Volcano Tour on Reykjanes Peninsula Including Icelandic Snacks

If you’re dreaming of witnessing some of Iceland’s most captivating volcanic scenery without the hassle of planning or driving, this Reykjanes Peninsula Volcano Tour might be just what you need. It’s offered through Guiding.is and promises a blend of geological marvels, scenic hikes, geothermal wonders, and a touch of local flavor—all for around $53 per person. But is it worth the price? We’ve taken a close look at the details, reviews, and what makes this tour both appealing and occasionally tricky.

What we love about this experience is how it offers up-close views of Fagradalsfjall’s lava fields, the chance to explore vibrant geothermal areas, and the convenience of pickup and round-trip transfers from Reykjavik. Plus, the inclusion of local Icelandic snacks adds an authentic touch. On the flip side, some reviews point out logistical hiccups like missed pickups or challenging hikes, which are worth keeping in mind if you’re not used to long walks or variable weather.

This tour seems perfect for geology enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers eager to see Iceland’s volcanic activity firsthand. It’s equally suited for travelers comfortable with moderate physical activity and willing to face some hiking. Those expecting a super relaxed, easily accessible trip might find certain parts demanding but rewarding.

Key Points

• Authentic volcanic experience: Get close to a still-active lava field and crater, offering incredible photo opportunities.
• Geothermal wonders: Visit bubbling mud pools and hot springs at Seltún, offering vibrant landscapes and photo moments.
• Convenience: Round-trip transportation from Reykjavik makes it easy to join without renting a car.
• Informed guides: Knowledgeable guides like Johannes enhance the experience with insights about Iceland’s geothermal and volcanic activity.
• Moderate physical effort: The hike to Fagradalsfjall covers up to 10 km and involves some uphill walking, so prepare accordingly.
• Variable reviews: While many rave about the views and guides, some mention logistical issues or challenging terrain.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Pickup and Journey to Reykjanes Peninsula

The trip kicks off early, with a pick-up around 8:30 am from centrally located Reykjavik hotels or designated spots around the city. This makes logistics simpler—you won’t need to rent a vehicle or navigate public transport. The drive to Reykjanes is scenic, taking you from the city into Iceland’s rugged volcanic landscapes. The route runs along the Mid-Atlantic Rift, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates are pulling apart. This geological boundary is what makes Iceland so volcanically active.

The Fagradalsfjall Volcano

The highlight of the tour is seeing Fagradalsfjall, the volcano that erupted in 2021 and continued flowing for six months. Despite the eruption having ended, the lava fields and craters still draw crowds eager to see the aftermath of this fiery spectacle. Travelers can expect a long hike—up to 10 km round-trip, with some reviews noting it’s a bit more strenuous than anticipated.

One reviewer, Emily, praised the “brilliant views” and the opportunity to “see all the formed lava, still smoking!” She described the hike as “a good one,” which aligns with the experience of other visitors who say the journey is physically demanding but absolutely worth it for the breathtaking scenery and chance to witness an active volcano’s aftermath. Johannes, the guide, is often praised for his friendliness and knowledge, making the walk more engaging.

Geothermal Area: Seltún

Next, the tour takes you to Seltún, a geothermal site in Krysuvik, just a short drive from the volcano. Here, bubbling mud pools and steaming hot springs create a surreal landscape that looks almost otherworldly. Visitors who love vibrant colors and geological activity will find this stop particularly captivating. It’s an easy walk with no entry fee, making it accessible for most travelers.

Kleifarvatn Lake

The final scenic stop is Kleifarvatn Lake, the largest lake on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Encircled by volcanic lava fields, this lake offers a tranquil, almost haunting landscape. The drive-by visit gives just enough time to soak in the views without extending the day too long—an ideal way to end the tour.

The Experience: What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the $53 price are parking fees, fuel surcharges, and transport—making it a financially straightforward choice. The tour also offers pickups from central Reykjavik and other points, removing the stress of planning logistics yourself.

However, food and drinks are not included, and it’s worth noting that some reviews mention the snack provided—dried fish—was less appealing than expected. Still, many appreciated the Icelandic snacks, adding a local flavor to the day.

The tour lasts approximately 4 to 6 hours, with the core focus on the volcano hike and geothermal exploration. The duration is enough to see some major sights without feeling rushed.

