Essential Iceland helicopter tour Iceland

Overview of This Iceland Helicopter Tour Experience

This video documents an helicopter tour over Iceland's dramatic landscape, flown by Gísli Gíslason of Norðurflug on 17 July 2017. The tour showcases Iceland's essential natural features—glaciers, volcanic terrain, waterfalls, and coastline—from an aerial vantage point that ground-level travel cannot match. The flight captures the raw, otherworldly beauty that makes Iceland a destination for landscape photographers and adventure seekers alike.

This experience suits travelers who want to see Iceland's scale and grandeur without spending weeks driving between attractions, as well as those comfortable with small aircraft and open to the thrill of scenic flying. If you're drawn to dramatic landscapes, geothermal activity, and views that make the landscape feel genuinely alien, a helicopter tour like this one is worth serious consideration.

What You'll See on This Iceland Flight

• Glacial terrain and ice formations across Iceland's interior highlands
• Volcanic landscapes, including lava fields and calderas distinctive to Iceland's geology
• Waterfalls and river valleys carved by glacial melt
• Coastal views and the meeting of land and sea from above
• The scale and vastness of Iceland's wilderness impossible to grasp from the ground
• Aerial cinematography shot with drone-quality clarity, giving a modern perspective on the scenery

Essential Details Before Booking Your Flight

• Operator: Norðurflug, an established Icelandic helicopter tour company
• Season: This flight took place in mid-July, a peak summer month with long daylight hours and stable weather conditions for flying
• What to expect: You'll be in a helicopter with a small group; the video is piloted by Gísli Gíslason, an experienced aviator
• Camera equipment: The tour is documented with high-quality aerial footage, suggesting good visibility and favorable flying conditions
• Physical requirements: Helicopter tours require reasonable mobility to board and secure yourself in the aircraft; confirm any weight or health restrictions with your operator
• Clothing: Bring layers and a windproof jacket; temperatures at altitude are cold, and you may spend time near or above glaciers

Common Questions About Iceland Helicopter Tours

How long is a typical Iceland helicopter tour?

The video does not specify the exact duration, but most essential Iceland helicopter tours range from 45 minutes to two hours in the air. Confirm the flight length with Norðurflug when booking.

Is it safe to fly in a helicopter in Iceland?

Iceland's helicopter tour operators, including Norðurflug, maintain strict safety standards. The time of day and weather conditions affect safety and flight availability; summer flights like this one are generally more stable than winter routes.

What is the best time of year for an Iceland helicopter tour?

Summer (June through August) offers the longest daylight, most stable weather, and access to glacial and highland areas. This July flight exemplifies ideal conditions. Winter flights are possible but weather-dependent and offer different scenery.

Can I bring a camera on the flight?

The video itself is shot with professional equipment, suggesting that camera use is permitted. Confirm your operator's policy on personal cameras and any restrictions on window seats or lens attachments.

How much does an Iceland helicopter tour cost?

The video does not include pricing information. Costs vary widely depending on flight duration, group size, and the operator. Contact Norðurflug directly for current rates and package options.