Full Day Private Tour to Active Volcano, Guided Hike and Reykjanes Peninsula

Experience the raw power of Iceland’s volcanic landscape in a private setting with this comprehensive full-day tour. For around 9 hours, you’ll visit Geldingadalir Valley, where the Fagradalsfjall volcano is actively erupting, giving you a front-row seat to molten lava rivers and sporadic eruptions. The tour also weaves in visits to Kleifarvatn Lake, Krysuvik geothermal area, and the Bridge Between Continents, along with scenic stops at Gænavatn and Gunnuhver Hot Springs. The price of $985 includes private transportation, walking poles, wifi, and all fees, making it quite a package for those craving authentic Icelandic nature.

What we love most about this experience is the personalized attention it offers—since it’s a private tour, your guide (Adam, as some reviews mention) can tailor the experience, taking time to show you the best spots and explain the science behind each feature. Plus, the opportunity to get close to an erupting volcano – an extraordinary sight that’s hard to beat – makes this a truly memorable adventure. The inclusion of supplementary hiking gear and Wi-Fi onboard adds convenience and comfort.

One consideration is that this tour involves a significant amount of walking and hiking, sometimes on uneven, rocky terrain. The hike to Fagradalsfjall, for example, takes about 1 to 1.5 hours each way, so good footwear and a reasonable level of fitness are recommended. Weather can also influence the experience; Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable, so some days might see rain or wind that could slow things down or make some sights less accessible. Nonetheless, most travelers find the effort worthwhile, especially if they’re eager to see active volcanoes and stunning geological features firsthand.

This tour suits adventurous travelers with a curious mind for geology and nature, those comfortable with walking in potentially rugged conditions, and anyone eager for a private, flexible experience. It’s especially appealing for visitors who want more than a quick glance at Iceland’s landscapes and prefer to explore with a knowledgeable guide who can share insights along the way.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: A private tour means your guide can customize stops and share detailed insights.
• Active Volcano Viewing: Get within reach of an ongoing eruption, an unforgettable sight.
• Diverse Landmarks: Explore geothermal fields, volcanic lakes, and tectonic plate boundaries.
• Comfort and Convenience: Transport, Wi-Fi, and hiking gear are all included, easing your adventure.
• Physical Demands: Expect some hiking and uneven terrain; good footwear is essential.
• Weather Dependent: The experience is best on clear days; poor weather may affect certain stops.

In-Depth Review of the Full Day Private Tour to Active Volcano and Reykjanes Peninsula

Starting off with a bang: Fagradalsfjall Volcano

The star of this tour is undoubtedly Fagradalsfjall, an active volcano that has been erupting since 2021. Your guide will take you into the Geldingadalir Valley, where the sight of lava flowing in molten rivers or erupting high into the air is nothing short of spectacular. One reviewer, Robert, described it as “unbelievable,” especially noting the “amazing views and footage of the very active and erupting volcano.” This is a rare opportunity, as most visitors only glimpse such activity from a distance or through fleeting media clips.

The hike to the volcano lasts about 1 to 1.5 hours each way, traversing a barren yet fascinating landscape. The terrain is rugged, with volcanic ash and rocky patches, so sturdy hiking boots are a must. Your guide will provide supplementary equipment like walking poles, and you can expect a safety briefing to prepare for the uneven ground. The guide will also find spots to give you different perspectives of the eruption, making sure you don’t miss any of the action.

Exploring Kleifarvatn Lake and Geothermal Fields

After the volcano, the tour heads to Kleifarvatn Lake, the deepest and largest in the Reykjanes Peninsula, sitting over a highly active volcanic fissure zone. Here, the lake has dramatically changed since the earthquakes of 2000, dropping more than four meters and revealing a barren, sulphur-rimmed landscape with thermal springs and bubbling mud. The stark contrast between the calm water and the geothermal activity makes Kleifarvatn one of Iceland’s most intriguing sights.

Next, you’ll visit Krysuvik, a colorful geothermal area with mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs. The vibrant yellow, orange, and red mineral deposits, combined with the smell of sulfur in the air, create a living palette of geothermal activity. Walking on wooden pathways, you can get close enough to see bubbling mud and steaming vents, much like what you might see in a natural hot spring resort, but here it’s all raw and untouched.

