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The 15 Best Helicopter Flights & Tours in Reykjavik
Reykjavik’s dramatic landscapes are best appreciated from above. The city itself is charming, but the real magic happens when you lift off over volcanoes, glaciers, geothermal areas, and rugged coastlines. For years, helicopter tours have offered visitors a chance to see Iceland’s wild beauty in a way that’s both thrilling and intimate. One of our favorites? The Helicopter Tour with Mountain Summit Landing from Reykjavik, which combines city views with a rare landing on Mt. Esja’s flat summit—imagine snapping photos from over 2,000 feet in the air and then stepping out onto the mountain for a panoramic shot.
Reykjavik is a stellar hub for helicopter adventures because of its proximity to active volcanoes, glaciers, geothermal fields, and spectacular coastlines. The city’s easily accessible helicopter base makes it straightforward to turn your day into an aerial exploration. Whether you want a quick, scenic 30-minute flight or a full VIP experience over erupting volcanoes, there’s something for every type of traveler.
In this list, you’ll find tours focused on volcanic eruptions, mountain landings, geothermal springs, and private flights. Some tours include landings on glaciers or volcanoes, while others focus on panoramic sightseeing. For those craving a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the private helicopter tours offer unmatched exclusivity. Ready to take off? Let’s explore the best helicopter flights Reykjavik has to offer.
1. Helicopter Tour with Mountain Summit Landing from Reykjavik
Few visitors get to see Reykjavik’s wild surroundings from the air—and even fewer get to step onto a mountain summit during their flight. This 30 to 45-minute small-group helicopter tour offers just that. Your pilot whisks you over the city, with iconic sights like Harpa Concert Hall, Perlan, and Hallgrimskirkja clearly visible from above. Then, you land on the flat summit of Mt. Esja, offering sweeping views across Reykjavik, the Atlantic, and nearby peaks. The experience combines adventure with serenity, as you photograph the rugged landscape from an unbeatable vantage point.
Reviewers praise the friendly staff and the pilot Max, who is often described as knowledgeable and approachable. The tour is perfect for those wanting a personalized, stress-free experience packed with spectacular views. The landings add a special touch — a chance to stretch and take photos from an epic viewpoint.
Bottom line: This tour balances scenic beauty, land access, and personal service, making it one of the top picks for a quick, memorable Icelandic helicopter adventure.
2. From Reykjavik: New Volcanic Area Helicopter Tour
At number 2, this 40-minute flight takes you over the Reykjanes Peninsula’s lava fields, streams, and recent eruptions. The volcanic landscapes here are some of the freshest in Iceland, with recent fissure vents and steaming craters that erupted in 2021. The tour includes a flyover of Mount Esja and Faxafloi Bay, offering a full perspective of both land and sea.
Guests frequently mention how close they get to the lava flows, often stopping for short landings near active craters. The helicopter’s panoramic windows mean every seat is a good seat, and the pilot’s commentary helps you understand the geological activity below. “We got so close to the lava fields,” says one reviewer, highlighting the intimate nature of this experience.
Bottom line: If you’re fascinated by active volcanoes, this tour offers a rare glimpse of Iceland’s ongoing volcanic story, with spectacular aerial and ground-level views.
3. 1-Hour Helicopter Tour in Iceland: The Geothermal Tour
This full hour of flying takes you over geothermal springs, bubbling hot springs, lava fields, and volcanic craters. Departing from Reykjavik, your pilot will point out power plants, hot springs, and volcanic features. The highlight? Landing for 15 minutes in the wilderness, allowing you to walk amidst geysers and steaming vents.
Guests love the in-depth scenery and the chance to see geothermal activity up close. One reviewer calls it “the pinnacle of our trip,” especially noting how comfortable and informative the flight was. It’s suited for travelers eager to combine aerial sightseeing with a short outdoor exploration.
Bottom line: If geothermal landscapes fascinate you, this tour delivers a rich, immersive experience with plenty of photo opportunities and insider info.
4. Helicopter Flight Over Geothermal Landscapes from Reykjavik
For one hour of flying, this tour covers steaming geysers, vents, and hot springs in the Hveragerdi area. Departing from the Reykjavik base, you’ll fly over the geothermal park and the Hengill Volcano Geothermal Area, with airtime dedicated to viewing bubbling vents and volcanic craters. The pilot provides engaging commentary about geothermal activity and the landscape.
