Landmannalaugar: Helicopter tour with 3 Landings

If you’re dreaming of seeing Iceland’s wild beauty from above, this helicopter tour offers a chance to do just that—plus get up close with some of the country’s most iconic spots. We’ve been researching this experience and it seems perfect for travelers who want a mix of breathtaking vistas, in-depth landings, and a dash of adventure.

What really catches our eye are the multiple landings—especially in Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk—allowing you to truly experience Iceland’s rugged terrain rather than just view it from the air. Another highlight is the chance to fly over Eyjafjallajökull, a legendary volcano, and then relax in a secluded geothermal bath afterward.

That said, it’s a tour heavily dependent on weather conditions, so don’t be surprised if some landings are skipped due to Iceland’s famously unpredictable skies. Still, even just the aerial views are impressive enough to make this a worthwhile splurge. It’s best suited for those who crave a comprehensive view of Iceland’s diverse landscapes and don’t mind a bit of flexibility.

Key Points

• Stunning aerial views of Iceland’s most famous landmarks, including waterfalls, glaciers, and geothermal areas
• Multiple landings in key spots like Landmannalaugar, Þórsmörk, and Eyjafjallajökull allow for closer exploration
• Weather-dependent, so some stops might be skipped if conditions aren’t right
• Small group experience with limited participants, making it more personalized and less crowded
• Includes a secluded geothermal bath, adding a relaxing element to the adventure
• Duration of around 3 hours, so it’s a full but manageable experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

Experiencing Iceland from the Air: What to Expect

This tour promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime view of Iceland’s diverse landscapes, and it largely delivers. Starting from Reykjavík, you’ll hop into a helicopter for a series of flights that take you over some of Iceland’s most famous sights. The experience balances aerial sightseeing with landings at select locations, giving you the best of both worlds: spectacular bird’s-eye panoramas and the chance to step onto the terrain.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at the Ace FBO Reykjavík, where you’ll meet your small group and start the journey. The initial flight takes you across the Capital Region, giving you your first sweeping views of the city and surrounding landscapes. From there, the helicopter heads toward the Þingvellir National Park, where history and geology collide. Here, you get a chance to see the Silfra fissure and Almannagjá, iconic geological features, from the sky.

The next stop is the Geysir Geothermal Area, where you’re likely to see the geyser erupting—a spectacular sight, with boiling water shooting up to 70 meters. Even if the geyser isn’t erupting during your flight, the colorful pools and steaming landscapes are captivating. The tour then moves to Gullfoss, the mighty waterfall that plunges dramatically into a canyon.

From there, it’s a scenic flyover to Haifoss, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, for a photo stop and short walk. The views of the surrounding canyon and river are spectacular—and it’s a nice breather before heading deeper into the highlands.

Landmannalaugar and Thórsmörk

One of the main highlights is a landing in Landmannalaugar, famous for its vibrant rhyolite mountains and geothermal pools. Even if a landing isn’t guaranteed every day, the aerial views of the colorful landscape are remarkable. This area is a favorite for hikers, and if you have time, you can explore the trails or just enjoy the scenery.

Next, you’ll visit Þórsmörk, a lush valley surrounded by glaciers and mountains. Known for its rich vegetation and wildlife, it offers a stark contrast to the highland’s volcanic terrain. From the helicopter, you’ll see the vast wilderness and dense greenery that make this spot such a special part of Iceland.

Glaciers, Volcanoes, and Waterfalls

The Eyjafjallajökull Glacier is another highlight—famous for its eruption in 2010—where you get to see the icy cap and volcanic landscape from above. Weather can impact whether a landing is possible here, but the aerial views alone are impressive.

The final stops include Gullfoss and Háifoss, with the latter dropping 122 meters into a gorge. These waterfalls are powerful, and seeing them from the air enhances their majesty.

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The Relaxing Touch: Geothermal Bath

A real treat—if conditions allow—is the secluded geothermal bath included at some point in the tour. After your flying adventure, you can soak in the warm, soothing waters, which offers a perfect way to unwind amid Iceland’s natural beauty.

How the Experience Feels in Practice

We’ve seen reviews from travelers who appreciated the expertise of the pilots and guides. One reviewer mentioned, “Outstanding trip. Our pilot plotted a route to avoid bad weather and because it wasn’t possible to land at the thermal pool, we had an extra landing at a magnificent wilderness waterfall.” That flexibility shows how skilled the crew is at making the most of the day, even when Iceland’s weather throws a curveball.

Another reviewer described the experience as “thoroughly enjoyed,” thanks to the stunning views and excellent planning. The small group size—limited to five participants—keeps the experience intimate, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and take photos without the chaos of large tours.

The Pros

• Unparalleled views: Seeing Iceland’s diverse landscapes from above is a perspective you’ll never forget.
• Multiple landings: These give you time to explore and take photos, rather than just passing over locations.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable pilots and guides help you understand what you’re seeing.
• Comfortable, small-group setting: Better interaction and a more personalized experience.
• Added geothermal bath: A relaxing bonus that balances out the adventure.

The Cons

• Weather dependence: Some landings might be canceled or shortened if conditions are poor, so flexibility is key.
• Price: It’s a premium experience, but the value comes from the combination of flights and landings in prime locations.
• Duration: About three hours, which is a significant chunk of your day, but it’s packed with sights.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This helicopter experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive and scenic Iceland trip with a focus on spectacular views and unique landings. If you’re an adventure-seeker or photography enthusiast, you’ll love the opportunity to capture Iceland’s iconic spots from the sky. It’s also a good fit for those interested in geology, volcanoes, and natural landscapes, thanks to the stops at Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, and the highlands.

While it’s not specifically pitched as a family-friendly adventure, the focus on scenic views and short walks makes it accessible for most healthy travelers. However, due to the helicopter element, it’s best suited for those comfortable with flying.

The Bottom Line

If you’re after an extraordinary way to see Iceland, this helicopter tour delivers more than just aerial views. The combination of multiple landings, expert guidance, and stunning landscapes means you’ll walk away with memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or visiting Iceland for the first time, this experience offers a comprehensive picture of the country’s natural wonders.

It’s especially valuable for those who want to avoid just a quick flyby and prefer to get a real feel of each location. Keep in mind that weather can impact some stops, but even then, the views from above are worth the price of admission.

This tour is perfect for adventurous explorers, photography lovers, and history buffs eager to see a diverse array of Iceland’s landscapes in one seamless trip.

FAQ

How long is the overall tour?
The tour lasts about 3 hours, which includes multiple flights and landings in key locations.

Are all landings guaranteed?
Landings are weather-dependent. Sometimes, not all stops are accessible, but the aerial views alone make it worthwhile.

Is this experience suitable for families?
It’s generally suitable for most healthy travelers comfortable with flying, but not specifically tailored for children or families.

What’s included in the tour?
The experience includes 3 landings in selected sites, with flights over landmarks like Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, and others.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly for snacks or meals before or after your trip.

What’s the best time of year to do this?
While not explicitly mentioned, the best conditions are generally during the milder months, but keep in mind Iceland’s unpredictable weather.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

All in all, this helicopter tour stands out as a memorable way to experience Iceland’s extraordinary landscape. If you’re the type of traveler who values unique perspectives and the thrill of exploration, it could be exactly what you’re looking for.

You can check availability for your dates here: