From Reykjavik: New Volcanic Area Helicopter Tour

If you’re dreaming of seeing Iceland’s extraordinary volcanic landscapes from the sky, this helicopter tour might just be the adventure you’re after. It’s a chance to witness the raw power of an active volcanic area that’s only recently been reshaped by eruptions, all from a safe and comfortable helicopter.

What we love about this experience is the spectacular scenery and close-up views of the lava fields, along with the chance to fly over a newly formed volcanic zone—a rare sight that’s hard to match. The experienced pilots and modern helicopter make us feel confident and well taken care of, which is essential when flying over such unpredictable terrain.

However, it’s worth noting that this tour is weather-dependent, so if Iceland’s notorious weather doesn’t cooperate, your plans could change or get rescheduled. Also, at $531 per person, it’s a bit of an investment, but many feel it’s justified by the once-in-a-lifetime views and the chance to see active volcanoes close up.

This tour is best suited for those who crave a unique perspective of Iceland’s volcanic activity, are comfortable with heights, and want a memorable experience that combines adventure with natural beauty. It’s not just sightseeing—it’s an intimate encounter with Iceland’s fiery landscape.

Key Points

• Stunning aerial views of recent eruptions and lava fields
• Stops close to the volcano that allow for near-ground exploration
• Limited group size (up to 6) ensures a more personalized experience
• Weather-dependent activity, so flexibility might be needed
• Includes a professional pilot with extensive experience
• Photo opportunities from multiple angles of the volcanic landscape

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is This Tour All About?

This 40-minute helicopter flight takes you from Reykjavik over some of Iceland’s most recent volcanic activity. You’re flying across the Reykjanes Peninsula, an area that’s seen three eruptions in just the last two years, making it a hotspot for active volcanoes and volcanic landscapes.

The itinerary is designed to give you an extensive overview of this new volcanic zone, with multiple stops to view and photograph the lava streams, the simmering crater, and the vast lava fields. The flight also offers views of iconic landmarks like Mount Esja and Faxafloi Bay, giving a broader picture of the region’s natural beauty.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The tour kicks off at Ace FBO Reykjavík, a convenient starting point just behind Hotel Natura. From there, the helicopter takes off for a series of scenic stops, each delivering unique sights.

First, you’ll fly over the Capital Region of Iceland, where you’ll get a panoramic view of Reykjavik and its surroundings. This initial segment is short but sets the scene for what’s to come.

Next, the helicopter heads toward Litli Hrutur Volcano. Here, you might get a close look at recent volcanic activity, with views of fresh lava flows and craters. Reviewers rave about how much closer they got to the lava than expected, which makes the experience even more impactful (“Absolutely amazing experience! Fantastic view of the volcano and craters. Got a lot closer than I thought!”).

Following this, the tour moves to Geldingadalir Volcano, another recent eruption site. It’s an area that’s been in the news frequently due to active lava flows and fissures, making it a highlight for many travelers seeking a raw, unfiltered view of Iceland’s volcanic power.

Then, you’ll spend about 10 minutes circling Fagradalsfjall Volcano, the star of the show. This eruption has been ongoing since 2021, and many reviews mention how incredible it is to see bubbling magma and flowing lava from above (“The volcano was active. Red hot magma bubbling and running down towards the sea. Unbelievably amazing.”).

The flight continues over Grindavik, giving you sweeping views of the town and the surrounding volcanic landscape, before returning to Reykjavik with the last 5-minute sightseeing segment.

The Experience of Flying in a Helicopter

The helicopter itself is described as modern and safe, with pilot expertise making all the difference. Many reviewers mention how professional and attentive the pilots are, ensuring everyone gets good views and feels secure (“Juha is an exceptional pilot. We even landed at the eruption site to explore the area,” and “Tashi, our pilot, was informative and fantastic”).

