Helicopter Flight Over Geothermal Landscapes from Reykjavik

If you’re heading to Iceland and looking for a way to see its rugged volcanic terrain from a perspective that’s both breathtaking and exclusive, a helicopter tour over the geothermal landscapes might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally flown this route, the glowing reviews, high ratings, and detailed descriptions paint a compelling picture of this experience. It’s a chance to soar above geysers, volcanic craters, lava fields, and hot springs — all with a knowledgeable pilot guiding the way.

What we love about this tour is how it combines the thrill of flying with the chance to see Iceland’s geothermal activity up close and in full display. The aerial views promise to be spectacular, giving you a unique vantage point that ground-based tours simply can’t match. Plus, the experience includes landings near bubbling hot springs, which can turn a standard sightseeing trip into something truly memorable. One potential drawback is the price — at around $494 per person, this isn’t the most budget-friendly option, but for many, the exclusive views and personal experience justify the cost.

This tour is best suited for travelers who crave a unique adventure, enjoy scenic flights, and want a memorable highlight of their Iceland trip. It’s also ideal if you’re comfortable with small group sizes (max 15 people) and are looking for a high-quality, well-organized experience. If you’re after a combination of natural beauty and a touch of adrenaline, this helicopter journey will likely resonate with you.

This experience made our article of Reykjavik’s 15 Best Helicopter Flights & Tours: Which To Choose?.

Key Points

• Spectacular aerial views of geothermal geysers, vents, and lava fields
• Learn about Iceland’s geothermal energy from an experienced pilot
• Landing by hot springs adds a memorable, hands-on element
• The cost reflects a premium experience, with personalized landings
• Suitable for most travelers, with a max group of 15 for a more intimate feel
• Free cancellation makes it flexible to adapt to weather or plans

What You Can Expect From This Helicopter Tour

Starting Point and Safety

You’ll meet your pilot at Reykjavik Domestic Airport. The check-in process is straightforward, with a safety briefing that’s concise but covers all you need to know. The aircraft can seat up to 8 passengers, plus the pilot, with seats arranged in two rows, so everyone gets good views.

The Scenic Ascent

Once aboard, the flight begins with a climb into the air. As you lift off, expect the city of Reykjavik to fade away behind you, replaced by the striking volcanic landscape. We loved the way the terrain looks almost lunar — rocky, rugged, and full of character. The landscape is a vivid reminder of Iceland’s volcanic past, with massive lava fields and crater remnants filling the horizon.

The Geothermal Highlights

Your pilot will point out the active geothermal vents and bubbling mud pits, which look like scenes from another planet. Steam rises from solfataras and vents, giving you a real sense of the Earth’s fiery core at work. Flying over geysers, like the famous ones in the Hengill Geothermal Area, provides an unforgettable sight — often erupting just as you’re overhead.

Landings and Hot Springs

One of the big draws of this tour is the opportunity to land near geothermal activity. The reviews mention landings close to bubbling hot springs, which makes the experience more immersive and tangible. You might find yourself feeling the warmth of the water running nearby or catching the aroma of sulfur in the air. These landings are a highlight, bringing a sense of real connection to Iceland’s natural forces.

The Power of Iceland’s Geothermal Energy

Your pilot will also explain how Iceland harnesses this geothermal energy to power homes and industry. Seeing power plants from the air adds an interesting contrast — technology blending seamlessly with nature’s raw power. Many reviews highlight how engaging and informative the pilot is, making the flight not just beautiful but educational.

The Flight Path and Flexibility

The route may change based on weather conditions and passenger interest. Several reviews mention pilots being flexible, even altering the planned route to fly over recent volcanic eruptions or a new volcano. This adaptability is a real plus, especially in Iceland where weather can be unpredictable.

Post-Flight and Accessibility

After about 50 minutes in the air, you’ll return to Reykjavik airport. The entire experience is smooth and well-organized, with helpful staff and a focus on safety. The tour does require a certain weight limit per passenger (265 lbs), and if you’re over 120kg, you’ll need to purchase an additional half seat — a minor consideration but worth noting if it applies to you.

