Reykjavik: 45-Minute Volcano Sightseeing Helicopter Tour

Imagine soaring over Iceland’s rugged, fiery landscape with a bird’s eye view of recent volcanic eruptions, steaming lava, and craters that have shaped the island’s dramatic terrain. This 45-minute helicopter tour offers a chance to witness Iceland’s volcanic activity up close, without the crowds and fuss of land-based excursions. Starting from Reykjavik, you’ll fly over the Reykjanes Peninsula, a vibrant area rich with recent volcanic history, and get a glimpse of active lava flows if the timing aligns.

What really makes this experience stand out is the chance to see the most recent eruption site in Iceland, Sundhnúkahraun, from March 2024. Plus, you’ll enjoy the company of friendly, knowledgeable pilots who guide you through each stop and point out the story behind the landscape. However, as with all weather-dependent activities, there’s an element of unpredictability—if the sky isn’t clear or eruptions aren’t active, you might not see flowing lava. Still, the views of old lava fields and volcanic craters are impressive even without active flows.

This tour is best suited for travelers who crave authentic, high-flying views of Iceland’s volcanic features and don’t mind a small group setting—limited to just five participants, which keeps things personal and engaging. It’s a bit of a splurge at $624 per person, but considering the unique perspective and the chance to see recent eruptions, many find it a worthwhile investment for a once-in-a-lifetime snapshot.

Key Points

• Unique Perspective: Experience Iceland’s volcanic landscape from above, including recent eruption sites and lava fields.
• Expert Guides: Friendly pilots provide insightful commentary, enriching your understanding of volcanic activity.
• Small Group: Limited to five people, ensuring personalized attention and better views.
• Weather Dependent: Visibility and lava flow sightings depend on weather and eruption activity.
• Convenient Location: Starts from Reykjavik Airport, just five minutes from the city center.
• Value for Money: At $624, it’s a premium experience but offers stunning, exclusive views.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Preparation

You’ll meet at Reykjavik’s Reykjavik Domestic Airport, specifically at the Atlantsflug base, conveniently located next to the Berjaya hotel. The check-in process is straightforward; friendly airport staff will brief you on what to expect, and the pilot will give a short safety and route overview. It’s worth arriving a little early to settle in and absorb the excitement. We appreciated the small group size—only five participants—making it feel intimate and allowing the pilot to tailor commentary during the flight.

The Flight Itinerary

Once aboard, the adventure kicks off with a quick flight over Reykjavik itself, offering a scenic perspective of Iceland’s capital and its surrounding suburbs. This 5-minute drone through the cityscape helps you get oriented before heading towards the volcanic nature reserve of the Reykjanes Peninsula.

The main part of the tour spans approximately 30 minutes over the volcanic landscape. Expect to see old lava fields dating back hundreds of years, which provide a stark contrast to the recent eruptions. The highlight is flying over the Sundhnúkahraun eruption site from March 2024, where, if conditions permit, you might witness flowing lava or freshly cooled volcanic rock — a rare sight that many travelers find unforgettable.

The pilot will also point out craters from the 2021–2022 Fagradalsfjall eruptions, giving you context about how Iceland’s volcanoes evolve and reshape the land. As you circle over these craters and lava fields, you’ll gain a sense of the raw power that continuously shapes this landscape.

The final part of the flight takes you back past the Bessastaðir presidential residence, a quick 5-minute flyby that adds a touch of local significance to the visual feast.

What You’ll See

From the helicopter, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the lava fields, volcanic craters, and the rugged coastline. The pilots are knowledgeable and often share interesting facts about each feature, helping you understand the volcanic history of the area. If the eruption activity is ongoing, you might see flowing lava, which offers a rare chance to observe the raw energy of Iceland’s volcanic activity firsthand.

The vantage point from above makes it easy to appreciate the scale and intensity of the volcanic landscape. Many reviews mention how the pilots are friendly and informative, making the experience not just about the visuals but also about learning and curiosity.

