Landmannalaugar: Helicopter tour with 3 Landings

Review of the Landmannalaugar Helicopter Tour with 3 Landings

Having read about this helicopter tour across southern Iceland, I was intrigued by the notion of seeing some of the country’s most iconic sights from the sky—plus the added thrill of three landings in truly spectacular locations. From the rugged geothermal pools of Landmannalaugar to the glacial majesty of Eyjafjallajökull, this experience promises to combine aerial sightseeing with brief encounters on the ground.

What I particularly like about this tour is how it balances stunning vistas with the chance to step off the helicopter in select spots—especially Landmannalaugar, renowned for its vibrant rhyolite mountains, and Þórsmörk, a lush valley surrounded by glaciers. The fact that it’s a small group (limited to five participants) means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and your guide or pilot can tailor the experience as much as weather allows.

One thing to keep in mind is that certain landings are weather-dependent. For example, if the weather is cloudy or windy, your stops at some of these remote locations might be brief or even canceled, but even just flying over these landscapes is breathtaking. Plus, the tour’s duration of about 3 hours makes it a hefty but manageable chunk of your day—perfect for those with a sense of adventure and a desire for a comprehensive, high-up glimpse of Iceland’s wild heart.

A tiny consideration—the price might seem steep at first glance, but considering the multiple landings, expert guidance, and the exclusive nature of the tour, many travelers find it offers solid value, especially for such an “all-in” experience. Remember, you’re not just sightseeing from the helicopter; you’re also stepping into the wilderness, which adds a whole new dimension to the visit.

Key points / Takeaways

Unique aerial perspective of Iceland’s most famous sites, including Þingvellir and Gullfoss.
Multiple landings provide short but meaningful walks in iconic locations like Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk.
Expert pilots and guides (often highly praised for their knowledge and navigation skills), who plot routes to avoid bad weather and maximize sightseeing.
Weather can influence landings, so flexibility is essential, but even flying over the landscapes is impressive.
Limited group size (max 5 participants) ensures a more personalized experience and better chances to get closer views.
The added secluded geothermal bath makes this tour stand apart by blending aerial adventure with a relaxing thermal experience.

Exploring the Icelandic Skyline: A Complete Look at the Helicopter Tour

The excitement begins at Reykjavík’s Ace FBO, where you’ll meet your pilot and fellow adventurers. From there, the journey swiftly transitions into a series of breathtaking flybys and stops—each one showcasing Iceland’s rugged beauty in a way that ground-based tours often can’t match.

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First Stop: Þingvellir National Park

The tour kicks off with a 10-minute helicopter flight over Þingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, I love the way the aerial view reveals the geological drama of the Silfra rift and the fissures that split North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The site is historically significant as the site of Iceland’s first parliament, but from the air, it’s a landscape that looks like a giant crack in the Earth, a reminder of Iceland’s fiery, shifting geology.

Second Stop: Geysir Geothermal Area

Next, you’ll fly over Geysir, where the hot springs and boiling pools look almost cartoonish from above. Watching the geyser eruptions in real time is a sensation I’d recommend: boiling water shooting into the air up to 70 meters is a reminder of Iceland’s volcanic pulse. Even if landings at Geysir are weather-dependent, the aerial view makes it clear why this geothermal marvel is a must-see.

Third Stop: Gullfoss Waterfall

The double-tiered Gullfoss waterfall plunges into a deep canyon, and from the air, you get a sense of its raw power and scale. Flying over Gullfoss is likely to be a highlight, with the mist rising and the canyon walls framing the cascade. The tour guides have a knack for pointing out the details—like the way the water’s hue shifts in the changing light.

Scenic Detours: Haifoss and Fjallabak

The itinerary includes a photo stop at Haifoss, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls at 122 meters. It’s a quiet, awe-inspiring spot—less crowded but equally impressive. Next, the helicopter takes you over the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, with its rhyolite mountains and geothermal features, giving you an almost otherworldly landscape view.

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Landmannalaugar: The Heart of the Highlands

The highlight for many is the Landmannalaugar stop, famed for its vibrant mountain colors and geothermal pools. Even if weather conditions mean you can’t always land, the flyover alone offers sweeping vistas of reds, greens, and yellows. Walking around the area allows hikers to explore the famous Laugavegur trail, but for most, a quick walk and photos suffice. As one reviewer noted, even when a landing isn’t possible, just the aerial footage is “magnificent.”

Þórsmörk: Iceland’s Lush Wilderness

Next, the helicopter takes you into Þórsmörk, a lush green valley surrounded by glaciers and mountains. This is the perfect spot to see how diverse Iceland’s landscape can be: from volcanic deserts to verdant forests. With a 20-minute flight, you’ll get a bird’s eye view of the valley’s winding rivers and dense foliage. Landing here is a real treat—though weather can limit access, the views from the air are stunning enough.

Eyjafjallajökull Volcano: A Geological Icon

The Eyjafjallajökull glacier and volcano is another highlight, especially given its role in recent history. From the air, the glaciers and volcanic crater form a dramatic scene. If weather permits, a 30-minute walk around the site offers a chance to appreciate the volcanic landscape up close.

Final Landings: Gullfoss & Háifoss Waterfalls

The tour wraps up with flights over Hengill geothermal area and a final visit to Háifoss, closing the loop with some of Iceland’s most striking waterfalls. Each stop offers opportunities for photos, short walks, and soaking in the natural beauty that makes Iceland unique.

The Overall Experience: What You Really Get

This tour isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s about seeing the country’s essence from a perspective few travelers get to enjoy. The small group size ensures intimacy, and the knowledgeable guides are good at explaining both the geological background and the current conditions, which is valuable if you’re keen on understanding what you’re seeing.

While the weather can influence landings, the pilots and guides do their best to maximize the experience—sometimes adding an extra stop at a magnificent wilderness waterfall when a planned stop is not feasible. This flexibility, combined with the expert flying skills, makes the tour feel well-organized and professional.

The price may seem high, but considering the multiple landings and the inclusion of a secluded geothermal bath—which is quite a bonus—the value becomes more apparent. It’s a premium experience that offers a rare combination of adventure, comfort, and awe-inspiring scenery.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you have a taste for adventure, love scenic flights, and want an intimate experience of Iceland’s diverse landscapes, this tour could be perfect. It’s especially suited to those who appreciate natural beauty and don’t mind the possibility of weather-related schedule tweaks. The small group size makes it ideal for travelers seeking a personalized, less commercial experience.

This tour is less suited for travelers on a strict budget or those who prefer a more leisurely, ground-based exploration. Given the 3-hour duration and the high-quality experience, it’s best for those with a sense of adventure and curiosity about Iceland’s geological wonders.

Practical Tips for Your Tour

Check the weather forecast and be flexible, as some landings depend on clear conditions.
Arrive early at Reykjavík’s Ace FBO, so you’re ready for the quick briefing and safety instructions.
Bring warm, layered clothing—Iceland’s weather can change quickly, especially at higher altitudes.
Don’t forget your camera and binoculars—the views are worth multiple photos.
If you’re concerned about motion sickness, inform your guide; helicopter flights can be bumpy but are generally smooth.
Be prepared for short walks at some stops—good shoes help.
Remember, food and drinks are not included, so consider packing a snack or water for breaks.

FAQs

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, some landings depend on weather conditions. However, even if landings are limited, the aerial views alone are extraordinary.

How long are the helicopter flights?
The entire tour lasts about 3 hours, with various flights ranging from 5 to 20 minutes, plus stops.

What’s included in the experience?
You get three landings and sightseeing of Iceland’s most famous spots, plus the option to visit a secluded geothermal bath.

Are there any age or health restrictions?
Specific restrictions aren’t mentioned, but since it’s a helicopter flight, those with certain health issues or fear of flying should check with the provider.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.

What should I bring?
Wear warm layers, bring your camera, and consider sunglasses for the bright landscape. Food and drinks aren’t included.

Is it suitable for photographers?
Absolutely. The views are stunning from every angle, and the small group size allows for better photo opportunities.