Fire and Ice Helicopter Tour: Glacier and Hengill Geothermal Area

Discover the Fire and Ice Helicopter Tour in Reykjavik

The Fire and Ice Helicopter Tour: Glacier and Hengill Geothermal Area offers an extraordinary way to see Iceland’s most iconic landscapes. Priced at $1,020.29 per person, this adventure lasts approximately 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours 10 minutes, including two spectacular landings. With a maximum group size of 5 travelers, it promises an intimate experience with personalized attention from a skilled pilot. The tour departs from Reykjavik Airport and features 2 hours of flight time, providing ample opportunity to soak in the sights from the sky.

This helicopter journey stands out because of its two exclusive landings—one on a glacier and one at a geothermal area—saving hours of hiking while delivering unforgettable scenery. Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, breathtaking views, and the extraordinary landings that make this tour a favorite for those wanting a true Icelandic adventure. While weather can impact the experience, the opportunity for overhead sightseeing combined with landing on rare terrains makes this tour a unique highlight.

Key Points

• Price: $1,020.29 per person, with bookings typically made 39 days in advance.
• Duration: Around 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours 10 minutes, including flying and landings.
• Two stops: Land on Þórisjökull glacier and the Hengill Geothermal Area.
• Maximum group size: 5 travelers, ensuring a personal experience.
• Highlights: Views of Reykjavik landmarks, waterfalls, canyons, and hot springs.
• Weather-dependent: The tour may be canceled in poor weather, but a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

Starting Point and Group Size

The adventure begins at Ace FBO Reykjavík, located at Reykjavík Airport. The small group size of up to 5 travelers enhances the VIP feel, with more opportunities for pictures and personal attention from the pilot. The end of the tour is back at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

The Experience Begins at Reykjavík Airport

Your journey kicks off at Reykjavík Airport, where you are greeted by your experienced pilot. The flight time of approximately 2 hours takes you over some of Iceland’s most stunning sights before you reach the first stop. The tour’s personalized nature, with limited participants, means the pilot can tailor the experience and offer detailed explanations of the various sites.

First Stop: Þórisjökull Glacier Landing

The first landing is on the Þórisjökull glacier, saving hours of hiking and offering sweeping views from the helicopter. The glacier, part of the vast ice cap, invites you to explore its surface, take photos, and enjoy snowball fights or build snowmen and snow angels. The 15-minute stop allows for leisurely photos and enjoying the crisp, fresh air. The panoramic views of the glacier and surrounding landscapes are truly impressive, making it a favorite for those seeking a thrill and spectacular scenery.

Second Stop: Hengill Geothermal Area

The Hengill Geothermal Area provides a stark contrast to the icy glacier. Situated in a remote valley accessible only by helicopter or hike, this area features hot springs, boiling mud pots, and geothermal activity. The 15-minute stop at Hengill offers close-up observations of these natural wonders, allowing visitors to walk towards and observe the bubbling mud pots. The otherworldly landscape wrapped in geothermal steam offers perfect photo opportunities and a chance to experience Iceland’s volcanic power firsthand.

Visiting Þingvellir National Park and Other Landmarks

Along With the main landings, the tour also offers aerial views of Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Iceland’s oldest parliament. From above, you can see the crack between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates and the sparkling waters of Iceland’s largest lake. The flight also includes a glimpse of Hallgrimskirkja Church and Mount Esja, along with the chance to view the famous Whale Fjordur.

The Pilot: An Expert Guide in the Sky

Throughout the flight, your pilot provides informative commentary about the landscapes and sites below. Reviews praise pilots for their professionalism, smooth handling in wind, and ability to point out distant landmarks. One pilot named Tasha is highlighted for her ease with challenging winds and her engaging explanations, enhancing the overall experience.

The Flight Itself: Breathtaking Views and Expert Handling

The 2-hour flight offers panoramic views of waterfalls, canyons, and volcanic landscapes. The helicopter’s small size allows for great visibility and close-up exploration of hard-to-access areas. The views of glaciers, geothermal springs, and lava fields are consistently described as spectacular. Many reviews mention how the pilot’s skill and route adjustments help everyone get excellent photos and see as much as possible.

Landings and Photo Opportunities

The two landings are the core highlights of this tour. Both provide enough time for photos, exploration, and fun activities like snowball fights or observing geothermal activity up close. The 15-minute stops are brief but packed with visual and experiential impact, making this trip as much about scenic exploration as aerial sightseeing.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

This tour relies heavily on good weather, and cancellations are possible if conditions are poor. The company offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund if canceled due to weather or low booking numbers. If weather cancels the tour on the scheduled day, an alternative date or full refund is available, ensuring travelers are protected from disappointment.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

The tour is suitable for most people, with most travelers participating well. Each passenger’s weight limit is 265 lbs, and the experience involves minimal physical activity beyond walking at the stops. The compact nature of the helicopter means it might be less accessible for those with mobility issues, but the stops themselves are straightforward.

What Distinguishes This Tour from Others

The personalized experience with only 5 travelers is a key feature, as it allows for more engagement with the pilot and better photo opportunities. The combination of two landings on contrasting terrains—a glacier and a geothermal area—offers a diverse and immersive experience that is hard to match with larger group tours. The expert pilot, praised for handling winds and providing informative commentary, adds significant value.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Tour

This adventure appeals to adventure seekers, photographers, and nature lovers eager to see Iceland’s landscapes from above and on the ground. Travelers comfortable with helicopter flights and prepared for weather variability will find it especially rewarding. The tour’s limited group size and exclusive landings make it ideal for those seeking a personalized, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Final Thoughts on the Fire and Ice Helicopter Tour

The Fire and Ice Helicopter Tour combines spectacular aerial views with intimate landings on Iceland’s glacier and geothermal terrains, creating a well-rounded adventure. The knowledgeable pilot, breathtaking landscapes, and unique stops are among its strongest points. While weather can impact the experience, the potential for photo-worthy moments and up-close exploration makes this tour a standout choice for those visiting Reykjavik.

This tour offers great value for the price, given its personalized nature and access to inaccessible terrains. It suits adventure-minded travelers who want to see Iceland from a different perspective and are ready for a comfortable yet thrilling experience in the skies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, with a weight limit of 265 lbs. It involves minimal physical activity beyond walking at stops, but helicopter access may be less suitable for those with mobility issues.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers two landings, flight time of approximately 2 hours, and a professional English-speaking guide. Food and drinks are not included.

How does the weather affect the tour?
This experience requires good weather; poor conditions may result in cancellation. Cancellations due to weather are fully refunded or can be rescheduled.

How early should I book?
The tour is often booked about 39 days in advance, reflecting high demand. Early booking helps secure a spot, especially in peak seasons.

What locations are visited during the tour?
You’ll land at the Þórisjökull glacier and Hengill Geothermal Area, with aerial views of Þingvellir National Park, Hallgrimskirkja Church, Mount Esja, and Whale Fjordur.

How long are the stops at each landing site?
Each stop lasts about 15 minutes, enough for photos, exploration, and brief activities like snowball fights or observing geothermal features.

What makes this tour stand out?
The personalized, VIP-style experience with only 5 travelers, combined with two diverse landings on contrasting Icelandic terrains, sets this tour apart.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior. If canceled due to weather, you receive a full refund or can reschedule.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the price includes all landings and flight time. Food and drinks are not included but are not specified as necessary.

Is this a good value for the price?
Given the small group size, two landings, and personalized guide, the cost reflects a premium, high-quality experience that many find well worth it.