Reykjanes Peninsula: Helicopter Tour Over Volcanic Eruption Area

Summary

Fly above Reykjavík’s wild lava fields & fresh volcanic scars

You’ll lift off from Reykjavík by helicopter for an intimate flight over Reykjanes Peninsula’s newest volcanic eruption zone, guided by locals who know every crack in the earth below. Expect shifting weather, surreal lava fields still steaming from recent eruptions, and stories that make Iceland feel alive beneath your feet—or wheels.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the pilot, Jón, grinned as we buckled in — like he still got a kick out of this flight every time. We lifted off from Reykjavík, and almost instantly the city shrank into a patchwork of colored roofs and icy water. Someone behind me gasped when we banked out over Faxaflói Bay; I just remember my ears popping and that weird thrill you get when you’re both nervous and excited at once. The main keyword here is helicopter tour Iceland — because honestly, nothing else would get you this close to what’s happened on the Reykjanes Peninsula.

Flying toward the eruption area, Jón pointed out ridges where the earth had literally split open. He told us there’d been more than 50,000 earthquakes since 2021 — which sounded like an exaggeration until I saw how jagged and new the lava fields looked, all black ropes and steam curling up in places. There was this burnt mineral smell when we hovered low (I didn’t expect that), and even though the volcano wasn’t active right now, it felt alive somehow. The light kept shifting between grey and gold as clouds moved over us — Icelandic weather doing its thing. You could see how recent everything was; nothing had softened yet.

I tried to take photos but mostly ended up just staring out the window, fingers smudging the glass. At one point our guide laughed about how locals have gotten used to “the ground rumbling under your coffee cup.” It’s funny — I thought I’d be scared being so high up in a tiny chopper, but it felt safe with only five of us squeezed in together, sharing headphones and awkward smiles. The main keyword came up again when someone asked about other helicopter tours in Iceland; Jón shrugged and said nowhere else changes so fast.

We circled back toward Reykjavík with everyone quiet for a bit — maybe trying to process what we’d seen. I kept thinking about those raw edges of land, like Iceland isn’t finished being made yet. If you go, don’t bother planning your hair or anything (wind is guaranteed), but do bring some curiosity. That view sticks with you longer than you expect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Helicopter tour over volcanic area

• Depart from Reykjavík
• Fly over Reykjanes Peninsula lava fields
• View volcanic craters and landscapes
• See Reykjavík city aerial views
• Return to Reykjavík

Top questions

How many people fit on each helicopter tour?

Each helicopter has 5–6 seats for an intimate group experience.

Where does the helicopter tour depart from?

The tour departs from Reykjavík, Iceland’s capital city.

Is the volcano currently erupting during this tour?

No, while eruptions are natural here they may not always be active during your visit.

What will I see on this Reykjanes Peninsula helicopter tour?

You’ll see freshly formed lava fields, crater formations, seismic landscapes shaped by recent eruptions, and aerial views of Reykjavík.

Are flights affected by weather conditions?

Yes, flights are weather-dependent; rescheduling or refunds are offered if needed.

Is hotel pickup included in this helicopter tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are available nearby.

How far is Reykjanes Peninsula from Reykjavík?

The peninsula is located about 30 km (19 miles) from Reykjavík.

What’s included

Your day includes a seat on a small-group helicopter flight over Iceland’s new volcanic eruption area on Reykjanes Peninsula—fuel surcharge covered—plus stories from local guides who know these lands inside out before returning to Reykjavík with memories still buzzing in your ears.