Reykjavik: Whale Watching in Faxaflói Bay & Live Lava Show

Reykjavik: Whale Watching in Faxaflói Bay & Live Lava Show

If you’re planning a visit to Reykjavik, taking a tour that combines whale watching with a lava show offers a unique glimpse into Iceland’s natural wonders. Priced at around $149 per person and lasting approximately 4.5 hours, this experience is a thoughtful way to see the best of the city’s maritime and volcanic spectacles. The tour kicks off with a 3-hour whale watching cruise from the Old Harbour, followed by a 50-minute live lava demonstration that’s unlike anything else in the world.

What we love most about this combo is how it balances natural wildlife encounters with educational entertainment about Iceland’s fiery geology. Watching humpbacks or orcas in their natural habitat feels truly special, especially given the chance to see dolphins and porpoises as well. The Lava Show keeps the excitement going with a vivid, safe display of molten lava, giving you a rare opportunity to get close to this fiery element without any risk.

One thing to consider is the potential for cancellations or weather-related changes, especially for the whale watching portion, which depends heavily on sea conditions. Also, since the Lava Show is a short, indoor experience, it’s best suited for those with a genuine interest in geology or volcanoes. Travelers who love natural scenery and hands-on learning will find this tour particularly satisfying, especially if they are keen to include both marine life and volcanic phenomena in their Iceland itinerary.

Whether you’re a family, a solo adventurer, or a couple eager for a bit of everything, this experience offers strong value and memorable moments. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides, authentic experiences, and the chance to see Iceland’s wild side up close.

Key Points

• Unique combination of whale watching and a live lava demonstration.
• Educational content about Iceland’s volcanoes and marine life.
• Comfortable amenities onboard, including heated indoor cabins and free WiFi.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Weather-dependent; sea conditions can influence the whale sighting success.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with informative commentary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Reykjavik Whale Watching & Lava Show Experience

When we think about Iceland, whales and volcanoes are two of the most iconic symbols of this land of fire and ice. This tour captures both, offering a well-rounded glimpse into Iceland’s natural marvels. It’s a thoughtfully designed experience that combines adventure, education, and a touch of Icelandic storytelling, making it appealing for a variety of travelers.

The Itinerary: What’s Included and Why It Matters

The tour begins at Geirsgata 11, the designated meeting point in Reykjavik’s Old Harbour. Arriving 30 minutes early is advisable, ensuring you’re ready for the departure. The first part of the journey involves a 3-hour whale watching cruise, sailing into Faxaflói Bay, a prime location for spotting marine mammals.

During the boat trip, you’ll have opportunities to see Minke and Humpback whales—two of the most common species—and possibly dolphins, harbor porpoises, and even killer whales (although sightings of the latter are rare). The boat is equipped with warm overalls, which are a must given Iceland’s brisk sea breezes, and heated indoor cabins provide refuge if the weather turns chilly or you simply need a break from the outdoors.

The tour’s interior amenities are a plus. With plenty of space, toilets, free WiFi, and a bar to enjoy a hot beverage, the vessel’s design emphasizes comfort alongside adventure. This is especially important because boat trips in Iceland can sometimes be affected by weather, so having a warm, sheltered spot makes all the difference.

Following the whale watching, the tour transitions to a one-hour guided experience—a chance to reflect and learn about the species you saw, with experienced guides sharing insights about the marine ecosystem and the importance of conservation.

The highlight of the experience is the 50-minute Lava Show at Fiskislóð 73. Here, you’ll witness live molten lava flowing, being played with by a host in a safe environment. The show begins with an educational introduction, including a short film about Icelandic volcanism and historic eruptions. Then, in a mesmerizing display, the host literally manipulates the lava—a spectacle that fascinates both kids and adults alike.

What makes this Lava Show exceptional is that it claims to be the only live lava demonstration in the world. It offers an extraordinary chance to see reds, oranges, and glowing flows up close, without the danger of actual eruption. When we saw reviews, many travelers expressed their amazement—one called it “WOW,” and others appreciated how close they could get to this fiery element.

The Experience: What to Expect and How It Feels

Expect a balanced day that combines outdoor adventure with indoor awe. The whale watching is largely weather-dependent, so prepare for potential wind or rain, and dress in layers. Many travelers find the boat trip exhilarating; watching whales breach or tail slap is unforgettable, especially if you’re lucky enough to spot killer whales or a pod of dolphins.

The guide’s narration enhances the trip—pointing out the mountains, islands, and birdlife, adding context to the scenery. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who are passionate about their work, making the experience more meaningful. The fewer boats on the water, due to environmental commitments, means less disturbance to wildlife and a more authentic sighting experience.

After returning to Reykjavik, the Lava Show offers a sensory contrast—a chance to view fire in motion and learn about volcanoes’ role in shaping Iceland. The show is interactive and theatrical, with a host who engages the audience while demonstrating the power and beauty of molten rock.

Practicalities: What You Need to Know

The tour is priced at $149, which we believe offers good value considering the length, inclusions, and uniqueness of the experience. The free ticket to rejoin if sightings are missed creates peace of mind, and cancellation up to 24 hours in advance allows for flexible planning.

The duration—about 4.5 hours—includes transportation, the boat trip, and the lava show, making it an efficient way to enjoy two major Icelandic attractions without taking up your entire day. Since the tour doesn’t include food or transportation to and from the meeting point, consider grabbing a snack beforehand or exploring Reykjavik’s local eateries afterward.

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Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits families, couples, or solo travelers interested in nature, wildlife, and geology. If you’re someone who appreciates guides with knowledge and enthusiasm, you’ll enjoy the expert commentary. Those with a curiosity about volcanoes, or who want a unique indoor activity after a chilly boat ride, will find this combination perfect. The reviews suggest it’s especially popular among those who value authentic encounters rather than scripted or overly commercialized tours.

Final Thoughts

This combined whale watching and lava show experience in Reykjavik offers a well-rounded look at Iceland’s natural environment—both marine and volcanic. The tour’s balance of outdoor adventure and indoor spectacle makes it ideal for those who want variety without sacrificing depth. It’s particularly good for those who appreciate learned guides, authentic wildlife encounters, and a close-up look at lava flows.

While weather can influence the whale sightings, the tour’s flexible booking policy and the quality of amenities onboard ensure a comfortable experience. The Lava Show, being the only one of its kind, provides a memorable indoor highlight to round out the day.

If you’re looking for a fun, educational, and engaging way to explore Iceland’s wildlife and volcanic forces, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling with family or simply eager for a fascinating glimpse behind Iceland’s natural curtain.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4.5 hours, including transportation, the whale watching cruise, and the Lava Show.

What kind of whales might we see?
You have a good chance of spotting minke and humpback whales, along with dolphins, harbor porpoises, and sometimes killer whales—though sightings of the latter are rare.

Is the boat trip comfortable?
Yes, the boat features heated indoor cabins, warm overalls, and toilet facilities. The onboard amenities are designed for comfort, especially since Iceland’s weather can be brisk.

Can I rebook if I miss the whale sighting?
Yes, the ticket includes a free re-entry if sightings are missed, providing a nice safety net for the weather or luck.

What is the Lava Show like?
It’s a 50-minute indoor demonstration where molten lava is played with in a safe environment, offering a close-up view of flowing red-hot lava and an educational narrative on Icelandic volcanism.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring weather-appropriate clothing, especially layers, because the sea and outdoor parts of the tour can be chilly and windy.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. Families often find this tour engaging—kids love seeing whales and the fiery lava, and guides usually make the experience lively and educational.

In all, this Reykjavik combination tour offers a genuine, memorable way to connect with Iceland’s maritime wildlife and volcanic fire, providing stories and sights to cherish long after your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: