A Comprehensive Guide to South Africa's Premium Smokeless Models

In the evolving world of outdoor living and eco-conscious adventure, Helios Fire stands out as a leader in the design and engineering of smokeless fire pits. Known for their innovative combustion systems, long-lasting construction, and aesthetic appeal, Helios Fire pits are crafted to deliver warmth, ambiance, and cooking utility without the mess and ecological impact of traditional open fires.

This guide is dedicated to thoroughly exploring the full range of Helios Fire's smokeless fire pit models. Whether you’re an avid camper, a weekend adventurer, or someone looking to enhance your home’s outdoor space, this in-depth overview will help you understand each model’s specifications, features, and best-use scenarios.

Why Choose Helios Fire?

Before diving into the models, it’s important to understand why Helios Fire has gained a reputation as a top-tier manufacturer. Each fire pit is the result of thoughtful craftsmanship, field-tested performance, and a commitment to sustainability:

• Smokeless Innovation: 

Helios Fire pits are engineered with a double-wall airflow system that promotes secondary combustion. This advanced design channels cool air from the base up through the walls, heating it before it meets the fire at the rim. This not only ignites leftover gases but re-burns smoke particles that would normally escape. The result is a cleaner, hotter flame with virtually no visible smoke—perfect for parks, patios, and pristine wild spaces where low impact is essential.

• Durable Construction: 

Quality materials are a hallmark of Helios Fire. The Apollo is constructed from brushed stainless steel, which offers lightweight portability and longevity. The Eros, designed for heavier use, features a rugged powder-coated steel body that withstands rough handling, changing climates, and repeated high-temperature exposure. These materials not only resist corrosion and warping but also provide timeless, aesthetic appeal.

• Eco-Friendly Design: 

Every burn in a Helios fire pit uses wood more efficiently, minimizing carbon output and producing a fine, nearly invisible ash. This results in less wood being harvested, lower particulate emissions, and no ground damage due to their raised, self-contained build. It’s a smart way to enjoy the tradition of an open flame while supporting conservation efforts and sustainable tourism.

• Portable and Practical: 

Whether you're off-grid camping or hosting a garden gathering, Helios Fire pits are built to move. Both models come with custom carry bags and are designed for fast assembly, easy maintenance, and safe storage. Their modular structure supports accessory compatibility—allowing users to cook, protect surfaces, and manage their fire with ease. These features make Helios a favorite among vanlifers, overlanders, and everyday outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Apollo Fire Pit – Compact Powerhouse for Solo and Light Use

Mythological Origins and Symbolism

The name Apollo originates from Greek mythology. Apollo was the god of the sun, light, music, and healing—known for his radiant presence, clarity, and precision. In the context of Helios Fire, the Apollo fire pit reflects these same characteristics: it delivers a pure, bright, smokeless flame, wrapped in a compact, minimalist form. Just as Apollo traveled light across the sky in his chariot, this fire pit is built for mobility and brilliance, offering warmth and energy wherever it goes.

The Apollo model is engineered for those who love to travel light but still want a clean, powerful flame at the campsite.

Key Specifications:

• Material: Brushed stainless steel that’s corrosion-resistant, easy to clean, and aesthetically sleek. It offers a high strength-to-weight ratio, ideal for those who need both durability and portability.
• Weight: Approximately 4.5 kg, making it light enough for solo campers to carry without strain but heavy enough to remain stable during use.
• Dimensions: Stands 30 cm tall with a 32 cm diameter, giving it a compact footprint that fits perfectly in tight storage spaces or in vehicle compartments.
• Capacity: Best suited for small to medium-sized logs and kindling. The internal burn chamber is sized to create an efficient flame for 1–3 people without wasting fuel.
• Accessories: Includes a high-quality carry bag with reinforced stitching and weather-resistant material. Optional accessories like a grill grate expand its cooking functionality, perfect for grilling light meals outdoors.

Standout Features:

• Ultra-portable – Weighing just 4.5 kg and featuring a compact frame, the Apollo is designed for campers and adventurers who prioritize packability. It easily fits into the boot of a car, a rooftop box, or even a hiking pack for those willing to trek with lightweight gear. Its slim cylindrical shape means no awkward edges or overhangs, making it exceptionally travel-friendly.
• Highly Efficient Burn – Thanks to its precision-engineered double-wall design, the Apollo achieves secondary combustion that ignites leftover gases and smoke. This ensures not only a cleaner burn but also longer-lasting heat with less fuel. It performs excellently even in open or breezy environments, making it dependable in unpredictable outdoor conditions.
• Perfect for Short Trips – Whether you’re enjoying a quiet night along the Garden Route, hiking in the Cederberg, or setting up a quick beach braai, the Apollo shines during short, spontaneous excursions. Its fast setup, quick ignition, and easy pack-down make it ideal for weekend warriors, overlanders, or those seeking a simple, smoke-free fire experience on the go. – Use it for beach braais, weekend forest escapes, or romantic nights under the stars.