Real Feedback from Travelers

One reviewer, Alexandria, described the experience as “AMAZING,” highlighting the pilot’s kindness and informative commentary. She noted that the active volcano was the highlight, and while her flight was smooth, she experienced some initial confusion at the meetup location due to the door being locked. Still, she appreciated the effort to find alternative arrangements, emphasizing the overall positive nature of the experience.

Another guest, Tracy, called it “one of the best things we have done,” citing the great service and fantastic pilot as key to her memorable trip. The reviews consistently praise the stunning views and the opportunity to see recent eruptions, which is a rare and special chance in Iceland.

Practical Considerations

While the tour offers incredible views, it is weather dependent. Iceland’s weather can change rapidly, and if conditions are poor, the flight might be canceled or rescheduled. This is noted upfront, and the provider offers full refunds or rescheduling options. The experience lasts about 45 minutes, with the actual flight time being approximately 30 minutes over the volcanic area, so expect some waiting time around check-in and prep.

The cost of $624 per person is on the higher end, but many travelers see it as a worthwhile investment for exclusive aerial views of recent volcanic activity. Remember, the group is small, which enhances the experience but also means you need to book early to secure your spot.

Additional Details

• Meeting Point: Reykjavik FBO at the Atlantsflug base, located next to the Berjaya hotel.
• Duration: 45 minutes, including briefing and flight.
• Group Size: Limited to 5 participants for a personal experience.
• Language: English-speaking pilots and guides.
• Age Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 2 years.
• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.

Who Is This Tour For?

This helicopter tour is perfect for travelers who love adventure, stunning visuals, and learning about Iceland’s volcanic activity in a natural, unfiltered way. If you’re interested in recent eruptions like Sundhnúkahraun, this is one of the few chances to see such features from above. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate small, intimate group settings, as the limited passenger count ensures more personalized attention.

It’s worth noting that this experience suits adventurous souls comfortable with heights, and those who are not overly concerned about the weather, since visibility and lava activity can vary.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a rare opportunity to see Iceland’s volcanic landscape from an extraordinary perspective. It combines the thrill of helicopter flight with the educational aspect of understanding recent volcanic activity. The small group setting, friendly pilots, and focus on recent eruptions make it a memorable, personalized experience that’s worth considering if your travel budget allows.

While weather can affect the experience, the tour’s flexibility and the stunning views—even without lava flows—make it a worthwhile splurge for anyone wanting a unique adventure in Iceland. Whether you’re a geology enthusiast, adventure seeker, or simply looking for an unforgettable way to see Iceland’s volcanic side, this helicopter flight delivers a truly spectacular perspective.

FAQ

Is this tour weather dependent?
Yes, all flights depend on weather conditions. If the weather isn’t suitable, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, with options for a full refund.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience is about 45 minutes, with approximately 30 minutes of actual flight time over the volcanic landscape.

Can I see flowing lava during the tour?
You might, especially at the Sundhnúkahraun eruption site from March 2024, but it depends on eruption activity and weather conditions. There’s no guarantee of lava flow visibility.

What is the group size?
Limited to five participants, making it a more personal and engaging experience.

Where do we meet for the tour?
At Reykjavik’s Atlantsflug base located next to the Berjaya hotel, with clear signage.

Is this suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 2 years old due to safety considerations and the nature of helicopter flights.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations closer to the departure may not be eligible for refunds.

Does the tour include commentary?
Yes, the pilot provides informative commentary about the volcanic features, recent eruptions, and local landmarks during the flight.

This helicopter tour offers a truly spectacular way to experience Iceland’s volcanic wilderness. Whether you’re captivated by recent eruptions or just love breathtaking views, this flight promises an adventure that’s as educational as it is exhilarating. Pack your camera, keep your fingers crossed for clear skies, and prepare for a sky-high peek at Iceland’s fiery heart.