1-Hour Helicopter Tour in Iceland: The Geothermal Tour

Iceland’s Best Aerial Adventure: The Geothermal Helicopter Tour

This 1-hour helicopter tour in Iceland, offered by Nordurflug Helicopter Tours, costs $462 per person and features an exciting 50 to 60-minute flight over some of Iceland’s most stunning landscapes. Departing from Reykjavik Domestic Airport, this flight takes you on an unforgettable journey past geothermal springs, volcanic craters, lava fields, and colorful mountain ranges. The highlight is a 15-minute landing in a remote geothermal area, giving a rare chance to see hot springs up close and capture spectacular photos.

What makes this tour stand out is the expertise of the knowledgeable pilot, who shares insights into Iceland’s geothermal activity and volcanic history. The tour is ideal for those eager to see Iceland’s rugged landscapes from the air and enjoy a safe, comfortable flight with plenty of time to admire the scenery. While no hotel pick-up is included, the central meeting point is easy to reach, making this experience accessible and highly rated, with a 4.9/5 from 207 reviews.

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Key Points

• Duration: 50 to 60-minute helicopter ride with a 15-minute landing in a geothermal area
• Price: $462 per person
• Start point: Reykjavik Domestic Airport, only 5 minutes from the city center
• Highlights: Flying over geothermal springs, lava fields, volcanic craters, and colorful mountain ranges
• Expert pilot: Provides informative commentary about Iceland’s geothermal and volcanic activity
• Small group: Limited to 6 participants for an intimate experience
• Accessibility: Wheelchair friendly, with a weight limit of 120 kg / 265 lbs

Departing from Reykjavik Domestic Airport

The tour begins at Norðurflug Helicopter Tours, located just behind the Icelandair Hotel Natura on the east side of the airport. After booking, travelers receive an exact start time via email. The short drive from Reykjavik’s city center makes this an easy and convenient departure point.

Guests should arrive prepared for a 1-hour experience that combines a guided helicopter flight and a landing in a remote geothermal spot. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, with no hotel transfer included. The group size is limited to 6, ensuring plenty of space and personalized attention.

Scenic Highlights of the Flight Path

The initial flight offers a stunning view of Reykjavik, gradually giving way to colorful mountain ranges dotted with hot springs. As the helicopter ascends, you’ll get a clear view of geothermal power plants, which Icelanders take pride in as a symbol of sustainable energy. The pilot explains how geothermal activity shapes the landscape and supplies energy to the country.

Then, the flight takes you over lava fields and volcanic craters, showcasing Iceland’s fiery geological past. Travelers can peek into a deep volcanic crater from the helicopter, seeing its bowl-shaped form from above. The views of hot springs bubbling in the landscape add to the sense of Iceland’s powerful geothermal forces.

Landing in the Hot Spring Area

The 15-minute landing near the geothermal springs offers a chance to step out of the helicopter and enjoy the remote scenery close up. This spot provides ideal conditions for photography and breathtaking views of the natural thermal activity. The landing site is carefully chosen to highlight the geothermal landscape, with hot springs nearby and volcanic terrain around.

This moment also gives time for pictures, making it a perfect opportunity to capture memories of Iceland’s raw beauty. After the landing, the helicopter lifts off again, heading back over Reykjavik to conclude the flight with a panoramic overview of Iceland’s capital city.

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The Flight Over Power Plants and Geothermal Hot Springs

One of the tour’s highlights is a flyover of Iceland’s geothermal power plants. Iceland’s use of renewable geothermal energy is a point of pride, and the pilot shares insights into how these facilities operate. The views of bubbling hot springs and geothermal pools create stunning visuals, especially in contrast to the volcanic landscape.

During the flight, you’ll get to observe deep volcanic craters and other geological features that illustrate Iceland’s volcanic activity. The pilot’s commentary makes these sights even more meaningful, turning the flight into an educational experience as well as an adventure.

Comfort, Safety, and Group Size

The helicopter used for this tour is described as very comfortable with panoramic windows that offer unobstructed views. The experience has been praised for its smooth and safe flight, with many reviews emphasizing how secure and relaxed they felt throughout.

With a small group size capped at 6, the tour maintains a personalized atmosphere. This limited size also allows for more space and the opportunity for travelers to ask questions or request photos during the flight and at the landing.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

This tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility considerations. However, there is a weight limit of 120 kg / 265 lbs, and extra seats must be purchased for heavier passengers. It’s recommended to check weather conditions before booking; if weather is unfavorable, the tour will be rescheduled or refunded.

Since hotel pick-up is not included, travelers should plan to arrive at Norðurflug Helicopter Tours a few minutes early. The meeting point is behind the Icelandair Hotel Natura, and the exact departure time is confirmed after booking.

Reviews and Real Experiences

The high praise from over 200 reviews reflects the quality and appeal of this tour. Reviewers highlight the professionalism of the pilot, the stunning scenery, and the comfort of the helicopter. Many describe the experience as “breathtaking” and “a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity”.

Several mention how the pilot shares interesting facts about Iceland’s geology, enhancing the experience with educational insights. The remote landing spot receives particular praise for its beautiful scenery and photo opportunities. The tour is highly recommended for those seeking an aerial adventure that combines scenery, education, and comfort.

Best Fit for Adventure Seekers and Nature Lovers

This helicopter tour suits adventurous travelers eager to see Iceland’s volcanic and geothermal landscapes from above. It’s particularly appealing to photographers, geology enthusiasts, and families (with children over age 8). The small group size and informative pilot make it a personalized experience.

While the price reflects the premium experience, the spectacular views and unique landing justify the cost for many. Weather dependence is a consideration, so flexibility is helpful in planning. This tour offers an authentic and exhilarating perspective on Iceland’s natural wonders.

The Sum Up: A Unique Look at Iceland’s Geothermal Power

The 1-hour helicopter tour by Nordurflug provides a panoramic view of Iceland’s geothermal springs, volcanic craters, and colorful mountain ranges. With an included landing in a remote geothermal area, travelers enjoy an up-close encounter with Iceland’s fiery landscape, combined with expert commentary from a knowledgeable pilot.

Although not inclusive of hotel transfers, the easy-to-reach departure point and small group size make for a flexible and personal experience. The spectacular scenery and educational insights make this tour a top choice for those wanting an adventure from the air and a deeper understanding of Iceland’s geothermal energy.

Given the stellar reviews and high ratings, this helicopter ride stands out as a memorable highlight of any trip to Iceland, especially for nature lovers and aviation enthusiasts seeking a safe, comfortable, and breathtaking journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pick-up included in this tour?
No, this tour does not include hotel pick-up. Travelers meet at Norðurflug Helicopter Tours behind the Icelandair Hotel Natura.

What is the maximum weight allowed for passengers?
The weight limit for all passengers is 120 kg / 265 lbs. Passengers over this limit are required to pay for 1.5 seats to ensure comfort and safety.

Can I reschedule if the weather looks bad?
Yes, if the weather forecast is unfavorable, the tour will be rescheduled or fully refunded.

How long is the landing?
The landing lasts approximately 15 minutes, at a remote geothermal spot where you can take photos and enjoy the scenery up close.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, this tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

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