There’s nowhere quite like Iceland. The combination of volcanic fire and glacial ice makes for some of the most stunning scenery on the planet. While observing some of the highlights from the land, such as the Seltún geothermal area or Thingvellir National Park is a fantastic experience, nothing can beat getting airborne for a true appreciation of the scale and magnitude of these remarkable Icelandic wilderness spots. If you happen to be staying in the country’s capital, Reykjavik, then helicopter tours are a great way to make your stay in the country extra-special.
A surprising number of helicopter tours are available from in and around Reykjavik. Itineraries vary wildly, from half-hour buzzes over the landscape offering thrilling views, to longer trips that push a little deeper into the island’s wild interior. We have sifted through what’s available to bring you the best three chopper tours, taking into account factors like health and safety, itinerary, duration, value for money and the reviews of previous passengers. Time to take to the skies.
FROM: $301/per person
This short trip out of Reykjavik is great value for anyone who just wants the experience of being airborne in a helicopter. Fly over the Icelandic capital city before pushing north towards the mountains that border Reykjavik. You will get the chance to touch down on the top of Mt Esja or one of the other nearby peaks for views out over the city before heading back to Reykjavik’s domestic airport again. You can either take this helicopter tour in the morning or afternoon, and flights generally last between 30 and 40 minutes. Flights run daily.
From $574/ per person
For a closer look at Iceland’s ethereal volcanic interior, this one-hour-plus helicopter tour is a great option. Heading towards Iceland’s southeast coast, you’ll get the chance to see the remarkable colours and weather-beaten coastline as the Atlantic pounds the cliffs. The destination: Seltún geothermal area, with its surrounding patchwork of volcanic craters. On this helicopter tour, you get the chance to touch down near one of the craters for a terrestrial photo-op. before taking to the skies once more to pass over the oddly-coloured landmarks like the famed Blue Lagoon, the green Lake Grænavatn and the vibrant landscape back to Reykjavik. Tours don’t run during the winter.
From $1,184/ per person
One of the ultimate helicopter tour options departing from, and returning to, Reykjavik is the two-hour Fire and Ice trip. This tour combines the best of Iceland’s wild sides, the Hengill geothermal area, with its hidden hotsprings and bubbling mud pools, then on to the Langjokull Glacier for a touchdown and a chance to walk out onto the ice. This helicopter tour also passes a number of Iceland’s impressive natural wonders including waterfalls and the tectonic formations of Thingvellir National Park. These tours run daily and generally only stop during the coldest months. Few other helicopter tours from Reykjavik manage to pack so much into a two-hour flight.