Reviews praise this experience as “amazing, with great scenery and a very personable pilot.” The helicopter offers panoramic windows, ensuring excellent views for all passengers. The informative narration highlights Iceland’s unique geothermal system, making it ideal for geology buffs and nature lovers.
Bottom line: This tour offers a comprehensive aerial tour of geothermal hotspots, with close-up views of steaming vents and interesting geological insights.
5. Private Reykjavik Helicopter Flight: Reykjanes Peninsula and Volcanic Landscapes
If exclusivity is your thing, this private 1-hour helicopter tour is unbeatable. You’ll enjoy customized views of volcanoes, lava fields, and crater lakes such as Lake Gænavatn. With just your group and a dedicated pilot, you’ll explore the moon-like terrain of Reykjanes in comfort.
Guests rave about the personalized experience and the opportunity to fly over areas inaccessible to larger groups. The tour includes notable sights like the bubbling mud baths of Seltún and the bright-green crater lakes. It’s perfect for photographers and travelers seeking privacy.
Bottom line: This tour offers ultimate flexibility and exclusivity, ideal for those wanting a luxurious, tailored Icelandic helicopter adventure.
6. Reykjavik: Panoramic Helicopter Flight with Summit Landing
This 40-minute flight combines city sightseeing with a mountain landing. You’ll soar over Reykjavik, including landmarks like the Harpa Concert Hall, and then land on a mountain summit for breathtaking views. It’s a chance to see the city’s skyline in a new light and capture selfies with Reykjavik as your backdrop.
Travelers mention how Max, the pilot, is both friendly and informative, making the experience even more enjoyable. The mountain landing provides a unique perspective of Reykjavik and its surroundings, especially on clear days.
Bottom line: For a mixed city and nature experience, this tour offers fantastic views, a mountain landing, and great photo opportunities.
7. Iceland Volcanic Eruption Area Helicopter Tour from Reykjavik
This 35-45 minute tour flies over Fagradalsfjall Volcano’s recent eruption sites. You’ll see fresh lava flows, fissures, and volcanic craters that erupted in 2021 and beyond. It’s a must-do for eruption enthusiasts and photographers, with the chance to land near active lava if conditions permit.
Guests frequently mention how close they get to new lava, and the informative commentary enhances understanding of Iceland’s volcanic activity. The small helicopter size allows for intimate views and a personal experience.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for those wanting an up-close look at live volcanic activity, with photo opportunities and fascinating geology.
8. From Reykjavik: Fire And Ice Helicopter Tour with 2 Landings
This 2-hour adventure combines glacier landings with visits to Hengill geothermal area. You’ll fly over ice and fire, touching down on Porisjokull Glacier and Mount Hengill. The experience offers spectacular views of glaciers, volcanoes, and geothermal activity all in one trip.
Reviewers say it’s a “breathtaking” journey, noting the glacier landing as a standout feature. The tour is suited for those seeking diverse landscapes in a single trip, with a mix of flying and outdoor exploration.
Bottom line: For travelers wanting a comprehensive, multi-landscape experience, this tour delivers a full-sensory adventure.
9. Fire and Ice Helicopter Tour: Glacier and Hengill Geothermal Area
A longer, 1 hour 40-minute tour, this takes you over mountains, waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanoes. The highlight? Landings on a glacier and a volcano, giving hands-on experience of Iceland’s extremes. You’ll also see Reykjavik from above.
Guests mention the “once-in-a-lifetime” feel, with snowball fights on the glacier and photography in mind. The intimate size (only 5 travelers) makes it personal and immersive.
Bottom line: If you’re after a full-day adventure with multiple landings, this is Icelandic exploration at its finest.
10. Helicopter Tour Over Iceland’s Reykjanes Volcano Eruption Site
This 35-minute flight offers a bird’s eye view of recent volcanic activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula. You might see fissures, steaming vents, and lava flows, and the pilot often makes multiple passes for better views. It’s a small-group tour with up to six passengers, ensuring plenty of photo opportunities.
Many reviews highlight the surreal beauty of seeing active lava from the air. While eruptions can be unpredictable, the view from above is often described as “unforgettable”.
Bottom line: For volcano enthusiasts, this tour provides a rare glimpse of current volcanic activity with personalized attention.
11. Reykjavik Helicopter Private Tour of Volcanoes
This customizable private flight allows you to focus on specific volcanoes, lava fields, and coastal scenery. Up to 4 people can enjoy tailored routes that include revisiting favorite spots or exploring hidden corners. You can also spot local wildlife like nesting birds near Krysuvik Cliffs.
Guests love the flexibility and private atmosphere. The personalized narration makes it an ideal choice for photographers or families seeking an exclusive experience.
Bottom line: For ultimate control and privacy, this private helicopter tour is the way to go.
12. ATV & Helicopter Adventure Tour from Reykjavik
A four to five-hour combo perfect for active travelers, this tour starts with an ATV ride through Iceland’s wilderness, then moves to a helicopter flight over Reykjavik and surrounding landscapes. It’s a thrilling way to experience the land on both land and air with guides providing safety gear and expert instruction.
Reviewers call it “double the fun”, especially noting the stunning scenery viewed from both modes. The off-road ride is suitable for all levels, and the helicopter offers spectacular aerial views of the landscape.
Bottom line: If you want an active, multi-sensory adventure, this combo delivers mountain vistas and aerial panoramas in one day.
13. ATV & Helicopter combination tour From Reykajvik
This five-hour tour blends mountain ATV riding with a helicopter flight over Reykjanes. Starting with off-road exploration on mountain trails, then flying over lava fields, volcanic craters, and the coast, it’s perfect for adventure seekers.
Guests praise the professional guides and the chance to see Reykjavik from above. The combination of land and sky makes it a well-rounded experience, especially suitable for active travelers with limited time.
Bottom line: For those wanting variety and adrenaline, this tour covers both terrain and aerial views.
14. Reykjavik: 45-Minute Volcano Sightseeing Helicopter Tour
This shorter, 45-minute flight takes in recent eruption sites and Reykjavik’s coastline. The tour passes over Sundhnúkahraun, active since March 2024, and offers excellent photo opportunities. The pilot provides insightful commentary about the volcanic activity and landmarks.
Guests describe it as “spectacular”, with easy check-in and friendly staff. It’s a great option if you want a quick glimpse of Iceland’s volcanic pulse.
Bottom line: Perfect for a snapshot of recent eruptions, especially if you’re short on time but want dramatic scenery.
15. Helicopter tour from Reykjavik: Hengill Area with at site landing
The most recent addition to our list, this 50-minute flight over Hellisheiði plateau includes a landing at Hengill geothermal area. You’ll see bubbling springs, lava fields, and volcanic mountains in a personalized setting.
Reviewers mention outstanding pilots and amazing scenery. The tour is ideal for travelers wanting to escape the crowds and see Iceland’s active volcanic landscape from a lower altitude.
Bottom line: For a less touristy, intimate experience, this flight offers unmatched views and access to geothermal sites.
How to Choose Your Helicopter Tour in Reykjavik
Selecting the right helicopter experience depends on your interests and schedule. Want a quick scenic flight? The Panoramic with Summit Landing is perfect. If volcanoes excite you, the Volcanic Eruption Area Tour offers close-up views of recent eruptions. For exclusive, personalized adventures, the Private Reykjavik Flight provides tailored routes with a high level of comfort.
Budget-conscious travelers should look for shorter flights with comprehensive views, while adventurers and photographers might prefer tours with landings on glaciers or volcanoes. Keep in mind weather plays a crucial role—many tours are weather-dependent, so book early and stay flexible.
Final Thoughts
Reykjavik’s helicopter tours range from short city flights to full-day glacier and volcano adventures. Two standout options include the Helicopter Tour with Mountain Summit Landing for a personalized mountain experience and the Volcanic Eruption Area Tour for those eager to witness recent volcanic activity.
If you’re traveling with family, the 122-minute Fire and Ice tour with two landings offers variety and adventure. For private, tailored experiences, the private helicopter options give you the most control over your sightseeing.
Whatever your choice, booking early is wise. Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, and these tours tend to fill up fast—especially during peak season. Now’s the time to secure your spot and see Iceland from above in the most unforgettable way possible.