Helicopter Tour: Reykjavik City with landing at Mount Esja

Discover Reykjavik from the Sky with a Unique Landing at Mount Esja

This helicopter tour offers a rare chance to see Reykjavik from above, with a flight time of approximately 25 to 35 minutes. For $309.99 per person, you’ll fly over Reykjavik’s rooftops, lakes, and neighborhoods, then land on the rugged volcanic terrain of Mount Esja. This small-group experience is limited to five travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized journey guided by knowledgeable pilots.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of aerial sightseeing and mountain landing — a feature that many helicopter excursions lack. The landing at Mount Esja not only offers spectacular views but also allows you to explore the volcanic landscape up close. The entire experience is designed for those eager to see Iceland’s natural beauty from a unique perspective, with the opportunity to photograph both the city and mountain scenery.

While the tour lasts about 20 to 25 minutes in the air, the overall experience includes the landing, making it a comprehensive package for fans of adventure, photography, and Icelandic nature. The convenience of a mobile ticket and all fees included means no surprises or extra costs on the day. This tour is especially ideal for travelers looking for a short, memorable flight with a once-in-a-lifetime landing experience.

Key Points

• Flights last approximately 25 to 35 minutes with all fees included
• Limited to 5 participants for a more personal experience
• Landing at Mount Esja offers fantastic views of volcanic terrain and lush greenery
• The tour departs from Reykjavik Airport and ends back there
• Guides are experienced, providing plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take photos
• The tour operates most days, with flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Starting Point at Reykjavik Airport

The tour begins at Ace FBO Reykjavík, conveniently located at Reykjavik Airport. Upon arrival, you’ll find your guide ready to assist and ensure a smooth check-in process. The meeting point is easy to find, and the entire process is streamlined since all fees and taxes are included in the ticket price.

The small-group format keeps the experience intimate, allowing for personalized attention and more time to enjoy the views from the helicopter. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable and friendly demeanor, providing insights into both the city and the volcanic landscape during the flight.

Flying Over Reykjavik’s Cityscape and Landmarks

During the flight, you’ll see Reykjavik from above, including its colorful rooftops, parks, and neighborhoods. The aerial perspective reveals the city’s layout against the backdrop of Iceland’s natural scenery, offering an understanding that ground-level exploration can’t match.

The pilot guides you over the city for roughly 20 minutes, giving ample time to admire and photograph iconic sights like the harbor area and notable landmarks. This bird’s-eye view provides a comprehensive understanding of Reykjavik’s size and structure, highlighting its relationship with the surrounding volcanic terrain.

Spectacular Views of Mount Esja’s Volcanic Landscape

The highlight of this tour is the landing at Mount Esja, a volcanic mountain range known for its symmetrical basalt rocks, lava fields, and magma ash. The 10-minute landing allows you to step onto the rugged terrain and soak in views of lush green slopes and volcanic formations.

Mount Esja’s terrain showcases Iceland’s volcanic history, with its windswept, windswept landscape and diverse plant life. The admission ticket to the mountain is included, so you can explore freely and capture stunning photos of the volcanic rocks and natural scenery.

The Experience of Landing on a Rugged Volcano

Landing on Mount Esja provides a rare opportunity to stand directly on a volcanic landscape. The rugged terrain offers an authentic experience of Iceland’s volcanic activity, and the views from the mountain are breathtaking. It’s an ideal spot for photography and appreciating Iceland’s geological features up close.

The 10-minute stop allows for plenty of time to walk around and capture images, making it a highlight of the tour. The windy weather and lush greenery contrast sharply with the basalt rocks, creating a dramatic landscape that is both beautiful and fascinating.

Logistics: Easy Check-in and Small Group Size

The tour departs from Ace FBO Reykjavík, a location close to public transportation options, making it easy to access. The group size is limited to five passengers, which enhances the overall experience by providing more personalized service and plenty of space for photography and sightseeing.

The total weight per passenger is capped at 265 lbs, ensuring safety and comfort for most travelers. Once you check in, the pilot and guide will guide you through the process, giving clear instructions for safety and sightseeing.

Weather Conditions and Cancellations

This helicopter tour is weather-dependent, and poor weather conditions may lead to cancellations. In such cases, travelers are offered the option of rescheduling or receiving a full refund. The tour provider, GlacierHeli, maintains a flexible cancellation policy — full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

Since the tour is highly rated, with a perfect 5-star rating from 9 reviews, it’s clear that most conditions go smoothly. The safety record and professionalism of the pilots are often praised, providing reassurance even for nervous flyers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This helicopter and mountain landing experience is perfect for adventure seekers and photographers eager to capture aerial views of Reykjavik and Mount Esja. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate geological scenery and want a personalized tour with limited participants.

Travelers with a good sense of balance and basic physical mobility will enjoy walking around Mount Esja’s terrain. The short duration makes it accessible for most, but those with severe fear of heights might want to consider the reviews mentioning pilot reassurance.

Final Thoughts on the Reykjavik Helicopter and Mount Esja Tour

This $309.99 helicopter experience offers a unique combination of aerial city views and a mountain landing on one of Iceland’s volcanic ranges. The expert pilots and small group size make it a personalized and safe adventure. The spectacular scenery from above and on the ground provides countless photography opportunities and a new perspective on Reykjavik and Mount Esja.

While weather can affect availability, the flexible cancellation policy and all-inclusive pricing make this a convenient choice. It’s best suited for adventurous travelers who want to see Iceland from above and enjoy a short, memorable adventure that combines cityscape, volcano terrain, and spectacular views.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour has a maximum weight limit of 265 lbs per passenger, and most travelers can participate, making it suitable for many. However, the experience may be less appropriate for very young children or those uncomfortable with helicopter rides.

What should I bring for the Mount Esja landing?
Bring your camera to capture the scenic views from the mountain. Wear comfortable outdoor clothing and suitable footwear for walking on rugged terrain, especially since the weather can be windy and variable.

What happens if the weather is poor on my scheduled day?
The tour requires good weather, and cancellations due to weather result in rescheduling or full refunds. It’s advisable to check the weather forecast and confirm your booking if conditions look uncertain.

How long does the entire experience last?
The flight itself lasts about 20 to 25 minutes, with additional time for check-in and landing procedures. The total experience is approximately 30-40 minutes including transfers and safety checks.

Can I take photos during the flight?
Absolutely—cameras are encouraged to capture Reykjavik’s cityscape and Mount Esja’s volcanic terrain. The pilot will ensure you have enough time to photograph both during the flight and upon landing.