Digging Into the Details

The Itinerary in Focus

The tour begins at Nordurflug’s Helicopter Tours Base, where you’ll meet your pilot and get briefed. From there, the flight takes you east of Reykjavik, heading towards the Hengill Volcano Geothermal Area and other volcanic craters. The highlight is the aerial view of steaming geysers and active vents, giving you an up-close look at Iceland’s geothermal activity.

The overflight of Reykjavik city offers a quick but striking contrast: urban life from above, surrounded by raw nature. The tour also includes a landing at the geothermal park in Hveragerði, an area filled with hot springs and bubbling mud.

What You’ll See

Expect to witness:
– Volcanic craters and lava fields: The rugged terrain tells stories of past eruptions.
– Geysers and vents: Watch steam and water explode from the earth.
– Hot springs and mud pits: Experience the geothermal heat up close.
– Power plants: See how Iceland converts natural geothermal energy into electricity.
– Bird’s eye views of iconic attractions like Seltún, a geothermal area with colorful mineral deposits and bubbling mud.

What the Reviews Say

Reviewers are consistently impressed with the experience. Teresa describes it as “exciting to see Iceland from an aerial view and land right by geothermal activity,” and others mention how “safe and well-organized” Nordurflug is. Many note the knowledgeable pilots who make the flight informative and engaging, often adjusting routes to maximize viewing opportunities.

Richard calls it “an amazing experience,” and Margaret highlights landing next to geothermal hotpots, which makes the trip tangible. Several travelers mention how the views exceeded expectations, describing the landscape as “unreal” and “gorgeous.”

Price versus Value

At $494.22 per person, this isn’t a cheap outing, but it’s important to view it as an investment in a premium, personalized experience. The intimate group size, landings, and detailed commentary add value that many ground tours can’t match. Reviewers widely agree this is a highlight of their Iceland trip, often ranking it as a must-do adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, it’s suitable for most travelers in good health who enjoy scenic flights. Those with a curiosity about geology or geothermal energy will particularly appreciate the educational aspect. If you’re after a high-quality, well-organized, and visually stunning experience, this helicopter tour fits the bill.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re someone who loves seeing new landscapes from a unique vantage point and appreciates technical explanations about natural phenomena, this helicopter tour offers a lot. The views are genuinely impressive, and the landings near hot springs add a memorable touch that elevates the experience.

The high ratings and consistent praise from past travelers suggest that Nordurflug provides a safe, professional, and truly enjoyable experience. It’s more than just a sightseeing flight; it’s a chance to connect with Iceland’s geothermal energy and volcanic history firsthand.

However, considering the price, it’s definitely an experience to splurge on if you can. It’s best suited for travelers who prioritize quality, scenic beauty, and a bit of adventure over budget-friendly options.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people afraid of flying?
Generally, helicopter flights can be nerve-wracking for those with fear of flying. The pilot’s professionalism and safety measures help, but if you’re uneasy, it’s worth considering how you might feel during a 50-minute flight.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the helicopter flight, a professional pilot, and landings at geothermal sites. Food and hotel transfers are not included, so plan accordingly.

Can I change the route or landing site?
Yes. Several reviews mention that pilots are flexible, sometimes altering routes to see recent eruptions or specific landmarks, depending on weather and passenger interest.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, making for a relatively intimate experience compared to larger tours.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes. Passengers over 120kg will need to purchase an extra half seat, which is payable on the day of the tour.

How long is the tour?
The whole experience lasts approximately 1 hour, including safety briefing, the flight itself (about 50 minutes), and landing.

What should I wear?
It’s best to dress warmly and in layers, especially since Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. Expect some wind and possibly cooler temperatures at altitude.

To sum it up, this helicopter tour over Iceland’s geothermal landscapes offers a blend of adventure, education, and stunning visuals. It’s perfect for travelers craving a memorable, high-quality experience that showcases the power and beauty of Iceland’s volcanic forces. If you’re ready to elevate your Iceland trip to new heights, this flight might just be your next highlight.