Reykjavik isn’t just a city of colorful rooftops and lively streets — it’s also a launchpad for some of the most spectacular helicopter flights in the world. With volcanic landscapes, rugged mountain peaks, geothermal areas, and stunning coastlines, Iceland’s capital offers a unique perspective you simply can’t get from the ground. Whether you’re landing on a mountain summit or soaring over erupting volcanoes, these tours deliver views that stick with you long after the rotor stops spinning. We’re especially fond of the Helicopter Tour with Mountain Summit Landing because of its personal touch and the chance to stand on top of Mt. Esja, overlooking Reykjavik and the Atlantic — a truly memorable photo op. For those interested in volcanic activity, the Reykjavik: Fire And Ice Helicopter Tour takes you right over recent eruptions, giving you a front-row seat to Iceland’s fiery side.
If you want a comprehensive experience, a private helicopter flight lets you customize your route and enjoy an intimate adventure. These options are perfect for travelers looking for a high-end, personalized perspective of Iceland’s natural wonders.
Quick Overview
Our list features a mix of short scenic flights, landings at iconic sites, and specialized tours focusing on volcanoes, geothermal landscapes, and mountain peaks. Some tours include mountain summit landings (Reykjavik: Panoramic Helicopter Flight with Summit Landing) or multiple landings on glaciers and volcanoes (Fire and Ice Helicopter Tour). Others provide private charters (Reykjavik: Private Tour of Volcanoes) offering a tailored experience. Budget varies from around $300 for quick city views to over $3,700 for exclusive private trips. Below, we explore the top options in detail.
1. Helicopter Tour with Mountain Summit Landing from Reykjavik
This tour offers a rare chance to touch down on a mountain summit near Reykjavik, specifically Mt. Esja. Departing from Reykjavik, your helicopter whirrs upward over the city, providing a stunning view of the Harpa Concert Hall, Perlan, and the Hallgrimskirkja church. The highlight is landing on the flat top of Mt. Esja, where you’ll step out for photos of the surrounding peaks, Reykjavik, and the Atlantic. The 30- to 45-minute ride is praised for its personalized small-group setting and the opportunity to combine city and wilderness in one trip.
Guests have lauded the professionalism of the pilots, especially pilot Max, who made for an engaging and informative experience. The tour costs about $315.40 per person and is suitable for those wanting a small, intimate adventure with plenty of time afterward to explore more. Bottom line: Ideal for those seeking a mix of city views and mountain adventure.
2. From Reykjavik: New Volcanic Area Helicopter Tour
For around $531, this 40-minute flight takes you over the Reykjanes Peninsula’s recent lava flows and active volcanoes, including the Fagradalsfjall eruption site. Departing from Ace FBO Reykjavik, this tour is perfect for geology buffs and photographers wanting to see fresh lava fields and crater streams from a safe distance. The tour not only covers the volcanic landscapes but also offers views of Mount Esja and Faxafloi Bay, giving a broad picture of Iceland’s volcanic activity.
Reviewers rave about the ability to get close to lava flows and the fact that you might even get out of the helicopter to see the lava up close. The pilot’s commentary adds depth to the experience, making it more than just a flight. This tour appeals to travelers looking for an up-close encounter with Iceland’s fiery heart.
Bottom line: An extraordinary way to witness recent volcanic activity and capture dramatic photos, ideal for adventure-seekers and nature lovers.
3. 1-Hour Helicopter Tour in Iceland: The Geothermal Tour
This 50- to 60-minute flight showcases Iceland’s geothermal might, flying over bubbling hot springs, power plants, and volcanic craters. Depart from Reykjavik Domestic Airport and land amidst steaming geothermal fields for 15 minutes. The tour provides a comprehensive aerial view of geothermal activity and the chance to learn about Iceland’s renewable energy sources directly from your pilot.
Guests love the balance of flying and landings that allow for photos and exploration of geothermal landscapes. The cost of $462 offers a good value considering the length of the flight and the opportunity to land in the wilderness. This experience suits travelers interested in Iceland’s geothermal energy and volcanic craters, with some reviewers calling it “the pinnacle of their trip.”
Bottom line: Perfect for science-minded travelers or those wanting a longer, more in-depth flight over Iceland’s geothermal regions.
4. Helicopter Flight Over Geothermal Landscapes from Reykjavik
This tour offers an hour of flying over Iceland’s geothermal wonders, including steaming vents and geysers. Departing from Reykjavik, you will pass over Hveragerdi, the Hengill Volcano Geothermal Area, and see hot springs and volcanic craters in detail. The pilot guides you through the geology, highlighting hot springs, vents, and geysers that define Iceland’s landscape.