Best For:

• Solo Campers and Couples – The Apollo is perfect for individuals or pairs who value tranquility, simplicity, and efficiency. Whether you’re stargazing beside a mountain trail or enjoying a weekend escape by a quiet lake, its size and heat output provide just the right amount of warmth without excess. It encourages a peaceful, personal connection with nature—ideal for mindful campers or romantic outdoor getaways.
• Short Outdoor Excursions – Its compact size, lightweight design, and quick ignition make it a no-fuss companion for overnight trips, last-minute getaways, or single-day adventures. When you need a fast, reliable fire without the smoke or cleanup of traditional setups, the Apollo delivers.
• Minimalist Setups – For ultralight hikers, bikers, vanlifers, or anyone embracing a minimal footprint, the Apollo offers big performance in a small package. It supports a low-impact lifestyle by requiring less wood, producing virtually no ash, and eliminating the need for fire pits dug into the earth.

Eros Fire Pit – Versatile Workhorse for Families and Small Groups

Mythological Origins and Symbolism

Eros, another figure from Greek mythology, represents passion, connection, and the warmth of shared experience. He is the god of love and attraction—powerful yet harmonious. The Eros fire pit embodies these same themes: it creates an inviting centerpiece for family and friends, encouraging togetherness and bonding around the flames. Larger and more enduring than the Apollo, it’s designed to foster community and comfort, much like the influence of Eros in mythological tales.

Built with versatility in mind, the Eros model is larger, sturdier, and suitable for longer stays and larger groups.

Key Specifications:

• Material: Made from robust powder-coated steel with a matte black finish, the Eros fire pit offers exceptional resistance to rust, heat, and scratching. The coating not only adds visual sophistication but also enhances durability for regular outdoor use.
• Weight: At approximately 7.8 kg, the Eros is sturdy enough to remain stable in breezy environments yet light enough to carry to campsites, garden spaces, or tailgate events. Its balanced weight gives users the benefit of both durability and mobility.
• Dimensions: With a height of 37 cm and a diameter of 38 cm, the Eros boasts a generous fire chamber capable of supporting longer burn times and higher heat output. Its wide opening allows for larger log sizes and improved airflow, making it ideal for social settings.
• Capacity: Designed to accommodate medium to large logs, the Eros supports extended burn durations—perfect for evening-long gatherings or cooking sessions that require consistent heat.
• Accessories: Included is a padded, weather-resistant carry bag that simplifies transportation and storage. The Eros is also compatible with a wide range of grilling accessories, giving users the freedom to cook everything from boerewors to skillet meals over an efficient flame.

Standout Features:

• Great Heat Retention – Perfect for cooler climates and long nights.
• Balanced Portability and Capacity – Not too heavy, but still offers a big enough chamber to entertain or cook for multiple people.
• Stylish and Rugged – Aesthetically appealing while holding up to repeated use in the outdoors.

Best For:

• Family campers
• Group outings
• Semi-permanent garden setups

Comparative Summary

Accessories and Customization

Helios Fire offers a range of accessories compatible with their fire pit models, each thoughtfully designed to enhance the fire experience, increase safety, and extend functionality beyond basic warmth:

Grill Grates

Crafted from durable stainless steel or seasoned cast iron, these grates transform your fire pit into a portable outdoor kitchen. Whether you're searing steaks, grilling boerewors, or toasting sandwiches, the grates provide a stable and efficient cooking surface. They’re rust-resistant and easy to clean, allowing campers and backyard chefs alike to elevate their fire game.

Advantages:

• Allows for direct grilling and cooking
• Turns fire pits into versatile meal prep stations
• Easy to attach, remove, and clean

Heat Shields

Heat shields are critical for protecting the ground or surface beneath your fire pit—especially on wooden decks, lawns, or tiled patios. Made from high-temperature-resistant materials, these shields disperse heat and prevent scorching or warping.

Advantages:

• Enables safe use on sensitive surfaces
• Prevents fire marks and permanent damage
• Enhances safety for family-friendly environments

Carry Bags

These reinforced canvas bags are built for durability and convenience. Custom-fitted for Apollo and Eros models, they offer padded handles and zippered compartments for carrying your fire pit and basic accessories. Ideal for travel, storage, and protecting your fire pit from scratches and elements during off-seasons.

Advantages:

• Simplifies transportation
• Provides protective storage
• Lightweight, waterproof, and easy to pack

Fire Tools

Fire-safe poker and tong sets help you manage your flame without risk. These tools are crafted from heat-resistant metals and designed with ergonomic grips to handle burning logs, reposition kindling, or adjust grill grates safely and comfortably.

Advantages:

• Improves fire management precision
• Keeps hands safely away from open flames
• Useful for adding, rotating, or removing wood

These accessories are more than just extras—they transform each Helios Fire pit into a safer, more functional, and adventure-ready tool for outdoor living. Whether you're cooking, protecting your environment, or hitting the road, these upgrades make your fire experience more enjoyable, efficient, and worry-free.

Choosing Your Fire Pit

If you prioritize lightweight design, quick weekend getaways, or hiking trips, the Apollo is your match. It’s compact, efficient, and fits the minimalist ethos without sacrificing fire quality.

If you camp with others, entertain outdoors, or want a robust centerpiece for your backyard, the Eros is your go-to. It balances rugged performance with eco-conscious design, and its wide accessory range enhances its versatility.

Both fire pits embody the values of Helios Fire—innovation, sustainability, and durability. No matter which you choose, you’re investing in a cleaner, safer, and more enjoyable outdoor fire experience.