iconic and remote locations.
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The Volcano Helicopter Tour: See the aftermath of recent volcanic eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula on this top-rated helicopter tour from Reykjavik. Fly over lava fields and dramatic craters for a rare aerial view of Iceland’s volcanic power.
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Reykjavik Helicopter Tour with a Mountain Summit Landing: This 40-minute Reykjavik helicopter lets you experience the beautiful streets, colorful buildings, and highlights of Iceland's capital from a bird's-eye view. A bonus summit landing also awaits on a nearby mountain!
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1-Hour Helicopter Tour of Geothermal Sights from Reykjavik: Iceland is popular for its many geothermal areas, some of which are remote and hard to reach on foot. This one-hour helicopter tour lets you see these landscapes from the air and up close with a landing.
Top Destinations of Iceland and Reykjavik Helicopter Tours
Helicopter tours in Iceland provide access to some of the country’s most iconic and remote destinations. Here are the top destinations you can experience from the skies:
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Reykjavik: Reykjavik is the top destination for Iceland helicopter tours. Enjoy panoramic views of the capital’s colorful rooftops, Hallgrimskirkja Church, and Harpa Concert Hall, all set against the Atlantic Ocean. Many tours also include nearby mountains, highlighting the contrast between city and nature.
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Reykjanes Peninsula: Explore the volcanic wonders of the Reykjanes Peninsula, home to Fagradalsfjall and other volcanic sites. These tours offer the unique opportunity to witness lava fields, steaming vents, and dramatic craters from above, showcasing Iceland’s raw geothermal power.
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Vatnajokull National Park and Skaftafell: Fly over Iceland’s largest glacier and its surrounding wonders, including deep crevasses, icefalls, and volcanic peaks. For example, this 30-minute Helicopter Tour from Skaftafell flies over the highlights of Vatnajokull, including Svinafellsjokull Outlet Glacier.
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North Iceland: Discover the dramatic landscapes of North Iceland, from the rugged coastline near Husavik to the geothermal fields of Myvatn. Helicopter tours in the North provide spectacular views of Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, and volcanic features like Krafla and Hverfjall.
What to Expect on a Helicopter Tour
Your adventure begins with a safety briefing and an overview of your itinerary. Helicopter trips in Iceland are led by experienced pilots who double as knowledgeable guides, sharing fascinating stories about the country's geology, history, and culture. Here’s what makes the experience special:
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Comfortable aircraft: Modern helicopters are designed for optimal viewing, with large windows that offer uninterrupted views of Iceland’s stunning landscapes. Inside, you’ll enjoy a smooth, comfortable ride.
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Small group sizes: Helicopter tours prioritize a personalized experience with minimal group sizes. This allows you to enjoy quieter, more focused explorations of Iceland’s natural wonders.
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Scenic landings: Most tours include landings in scenic or remote areas, giving you a chance to step out, explore, and capture incredible photos. Whether it’s standing atop a glacier or feeling the heat of a geothermal vent, these stops are often the highlight of the trip.
The Best Time for Helicopter Tours in Iceland
Helicopter tours operate year-round, with each season offering a unique perspective on Iceland’s landscapes.
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Summer (June–August): Long daylight hours and mild weather make summer perfect for capturing Iceland’s vibrant colors, from mossy lava fields to sparkling waterfalls. This is also an ideal time for evening flights under the magical glow of the midnight sun.
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Winter (November–March): Experience Iceland’s ethereal winter beauty as you soar over snow-covered peaks, frozen waterfalls, and glacial ice caps. On clear nights, some tours may even include a chance to witness the northern lights from the air—a truly unforgettable sight.
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Shoulder Seasons (Spring and Fall): These quieter months combine mild weather with fewer crowds, offering a balanced and serene experience. Witness spring’s thawing landscapes or autumn’s fiery hues from above.
How to Reach Your Helicopter Tour in Iceland
Reaching your helicopter tour in Iceland is straightforward and hassle-free, with many tours departing from convenient locations close to major hubs like Reykjavik.
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Reykjavik Domestic Airport: For tours in the capital, helicopters depart from the Reykjavik Domestic Airport, located just minutes from the city center. The airport is well-equipped with facilities and parking, adding to its convenience.
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Outside Reykjavik: For helicopter tours outside the capital, such as those in Vatnajokull National Park or North Iceland, most operators provide clear meeting points near popular landmarks or accommodations. For example, for Vatnajokull helicopter tours, some tours would still depart from the Reykjavik Domestic Airport, but others take off from the Skaftafell Terminal. The Skaftafell Terminal is located in Southeast Iceland’s Skaftafell Nature Reserve.
To be sure of your helicopter departure, don’t hesitate to contact your tour operator.
How to Check Weather Conditions in Iceland for Helicopter Tours
Helicopter tours in Iceland are highly weather-dependent. Clear skies and stable weather are essential for safe and enjoyable flights, as strong winds, heavy rain, or low visibility can impact takeoff and landing.
Fortunately, tour operators in Iceland closely monitor weather conditions and will notify you of any changes or cancellations as early as possible. If your flight is canceled due to weather, you’ll typically have the option to reschedule or receive a full refund, ensuring flexibility and peace of mind. It’s best to contact your tour operator for specific details.
To prepare for your tour, check the weather forecast regularly. Keep in mind that Iceland’s weather can vary significantly between regions, so conditions in Reykjavik may differ from those in the South Coast, North Iceland, or Vatnajokull. Two reliable sources for up-to-date weather information in Iceland are:
- Vedur.is (Icelandic Meteorological Office): Offers detailed weather forecasts and warnings, including wind speed and visibility.
- Road.is: Provides real-time updates on road conditions, which is especially useful if your departure point requires travel outside Reykjavik.
The Ultimate Way to Experience Iceland’s Beauty
A helicopter tour in Iceland is an unforgettable way to witness the country's most breathtaking landscapes from a completely new perspective. Whether soaring over volcanoes, vast glaciers, or the vibrant streets of Reykjavik, these tours offer a unique blend of adventure and luxury.
With expert pilots, scenic landings, and small group experiences, helicopter tours provide an unmatched opportunity to explore Iceland’s natural wonders. Whether you’re seeking thrilling aerial views or peaceful moments in remote locations, a helicopter adventure is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Iceland.
