Volcano Eruption Site Hike Including Pickup from Reykjavik

A volcanic adventure close to Reykjavik, with a focus on active exploration and stunning scenery

This 7-hour tour takes you from the heart of Reykjavik into the Geldingalur Valley, where Iceland’s recent volcanic activity is on full display. For $115 per person, you’ll enjoy a moderate hike to the Fagradalsfjall volcano crater—the site of recent eruptions—and a quick stop at the Krysuvik geothermal area. Guides are known for their knowledge and enthusiasm, making this trip as educational as it is adventurous. Plus, the included hotel pickup in Reykjavik means you won’t have to worry about navigating Iceland’s sometimes confusing public transport.

We love how this tour offers a close-up view of a still-smoldering landscape, giving you a visceral sense of what a volcano eruption looks and feels like. The views of lava flows and steaming fields are captivating, especially for those intrigued by geology and volcanic activity. Two standout features: the scenic stops at Kleifarvatn Lake and Krysuvik, which add variety and beauty, and the hassle-free pickup, saving you time and effort in planning.

However, it’s worth noting that this tour requires a decent level of physical fitness. The moderate hike covers mostly flat dirt roads but does involve some uphill walking and a long day on your feet. If mobility is a concern, or if you’re expecting a leisurely stroll, this might be a bit demanding. Travelers comfortable with hiking, or eager to see raw volcanic landscapes, will find it well worth the effort.

In short, this trip suits adventurous travelers who want to see active volcanoes and Iceland’s volcanic scenery firsthand, and who enjoy walking and exploring outdoors. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a combination of natural beauty, geological insight, and a bit of physical challenge.

Key Points

• Active volcano experience with a guided hike to recent eruption sites
• Hassle-free pickup from Reykjavik makes planning easier
• Stunning scenery including lava fields, geothermal areas, and a volcanic crater
• Moderate hike suitable for those with a reasonable fitness level
• Educational guides who share fascinating facts about Iceland’s volcanic activity
• Limited facilities along the route—pack snacks, water, and dress in layers

An In-Depth Look at the Reykjavik Volcano Eruption Site Hike

When considering a tour that combines adventure, scenery, and education, this Icelandic volcano hike often hits the mark. We’ll walk through what you can expect, what’s special about each stop, and how this experience might fit into your Iceland trip.

Starting Point and Transportation

Your day begins with pickup from Þórunnartún 1 in Reykjavik, a central location that’s easy to reach, especially if you’re staying downtown. The group size can be up to 55 people, but on average, the experience feels more intimate, especially with knowledgeable guides leading the way. The transportation is usually comfortable, and the round-trip pickup takes away the stress of navigating Iceland’s often complex public transport options.

The Scenic Drive and First Stops

Once on the bus, you’ll make your way into the Geldingalur Valley. The first stop is at Kleifarvatn Lake, where the views are simply gorgeous. The lake’s dark waters contrast beautifully with the volcanic terrain, and it’s an excellent spot for photos and a quick stretch. The reviews highlight the spectacular scenery here, with many mentioning that the drive itself feels like a journey into a different world.

Next, you’ll head towards the Fagradalsfjall volcano, which has garnered international attention due to its recent eruptions. The hike to the crater is about 2 hours each way, mostly flat dirt roads, making it accessible for most hikers. The guide’s knowledge helps you understand what you’re seeing—steam rising from the ground, cooled lava flows, and the newly formed crater. As one reviewer noted, “It was a very interesting tour, beautiful nature scenes,” and guides like Alen help bring the landscape alive.

The Volcano Hike: A Close-up of Iceland’s Fire

The core of this tour is the hike to the eruption site. Expect to walk through lava fields and ash-covered ground, with some areas offering up-close views of steaming lava. While the current activity might be subdued—some lava flows have stopped—the landscape remains striking, with glowing pockets still visible in places, as noted by a reviewer who said, “We were simply amazed by the site of the solidified lava flows and to see it still steaming was most impressive.”

