Landmarks from Above: Helicopter tour with 3 Landings

Exploring Iceland from Above: A Helicopter Tour with Multiple Landings

This helicopter experience in Reykjavik offers a chance to view Iceland’s most iconic sights from a perspective most travelers never get to enjoy. With a flight time of approximately three to three hours forty minutes and three carefully planned landings, this tour marries the thrill of flying with the tranquility of exploring some of Iceland’s most breathtaking landscapes. What sets this apart is not just the scenic views, but the small-group setup—capped at just five people—making it feel more like an intimate adventure than a typical tour.

Two things I particularly love about this experience are the exclusive access to landings at places like Landmannalaugar, a geothermal wonderland, and the opportunity to relax in a natural hot spring afterward. These unique touches turn a simply spectacular sightseeing flight into a memorable, hands-on adventure. The guides, especially Mario, are praised for their professionalism and friendliness, which adds a personal touch to the journey.

One potential consideration is the price—at around $1,736 per person, it’s a significant investment. But when you think about the combination of aerial views, landings at remote locations, and the geothermal bath, the experience offers a level of value that many other tours simply can’t match. Still, travelers should be prepared for weather-dependent scheduling and the need to book well in advance, as this experience is popular and booked on average 57 days ahead.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Unique aerial perspective provides breathtaking views of Iceland’s top sights like Gullfoss and Thingvellir National Park.
• Small-group experience caps at just five travelers, offering a more personalized and flexible adventure.
• Multiple landings at highlights such as Landmannalaugar and Háifoss waterfall allow for closer exploration.
• Geothermal bath experience in Landmannalaugar adds a relaxing and memorable finish to the day.
• Weather-dependent scheduling means your plans might shift; good weather is essential for clear views.
• Price reflects exclusivity and the combination of flight, landings, and a spa experience, making it a high-value option for adventure lovers.

Experiencing Iceland from the Sky: A Deep Dive

If you’re looking to see the highlights of Iceland’s unique terrain but are short on time, this helicopter tour might be just what you need. The entire adventure lasts about three to three hours forty minutes, including three landings that significantly elevate the experience beyond a simple flight. Think of it as a flying tour with a personal touch—small enough to feel exclusive, but packed with Icelandic wonder.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Cover

Starting point at Reykjavík Airport, the tour begins with a warm welcome and safety briefing. Once aboard, the real magic begins, and I love how this tour is designed to maximize your time. The first stop is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the air, you’ll get a sweeping view of the world’s oldest parliament site and the shimmering waters of Iceland’s largest lake. It’s a remarkable place, not just for its geological significance but also for its place in Icelandic history.

Next, the helicopter takes you over Geysir Hot Springs, where the mighty geysers shoot water skyward in a dramatic display. The guides, like Freddie, are praised for their helpfulness and ability to make the experience smooth. Seeing the geysers from above gives you a new appreciation for their power—not just a bubbling hot spring but a natural spectacle.

Landmannalaugar: Colorful Mountains and a Thermal Bath

Perhaps the most stunning part of the tour is the visit to Landmannalaugar, famous for its vibrant rhyolite mountains, geothermal activity, and hiking trails. The panoramic views from the air reveal a technicolor landscape that’s both surreal and captivating. Landmannalaugar isn’t just a sightseeing stop—weather permitting, you’ll land here and have time to soak in the geothermal hot springs. This is what some reviews call “an unforgettable” highlight, a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

What I love is that the tour allows you to descend into these natural thermal pools, something few other excursions offer. It’s a rare chance to combine aerial sightseeing with a dip in nature’s own spa—relaxing, rejuvenating, and completely authentic.

The Route Over Waterfalls and Volcanoes

The flight continues over the impressive Háifoss waterfall, one of Iceland’s tallest, and across the volcanic landscapes shaped by past eruptions, including the site of the infamous 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajökull. From the sky, these landscapes look like scenes from a different planet—dazzling glaciers, black volcanic coastlines, and cascading waterfalls. Flying over these features allows you to grasp the scale and raw power of Iceland’s geology in a way that ground-based sightseeing simply can’t match.

Why This Tour Stands Out

• The two landings at iconic sites like Landmannalaugar and Háifoss are a major plus, offering opportunities to explore up close and enjoy some quiet moments amid spectacular scenery.
• The geothermal bath at Landmannalaugar, included in the tour, elevates this experience from just sightseeing to personal relaxation—a true highlight according to reviews.
• Small group size maximizes flexibility and comfort, which is noticeable when you’re sharing the helicopter with only four others.

Practical Considerations

While the experience is undeniably impressive, it’s essential to remember that weather plays a big role. Poor conditions can cause cancellations or delays, which is why booking in advance and having a flexible schedule can save you stress. The total price of about $1,736 per person might seem steep, but it includes three landings, a guide, and exclusive access to a geothermal bath—adding value for those seeking a premium adventure.

Since most travelers book 57 days in advance, I recommend securing your spot early. The experience ends back at the same meeting point at Reykjavík Airport, making logistics straightforward.

Who Will Love This

This tour is perfect for adventure seekers and those with limited time who want an immersive experience combining aerial views, land exploration, and relaxation. It’s suited for travelers prepared for a higher cost and possibly variable weather, and for those who enjoy a personal touch with small-group outings.

If you’re a fan of stunning landscapes, unique geological features, or just want to see Iceland differently, this helicopter tour offers an outstanding way to do so.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For the right traveler, this helicopter trip offers a chance to tick off some of Iceland’s most incredible sights in one extraordinary day. The combination of aerial views, landings at Landmannalaugar and Háifoss, and a geothermal soak makes it a full sensory experience—sights, sounds, and even a bit of warmth from the hot springs. It’s a splurge, but one that buys you access to places most visitors only see from afar or on crowded bus tours.

It’s especially suited for those who value intimate experiences, stunning scenery, and a bit of luxury in their adventure. If you’re willing to invest in a remarkable, one-of-a-kind Icelandic outing, this tour will not disappoint.

FAQs

How long is the helicopter tour?
The total flight time is approximately three to three hours forty minutes, including three landings. This gives you ample time to enjoy the sights and the landings.

What’s included in the price?
The tour covers three landings at special sites like Landmannalaugar and Háifoss, the services of an English-speaking guide, and the opportunity to soak in a geothermal bath at Landmannalaugar.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book around 57 days ahead. The tour is popular, and booking early helps secure your spot, especially given the weather-dependent nature of the experience.

Is it suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those with severe mobility issues or fear of flying should consider their comfort level. The maximum passenger weight is 265 lbs, and weather conditions can affect the schedule.

What about weather cancellations?
Since the experience relies on good weather, cancellations can happen. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I bring food and drinks?
Food and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring snacks, especially for the landings and the geothermal bath.

In all, this helicopter tour with multiple landings is an unforgettable way to see Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes from above and close-up. It blends adventure, comfort, and scenic beauty into one curated experience—perfect for travelers who want to turn their Iceland visit into a truly memorable story.