An Adventurous Peek into Iceland’s Ice and Sky
Imagine soaring over Iceland’s rugged highlands in a sleek helicopter, touching down on a vast, icy landscape, then revving up a snowmobile to explore beneath the wide-open sky. That’s precisely what the Snowmobile with Helicopter Experience at Langjokull offers. This tour combines the thrill of aerial sightseeing with the rugged charm of Iceland’s second-largest glacier. It’s a full-on winter adventure that packs in spectacular views, adrenaline, and some pretty unique photo opportunities.
What I really appreciate about this experience is how smoothly it combines two very different modes of exploration—flying and snowmobiling—into one seamless trip. Plus, the guides and pilots are friendly and professional, which makes all the difference when you’re trying to stay warm and safe in the cold. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour requires a minimum of 4 passengers to operate, so it’s not the best fit if you’re traveling solo or in a very small group. Still, for those who want to see the ice from above and then get up close with a snowmobile ride, this offers excellent value and authentic Icelandic scenery.
One consideration is that there are no toilet facilities at the helicopter base, so plan accordingly. Also, the tour lasts about 1.5 hours from start to finish, so it’s a fairly compact adventure packed with action, ideal if you’re short on time but craving a taste of Iceland’s icy wilderness.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points / Takeaways
- Unmatched views: The helicopter flight offers panoramic vistas of rivers, waterfalls, glaciers, and distant mountain peaks—an experience that’s hard to match anywhere else.
- Glacier landing: Landing right on Langjokull transforms the helicopter ride into a true exploration, giving you a sense of standing on another planet.
- Expert guides and pilots: Friendly, professional, and safety-conscious, guides like Siggi make navigating the snowmobile adventure straightforward and fun.
- All gear provided: Warm overalls, helmets, and gloves mean you’re well-prepared for the cold, which is essential in Iceland’s winter.
- Limited group size: With a cap of just 5 participants, you’ll enjoy a more personalized experience. Book early to secure your spot.
- Great value for the experience: Combining the helicopter flight, glacier landing, and guided snowmobile tour offers a full day of adventure at a reasonable price.
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Exploring the Langjokull Snow and Sky Adventure
The Langjokull tour begins at Tungufell Airfield, just a short 10-minute drive from the famous Geysir area. You’ll start your journey with a helicopter flight that lasts about 10 minutes, giving you time to gaze down at Iceland’s incredible landscape. The pilot, usually a friendly and experienced professional, will guide you through iconic sights such as rivers and waterfalls that snake through the terrain, all seen from a perspective only aerial views can provide.
The highlight here is the glacier landing. Touching down on Langjokull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier, is a surreal moment. You’ll step out onto the ice, feeling the crunch of snow and realizing just how vast and silent this frozen world is. It’s not just a photo stop—this landing allows you to truly connect with the glacier’s scale and beauty.
Next, it’s time for the snowmobile ride. Guided by knowledgeable instructors like Bjorn, you’ll be kitted out with all necessary gear: helmets, warm overalls, and gloves, making sure you’re comfortable in the cold. The snowmobile tour lasts about 70 minutes and takes you into the wilderness surrounding the glacier, away from crowds, into the untouched snowfields and mountain views. It’s an exhilarating way to see more of the ice-covered landscape and feel the raw power of Iceland’s winter.
After the snowmobiling, the group reconvenes for a second helicopter flight, this time over Gullfoss Waterfall, one of Iceland’s most iconic sights. The timing of these flights provides a layered perspective—first from above the glacier, then over the stunning waterfall, adding a variety of scenery to your day.
Once back at Tungufell Airfield, you’re left with a sense of accomplishment and a trove of memorable images. The entire experience, although only about 1.5 hours long, delivers a concentrated dose of Icelandic winter magic that’s both thrilling and authentic.
Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary
Starting Point – Tungufell Airfield
This small airfield is where your adventure kicks off. Located close to Geysir, it’s easily accessible and offers a practical launch site for the helicopter rides. You’ll be greeted by friendly staff who handle the check-in and safety briefing, which is straightforward and professional. No fancy facilities here, so bring your own snacks and be prepared for no WCs at the base.
Helicopter Flight over Langjokull
The first flight is approximately ten minutes long, but it’s packed with breathtaking views. You’ll see Iceland’s rivers and waterfalls winding through the landscape, glaciers shimmering, and distant mountains. The pilot’s commentary, if available, adds interesting context, though you’ll mostly be captivated by the scenery.
