Helicopter Tour: Reykjavik City with landing at Mount Esja

When considering a way to see Reykjavik and its striking surroundings, a helicopter tour offers a rare perspective that’s hard to match. This particular flight with GlacierHeli takes you over the city, showcasing rooftops, lakes, and nearby terrain before landing on the rugged slopes of Mount Esja. With a duration of about 20 to 25 minutes in the air, plus time on the mountain, it makes for a well-paced, intimate experience. There’s something special about soaring above Iceland’s capital and then stepping onto a volcanic landscape, and this tour manages to balance scenic marvels with practical details.

Two things I especially appreciate about this experience: first, the small-group format makes it more personal and less rushed; you’re not just another number but part of a group that can truly take in the views. Second, the landing at Mount Esja is a real highlight—standing on volcanic rocks with sweeping vistas in every direction, there’s a tangible sense of being on top of Iceland’s volcanic story. One minor point to keep in mind is that the weather can influence your flight, so flexibility might be necessary if conditions aren’t ideal on your planned day.

Key Points

• Stunning aerial views of Reykjavik, including rooftops, lakes, and neighborhoods.
• Land on Mount Esja for a close-up look at volcanic terrain and breathtaking scenery.
• Knowledgeable pilots and guides who ensure safety and share insights, making the experience both fun and educational.
• All fees included means no surprises at checkout — a straightforward booking process.
• Ideal for small groups, with a maximum of five travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Weather-dependent, so flexibility or a backup plan could be helpful.

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting at Reykjavik Airport, the tour kicks off with an easy check-in — your guide is likely to be easily found, and everything from the safety briefing to boarding is straightforward. The price of around $310 per person might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the 25-minute flight, the landing, and the exclusive nature of a small-group tour, it offers solid value for an experience that’s both scenic and memorable. Plus, all fees and taxes are included, removing the usual complication of extra charges.

The Flight Over Reykjavik

Flying over Reykjavik is a treat, especially if you’re visiting during a clear day. You’ll see the city’s colorful rooftops, parks, and vibrant neighborhoods from above, giving you a fresh perspective on how the city sprawls across the landscape. One review happily notes, “We saw Reykjavik from the highest point,” and it’s a view that helps you understand the city’s layout and its proximity to Iceland’s striking natural features.

The pilot, often praised in reviews, acts as both a skilled aviator and an informal guide, sharing tidbits about the sights below. Expect to spend about 20-25 minutes in the air, which might seem brief, but it’s enough to get a rundown of Reykjavik and its surroundings. Plus, the flight is designed to be smooth, even for those who might be nervous about flying — one reviewer mentioned, “The pilot was super and put us at ease,” which can make a big difference in your overall enjoyment.

Landing at Mount Esja

After soaring above the city, the helicopter lands on the volcanic terrain of Mount Esja. This mountain, famous for its symmetrical basalt rocks and lava fields, offers a spectacular contrast to the urban landscape. The experience of stepping out onto this rugged terrain is a highlight — you feel truly connected to Iceland’s volcanic past.

Guides take about 10 minutes on the mountain, and your included admission ticket grants access to this natural spectacle. As one reviewer put it, “Flying onto the glaciers and seeing the tectonic plates from above was excellent,” underscoring how landing here provides a rare, tangible link to Iceland’s volcanic activity.

Expect windy weather and lush greenery amid a rugged backdrop, which makes for superb photo opportunities. The views from Mount Esja are remarkable — on a clear day, you can see across the surrounding mountains, lakes, and possibly even beyond into the Icelandic wilderness.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The small-group format is a real advantage. With a maximum of five travelers, everyone gets ample time to enjoy the views and take photos. The guides, described as knowledgeable and experienced, add a layer of insight that turns a sightseeing flight into an educational experience. Many reviews mention how guides like “gave us enough time to check out the area when we landed,” which enhances the feeling of exclusivity.

Flexibility and ease of booking are additional benefits — most folks book about three weeks in advance, and with free cancellation up to 24 hours before, you have peace of mind. The weather dependency is worth noting, as poor weather can lead to cancellations, but the company offers a chance to reschedule or get a full refund.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This helicopter trip suits travelers craving a unique perspective, those interested in Iceland’s volcanic landscape, and anyone looking for a memorable adventure complemented by expert guides. It’s perfect for small groups and those preferring a more intimate experience rather than large, noisy tours. Also, it’s a fantastic choice if you want to see Reykjavik from a different angle, with plenty of time to enjoy the surroundings at the mountain.

The Sum Up

This Reykjavik helicopter tour offers a well-rounded, high-value experience for those eager to see Iceland from above. The combination of city views and a landing on Mount Esja makes it stand out from more traditional sightseeing options. The expert pilot and guides ensure a safe, engaging journey, and the limited group size keeps things personal and relaxed.

For travelers who appreciate stunning vistas, authentic natural encounters, and a touch of adventure, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for those who want a memorable story to tell and can handle the possibility of weather-related cancellations. Given its reviews and solid reputation, it’s a worthwhile addition to any Iceland itinerary.

FAQ

How long does the entire helicopter tour last?
Expect approximately 20 to 25 minutes of flight time, with extra time for the landing and brief exploration on Mount Esja.

Are all fees included in the price?
Yes, the ticket price covers the flight, landing, and all taxes and fees — no hidden costs at checkout.

What is the group size?
This experience is limited to a maximum of 5 travelers, which promotes a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

What if the weather is bad on my scheduled day?
The tour is weather-dependent. If poor weather cancels your flight, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this experience suitable for nervous flyers?
Many reviews mention the pilot as being very skilled and reassuring, so if you’re slightly anxious, this might be a good choice — just communicate your concerns.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Reykjavik Airport and returns there after completing the flight and mountain landing.

If you’re looking for an extraordinary way to see Reykjavik and connect with Iceland’s volcanic soul, this helicopter flight with Mount Esja landing is hard to beat. It combines comfort, exclusivity, and awe-inspiring views for a truly memorable adventure.