What to Expect on a Volcano Helicopter Tour in Iceland

Iceland is a country full of natural wonders like volcanoes, glaciers, and waterfalls. It's a great place for people who love nature and adventure. One of the most exciting things you can do in Iceland is take a volcano helicopter tour. This means flying high above the ground in a helicopter to see volcanoes, lava fields, and hot springs from the sky.

In this guide, you'll learn what a volcano helicopter tour in Iceland is like. We'll go over how to get ready, what you'll see during the flight, and tips to help you enjoy the experience.

Why Choose a Volcano Helicopter Tour in Iceland?

A helicopter tour in Iceland is the ultimate way to witness the country's otherworldly beauty. While road trips and hiking tours offer their own charm, helicopters allow you to reach remote areas inaccessible by foot or car. More importantly, they give you a bird's-eye view of Iceland's volcanic features, making for a once-in-a-lifetime photographic and sensory experience.

Some of the most compelling reasons to opt for a helicopter tour include:

• Access to active volcanoes like Fagradalsfjall or Eyjafjallajökull
• Aerial views of lava fields, craters, and geothermal vents
• Quick travel time to otherwise hard-to-reach destinations
• Unmatched photo opportunities from above
• Optional landings near volcanic sites or on glaciers

Top Volcanoes to See by Helicopter in Iceland

Iceland is dotted with volcanoes, both dormant and active. Here are some of the best volcanoes you can see during a helicopter tour in Iceland:

Fagradalsfjall Volcano

Fagradalsfjall is located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, not far from Reykjavík. It became famous around the world when it erupted in 2021 and again in 2023. 

The eruptions created glowing lava flows and steaming craters. From a helicopter, you can see the new lava fields and feel the power of the earth below. Some tours even land nearby, so you can explore on foot.

Eyjafjallajökull Volcano

Eyjafjallajökull is a glacier-covered volcano that erupted in 2010. That eruption stopped air travel across Europe, but from the sky, it looks peaceful and stunning. The view of the white glacier mixed with black volcanic rock is something you won't forget. Helicopter flights over this volcano let you see its wide ice cap and nearby waterfalls.

Katla Volcano

Katla lies underneath a large glacier called Mýrdalsjökull. It is one of Iceland’s most powerful volcanoes, but it has not erupted recently. Even though it is sleeping for now, it is closely watched by scientists. Flying over Katla in a helicopter lets you see the huge glacier and hidden volcanic features under the ice. It’s both beautiful and a little mysterious.

Hekla Volcano

Hekla is one of Iceland's most active volcanoes. In the past, people used to call it the "Gateway to Hell" because of how often it erupted. It's far from big towns, so getting there by road is hard. A helicopter ride lets you see the volcano’s long ridge and the wide land around it. If you’re lucky, your tour might include a landing nearby.

Booking Your Helicopter Tour In Iceland

When booking your volcano helicopter tour in Iceland, consider the following:

• Tour duration (usually 30 minutes to 2 hours)
• Departure location (most tours leave from Reykjavík or Akureyri)
• Inclusions (landing options, guide commentary, etc.)
• Weather policy (flights are weather-dependent)

It's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer (June-August).

What Happens During the Helicopter Tour?

As the helicopter lifts off, you'll immediately gain stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Reykjavík, for example, looks like a toy town from the air, with colorful rooftops and coastal scenery.

In-Flight Experience

During the flight, you'll pass over volcanic regions, geothermal fields, and possibly glaciers. Your pilot, often an experienced guide, will provide fascinating insights about Iceland's geology, history, and current volcanic activity.

You can expect to see:

• Lava flows and solidified lava fields
• Craters and calderas
• Geothermal steam vents and hot springs
• Glacial rivers and waterfalls

Optional Landings

Some tours include one or more landings, allowing you to:

• Walk on a glacier or volcanic terrain
• Take up-close photos of craters or lava formations
• Feel the heat from geothermal vents

These landings elevate the experience, giving you a more intimate interaction with Iceland's primal forces.

Return Flight

The return leg often offers a different route, giving you a broader sense of Iceland's diverse terrain. You might fly over highlands, lakes, or even coastal cliffs depending on your tour package.

Best Time for a Volcano Helicopter Tour

Iceland is a year-round destination, but the best time for a helicopter volcano tour largely depends on what you want to see:

• Summer (June to August): Long daylight hours, milder weather, and lush landscapes.
• Winter (November to March): Snow-covered vistas, but limited daylight and higher chance of weather cancellations.
• Shoulder Seasons (April-May & September-October): Fewer crowds and a mix of snow and greenery.

Active eruptions can occur at any time, so check for real-time updates if you're hoping to witness lava flows.

Final Thoughts: A Bucket-List Adventure

A volcano helicopter tour in Iceland is more than a sightseeing trip; it's a visceral encounter with Earth's raw power. From the moment you lift off to the final descent, you'll witness a land that’s constantly being shaped and reshaped by volcanic activity. The combination of science, adventure, and scenic beauty makes this one of the top activities in Iceland.

Whether you're marveling at molten lava, standing on ancient craters, or simply gazing down at the surreal Icelandic landscape, this is an experience you'll never forget. If you're visiting Iceland, don't miss the chance to take to the skies and witness the fire within.