Guides are praised for their enthusiasm and expertise—“Denis was a legend, funny, knowledgeable, and watched every detail,” said a traveler. Their insights help you understand how lava shapes the land, and why the terrain looks the way it does. The long walk can be tiring—some reviews mention the steep inclines and the need to be prepared with good footwear and layers—but most agree it’s well worth the effort.

The Geothermal Stop at Krysuvik

After the volcano trek, a short drive takes you to the Krysuvik geothermal area at Seltún Hot Springs. The colorful mineral deposits and bubbling mud pools make this a visual feast. Many travelers find this a perfect contrast to the volcanic hike, offering vivid colors and geological activity that are hard to see elsewhere. The highlight here is the thermal activity, which provides a fascinating look at Iceland’s geothermal power.

Final Reflections and Return

The tour wraps up with the return to Reykjavik, often with a stop at another scenic point or a quick photo opportunity. Guides often share additional insights about Iceland’s volcanic history, which many travelers find enriching.

What Travelers Love Most

• Knowledgeable guides who deliver fun facts and safety tips
• Stunning landscapes that change dramatically from lava fields to geothermal areas
• The sense of adventure walking on real volcanic terrain
• The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simpler
• The opportunity to see volcanic activity up close, even if eruptions are not ongoing

What Could Be Better

Some reviews mention the physical demands—the long hike, some uphill sections, and limited bathroom facilities. If you’re traveling with mobility issues or prefer a more relaxed pace, this might be challenging. Also, the current volcanic activity varies, and no lava might be flowing at the time of your visit, but the smoldering fields and steaming vents still fascinate.

Who is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and those interested in geology and natural phenomena. It’s suited for travelers who are comfortable walking for several hours in uneven terrain and who want more than just sightseeing—they want to walk on lava and see a volcanic crater. It’s also great for small groups seeking a guided, informative experience that covers both scenic stops and active exploration.

Final thoughts: Is this tour worth it?

Absolutely, if you’re craving an authentic, hands-on view of Iceland’s volcanic landscape. For about $115, you get a well-organized trip with expert guides, stunning scenery, and the chance to walk on real volcanic terrain—a rare opportunity that few travelers get outside Iceland’s volcanic zones. It’s a value-packed adventure, especially for those who view physical activity as part of the experience.

However, keep in mind the physical requirements and limited facilities. Packing water, snacks, and layers will improve your comfort. And if your goal is to see active lava flowing, you might want to plan a shorter window after recent eruptions—but even the cooled lava fields and steaming vents are fascinating.

All in all, this tour offers a balance of adventure, education, and stunning natural beauty, making it a fantastic addition to your Iceland itinerary for the active, curious traveler.

FAQ

Is the pickup included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik, which makes logistics much easier and more comfortable.

How physically demanding is the hike?
The hike is considered moderate, but it involves walking for about 2 hours each way over mostly flat dirt roads. Some reviewers mention uphill sections and the need for good footwear. Expect a longer day with some steep parts, so a reasonable fitness level is recommended.

What should I wear on the tour?
Dressing in layers is advised, as weather can be unpredictable. It can be cold, rainy, or windy—so warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy hiking shoes are essential. Don’t forget water and snacks, since there are limited facilities along the route.

Can I see lava flows or active eruptions?
Eruptions are not guaranteed at any given time. Sometimes the flow of lava has stopped, but the smoldering, steaming landscape remains captivating. Many reviews mention the steam vents and cooled lava as highlights.

Are bathrooms available during the tour?
Facilities are limited in the volcanic area, and reviews note that restroom stops are sparse or nonexistent. Plan accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness. Those with mobility issues might find the long hike challenging. Check your comfort level before booking.

What else do travelers say about the guides?
Guides are frequently praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and safety tips. They help turn a hike into an informative and engaging experience, as one reviewer put it: “Denis was a legend, funny, knowledgeable, and watched every detail.”

To sum it up, if you’re after a unique Icelandic adventure that combines nature, geology, and physical activity, this volcano hike offers a memorable experience. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to see real volcanic landscapes up close and who don’t mind a bit of a walk. With the added convenience of pickup in Reykjavik and a knowledgeable guide, it’s a value-packed way to connect with one of Iceland’s most dramatic features.