Landmannalaugar: Helicopter tour with 3 Landings

Imagine soaring over the land of fire and ice, catching breathtaking views of volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, glaciers, and geothermal wonders — all from the comfort of a helicopter. That’s exactly what this Landmannalaugar helicopter tour offers. Whether you’re an avid photographer, geology enthusiast, or simply craving a unique perspective of Iceland’s wild terrain, this experience promises a memorable day.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the incredible variety of stops, from the historic Þingvellir to the colorful rhyolite mountains of Landmannalaugar. Second, the small group size—limited to five participants—ensures a more personal, detailed experience with plenty of opportunities for questions and personalized attention.

That said, weather plays a significant role here. Some of the highlights, including landings at geothermal pools and volcanic sites, depend on clear skies and calm conditions. Travelers should be prepared for the possibility that some landings may be replaced with spectacular aerial views if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a comprehensive, visually stunning overview of Iceland’s highlights with the added thrill of flying. It’s perfect for those eager to see the country’s diverse landscapes without the lengthy drives or hikes, especially if they value expert guiding and a small, intimate group.

Key Points

• Unique perspective: See Iceland’s key landmarks from above, gaining a new appreciation for its geological diversity.
• Multiple landings: Experience at least three stops in geothermal areas, waterfalls, or volcanic sites, weather permitting.
• Expert guided: Knowledgeable pilots and guides enrich the experience with insightful commentary.
• Limited groups: Small group size enhances the personalized feel and interaction.
• Flexible and booked in advance: Full details available online, with options to cancel 24 hours ahead for a refund.
• Extra feature: An unforgettable, secluded geothermal bath adds relaxation to the adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Aerial Iceland: What You Can Expect

This helicopter tour offers an ideal mix of sightseeing, landings, and a taste of Iceland’s natural grandeur—all wrapped into a roughly three-hour adventure. Starting from Reykjavík, the trip takes you across the southernmost parts of Iceland, with each leg providing stunning vantage points and photo opportunities.

Starting Point and Overall Flow

Your journey begins at Ace FBO Reykjavík, where safety briefings and introductions are handled efficiently, setting a relaxed tone. The small group ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, and your pilot/guide will share insights during the flight.

The itinerary is packed and thoughtfully organized, covering most of southern Iceland’s must-see sites, with multiple aerial views and landings designed to maximize your experience. While weather-dependent, the tour is planned to include at least three landings, giving you a chance to experience Iceland’s natural environments firsthand.

The Highlights in Detail

Þingvellir National Park

The tour kicks off with a flyover and optional landing at Þingvellir, a site of huge historic importance as the place of Iceland’s first parliament, the Althingi, established in 930 AD. Beyond history, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers dramatic geological features like the Silfra rift and Almannagjá fissure. From the sky, you’ll see the tectonic plates pulling apart, a reminder of Iceland’s volcanic backbone.

Travelers often mention how the aerial views reveal the true scale of this rift valley, far more impressive than photos alone. Some reviews note that the guide’s commentary enhances understanding, making it more than just sightseeing.

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Geysir Geothermal Area

Next, the helicopter takes you to the famous Geysir area, where the Great Geysir erupts periodically, shooting boiling water up to 70 meters into the air. Even if you don’t catch an eruption, the bubbling pools, steaming vents, and rainbow-colored mineral deposits create an otherworldly landscape.

Landing here depends on weather, but even a flyover offers an eye-opening glimpse of the geothermal activity that powers Iceland’s natural heating and energy systems.

Landmannalaugar: The Colorful Highlands

One of the main attractions and a highlight for many travelers is Landmannalaugar. Known for its vibrant rhyolite mountains in shades of reds, greens, and yellows, this area is a geothermal hotspot in Iceland’s highlands. If weather allows, you’ll land here, giving you the chance to walk around, snap pictures, or even soak in the geothermal pools.

Even with just a photo stop and short walk, the landscape’s brilliance leaves a lasting impression. Some reviews laud the natural beauty, noting that the landscape’s contrast with the surrounding glaciers and volcanic ash makes it distinctly Icelandic.

Þórsmörk: The Mountain Forest Valley

Another highlight is Þórsmörk, a lush, heavily forested area surrounded by glaciers, volcanoes, and rivers. The views from the helicopter are spectacular, revealing a deep green canopy amid rugged peaks. Here, the natural setting feels almost untouched, offering a sense of Iceland’s wild wilderness—perfect for nature lovers.