Rated a perfect 5.0, this trip is praised for its comprehensive coverage and friendly pilot Wolf. It’s especially popular among travelers who want a thorough overview of Iceland’s volcanic activity, with the flexibility of flight times. The tour costs about $494.22 per person.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those wanting to see Iceland’s geothermal activity from a broad perspective, with the chance to learn while flying.
5. Private Reykjavik Helicopter Flight: Reykjanes Peninsula and Volcanic Landscapes
For a truly exclusive experience, this private helicopter takes up to six people on a 1-hour to 1-hour 15-minute flight over Reykjanes volcanic fields, Seltún, and Lake Grænavatn. Your private pilot provides narration on the moon-like landscapes and local wildlife, including bird colonies near the coast.
Guests rave about the personalized service and spectacular views. The cost is high at $3,792.53 but includes custom routes and a crowd-free experience. Best suited for travelers celebrating a special occasion or seeking privacy.
Bottom line: For those wanting a luxury, tailored flight with intimate access to Iceland’s volcanic scenery.
6. Reykjavik: Panoramic Helicopter Flight with Summit Landing
This tour offers a 40-minute panoramic flight over Reykjavik, with a landing on Mount Esja for incredible city and mountain views. Departing from Reykjavik, it combines aerial sightseeing with a mountain summit walk that gives a bird’s eye view of the city, coastline, and landmarks like Harpa and Hallgrimskirkja.
Rated 4.8/5, travelers love pilot Max’s engaging commentary and the opportunity to step out of the helicopter for photos. The cost is approximately $310, making it one of the most affordable options with a spectacular land-and-see combo.
Bottom line: Great for those who want a short but immersive Icelandic experience, including a mountain landing.
7. Iceland Volcanic Eruption Area Helicopter Tour from Reykjavíik
This 35- to 45-minute tour takes you directly over Fagradalsfjall and other recent eruption sites. It’s perfect for photographers and geology enthusiasts eager to see fresh lava and active fissures. Depart from Reykjavik and enjoy a close-up view of the land that just erupted.
Guests highlight the spectacular views and the chance to land near recent lava flows if conditions permit. Priced at $639, it offers an intimate experience with only 5-6 seats per helicopter, emphasizing personalized attention.
Bottom line: An expert choice for those wanting up-to-the-minute views of Iceland’s volcanic activity.
8. From Reykjavik: Fire And Ice Helicopter Tour with 2 Landings
This two-hour adventure combines landings on a glacier and Hengill geothermal area. Departing from Reykjavik, it’s packed with spectacular scenery and adventure. You’ll capture photos of glaciers, volcanoes, and bubbling springs — and even walk on snow and ice if conditions allow.
Rated 4.8/5, travelers love the diversity of landscapes and the adrenaline rush of flying over glaciers and volcanoes. The tour costs vary depending on availability, but it’s a full-day highlight for those craving a true Land of Fire & Ice experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting multiple landings and a full immersion in Iceland’s contrasting landscapes.
9. Fire and Ice Helicopter Tour: Glacier and Hengill Geothermal Area
This 1 hour 40-minute tour offers a VIP-style adventure, flying over glaciers, then making two landings on a glacier and a geothermal zone. If you’re after a premium experience, this is it. The personalized itinerary means you get both aerial views and hands-on exploration.
Rated 5.0, travelers praise the scenic diversity and expert pilot guidance. The price is steep at over $1,020, but it’s a true once-in-a-lifetime experience for adventure travelers.
Bottom line: For those seeking the ultimate helicopter journey, combining glaciers and volcanic zones with a VIP touch.
10. Helicopter Tour Over Iceland’s Reykjanes Volcano Eruption Site
This 35-minute small-group flight offers views of recent eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula, with a chance to see active lava. It’s ideal for lava fans and those wanting a focused view of volcanic activity. The tour is limited to six passengers, making for an intimate experience.
Many reviewers mention the surreal sights of lava flowing and steaming vents. It costs around $510, with flexible departure times and a great balance of scenic flight and proximity to recent eruptions.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for getting up close to Iceland’s volcanic hotspots.
11. Reykjavik Helicopter Private Tour of Volcanoes
This private helicopter offers a customized 40-50 minute flight for up to four people. You’ll fly over lava fields, craters, and the Reykjanes Peninsula, with a personal pilot providing tailored narration. It’s perfect for special occasions or travelers who want to avoid crowds.
