Flightseeing Over Laki Craters & Skeiðarárjökull — 50-Min Highland Air Tour from Skaftafell
Rise above Vatnajökull for a 50-minute flight that stitches glacier ice, glacial lakes and the dramatic Lakagígar crater row into one sweeping panorama. This small-plane tour out of Skaftafell compresses Iceland’s ice-and-fire story into an unforgettable aerial sequence.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive Early for Weight Check
Check-in is 15 minutes before departure and staff will confirm passenger weights for balance—arrive early to avoid delays.
Bring a Windproof Layer
Even inside the plane, temperatures can feel cold near doors and windows—pack a warm, windproof jacket.
Protect Your Gear
Use a wrist or neck strap for cameras and stow loose items—turbulence can be sudden in mountain air.
Prepare for Cancellations
Flights are weather-dependent; book flexible accommodations and check the cancellation policy for full refunds up to 24 hours prior.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Grænalón glacial lake—an emerald meltwater basin visible from above
- •Svartifoss and its basalt columns in Skaftafell—easy to visit before or after your flight
Wildlife
- •Seals at nearby glacial lagoons
- •Arctic terns and seabirds along the coast
Conservation Note
Flights operate under park guidelines to limit disturbance; visitors are encouraged to support Vatnajökull National Park measures and follow Leave No Trace when on the ground.
The Lakagígar eruption of 1783–84 created one of Iceland’s largest lava floods and had major climatic effects across Europe.
Photographer's Notes
- • Directly over the Lakagígar crater chain for scale
- • Along the western edge of Skeiðarárjökull to show ice flow
- • Grænalón flyover for color contrast between water and ash
What to Bring
Warm Windproof JacketEssential
Keeps you comfortable in drafty small-craft cabins and during boarding in cool conditions.
Camera with Wide-Angle LensEssential
Captures the scale of craters and broad glacier panoramas from a limited vantage point.
Binoculars
Helps pick out details like meltwater streams, moraines, and distant farmsteads.
Motion-Sickness Remedy
Small aircraft turns and turbulence are common—preventive meds or wristbands can help.
Common Questions
How long is the flight?
The tour lasts approximately 50 minutes, including the circuit over Skeiðarárjökull, Grænalón and the Lakagígar crater chain.
What happens if the flight is cancelled due to weather?
Weather or insufficient passengers can cancel flights; the operator offers an alternative date or a full refund if cancelled within policy windows.
Are children allowed?
Yes—infants and small children can fly but infants must sit on an adult’s lap; note weight restrictions may apply.
Is there a maximum passenger count or aircraft size?
Tours are operated in small aircraft with up to five passengers to maximize viewing and keep weight balanced.
Do I need previous flying experience or fitness?
No—this flight is suitable for all fitness levels and requires no technical skills.
Can I bring a large backpack or baggage?
Space is limited; bring only small personal items and secure them—larger bags may not be permitted in the cabin.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
50 minutes
Location
Skaftafell, Suðurland
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; suitable for most travelers though boarding small aircraft requires basic mobility.
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