Iceland Volcanic Eruption Area Helicopter Tour from Reykjavík

If you’re dreaming of seeing Iceland’s volcanic activity without getting too close on foot, this helicopter tour over the Fagradalsfjall Volcano might catch your eye. We haven’t taken it ourselves, but based on dozens of reviews and detailed descriptions, it’s clear this experience offers a unique way to witness some of Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a geology buff, or just craving an unforgettable adventure, this flight could be a highlight of your trip.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines a thrilling helicopter ride with the chance to see active volcanic fissures—a rare perspective that’s hard to match elsewhere. Plus, the stunning aerial views of Reykjavík and Faxaflói Bay give you a comprehensive look at the city’s colorful rooftops against the icy waters. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that weather conditions can cause cancellations, which is pretty common for flying over Iceland’s unpredictable skies. So, if you’re set on this experience, it’s best to book well in advance and be flexible with your plans.

All in all, this tour suits travelers who crave a visual and experiential punch—those who love photography, natural wonders, or simply want to tick off a bucket list item with a sense of adventure. It’s also perfect for those interested in the ongoing geological activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula, but keep in mind that eruptions aren’t guaranteed to be active at the time of your flight.

Key Points

• Unique aerial view of Fagradalsfjall Volcano and its recent fissures.
• Intimate helicopter experience with only 56 seats per flight.
• Great for photography with panoramic shots of volcanic landscapes and Reykjavík.
• Multiple departure times allow flexibility for your schedule.
• Weather-dependent—flights may be canceled if conditions are unsafe.
• Limited group size enhances the sense of an exclusive adventure.

The Experience: What’s Included and What’s Not

This helicopter tour is offered by GlacierHeli and is priced at around $640 per person. While it’s a significant investment, the value hinges on how much you want to see Iceland from above and get a close-up look at its active volcanism.

Included in your ticket:

• A helicopter tour over the volcanic area with commentary from your guide.
• Fuel surcharge—so no hidden charges there.

What’s not included:

• Food and drinks, so plan to eat before or after your flight.
• Hotel pick-up or drop-off—you’re expected to meet at the designated helicopter base in Reykjavík.

The meeting point is at Glacier HeliACE FBO, located conveniently in Reykjavík, with most travelers able to access it via public transportation. Having a clear meeting plan helps keep things straightforward, especially if you’re arriving from elsewhere in the city.

The Itinerary: Breaking Down the Highlights

Stop 1: Reykjanes Peninsula – Just 30 km from Reykjavík, this is one of Iceland’s most geologically active regions, constantly shaped by tectonic shifts. With recent eruptions since 2021, the area offers a rare glimpse into freshly formed lava fields and volcanic landscapes. While eruptions aren’t guaranteed to be active during your flight, the seismic activity over recent years (more than 50,000 earthquakes) promises a dynamic, ever-changing environment. With only 56 seats per helicopter, the experience feels very personal, giving you plenty of opportunities to soak in the views.

Stop 2: Reykjavík – After soaring over the volcanic terrain, you’ll circle back to Reykjavík, where you’ll get an incredible vantage point of the city’s colorful rooftops, busy harbor, and surrounding icy waters. Many reviewers mention how mesmerizing it is to see the city from above, especially with the contrast of urban life against Iceland’s wild landscapes. As Brouch_M notes, “We landed close enough to the crater to change places so everyone could enjoy the landscape,” which adds a layer of intimacy to the experience.

What to Expect During Your Flight

The flight duration is about 30 minutes, but with pre-boarding and slight delays, you should budget around 35 to 45 minutes total. The helicopter is small, limiting the group size to ensure everyone gets a good view. Your pilot will provide commentary, sharing insights about the region’s geology and recent volcanic activity, making the experience educational as well as exhilarating.

Many travelers speak highly of their pilots—announcing that they are “very pleasant” and “confident,” which is reassuring when flying over active or recently active volcanic zones. One review highlights the chance to “hover inside extinct volcanoes’ craters,” an experience that’s both surreal and packed with photo opportunities.

The Reviews: What Real Travelers Say

Reviewers seem to universally agree that the views are breathtaking, and the pilots are generally praised for their professionalism and knowledge. Ann_K calls it an “amazing experience,” emphasizing the proximity to eruption sites from recent years and the chance to see inside a volcano expected to erupt soon.

