Tectonic Pulse
Þingvellir Rift & Geothermal Helicopter Tour
Experience the dramatic divide between the Eurasian and North American plates from a unique vertical perspective
Stopovers
1Price
Shared tour from ISK 69,000/person (min. 2 pax)Private tour ISK 276,000 (1-4 pax)
Availability
All yearThe Experience
There is a place where the ground tells two stories at once: one of slow, silent separation and one of profound, beautiful energy. This flight puts you directly above the geological heart of Iceland where you can witness the breath of the planet. From the air, the massive cracks of the continental rift become a visible map of a world in motion, while the rising steam from the volcanic vents below reminds you that the earth is constantly evolving.
The Details
This tour focuses on the UNESCO-listed Þingvellir National Park and the Hengill volcanic system. We fly over the dramatic rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates drift apart, providing a scale of the continental divide impossible to see from the ground. The route also tracks the geothermal energy of the region, offering views of the Hellisheiði and Nesjavellir power plants as we navigate through pillars of steam and rugged terrain shaped by intense natural heat.
At a Glance
- Aerial views of the continental rift at Þingvellir National Park.
- Scenic flight over the Hengill volcanic system and geothermal fields.
- Geothermal landing in the Hengill region if weather conditions allow.
Book your flight, shared or private
FAQs
- Private Tour: You charter the entire helicopter for your party, accommodating up to four passengers. This is the ideal choice if you want the aircraft to yourself and a guaranteed window seat. The seating arrangement consists of one passenger in the front seat and three in the back.
- Shared Tour: You will share the flight with other passengers. Seating is assigned by the pilot based on height and weight for safety reasons; therefore, we cannot guarantee a specific seat on a shared tour.
If you are a solo traveller, you have a few options to join a flight:
- Book a Private Flight: This allows you to secure the aircraft for your own use and guarantees a window seat.
- Book a Shared Flight: On tours where shared seats are offered, you can secure a departure by paying for the minimum passenger requirement. If we successfully pair you with other guests, we will provide a refund for the extra seat you paid for.
- Join our Waiting List: Send us your availability and we will do our best to group you with others interested in the same tour.
Icelandic weather is famously unpredictable and can change quickly. Safety is our absolute priority, and all flight decisions are made with this in mind.
- Alternative Routes: If conditions prevent us from taking the planned path, we will offer an alternative route.
- Flexibility: We are often able to postpone the flight by a few hours until the weather passes or reschedule to a different date, subject to availability.
- Cancellations: If we must cancel due to weather and rescheduling is not an option, we will issue a 100% refund.
We are based at Reykjavík Domestic Airport (not Keflavík International), a 10–15 minute drive from downtown. You can find us on Google Maps under “Volcano Heli – Iceland.”
Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your departure for your safety briefing. When you arrive at the meeting point, a staff member will meet you at the silver gate at the airport perimeter fence. Please remain outside the gate until we arrive to escort you, as the area beyond is a restricted zone.
- Shared Tours: For the safety and balance of the aircraft, the maximum weight per seat on shared flights is 120 kg (265 lbs).
- Private Tours: On private flights, the maximum weight per seat is 135 kg (300 lbs), as determined by the helicopter manufacturer. Combined weight restrictions may apply.
We welcome passengers of all ages on our flights.
- Infants (Aged 0–2): Infants travel free of charge. Please note that they must sit on a parent or guardian’s lap for the duration of the flight.
- Children (Aged 2 and up): Children aged 2 and older occupy their own seat at the regular price.
- Special Seating for Children (Aged 2–12): Two children within this age range may share a single seat if they fit comfortably and safely. In this case, they will only be charged for one seat (half-price per child).
- Footwear: Sturdy hiking or winter boots are recommended, as our landings often take place on uneven mountain terrain or snow.
- Layers: We suggest wearing several warm layers regardless of the season.
- Cabin Comfort: The helicopter is heated; you are welcome to store large winter coats in our baggage compartment during the flight.