The Maars and the Bird Cliffs

From geothermal activity, the tour moves to Gænavatn, a deep emerald-colored crater lake formed by volcanic explosions. Its striking hue results from thermal algae and sunlight absorption, giving it a surreal appearance. Nearby, the Krisuvikurberg cliffs host a vibrant bird population, including puffins, gulls, and guillemots, especially from spring to late summer.

If you’re a bird lover, the cliffs are a highlight, offering sweeping vistas and the chance to spot whales and dolphins near the shore, if luck is on your side. The cliffs also serve as a reminder of Iceland’s vibrant wildlife and unspoiled nature.

Gunnuhver Hot Springs and the Bridge Between Continents

One of the tour’s more enchanting stops is Gunnuhver Hot Springs, a bubbling, ocher-colored crater with a turquoise lake at the top. The steam and mineral deposits make it feel like stepping onto a different planet. Local legend says a ghost named Gunnuhver haunts the area, but for us, it’s more about the visual spectacle and the sensory experience of bubbling hot water and sulfuric gases.

The journey culminates at the Bridge Between Continents, where you walk over a footbridge spanning the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. It’s a symbolic spot illustrating the geological forces shaping Iceland. The area is also dotted with canyons and fissures—visible signs of this ongoing continental drift, which has left a landscape marked with fire and ice.

The Practicalities

Throughout the day, you’ll travel in a private vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi, allowing you to stay connected and share photos instantly. The tour includes all fees and taxes, so there are no hidden costs, and the lunch or dinner is not included, giving you flexibility to choose your own meal options—perhaps trying local seafood or Icelandic specialties. The tour begins at noon, giving you a relaxed start to what is a physically demanding day.

Authenticity and Authentic Experience

What sets this tour apart is the knowledgeability of the guide—a critical aspect, as echoed in reviews. One traveler praised Adam’s expertise, noting how he “knows exactly where to take you to get amazing camera footage.” The guide’s insights make each stop more meaningful, especially when explaining the volcanic activity and landscape formation.

The limited group size (since it’s private) means more time to ask questions and tailor the stops to your interests. The hiking gear provided ensures safety, while the Wi-Fi keeps you sharing your real-time experiences.

Overall Value

At $985, this tour might seem pricey, but considering the private transportation, expert guide, and unique access to active volcanoes, it offers solid value for those seeking an immersive Icelandic adventure. The experience of standing near an erupting volcano is priceless and rarely available in a standard tour. Plus, the variety of geological and wildlife sights packed into one day maximizes your time and investment.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a personalized, in-depth look at Iceland’s volcanic and geothermal features. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with walking and hiking on uneven terrain. Nature lovers and geologists will appreciate the detailed explanations and the chance to stand on a tectonic boundary. Those eager for authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences will find this tour a highlight of their Iceland trip.

FAQ

How long is the hike to the volcano?
The hike to Geldingadalur Valley is approximately 1 to 1.5 hours each way, covering rugged terrain that requires good footwear.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Since it involves hiking and uneven terrain, this tour is best suited for older children or teens capable of handling a few miles of walking and outdoor conditions.

What should I bring?
Bring hiking boots, water, and weather-appropriate clothing. The tour provides additional hiking gear like poles if needed.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If the weather is poor, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled, with the option for a full refund. Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so flexibility is helpful.

Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?
Yes, Wi-Fi is provided on board, helping you stay connected and share your experience instantly.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and dinner are not included, giving you the freedom to choose your preferred meal times and options.

Can I see whales or dolphins?
While the cliffs are known for birdlife, there’s a chance to see whales and dolphins from the shore if conditions are right, but sightings are not guaranteed.

Is this tour private?
Yes, this is a private tour, so only your group will participate, providing a more tailored experience.

What makes this tour unique?
The combination of visiting an active volcano, exploring geothermal fields, and walking between tectonic plates offers a comprehensive and authentic Icelandic adventure that few other tours provide.

To sum it up, this private guided tour offers an unforgettable peek into Iceland’s geological heartbeat. Perfect for those craving immersive experiences with expert guidance, it balances adventure with comfort, making it worth the price for the stories you’ll tell and the memories you’ll create. Whether you’re a geology enthusiast, an outdoor lover, or a curious traveler, this trip stands out as a highlight of the Reykjanes Peninsula.