Diving Into the Reviews: Authentic Perspectives

The majority of reviews are positive, with an average rating of 4.1/5 from 101 travelers. Many guests highlight Johannes’ friendly demeanor and extensive knowledge, which makes the experience more engaging.

One reviewer, Sebastian, appreciated the lack of rush and the ability to explore at their own pace. Others, like Emily, praised the stunning views and the visual spectacle of the lava flows. The guide’s ability to adapt and find alternative viewpoints was also appreciated, especially when road closures or volcanic activity altered the planned route.

However, not all experiences were flawless. Some guests encountered missed pickups, communication issues, or long waits in bad weather. For example, Will’s experience of waiting over an hour in the rain, with no contact from the operator, highlights the importance of checking recent reviews or being prepared for logistical hiccups.

A few travelers found the hike challenging—some describing it as “extreme” and not suitable for everyone—especially when the “easy” route was closed due to volcanic activity, requiring a climb over two mountains. This highlights that while the tour offers incredible sights, it demands moderate physical fitness and stamina.

Value and Practicality: Is It Worth It?

At $53, this tour offers a competitive price given the inclusion of transportation, geothermal sites, and the chance to see an erupting volcano—an experience that would be costly to arrange independently. The guided aspect provides context and safety, especially in Iceland’s unpredictable volcanic terrains.

The long hike to the volcano is both a highlight and a potential drawback. For those who love adventure and don’t mind a workout, it’s an unforgettable experience. For travelers with limited mobility or those not prepared for strenuous walking, parts of this tour might be less enjoyable.

The small group size (max 19 people) means more personalized attention and fewer crowds, which enhances the overall experience. The inclusion of local snacks and stops at geothermal sites adds cultural flavor, making it more than just a hike.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re looking for an adventure-packed day that combines geology, scenic hikes, and geothermal marvels, this tour has plenty to offer. It’s ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those curious about volcanic activity. Be prepared for a moderate to challenging hike; if you have mobility issues or prefer a more relaxed experience, consider other options.

Travelers who enjoy guided insights and want the convenience of transportation will find this especially useful. It’s also a good fit if you’re keen to see Iceland’s volcanic landscapes without the hassle of planning multiple stops on your own.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Reykjavik-based volcano tour delivers an authentic Icelandic experience, allowing guests to see active lava fields, geothermal features, and serene lakes in one day. For those with moderate fitness levels and a sense of adventure, the hike to Fagradalsfjall provides some of the best volcanic views available outside of an eruption.

The knowledgeable guides significantly add to the experience, offering insights into Iceland’s geology and making the journey more engaging. The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere, and the inclusion of local snacks adds a little cultural touch.

However, be aware that the tour involves long walks over uneven terrain and can be impacted by weather or volcanic activity, which might require flexibility. Logistical issues like missed pickups have been reported, so confirm your arrangements beforehand.

If you’re after an authentic, active Icelandic adventure that combines natural beauty with educational insights, this tour offers genuine value. But if you prefer a relaxed sightseeing day or have mobility challenges, consider alternative options.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Pickup starts around 8:30 am, so plan to be ready around that time at your designated hotel or pickup spot.

What’s included in the tour price?
Parking fees, fuel surcharge, and round-trip transportation from Reykjavik are included. Food and drinks are not.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 4 to 6 hours, depending on conditions and group pace.

Is the hike to Fagradalsfjall difficult?
The hike can be up to 10 km round-trip with some uphill walking, so it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness.

Can I expect to see active lava flows?
While the eruption has ended, many reviews mention seeing recent lava, still smoking and flowing, which makes for incredible photos.

Are the geothermal sites accessible?
Yes, Seltún has bubbling mud pools and hot springs and is described as an easy walk.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What about food?
A local Icelandic snack, dried fish, is provided, but some guests find it less appealing. You might want to bring your own snacks.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Moderate fitness levels are recommended; very young children or those with mobility issues may find the hike challenging.

What should I pack?
Comfortable hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, water, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.

This volcano tour on the Reykjanes Peninsula offers a fantastic blend of adventure, scenery, and cultural flavor for travelers ready to get their hands a little dirty and their cameras ready. With careful consideration of the physical demands and weather, it can be a highlight of your Iceland trip.