Landmannalaugar from Gullfoss

Traveling to Iceland often means chasing waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes—so add a splash of altitude and aerial perspective with a helicopter tour that takes you from Gullfoss to Landmannalaugar. This experience promises more than just sightseeing; it offers a bird’s-eye view of some of Iceland’s most iconic sights, all with the thrill of flying over rugged terrain and capturing breathtaking photos.

What we truly appreciate about this tour is how it combines the wild beauty of Landmannalaugar’s colorful mountains with the excitement of flying over Háifoss, one of the country’s top ten waterfalls. Plus, the landing at Landmannalaugar is an unforgettable highlight, giving you a chance to step directly into this geothermal wonderland.

However, it’s worth noting that weather can influence the experience—landings are weather-dependent, so a clear day can make or break the view from the peak. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a combination of adventure, scenic beauty, and a touch of luxury, especially those who want to avoid the often rough roads involved in land-based excursions. If you’re eager to see Iceland from above and enjoy a small, intimate group, this helicopter experience is a superb choice.

Key Points

• Spectacular aerial views of Landmannalaugar’s vibrant mountains and geothermal features.
• Fly over Háifoss, one of Iceland’s most stunning waterfalls.
• Landing at Landmannalaugar offers a unique opportunity to explore the geothermal area on foot.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay later features.
• Weather-dependent landings highlight the importance of clear skies for the full experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Tungufell Airfield

The journey begins at Tungufell Airfield, just a short 10-minute drive from Geysir. This convenient location sets the stage for a well-organized adventure, with a small group—limited to five participants—ensuring that you won’t be lost in a crowd. The start time varies, so checking the schedule in advance is wise, especially if you’re fitting this into a tight itinerary.

The Helicopter Flight Over Háifoss

Your first aerial highlight is the flight over Háifoss, a dramatic waterfall that plunges nearly 400 meters. We loved the way the helicopter allows you to get a sense of scale and power that’s hard to match from the ground. Multiple reviewers mention “the adrenaline rush of flying over remote areas” and how it “makes you appreciate Iceland’s rugged beauty from a fresh perspective.”

This segment of the flight is not merely a flyby; it’s an immersive visual experience, with guides often providing commentary in English. The flight duration over Háifoss is brief but impactful, setting the tone for the adventure ahead.

Landmannalaugar: The Geothermal Playground

After passing Háifoss, the helicopter swoops down into the Landmannalaugar valley. Here, the views are nothing short of spectacular—vivid rhyolite mountains in shades of red, yellow, and green, interwoven with black lava fields. It’s a geothermal landscape that resembles a painter’s palette, and we found that even seasoned travelers are taken aback by the surreal beauty.

The highlight is the landing at Landmannalaugar, which provides a rare chance to step onto this volcanic terrain. Up to 30 minutes are allocated here for photos, short walks, and simply soaking in the scenery. Many reviews emphasize “the value of actually setting foot in this landscape,” noting that it’s a rare treat to stand amidst such vibrant geological formations rather than just view them from above.

More Great Tours Nearby

Fjallabak Nature Reserve and Gullfoss

Next, the tour takes you over the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, a vast area of volcanic activity and geothermal features. A brief 10-minute helicopter flight here offers even more exceptional views—think steaming vents and colorful mountains.

Finally, the trip concludes with a flyover of Gullfoss, Iceland’s iconic waterfall, famed for its powerful cascade into a rugged canyon. The short 5-minute flight over Gullfoss is a fitting end, giving you another perspective on one of Iceland’s most celebrated natural sights.

Return to Tungufell Airfield

The entire journey lasts approximately 1.5 hours, providing an efficient yet immersive experience. The entire flight is designed to maximize sightseeing while giving you ample opportunities for photos and moments of awe.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The cost covers the helicopter ride and the exclusive landing at Landmannalaugar—definitely a premium experience, but one that many agree offers excellent value given the scenery and adventure involved. It’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly if you want some snacks or water during your outing.

The tour operates with a minimum of four passengers, and if you weigh over 120 kgs, an additional seat must be booked—something to keep in mind for larger travelers. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing guides to cater more personally to your questions and interests.

Weather and Flight Safety

Since landings depend on weather conditions, your experience might vary slightly depending on the day’s forecast. Clear skies make for the most stunning views and successful landings, but the guides are experienced at ensuring you still see the full beauty of the landscape if weather limits the landing.

Booking and Flexibility

Booking is flexible with the “reserve now, pay later” option, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility is valuable given Iceland’s unpredictable weather and your own changing plans.

Authentic Perspectives from Other Travelers

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views, calling the experience “a bucket-list moment” and “a perfect blend of adventure and scenery.” One reviewer mentioned, “Flying over the waterfalls and volcanic terrain was a rush, but landing in Landmannalaugar felt like stepping onto another planet.”

Others appreciated the professionalism of the operators, highlighting that the flight was smooth and well-organized despite the small group size. The combination of aerial sightseeing and real contact with the landscape via the landing makes this a truly memorable experience.

This helicopter trip suits travelers who crave aerial perspectives of Iceland’s striking landscapes and don’t mind the cost for a premium experience. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive view of Landmannalaugar and surrounding highlights, skipping the often challenging ground routes.

It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic, front-row views and want a more intimate experience than large bus tours can offer. If you’re traveling with others who love photography or nature, this experience will surely catch their eye.

This tour provides a remarkable vantage point on some of Iceland’s most striking natural features. The combination of helicopter flight, landings, and sightseeing offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and awe-inspiring scenery. It’s a fantastic option for travelers who value small groups, personalized attention, and the chance to see the landscape from above, up close and personal.

While weather can influence the experience, the company’s professionalism and focus on safety mean that you’ll come away with unforgettable images and stories, regardless of the sky’s mood. It’s a luxury experience that delivers genuine value, especially for those eager to combine adventure with the magic of Iceland’s volcanic landscapes.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with helicopter rides and with a sense of adventure. The small group setting and scenic nature make it suitable for most physically able travelers, but those with mobility issues should check specifics.

How long is the helicopter flight?
The entire experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, including time for sightseeing, landings, and transfers.

What are the weather considerations?
Weather can impact landings and the overall experience. Clear skies enhance the views and landing opportunities, but guides will do their best to ensure you see the landscape even if weather is less than perfect.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. Be sure to bring snacks and water for before or after the flight.

What is the group size?
The tour limits groups to just five participants, providing a more intimate and personalized experience.

Do I need to pay in advance?
You can reserve your spot with the “reserve now, pay later” option. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled flight.

This helicopter tour from Gullfoss to Landmannalaugar offers a memorable way to see Iceland’s geothermal and volcanic landscapes from a perspective few get to enjoy. It’s an experience that combines breathtaking scenery, expert guidance, and a touch of adventure—all wrapped into one compact adventure. Perfect for those who want a little adrenaline with their awe, it’s a journey worth considering on your Iceland itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: