Reykjavik: Thrihnukagigur Volcano Guided Hiking Day Trip

This experience made our article of 10 Most Highly Rated Hiking And Trekking Tours In Reykjavik.

Reykjavik: Thrihnukagigur Volcano Guided Hiking Day Trip — A Detailed Review

If you’re looking for a truly one-of-a-kind adventure in Iceland, this tour offers something rare: walking across alien lava fields and descending into the interior of a dormant volcano. The experience takes you on a roughly 50-minute hike from the base camp at Bláfjöll to the edge of Thrihnukagigur’s crater, then a careful 10-minute descent into the volcano itself—an inside look at the Earth’s fiery past. For $405, you get a full day packed with scenic views, geology lessons, and a memorable inside look at Iceland’s volcanic landscape.

What we really appreciate about this trip is how well-organized it is. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making sure everyone feels safe and informed. Plus, the spectacular views of Reykjavik, the Reykjanes Peninsula, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula from the volcano add a bonus of awe-inspiring scenery. On the flip side, a potential downside is the weather unpredictability—many reviews mention rain, wind, and cold, so proper gear is essential.

This adventure suits travelers who are moderately fit and curious about geology. If you enjoy walking in rugged terrain but don’t mind a bit of an uphill stretch, and if a guided experience that balances safety with excitement appeals to you, then this tour is a perfect fit. It’s especially appealing for those seeking an experience that’s both educational and adrenaline-inducing, with a dash of Icelandic wilderness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Unique Inside a Volcano: Descending into Iceland’s only accessible magma chamber offers a truly rare perspective.
• Scenic Lava Fields Hike: Admire otherworldly landscapes that resemble a lunar surface, perfect for photography.
• Comprehensive Safety: Guides and safety gear ensure a secure experience inside the volcano.
• Authentic Icelandic Experience: Finish with traditional meat or vegetarian soup, adding a cozy local touch.
• Weather Considerations: Expect elements—rain, wind, and variable mountain weather—so be prepared.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Groups are limited to 4-5 people, fostering intimacy and personalized attention.

The Itinerary in Detail

Meeting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with a pickup from various Reykjavik locations, if that option is selected. We loved the convenience of having transport included, especially since the drive to Bláfjöll is about 30 minutes on paved roads—far easier than trying to navigate it ourselves. The meeting point is at Breiðabliksskáli, a ski cabin nestled in the Blue Mountains, which is a beautifully scenic spot in itself.

The Hike to the Volcano

Once at the base camp, the adventure truly begins. The hike to Thrihnukagigur is about 45-50 minutes of moderate terrain—manageable for most hikers, but still hilly and uneven. The trail features striking lava fields and lava tubes—these are the remnants of past eruptions, and you’ll get a close-up view of the textures and colors that make Iceland’s volcanic landscape so mesmerizing.

Reviewers consistently praise the excellent guide (sometimes named as Sole or Marcus) — their explanations make the geology accessible and engaging. One reviewer noted, “The guides were very nice and informative and the descend inside the volcano was unreal.” The scenery en route is described as breathtaking, with many feeling that the walk alone was worth the trip.

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Inside the Volcano

Once at the crater, safety gear like helmets and harnesses are fitted. The descent is a slow 10-minute lift down into the chamber, ensuring everyone feels secure while enjoying spectacular views. Inside, you are in a 30-minute to one-hour window—time is flexible based on your preferences—surrounded by vivid colors and smooth volcanic walls. One traveler described it as “absolutely fantastic,” highlighting the colors and the visibility inside the chamber.

The Return and Refreshments

After exploring, you’ll ascend back to the surface and head to the base camp for hot soup, tea, or hot chocolate—a thoughtful touch that many reviews mention as a highlight after the rugged hike and descent. The delicious lamb or vegetarian soup provides a comforting end to an adrenaline-filled day.

What’s Included and Practical Tips

• Pickup and dropoff from Reykjavik, if selected, adds great convenience.
• All safety gear (helmets, harnesses) is provided, making the experience accessible and safe.
• Small groups of 4-5 people allow for more personalized attention.
• Remember to wear good hiking shoes and warm, waterproof clothing—mountain weather can change rapidly. Reviewers mention the importance of proper gear, especially during rain or wind.
• The tour lasts roughly 6 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip.
• Cancellation is flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The Meeting Point and Travel Tips

Getting to Breiðabliksskáli is straightforward. From Reykjavik, follow Road 1 east to the south coast, then turn onto Road 417 (Bláfjallavegur). Avoid Route 42, which is closed. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to meet your group and avoid missing the bus.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour is perfect for those who want a hands-on geological adventure—a rare chance to go inside a volcano. It’s also ideal for photographers, given the stunning lava fields and interior chamber. If you’re reasonably mobile and enjoy moderate hikes, you’ll find the walking enjoyable rather than strenuous.

While some reviews mention the drive back can be “scary” due to the terrain or weather, most agree that the inside the volcano experience justifies that little bit of risk. The small group size and knowledgeable guides are praised for making everyone feel safe and informed.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a remarkably authentic and exhilarating glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic core. The combination of a scenic lava field hike, a safe descent into the magma chamber, and the cozy finish with warm soup makes it a well-rounded adventure. It’s priced higher than some simple sightseeing tours, but the value lies in the rarity and quality of the experience—being inside a volcano is something you simply can’t find elsewhere.

If you’re a curious traveler eager for a unique geological encounter and don’t mind a bit of rugged terrain or unpredictable weather, this is a must-do. The guides’ enthusiasm and expertise add a layer of authenticity that elevates the experience beyond just a tourist activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
This experience requires a moderate hike and careful descent in a lift. It’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or very young children.

Do I need to bring my own safety gear?
No, all safety equipment, including helmets and harnesses, is provided by the tour operators.

What should I wear?
Good hiking shoes are essential, and dress warmly with waterproof layers. The mountain weather can be quite variable, so bring rain gear and warm clothes.

How long do I spend inside the volcano?
Most groups spend around 30 minutes to an hour exploring the chamber, depending on their pace and interest.

Is there food included?
Yes, after the descent, you’ll enjoy a traditional Icelandic meat or vegetarian soup, along with coffee, hot chocolate, or tea. There are also sweets available.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour runs rain or shine, but safety and comfort are prioritized. Expect raincoats and waterproof gear, and be prepared for wild weather. Some reviews mention that rain can make the hike more challenging but doesn’t cancel the experience.

To sum it up, this tour is a superb choice for travelers seeking an adventure with educational depth and awe-inspiring scenery. It’s best suited for those who are comfortable with moderate physical activity, curious about volcanoes, and eager to see Iceland’s volcanic interior in a way few get to experience. While weather can be unpredictable, the guides are prepared to make the most of it, ensuring a safe and memorable day inside the Earth’s fiery heart.

You can check availability for your dates here: