Reykjavik: A Luxury Helicopter Tour through Iceland

Home to some of the most incredible scenery and awe-inspiring landscapes on the planet, it’s no wonder that Iceland has a huge variety of exhilarating experiences to get the heart of even the most fearless explorer pumping. But the best way to see Iceland in all its enormity is undoubtedly from the skies on a private helicopter tour. The challenging, varied terrain – from deep blue glacial waters and sweeping lava fields to snow-capped volcanoes and black sanded shores – provides the perfect setting for an adventure from the skies. With that in mind, we sent our team out in search of some of the best of those adventures. Flying north to south, east to west, and hiking glaciers and volcanoes in between, we’ve come back to present you with five nights of the very best that Iceland has to offer.

Geothermal Explorations & Coastal Helicopter Tours

Touch down and head straight to Canopy hotel for a restful night as the next few days know no bounds. Wake up to a hearty breakfast before heading straight out into the sweeping landscapes of South Iceland. Surrounded by miles of scenic grassland, there’s much to explore but it’s the brooding presence of the dormant Thrihnukagigur volcano that provides the setting for this morning’s adrenaline fix. If visiting between May and October, you’ll be able to descend down through its crater into the giant magma chamber below in an experience not available anywhere else on this planet. For those visiting in the winter months, however, we recommend jumping in a helicopter for a private tour flying up to Mt Esja and out to sea to in search of the gliding pods of whales.

Helicopter over Volcanoes & Glaciers

Emerge back out of the crater where your ride for the afternoon will then be waiting – a helicopter. Fly out over the south coast, up and over Eyjafjallajokull volcano where, on a clear day, you’ll be able to marvel at the impressive views of lava and smoke climbing upwards inside the vast crater that wreaked so much havoc back in 2010 as the colors of the sky swirl and merge on the horizon ahead. Fly along the famous black sand beaches before touching down at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon where you’ll have some time to explore the lagoon by boat as you marvel at towering icebergs and playful seals. Back onboard, you’ll fly onto Vatnajökull glacier and Fjallabak nature reserve, with time to get out and explore further if you wish.

A Unique Adventure in Thingvellir

From one adventure to another, tomorrow you’ll head out to the mighty Langjökull Glacier from where you’ll take to the skies once more for a whole new perspective on the iconic Golden Circle. Embracing Icelandic nature, you’ll soar over the beauty of Thingvellir national park, the spectacle of Gulfoss and the brooding presence of Mount Hekla. From the geothermal surrounds of Hrafntinnusker, you’ll then enjoy a bird’s eye view of the black lava sand desert of Mælifellssandur, before touching down for a luxurious lunch at Hotel Rangá. On your way back to Reykjavik after, there’s always the option to detour through the heart of the Golden Circle and get closer to the landscapes you saw from the sky.

Relax in Reykjavik

Feet back on the ground, take your last two days to explore the sights on your doorstep in Reykjavik. Perhaps you’re yearning to discover the culinary trends sweeping across the city? If so, join a private guide on a city food tour sampling delicacies such as Kaffi Loki and Drykkur. Or perhaps you’d rather explore the chic boutiques dotted along Laugavegur? There’s always the tempting waters of the Blue Lagoon too should you rather spend the rest of your time here in a state of pure relaxation. Though, if you’d rather keep your adrenaline levels topped up, hop on an ATV and head west to the Reykjanes Peninsula and explore the sweeping lava fields and lighthouse-peppered coastline out here. However you see Reykjavik, you’re sure to leave Iceland having seen it from every possible angle.