Rated 5.0, it’s praised for its luxury and flexibility. The cost is high but includes private, crowd-free access to Iceland’s volcanic and coastal scenery.
Bottom line: Best for luxury travelers seeking a bespoke experience with unmatched privacy.
12. Reykjavik: Panoramic Helicopter Flight with Summit Landing
This 40-minute flight includes landing on Mt. Esja, offering a stunning view of Reykjavik and the surrounding landscape. The mountain landing provides a unique perspective, giving you the chance to stand on top of a nearby peak while enjoying panoramic views of the city and coast.
Rated 4.8/5, travelers love the combination of aerial sightseeing and mountain exploration. The tour costs about $310, making it one of the most cost-effective options for a mixed land-and-air experience.
Bottom line: Great for those wanting a short but diverse adventure with photo opportunities from both sky and mountain.
13. Iceland Volcanic Eruption Area Helicopter Tour from Reykjavíjk
Spanning 35-45 minutes, this tour flies over recent eruption sites like Fagradalsfjall and Meradalir. It’s ideal for photographers eager to capture fresh lava and active fissures. The helicopter’s small size (5-6 seats) guarantees a personalized and immersive experience.
Guests mention the breathtaking sights and the chance to land near lava flows. At $639, it’s a costly but rewarding way to see recent volcanic activity up close.
Bottom line: A top pick for lava lovers wanting an up-close view of recent eruptions.
14. Reykjavik: 45-Minute Volcano Sightseeing Helicopter Tour
This 45-minute flight takes you over recent eruption sites, including Sundhúnhraun from March 2024, with a good chance of seeing flowing lava. Depart from Reykjavik Airport and enjoy scenic views of the Reykjanes Peninsula and Bessastaðir.
Rated 4.6/5, travelers love the spectacular volcanic vistas and the informative pilot commentary. It’s suitable for those wanting a quick yet comprehensive volcano experience for about $624.
Bottom line: An accessible, highly visual tour for volcano enthusiasts.
15. Helicopter tour from Reykjavik: Hengill Area with at site landing
This 50-minute to 1-hour tour offers bird’s-eye views of the Hellisheidi volcanic area with two landings: Hengill geothermal zone and Nesjavallavirkjun. The smaller group size (max five) allows for personalized attention and access to hot springs and bubbling vents. The views of lava fields and basalt mountains from low altitude make this a favorite among geology buffs.
Rated 5.0, travelers praise the spectacular scenery and friendly pilot. Costing about $592, it’s a premium choice for intimate exploration of Iceland’s volcanic landscape.
Bottom line: Excellent for geology fans wanting a detailed, small-group experience in active volcanic terrain.
16. Helicopter Tour: Reykjavik City with landing at Mount Esja
This shorter, 20-25 minute tour combines city views with a landing on Mount Esja. You’ll see Reykjavik’s rooftops, lakes, and landmarks like the Harpa concert hall from above, then get out for spectacular views from the mountain. It’s perfect for travelers short on time but wanting a well-rounded experience.
Rated 5.0, guests appreciate the easy access and amazing perspectives. For about $310, it’s a cost-effective way to see Reykjavik from both air and ground.
Bottom line: Best for time-constrained visitors seeking a compact but high-impact tour.
How to Choose Your Icelandic Helicopter Adventure
Picking the best helicopter tour depends on your interests, budget, and schedule. If you want the thrill of standing on a mountain summit, the Mountain Summit Landing (Link) is a top choice. For lava and volcanic eruption views, the Reykjanes volcanic tours (Link) or eruption site flights (Link) are ideal.
Travelers after luxury or exclusivity should consider the private tours (Link), while those with limited time will appreciate the shorter city and mountain combos (Link). For the best value, the panoramic flight with mountain landing (Link) balances price and experience well.
Always check availability and weather conditions—Iceland’s skies can be unpredictable. Book early, especially for private or high-demand tours, and consider shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and better prices.
Final Thoughts
Reykjavik’s helicopter tours open up a completely new way to experience Iceland’s wild landscapes. Whether you prefer a short scenic flight, a full-day adventure, or a luxury private experience, options abound. Including tours like the Mountain Summit Landing or the Fire & Ice trip, you can tailor your journey to match your interests and style.
For adventure travelers, seeing volcanic eruptions up close is unforgettable. For photographers, the landscapes from above are absolutely breathtaking. No matter what, these tours are best booked early—weather can change fast, and popular flights fill up quickly. Prepare your camera, dress warmly, and get ready for a truly once-in-a-lifetime view of Iceland from the skies.