Lift off from Skaftafell and land on Vatnajökull for an up-close hour among icefalls, crevasse fields and volcanic ridgelines. This 60-minute helicopter tour pairs aerial perspective with a brief on-glacier landing—weather permitting.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A low thrum grows beneath you as the helicopter lifts from the Skaftafell Terminal and the ring-road falls away. Below, blue ice ribs and black-sand plains unfold; the pilot tilts the aircraft and the ice cap’s texture—crevasses, moulins, and sculpted glacier tongues—comes into focus. When the skids touch a chosen glacier terrace, the rotor wash scatters the silence and the land, momentarily alive, seems to breathe around you.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; the landing requires only short, level walking on compacted snow or firm glacier surface
Wildlife
History
Skaftafell was an independent nature reserve until it joined Vatnajökull National Park in 2008; the landscape records both volcanic eruptions from Öræfajökull and massive glacial floods.
Conservation
Landing sites and flight paths are managed to minimize disturbance to fragile ice and wildlife; stick to crew directions and avoid trampling moraine vegetation.
Reserve your spot on the Glacier Edge Helicopter Tour with Landing from Skaftafell today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in layers
Temperatures on the ice can be 5–10°C colder than the terminal—bring an insulated mid-layer and windproof shell.
Secure loose gear
Rotor wash is strong on landing; use straps and zipped pockets for cameras and hats.
Plan for weather delays
This tour is canceled for unsafe weather—build flexibility into your itinerary and book earlier in your stay.
Weight and seating policy
Travelers over 120 kg may be required to purchase an extra 50% seat for weight balance—disclose weight when booking.
Insulated jacket
Keeps you warm during the exposed on-glacier stop and in strong rotor wind.
Windproof shell
Blocks rotor-driven gusts and protects from spray and cold air.
Sturdy waterproof boots
Provide grip and ankle support for walking briefly on snow or ice-adjacent terrain.
Camera with strap
Fast shutter and secure strap help capture sharp photos from a moving aircraft and on the ground.