Because the tours are limited to small groups (up to 6 participants), you get a more intimate experience. This setup means more chances for everyone to see the volcanoes clearly and for the pilot to give personalized commentary.

In terms of duration, you’ll be in the air between 30 and 50 minutes, which is ample time to get a real sense of the volcanic activity without feeling rushed. The flight often includes loops and circling, so both sides of the helicopter provide good views.

The Practical Details You Need to Know

Pricing is around $531 per person, which might seem steep, but many travelers consider it a worthy splurge. The value comes from the unique vantage point and close-up exposure to active volcanoes, along with the safety and comfort of a modern helicopter.

Weather plays a crucial role—flights are dependent on Iceland’s often unpredictable weather conditions. If conditions aren’t suitable, the activity can be canceled or rescheduled. The tour provider is clear about this and offers the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Meeting point is the Ace FBO Reykjavík, conveniently located behind the Reykjavík Hotel Natura. From there, it’s a short drive or walk, and check-in is straightforward.

Duration varies, but always check the schedule for available times. The entire experience, including prep and the flight, typically lasts about 40 minutes.

What’s included? Just the helicopter flight and pilot. Food and drinks aren’t included, so plan accordingly if you want a snack afterward or before.

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The Reviews Speak for Themselves

Travelers consistently give high marks—4.8 out of 5 based on over 380 reviews—highlighting the breathtaking views and the expertise of the pilots. Many reviewers mention how close they got to lava streams, with some even landing near eruption sites (“We even landed at the eruption site to explore the area”).

Comments like “Once in a lifetime experience” and “Worth every minute and penny” are common themes, reflecting just how impactful this tour can be. Some travelers had cancellations due to weather but appreciated the clear communication and rebooking process (“Received a call early enough to still enjoy the day and reschedule”).

The small group size and personalized attention are often praised, making the experience feel exclusive rather than crowded.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re comfortable with flying and are craving an up-close look at Iceland’s active volcanoes, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially appealing to those who want to see recent eruptions and volcanic landscapes that are otherwise difficult to access.

It’s also a good fit for adventure seekers who enjoy photography, as the views are superb and varied. While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, it’s suitable for travelers who are comfortable with heights and small aircraft.

This experience is less ideal for travelers on a strict budget, given the cost, or for those with severe fear of flying or poor weather tolerance. However, for many, the wow factor of witnessing eruptions from above makes it worth the expense.

FAQs

• How long is the helicopter flight? The flight lasts between 30 and 50 minutes, providing ample time to see the volcanic zones in detail.

• Where does the tour start and end? It begins and ends at Ace FBO Reykjavík, located behind the Reykjavík Hotel Natura.

• What’s included in the price? The tour includes a helicopter flight and a professional pilot. Food and drinks are not included.

• Is the tour weather-dependent? Yes, flights depend on weather conditions and must follow safety regulations. If the weather isn’t suitable, flights can be canceled or rescheduled with prior notice.

• Can I get close to the lava? Yes, some reviews mention stops and landings near lava flows, giving a near-ground experience of the volcanic activity.

• How many people are in the group? The tour is limited to small groups, up to 6 participants, for a more personalized experience.

• Do I need prior experience or special skills? No special skills are required, but comfort with flying is suggested.

Final Thoughts

This helicopter tour offers a rare chance to glimpse Iceland’s recent volcanic activity from a vantage point few get to experience. You’ll enjoy epic views of erupting and cooled lava, craters, and the rugged coastline—all in a safe, well-managed environment.

It’s ideal for those craving an adventure that combines natural spectacle with a touch of luxury, especially if you’re interested in active volcanoes and unique landscapes. The reviews show that most travelers walk away with memories that last a lifetime, often describing the experience as absolutely worth every penny.

However, keep in mind the weather dependency and the price point. If those factors are acceptable, this tour will likely be a highlight of your Iceland trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Happy flying, and may your Icelandic adventures be filled with awe-inspiring sights and unforgettable moments!