Landmarks from Above: Helicopter tour with 3 Landings

Experiencing Iceland from the Sky: Landmarks from Above Helicopter Tour

Imagine soaring over Iceland’s wild landscapes—glaciers, waterfalls, volcanic craters—and then touching down in remote locations you’d never reach by car or bus. This Landmarks from Above helicopter experience offers just that. Priced at $1,736.40 per person, it’s a hefty investment but one packed with eye-opening vistas and unique moments. The tour lasts roughly 3 to 3.5 hours, with about three hours of flight time, and it’s designed for a small group—just five adventurers—ensuring a more intimate, personalized experience.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the combination of aerial views and landings makes it feel like two adventures in one. Second, the chance to soak in a geothermal hot spring at Landmannalaugar is an often-quoted highlight, turning a sightseeing trip into a full sensory experience. On the flip side, it’s quite a spendy outing, and weather can be unpredictable—if it’s cloudy or stormy, your plans might need to shift or be canceled. Still, for lovers of scenery and adventure, this tour hits a sweet spot, especially for those wanting a quick hit of Icelandic grandeur without the long drive.

This experience is best suited for travelers who love big views, unique landings, and don’t mind an expense for something truly memorable. If you’re a keen photographer, a nature lover, or someone eager to see Iceland from a bird’s-eye view and then relax in thermal waters, you’ll find this tour worth every krona.

Key Points

• Exclusive small-group setting caps at just five travelers for a more personalized experience.
• Three landings at iconic sites like Þingvellir and Landmannalaugar offer both scenery and adventure.
• Aerial sightseeing combines with the chance to soak in a geothermal hot spring, blending thrill with relaxation.
• Flexible itinerary depends on weather, which can affect landings and flights.
• Price reflects a premium experience, but offers unmatched views and access to remote locations.
• Ideal for those with limited time who want to see Iceland’s highlights from above with added landings.

A Closer Look at the Helicopter Tour Experience

When you book the Landmarks from Above helicopter tour, you’re signing up for an adventure that pairs aerial exploration with hands-on landings at some of Iceland’s most spectacular spots. Starting at Reykjavik’s Ace FBO at Reykjavík Airport, the tour is limited to 5 guests—meaning you’ll likely get plenty of attention from the pilot and guide, which adds to the feeling of an exclusive experience.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See & Do

Þingvellir National Park kicks things off. This UNESCO World Heritage Site isn’t just beautiful; it’s steeped in history as the birthplace of the world’s oldest parliament. From above, you’ll appreciate wild landscapes and the lakes that surround this historic site. If the weather permits, you’ll land here for a brief visit—just enough to breathe in the fresh air and soak up the significance of this place. One reviewer described it as “a place to ingrain a part of your soul in Iceland’s reverence for nature.”

Next, the tour takes you toward Geysir Hot Springs. Flying over the active geothermal zones, you’ll see geysers erupting in a thunder of water—impressive from the sky but even better from the ground if weather allows a landing. The energy of this area is palpable, and the sight of bubbling, steaming hot springs is something you won’t forget.

From there, the helicopter soars into the Landmannalaugar geothermal area. Known for its vivid rhyolite mountains, it’s like stepping into a painter’s palette—bright reds, yellows, and purples. The landscapes here are otherworldly, and the chance to land allows for a closer look or a quick hike if time permits.

The flight continues across Þórsmörk, a rugged wilderness of glaciers and waterfalls, before heading toward Háifoss, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls. If weather conditions are good, the pilot will land nearby, giving you a chance to stand beside the roaring waters and take photos from a prime spot.

The Unique Bonus: A Geothermal Bath

The highlight for many is the secluded geothermal bath at Landmannalaugar. This isn’t just a quick dip—expect about an hour of soaking in warm, mineral-rich waters, surrounded by Iceland’s volcanic landscape. One reviewer called it “an extraordinary addition,” describing it as a perfect way to unwind after a scenic flight. It transforms this tour from just sightseeing into a full sensory experience—seeing, feeling, and relaxing in nature’s own thermal spa.

The Flight: Perspective & Practicalities

The flight itself is about 3 to 3.5 hours, covering a wide swath of Iceland’s highlights. The helicopter can land at several spots, making the experience flexible but always weather-dependent. The small group size ensures a more relaxed atmosphere—more like a private adventure than a crowded tour bus. Because the tour includes three landings, you get the rare chance to step out in remote, beautiful settings rather than just peering down from the sky.

What Travelers Say

According to reviews, this tour exceeds expectations for its stunning scenery and professional guides. One reviewer noted, “The trip was amazing. The opportunity to see beautiful terrains from a height is worth the price.” Another appreciated the personalized service, stating, “Mario, our pilot, was a true gentleman and great with the group.” Many highlight the good value—considering the exclusive access and unique locations.

Practical Considerations & Tips

Since the tour relies heavily on weather, be prepared for possible cancellations or schedule shifts. If the weather is clear, you’ll benefit from unobstructed views, but if clouds roll in or storms threaten, your experience might be shortened or rescheduled. It’s wise to book with some flexibility and keep an eye on the weather forecast.

The price point is high, but when you consider the cost of private flights, landings, and a geothermal soak, it starts to look like an all-in-one premium adventure. For travelers who value authentic, memorable experiences over cost, this tour offers a combination of thrill, scenery, and relaxation that’s tough to beat.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This helicopter tour is ideal for adventurers willing to invest in a unique experience. If you’re short on time but want a rundown of Iceland’s highlights from the sky, with the bonus of landings and a geothermal dip, this fits the bill. It’s particularly well-suited for nature lovers, photographers, or those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime view of Iceland’s iconic landscapes. The small-group nature also makes it a good choice for travelers who prefer a more personal, less crowded experience.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who don’t mind the expense and are eager for an unforgettable excursion, this tour offers a blend of thrill, education, and relaxation.

FAQs

How long does the helicopter tour last?
The flight itself runs about 3 to 3.5 hours, with additional time for landings and the geothermal soak.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes three landings at key sites, a small-group experience capped at five travelers, and an English-speaking guide. Food and drinks are not included.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour requires good weather. If conditions aren’t suitable, the activity can be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund offered if canceled due to weather.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Ace FBO Reykjavík at Reykjavík Airport and concludes back there, making logistics straightforward.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Is this experience suitable for anyone?
Most travelers can participate, provided they are comfortable with small aircraft and weather-dependent plans. The maximum weight per passenger is 265 lbs, so check if this applies to you.

Final Thoughts

The Landmarks from Above helicopter tour in Iceland offers a rare opportunity to see some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes from a perspective few travelers ever enjoy. It combines the thrill of flight, the serenity of remote landings, and the comfort of a small group led by professional guides. The chance to soak in a geothermal bath adds an extra layer of relaxation and authenticity.

While the cost is substantial, many reviewers find it justifies the expense with unforgettable views and unique experiences. It’s perfect for those looking to cross a bucket-list item off their adventure list and willing to invest in a truly special day. If you want to blend scenic flight, cultural highlights, and genuine relaxation, this tour will more than deliver.

To sum it up, if you’re eager to see Iceland’s dramatic landscapes from the sky, enjoy exclusive access to remote sites, and love the idea of ending the day in warm mineral waters, this helicopter tour offers an exceptional blend of adventure and serenity. For travelers who value high-quality experiences that go beyond the typical sightseeing route, this trip stands out as a memorable choice.