Others, like Mike_M, loved the experience of “spending time on top” of a volcano, and Brouch_M highlights the “incredible landscape” and the opportunity to land as close as possible to the crater, which allowed everyone to take in the scenery from different angles.

However, not all reviews are perfect. A few travelers mention flight cancellations due to bad weather, which underscores the importance of flexibility and booking with the understanding that Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. Jim_N describes it as “an unforgettable experience” even if the opportunity to fly over an erupting volcano isn’t always guaranteed.

One reviewer, Jon_O, pointed out that “the tour is branded to give the impression it’s active volcanoes,” noting that eruptions might not be happening during your flight. While the scenery remains stunning, it’s worth keeping expectations realistic—viewing recent lava flows and fissures is impressive enough.

Is It Worth the Price?

At around $640 per person, this isn’t a cheap outing, but considering the limited group size, the personalized experience, and the aerial views of volcanic activity and Reykjavík, many find it a worthwhile splurge. Particularly for photography lovers, this offers a chance to capture Iceland’s landscapes from angles few get to see.

Some reviews suggest that if the volcano isn’t erupting during your flight, you still get a beautiful aerial tour and the thrill of flying over active geological zones. The experience of hovering inside a crater or flying just above recent lava flows makes the price feel more justified.

Practical Tips for Booking and Planning

• Book well in advance—the tour is popular, and most travelers book about a month ahead.
• Check weather forecasts—flights can be canceled if conditions are unsafe, so keep your plans flexible.
• Arrive early at the meeting point on the day of your flight.
• Bring your camera or smartphone—you’ll want to capture the incredible views.
• Dress warmly—even in summer, it can be chilly at altitude, especially with wind.
• Understand that eruptions aren’t guaranteed—be prepared for a scenic flight rather than an active eruption experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This helicopter journey is best suited for those who value sight-seeing from above, have a sense of adventure, and are comfortable with a small group setting. It’s especially appealing to photographers or anyone interested in geology and volcanology. If your main goal is to see an erupting volcano in full activity, keep in mind that eruptions are unpredictable, and cancellations are possible.

Travelers who appreciate beautiful aerial vistas and want a personal, intimate experience will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s also a great choice for those who have already explored the surface of Iceland’s volcanic zones and now want to see them from a different angle.

The Sum Up: Is This Helicopter Tour Worth It?

If you’re after a truly memorable way to see Iceland’s volcanic landscapes, this helicopter trip offers impressive views and a sense of adventure that’s hard to replicate. While weather can be a challenge, many travelers find the experience still worth it, especially when the skies are clear.

The small group size and guide commentary add a personal touch, making this more than just a sightseeing flight. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a bucket list adventure that combines natural beauty, geological intrigue, and a bit of thrill.

For those who want to see the latest volcanic fissures, capture breathtaking photos, and enjoy a personalized aerial tour, this experience hits the mark. Just keep your expectations flexible and your schedule open, and you’ll likely walk away with stories to tell—and photos to cherish—for years.

FAQ

• How long is the helicopter tour? The flight lasts about 30 minutes, but plan for around 35 to 45 minutes total including boarding and waiting.
• What’s included in the price? The tour, guide commentary, and fuel surcharge are included; food, drinks, and hotel transfers are not.
• Can I see an active eruption? Eruptions aren’t guaranteed; the tour offers views of recent fissures and volcanic landscapes, but eruptions depend on current activity.
• What happens if the weather is bad? Flights may be canceled for safety reasons, in which case you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
• How many people are in each helicopter? Each helicopter seats 56, ensuring an intimate experience with good views for everyone.
• Is there a weight limit? Yes, the total weight per passenger should not exceed 243 lbs.
• Do I need to bring my own camera? While many reviews mention great photo results, you should bring your own to capture the scenery.
• Are children allowed? The tour isn’t specifically advertised as family-friendly, but if you’re considering children, check with the provider.
• What is the best time to fly? Multiple departures are available, and clear weather makes for the best experience.
• Is this tour suitable for photographers? Absolutely. The high vantage point and close-up views of volcanic fissures make it perfect for capturing incredible images.

Thinking about soaring over Iceland’s volcanoes? This helicopter tour offers a rare glimpse of the volcanic landscape from the sky, combining adventure, stunning scenery, and a touch of geological wonder—definitely worth considering if your trip to Reykjavík is all about unforgettable experiences.