Reykjavik Volcano Helicopter Tour: Is it worth it? (2024 Review)

Alright, so you’re thinking about taking a helicopter tour to see Iceland’s volcanoes near Reykjavik, is that right? Well, actually a lot of folks visiting Iceland are captivated by the raw power and beauty of these land formations, so that makes perfect sense. Now, the “Reykjavik Iceland 45 Minute Volcano Helicopter Tour” is something a lot of different companies offer, and truthfully it’s super appealing. The opportunity to see volcanic landscapes from a helicopter seems pretty unreal, yet also quite costly, I understand that for most, it is a big expenditure. Let’s break it down to see if the experience truly matches what it promises.

What the Tour Promises

Typically, this tour bills itself as a breathtaking, yet pretty speedy way to view some of Iceland’s volcanic areas not far from Reykjavik, ok? This kind of tour lasts roughly 45 minutes in the air and promises views of craters, perhaps some geothermal areas, and expansive volcanic landscapes; that’s a cool idea, in my opinion. You are expected to have amazing photo opportunities from vantage points you literally cannot reach any other way. You also get to skip the huge, jostling tourist crowds that swarm the common sightseeing locations, that is a plus for most, actually. The convenience, in fact, is very appealing: quick trip from Reykjavik and a unique perspective that’s difficult to replicate; at least, that’s the claim.

My Own Time Flying: What the Experience is Really Like

Speaking from experience, very few helicopter tours are quiet; in fact, I have to tell you they are always loud, just because of how helicopters work, you know? Before you jump in, you’ll get a safety briefing, and you’ll put on a headset, too, so that the roaring rotor blades and your pilot’s calm, reassuring voice are at the right balance for you, ok? Soon, you’re lifting off, and Reykjavik shrinks below. That sense of leaving everything behind is sort of sensational. In terms of value for money, actually that is another thing.

Seeing Iceland from the air actually gives you a feel for its true size, so you see why people love it. The volcanic landscapes themselves, by the way, are something else. Craters scar the ground like the world’s old wounds, yet geothermal areas vent steam like the land is breathing. From the air, these places aren’t distant landscapes but vivid tapestries of textures and hues, a pretty wild collage of blacks, greens, reds, and grays, ok? If you are like your friends, you’ll snap dozens (if not hundreds) of photos, that’s only natural. Just know that shooting through the helicopter window means managing reflections, and that the constant vibrations can make for less than sharp photos if your shutter speed isn’t set up correctly.

Things You Should Think About

Here are some honest factors to consider if this aerial excursion is right for you, it might just depend on what you hope to get out of this trip, of course:

• Weather conditions: Let me just tell you, Iceland’s weather, especially close to Reykjavik, is famous for being unpredictable. In a way, a helicopter tour might get canceled at a moment’s notice if conditions turn foul, is that right? That actually doesn’t happen super frequently, in most circumstances, but in a place such as Iceland you must be ready for schedule changes, to be sure. You should also have a flexible itinerary that will handle adjustments like this, ok?
• Visibility: The views from above might not be so amazing if it is cloudy or misty, alright? You may see only shades of gray in situations such as that. The tour companies will make sure conditions are suitable before flying; if that is not the case, you are completely protected and will get your money refunded. Make sure you read all their policies regarding such situations.
• Pricing: These helicopter rides might be expensive, truthfully. Remember to factor in the value in seeing exclusive views not available from tour buses, in the same way. If you are fine with common touristy spots and don’t really want a bird’s eye view, truthfully there are less costly ways to see Iceland’s natural magnificence. However, if the aerial perspective appeals to you enough that you will pay for that singular perspective, maybe this is a perfect way to appreciate the place.
• What you can see during those 45 minutes: Because these tours run on time, and things are very efficient (unlike driving), your pilot probably will fly a particular path, like your bus driver on a coach. That route will include certain landmarks, and is also impacted by the day’s specific conditions. Just know that these folks, usually the pilots, really want you to have an amazing view of whatever Mother Nature happens to offer during that specific timeframe, you know? You’re probably not going to hover for extended periods in certain spots; just be conscious of this fact.
• Photo quality: Helicopters are really noisy, yet very shaky; in fact that creates specific issues for phototaking through the windows, in most cases. The very best shots require skill, the correct equipment, and a bit of luck for getting perfect clarity while up there. Remember the whole experience will involve some movement, reflections, and distortion due to being sealed behind glass, is that right?

Is It Worth It?

Let me get down to what most folks really need to know. Is the Reykjavik 45 Minute Volcano Helicopter Tour actually worth your money? Here’s the deal. If uniqueness and exclusivity appeal to you over other considerations, the money spent may bring joy in that memory, and pictures of that perspective, yet you can definitely have a great time for a lower price if you choose to go on bus tours and save money on this aerial venture.

You will likely feel very satisfied with what this venture brings to the table:

• For many visitors, a bird’s eye view is one of a kind
• Those who absolutely have to check out hard-to-access locales will feel satisfied.
• Photographers trying for novel perspectives (if their skills and cameras are able)
• You and your other half: Couples and smaller groups would experience an intimate and very shared event together.

Still, the tour might not be for you when:

• People watch their budgets tightly
• If changes in weather or canceled plans might ruin your entire day’s travel.
• If your photography does not extend past, or require more than the capability of cell phone images.
• Huge groups want affordable per-person costs.

Think about that list very carefully so that you consider exactly how well this 45 minute Helicopter tour fits in your grand designs!