Discover the raw and unpredictable power of Icelandic nature on this 7-hour guided tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula. Marked by intense geological activity, this region is home to Iceland’s youngest lava fields, bubbling geothermal areas, and jagged coastlines.
A central part of this tour is a visit to the fishing village of Grindavík, beautifully situated but recently impacted by a series of powerful earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. You will witness firsthand how the landscape has been reshaped, with split roads and vast new lava fields. Combined with stops at historic lighthouses, colored geothermal fields, and the shifting tectonic plates, this tour offers a profound insight into the ever-changing forces beneath our feet.
Itinerary Highlights
- Lake Kleifarvatn: Enjoy a scenic drive along the shores of the largest lake on the peninsula, which famously drained 20% of its water into a subterranean fissure following an earthquake in the year 2000 before eventually refilling.
- Seltún Geothermal Area: Walk among volcanic fumaroles, bubbling mud pots, and hot springs in a vibrant landscape painted red, yellow, and green by interacting minerals and sulfur.
- Nátthagi Lava Field: Get up close to the recent lava flows from the Fagradalsfjall volcanic system—the youngest land in Iceland.
- Grindavík Town: See the visible impacts of recent natural disasters in this evacuated fishing village, where ongoing geological forces have caused significant damage and altered the terrain.
- Gunnuhver Mud Pool: Visit Iceland’s largest mud pot, named after a local legend of a ghost trapped in the boiling thermal waters over 400 years ago.
- Reykjanesviti Lighthouse: Admire Iceland’s oldest lighthouse, standing proudly on the rugged coastline.
- Bridge Between Continents: Walk across a small footbridge that spans a major fissure marking the divergence of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.
What’s Included
- Transfer to and from designated stops in Reykjavík
- English-speaking guide
- Free WiFi on the bus
What’s Not Included
- Food, drinks, and meals (There will be stops where you can purchase items)
What to Bring
- Clothing: Warm outdoor layers, water- and windproof outerwear, a hat, and gloves or mittens.
- Footwear: Comfortable and sturdy walking shoes.
- Accessories: Camera or smartphone to capture the dramatic landscapes.
Good to Know
- Duration: Approximately 7 hours.
- Difficulty: Easy.
- Volcanic Activity & Itinerary Changes: The Reykjanes Peninsula, especially around Grindavík, is highly active. Should volcanic activity or authorities cause area closures, the itinerary will be adjusted for your safety, and the guide will take you to the next available and accessible viewpoints.
- Pickup Logistics: Pickup starts 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time. Since commercial buses are restricted from certain inner-city streets, please be prepared to meet at the nearest designated Tour Bus Stop.
- Health & Accessibility: The tour is not wheelchair or stroller accessible and is not recommended for individuals with severe heart conditions.
- Age Requirement: The minimum age for participants is 12 years old.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
- Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the departure time are non-refundable.