Glacier Landing on Langjokull
Landing directly on the glacier is what sets this experience apart. You’ll step out onto the ice, often in a remote spot that feels otherworldly. Guides like Jón will help you understand the glacier’s scale—up to 580 meters thick—and how it shapes the land. Expect to spend around 15-20 minutes on the ice, enough time for photos and to appreciate the silence and vastness.
Snowmobile Ride into the Wilderness
After gearing up, you’ll hop onto a snowmobile with a partner, guided by a skilled instructor. The ride is approximately 70 minutes, taking you into the snow-covered valleys and mountain scenery. You’ll feel the power of the machine beneath you, and guides emphasize safety and control, making it suitable even for beginners. The snowmobiling gear is warm and comfortable, allowing you to enjoy the ride without freezing.
Second Helicopter Flight over Gullfoss
The second flight offers a different perspective—this time over the mighty Gullfoss waterfall. Seeing the waterfall from above highlights the sheer power and beauty of this site, especially in winter when the surrounding landscape is frosted and dramatic.
Return to Tungufell Airfield
After the flights and snowmobiling, your adventure concludes at the same starting point. You’ll leave with a collection of photos and memories of Iceland’s icy wilderness.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re someone who enjoys adventure and aerial views, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of Iceland’s iconic glacier landscape combined with the thrill of snowmobiling. The experience is especially suitable for those who appreciate well-organized tours and small-group settings, ensuring more personalized attention and fewer crowds.
It’s less ideal if you’re uncomfortable with cold weather or are looking for a slow, relaxed sightseeing experience. Also, note the minimum passenger requirement of four, which means solo travelers or small groups might need to coordinate accordingly.
More Great Tours NearbyPrice and Overall Value
At a price that includes return helicopter flights, glacier landing, snowmobile gear, and a guided tour, this experience offers good value for the adventure it delivers. The combination of sky-high vistas and up-close glacier exploration makes it a memorable and worthwhile addition to your Iceland trip, especially for those with a sense of adventure and curiosity about the icy landscapes.
Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoyment
- Book early to secure your spot, especially in peak winter months.
- Dress warmly in layers; while gear is provided, good insulation helps.
- Bring your camera—the views are breathtaking and worth capturing.
- Note the weight limit of 120 kgs or more requires an extra seat.
- No WC facilities at the helicopter base—plan accordingly.
- The tour requires at least four passengers to operate, so check availability ahead.
Final Thoughts
This snowmobile and helicopter adventure at Langjokull offers a blend of aerial photography, glacier exploration, and snowmobiling in one compact package. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see Iceland’s icy wilderness from multiple angles and enjoy a high-energy day out. Guides and pilots add a friendly, professional touch, making the experience as smooth as the snow is white.
While it’s not a budget tour, the value lies in the unique combination of activities and the unforgettable scenery. If you’re seeking an authentic, well-organized icy adventure—this is a fine choice that balances excitement, safety, and spectacular views.
FAQs
How long does the entire tour last? The experience duration is about 1.5 hours from start to finish, including flights, glacier landing, and snowmobiling.
Where does the tour start and end? It starts at Tungufell Airfield, which is about 10 minutes from Geysir, and ends back at the same location.
Are there any age restrictions? The information doesn’t specify age limits, but the primary considerations are weight (over 120 kgs requires an extra seat) and comfort with cold and adventure activities.
What’s included in the tour? The tour includes return helicopter flights, a glacier landing, a guided snowmobile tour, and all necessary gear like helmets and warm overalls.
Are food and drinks provided? No, food and drinks are not included, and there are no WCs at the helicopter base.
Can I cancel this tour? Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled time.
Is the tour suitable for children? The information does not specify, but given the nature of the activities, it’s best suited for older children and adults comfortable with cold weather.
What if I am concerned about safety? The guides and pilots are certified and professional, with clear safety procedures. They’re also friendly and helpful, making the experience accessible for most.
Is this tour suitable for photographers? Absolutely. The views from above and on the glacier are stunning, making it a fantastic opportunity for photography.
What should I wear? Dress warmly in layers, and don’t forget gloves and hats. The provided gear helps keep you comfortable during snowmobiling.
The Snowmobile with Helicopter Experience at Langjokull combines Iceland’s rugged icy beauty with a bit of adrenaline, making it a memorable highlight for any winter traveler. It’s a carefully curated adventure that balances awe-inspiring scenery with the thrill of mobility—perfect for those looking to add some high-altitude excitement to their Iceland trip.
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