Reykjavik: Panoramic Helicopter Flight with Summit Landing

If you’re dreaming of seeing Reykjavik from a whole new perspective, this helicopter tour might just be what you’re after. It promises a bird’s eye view of the city’s rooftops, landmarks, and surrounding landscapes, topped off with a mountain landing for some truly spectacular vistas. While we haven’t tried it ourselves, the reviews and details paint a pretty compelling picture.

One thing we really like about this experience is how it combines urban sights with wild Icelandic nature. Flying over landmarks like Hallgríms Church and Harpa Concert Hall gives you a fresh appreciation of Reykjavik’s charms, while the mountain landing offers an escape into Iceland’s rugged beauty. Also, the small group size—limit of six participants—means you’ll likely get more personalized attention and space during your flight.

On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the price of $310 per person isn’t exactly cheap, but for a short, high-quality helicopter experience with a mountain landing, many travelers find it reasonable. Just keep in mind that weather factors can influence whether your flight goes ahead, so having flexible plans is key.

This tour will suit travelers who love scenic vistas, are comfortable with small-group adventures, and are seeking that once-in-a-lifetime shot of Reykjavik from above. If you’re after a mix of city exploration with a dash of Icelandic wilderness, this could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Short but memorable: A 40-minute total experience covering city sights and mountain views.
• Unique photo opportunities: Get stunning shots of landmarks and the city from above.
• Land on a mountain: Offers a sense of adventure and a different perspective on Reykjavik.
• Weather dependent: Flights may be rescheduled if conditions aren’t ideal.
• Limited group size: Ensures a more intimate and personal experience.
• No hotel transfer: You’ll need to get yourself to the meeting point.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Reykjavik Helicopter Tour

This isn’t your average sightseeing flight. From the moment you arrive at the Reykjavik Domestic Airport, just a short drive from the city center, you’ll feel the anticipation build. Once aboard the helicopter, the pilot—often praised in reviews—guides you through the flight with commentary, giving insights in English. Although an audio guide is included, it’s the views that truly steal the show.

The flight itself lasts about 30 to 45 minutes. You’ll first soar over the Reykjavik city center, taking in the vibrant rooftops and streets. You can expect to see iconic landmarks like Hallgríms Church, with its distinctive design, and the shimmering Harpa Concert Hall, nestled at the harbor. From the air, these structures take on a new scale and beauty, and photographers will love capturing the city’s colors from above.

As your helicopter glides over the city, you’ll also get a view of the presidential residence—a spot that travelers often find interesting—and the sprawling landscape that surrounds Reykjavik. The city’s compact size makes for a great aerial tour, as you’ll see how everything fits together from this elevated vantage point.

What makes this experience special is the mountain landing. Once the helicopter lands on a nearby summit, you’ll step out into an almost surreal landscape. The views of Reykjavik from the mountain are often described as “spectacular,” providing a sense of Iceland’s wild beauty that’s hard to match. Many reviews mention taking amazing photos here, and some lucky travelers even snag a selfie with the entire city spread out behind them.

Locations and Sightseeing Highlights

• Reykjavik city center: See the colorful rooftops, streets, and iconic architecture from above.
• Hallgríms Church: The towering, uniquely-designed church that dominates the skyline.
• Harpa Concert Hall: The glass-fronted building with its striking design.
• Presidential residence: A glimpse of where the Icelandic president lives.
• Mountain summit: Offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape, perfect for photos and a moment of peace away from the hustle.

What You’ll Love

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable pilot, often describing them as friendly and informative. Comments like “Max our pilot was amazing” reflect the importance of a skilled guide to enhance the experience. The scenery is frequently called “absolutely stunning,” with clear skies making for perfect views.

Many mention the value of the mountain landing, as it’s not just about flying but also about standing on Icelandic terrain and soaking in the vistas. This isn’t a rushed flyby – it’s an experience that balances urban sightseeing with wilderness.

Practical Details and Considerations

Duration and Schedule: The tour lasts about 40 minutes, including the flight and the mountain landing. You’ll need to check availability for start times, which vary, so planning ahead is recommended.

Meeting Point: The tour begins at Norðurflug Helicopter Tours, located behind Icelandair Hotel Natura at Reykjavik Domestic Airport. After booking, you’ll receive your exact start time by email, adding some flexibility to your plans.

Price and Value: At $310 per person, it’s not the cheapest activity in Reykjavik, but considering the short duration, scenic variety, and the mountain landing, many find it worth the cost. Reviews mention it as “a steal” and “something you must do when in Iceland,” indicating a high perceived value.

Group Size: Limited to 6 participants, which means a more intimate experience. This small group size also tends to encourage more interaction and personalized attention.

Weather and Rescheduling: The tour is weather-dependent, and if conditions aren’t suitable, it can be rescheduled or refunded, providing peace of mind.

Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for travelers with mobility concerns to participate.

Weight Limit: There’s a weight limit of 120 kg (265 lbs). Passengers over this will be asked to pay for 1.5 seats for comfort and safety.

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What the Reviews Tell Us

The glowing reviews highlight maximally positive experiences. For example, Natalie raves about how “Max our pilot was amazing”, and Steve mentions the “active volcano” he saw, giving a sense that the tour delivers on its promise of varied, breathtaking views.

Another reviewer, Diane, emphasizes that “the weather was perfect”, which contributed to a “great scenery” experience. She also notes that “she would definitely book another flight,” showing how memorable this experience can be.

Reviewers also appreciate the knowledgeable and friendly pilot, with comments like “the pilot was super nice and informative,” which adds confidence that you’ll be well taken care of during your flight.

Of course, some mention the weather’s impact—overcast or cloudy days can obscure views, but the flexibility for rescheduling provides reassurance.

Final Thoughts

This Reykjavik panoramic helicopter flight with summit landing presents a fantastic way to see Iceland’s capital and its surroundings from a fresh vantage point. It’s perfect for those who love photo opportunities, are interested in geography and landmarks, and enjoy small-group adventures. The mountain landing is a highlight that turns a typical sightseeing flight into a true experience.

While the cost may seem high, the quality of scenery, the knowledgeable pilot, and the ability to land on a mountain make it a worthwhile investment. Just remember to be flexible with weather conditions and to arrive prepared for a quick but memorable journey.

If you’re looking for a mix of city views, natural beauty, and a touch of adventure, this tour offers all three. It’s a smart choice for travelers who value authentic, scenic experiences and want to take home some unforgettable photos.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but the mountain landing and helicopter boarding may require some mobility, so it’s best to check with the provider if you have specific needs.

What should I wear for the flight?
Dress comfortably and in layers—aircraft cabins can be cool, and weather in Iceland can change quickly, especially if you venture onto a mountain.

How long is the entire experience?
Including check-in and boarding, plan for about 40 minutes. The flight itself is about 30 to 45 minutes, with the rest for preparation.

Can I cancel if the weather looks bad?
Yes. Tours may be rescheduled or refunded if weather conditions aren’t suitable, so keep flexible plans just in case.

What landmarks will I see from the helicopter?
You’ll view Reykjavik’s city center, Hallgríms Church, Harpa Concert Hall, and the presidential residence, along with surrounding landscapes.

Is there an age limit or family friendliness?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, it’s suitable for most travelers who are comfortable with helicopter flights and small groups.

Do I need to pay extra for overweight passengers?
Yes, passengers over 120 kg (265 lbs) pay for 1.5 seats to ensure comfort and safety.

This helicopter experience offers a mix of adventure, photography, and sightseeing that many travelers find well worth the price. If you’re seeking a memorable highlight during your time in Reykjavik, this flight might just be it.

You can check availability for your dates here: