We thought we were just in for a hike and some cool lava pictures. Turns out, I was about to get the adventure of a lifetime. When I heard about an eruption happening in Iceland, I booked a last-minute trip, figuring my wife and I would wing it once we got there. Little did we know, we’d end up in a helicopter over an active volcano in Iceland, landing in the middle of Iceland’s surreal grasslands.
If spontaneous, out-of-the-box travel is your vibe, keep reading to learn why this experience was next-level, how you can plan something similar, and a few tips to make the most of it.
Check out our full 10-day Iceland itinerary here!
Why It’s Special
Iceland’s volatile geological nature means that eruptions are rare yet unpredictable. When they do happen, they create quite the spectacle. Combine this with the thrill of a helicopter ride, and you’ve got a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Unlike viewing a volcano from the ground, a helicopter tour gives you a bird’s-eye view of molten rivers and steaming craters. It’s an adrenaline-filled way to witness the planet’s incredible wonders.
How to Plan Your Own Volcano Helicopter Tour
Planning your own Iceland volcano helicopter tour requires a mix of preparation and flexibility. Here’s how to make it happen:
- Stay Updated on Volcanic Activity: Volcanic eruptions aren’t daily occurrences, so keeping an eye on the Icelandic Meteorological Office’s updates is key. Their website provides real-time information on seismic activity and volcanic alerts.
- Book Last-Minute Flights: When an eruption occurs, tour operators often ramp up availability. Keep your schedule flexible so you can book last-minute tours and maximize your chances of catching an active eruption.
- Choose Reputable Helicopter Operators: Safety and expertise matter. Companies like Reykjavik Helicopters and Norðurflug Helicopter Tours have experienced pilots and a solid reputation. You can find a full list of tours here.
Pro Tip: If there’s no ongoing eruption, many operators still offer incredible tours showcasing Iceland’s dormant volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and glaciers.
What to Expect on a Helicopter Tour
From the moment you step onto the tarmac, the adventure begins. Here’s a glimpse of what the experience entails:
- A Pre-Flight Briefing: Pilots provide insights into the day’s route and what you can expect to see. If you’re lucky, this might include active lava flows.
- The Thrill of Liftoff: The rush of lifting into the air sets the tone for the adventure. If you’re new to helicopters, this will be thrilling!
- Unforgettable Views: Flying over an erupting volcano in Iceland is surreal. The vivid colors, swirling smoke, and glowing lava are sights you’ll replay in your mind for years.
- Potential Detours: Weather in Iceland is unpredictable. We ended up landing in a national park for an hour or so to wait out some weather and it turned out to be us frolicking in the grass.
Pro Tips for an Epic Adventure
To make the most of your Iceland volcano helicopter tour, keep these tips in mind:
- What to Pack:
- Warm, windproof clothing and sturdy boots.
- A high-quality camera or smartphone with plenty of storage.
- Polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and enhance the lava’s vivid hues.
- A small backpack for essentials.
- Capture the Moment: Use a wide-angle lens for sweeping landscape shots and a telephoto lens to zoom in on the lava’s intricate details.
- Stay Flexible: Weather can cause delays. Build extra time into your itinerary to accommodate potential rescheduling.
- Respect Nature: Follow your pilot’s instructions if you happen to make a surprise landing.
Reflecting on the Magic of Spontaneity
There’s something transformative about embracing the unknown. The decision to book a last-minute helicopter ride over an active volcano in Iceland was one of the most exhilarating choices I’ve ever made. It reminded me that the best adventures often arise when we’re willing to adapt and seize the moment.
Iceland’s volcano helicopter tours are more than a travel experience—they’re a reminder of the planet’s incredible power and beauty. If you’re seeking a bucket-list-worthy adventure that will leave you in awe, don’t hesitate. Your next adventure awaits.
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