Eyjafjallajökull Glacier and Volcano

No tour of Iceland is complete without a glance at Eyjafjallajökull, the infamous volcano that erupted in 2010, disrupting European air travel. From the air, you’ll see the glacier that covers the volcano, with its crevasses and ice caps. If weather permits and the site is accessible, a short walk or photo stop gives a tangible connection to Iceland’s volcanic activity.

Waterfalls: Gullfoss and Háifoss

The tour culminates with visits to Gullfoss, the iconic two-tiered waterfall, and Háifoss, which drops 122 meters into a gorge below. Both waterfalls are breathtaking from the air, with Gullfoss offering a mighty cascade into a canyon, and Háifoss presenting a more secluded, drop into deep gorges. The visual spectacle from above allows for exceptional photography and appreciation of Iceland’s power.

The Experience of the Landings

The three landings are what set this tour apart. They provide rare opportunities to step into the landscape, breathe in the fresh air, and see the terrain up close. Experience in these geothermal areas isn’t just visual; it’s tactile—soaking in hot pools, feeling volcanic ash, or walking among bubbling vents.

Weather matters: Weather conditions influence whether you’ll land or just view from above. Some travelers have expressed their appreciation for the pilot’s flexibility, adjusting routes to avoid bad weather while still delivering spectacular sights. One reviewer mentioned, “Because it wasn’t possible to land at the thermal pool, we had an extra landing at a magnificent wilderness waterfall.” That flexibility ensures you still get maximum value, even if some planned landings are skipped.

The Added Geothermal Bath

An exceptional feature of this experience is the secluded geothermal bath—a rare chance to relax in Iceland’s warm, mineral-rich waters after the excitement. This quiet, natural hot spring offers a serene escape, perfect for soaking away the adrenaline. It’s an unexpected bonus that elevates the whole adventure from a sightseeing tour to a full sensory experience.

Practical Details and Value

With a duration of about three hours, including flights, landings, and transfers, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of Iceland’s natural wonders without the need for extensive driving or hiking. The price reflects the luxury of small group numbers and expert guiding, making it a worthwhile splurge for those seeking a premium experience.

Since food and drinks aren’t included, plan to have a light snack or meal before or after, though the focus here is on the views and the adventure. The tour operates with English-speaking guides and includes an audio guide to deepen understanding of each site.

Booking is flexible: full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance, allowing you to reserve with confidence.

The small group size (up to five participants) means you won’t feel lost in a crowd and can fully engage with your pilot-guide. The overall value lies in the combination of stunning aerial photography, personalized attention, and the rare opportunity to land in some of Iceland’s most spectacular sites.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This helicopter experience suits travelers who crave a unique perspective, are comfortable with small groups, and prioritize scenic beauty and geological significance. It’s ideal for those who want to see a wide swath of Iceland’s highlights in a short time, especially if they prefer a luxury adventure rather than a lengthy hike or bus tour.

It’s perfect for photographers eager for dramatic shots, geology buffs curious about volcanic landscapes, or adventure seekers looking for a mix of aerial and ground exploration. However, those prone to motion sickness or with limited mobility should consider the potential for helicopter noise and the weather-dependent nature of landings.

Final Thoughts

This helicopter tour of Iceland offers far more than just a sightseeing flight. It’s a multi-faceted adventure that combines aerial views with the thrill of landing in some of the country’s most iconic sites. The small group size, expert guides, and extra geothermal bath make it feel exclusive—yet accessible.

While weather can influence the experience, the flexible planning and the breathtaking landscapes promise an unforgettable day. Whether you’re chasing dramatic waterfalls, colorful highland mountains, or volcanic glaciers, this tour captures the essence of Iceland’s natural beauty in a way few other experiences can.

If you’re looking for a high-value, visually stunning, and intimate tour that showcases Iceland’s diversity from a unique vantage point, this helicopter experience ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts about three hours, including flights, landings, and transfers.

How many landings are included?
There are three landings planned, weather permitting. These are in geothermal areas, mountains, or volcanic sites.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if needed.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. It’s best to have a meal before or after your tour.

Is the group size large or small?
The tour is limited to five participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour route might be adjusted, and some landings could be replaced with impressive aerial views. The pilot’s flexibility helps maximize your experience.

Do I need to be experienced or in good shape?
No special experience is required. The tour involves a helicopter flight and short walks at some sites. However, check for any mobility considerations if relevant.

In summary, this helicopter tour is perfect for travelers who want to see Iceland’s highlights from a new angle, enjoy a personal, small-group atmosphere, and include some landings to truly connect with the landscape. It balances adventure with comfort and offers a rare look at the country’s most dramatic sights—ideal for those seeking a memorable, picture-perfect day.

You can check availability for your dates here: