Reykjavik: Thrihnukagigur Volcano Guided Hiking Day Trip

If you’re eager to tick off a truly one-of-a-kind Iceland adventure, the Thrihnukagigur Volcano tour is a standout choice. This experience offers something rare: a descent into the crater of a dormant volcano, something you simply can’t find anywhere else in the world. We’ve reviewed the details, and while we haven’t personally done it, the glowing reviews and extensive info paint an impressively comprehensive picture.

What draws us to this tour? We love the combination of outdoor activity and natural wonder, the spectacular volcanic scenery, and the insightful guides who make the experience both fun and educational. The scenic lava field hike and view of Reykjavik and surrounding peninsulas add a layer of visual reward. But, it’s worth noting that the moderate difficulty hike might be too much for some travelers with mobility issues.

A possible drawback? The cost of $405 per person isn’t cheap, but the unique nature of this experience suggests it’s a solid value for those seeking something extraordinary. This tour works best for adventurous travelers who appreciate natural beauty, don’t mind a bit of physical activity, and love learning about volcanoes firsthand.

Who’s this for? If you’re craving a mix of adventure, stunning visuals, and a rare inside look at Iceland’s volcanic activity, this tour could be a highlight. It’s perfect for those who enjoy hiking, are comfortable with safety gear, and are keen on authentic Icelandic experiences.

Key Points

• Unique descent into a dormant volcano — the only place in the world where this is possible.
• Beautiful lava fields and volcanic scenery — perfect for photography and nature lovers.
• Knowledgeable guides — safety-focused, friendly, and well-informed.
• Convenient logistics — pickup from Reykjavik (if selected), organized safety procedures, and a cozy post-visit meal.
• Moderate physical activity — suitable for most hikers, but not for those with mobility issues.
• Excellent reviews — consistently high ratings, with many travelers describing it as a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Inside the Volcano: What You Can Expect

The Journey Begins — Scenic Drive and Base Camp

Your day starts with a pickup in Reykjavik (if you’ve chosen that option), taking you about 30 minutes east to the Bláfjöll mountain area. The drive itself offers a chance to get excited as you leave city sights behind for Iceland’s wild landscape. Once you arrive at the Breiðabliksskáli ski cabin, the real adventure begins.

The guide, often described as friendly, knowledgeable, and safety-oriented, provides a briefing on the day’s activities. You’ll receive all necessary safety gear—helmet, harness, and instruction on how to behave inside the volcano. The reviews mention guides like Sole and Ole, who are praised for their professionalism and reassurance, especially in less-than-ideal weather conditions.

The Hike to the Crater — A Moderate Challenge

From the base camp, it’s roughly a 45-50 minute walk across terrain that’s hilly and uneven, with some straight stretches. The landscape resembles a lunar surface, full of black lava rocks, and offers excellent photo opportunities.

While hikers describe the route as manageable, some mention the surface as “rugged” and “uneven,” so good hiking shoes and warm clothes are essential. The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, often windy and rainy, which adds to the challenge and the thrill. One reviewer noted that “the walk was not difficult, but nothing extraordinarily interesting to see,” but the real spectacle awaits at the crater.

Inside the Volcano — A Truly Unique Experience

Once at the crater, you’ll board a lift-style descent that takes you approximately 400 feet (120 meters) down into the magma chamber—the only place in the world where this is possible. The descent lasts about 10 minutes, carefully controlled for safety but still exhilarating.

Travelers often mention that the interior views are stunning and colorful, thanks to the mineral deposits and volcanic formations. Some describe it as “unreal,” with vibrant shades and intricate textures that only a natural volcano’s interior can produce. Experts stay with you at all times, giving insights into the geology and volcanic activity.

You’ll have up to an hour inside, but the time is flexible—reviewers say the views inside the chamber are breathtaking, and some wish for more time to explore the nooks and crannies. A few mention that the guides make sure everyone is comfortable and well-informed, making sure no one feels rushed or unsafe.

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Post-Visit Warmth and Food

After your descent, the group reunites at the surface for a well-deserved warm meal—traditional Icelandic meat soup or vegetarian options. Many reviews highlight how comforting and tasty the meal is after a physically demanding morning. Complemented with hot coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, it’s the perfect way to wind down and reflect on the experience.

The Logistics and Practical Details

The Tour Itself — Duration and Group Size

The entire experience usually lasts around 6 hours, including transportation, hike, descent, and meal. The group is kept small (around 4-5 people per safety group), which enhances the personalized feel and safety. The hike is classified as moderately difficult, meaning most with decent fitness levels can manage it comfortably, but it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments.

Price and Value

At $405 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest Iceland activity, but it’s justified by its exclusivity. You’re not just paying for a hike—you’re paying for the rare chance to go inside a volcano, the professional guidance, safety measures, and the stunning scenery. Several reviewers agree that the experience exceeds expectations and considers it a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity worth the cost.

Safety and Weather Considerations

Weather in Iceland’s mountains can be wild. The tour providers are praised for their attention to safety, providing raincoats and extra gear in bad weather. Some reviewers noted that rain and wind affected their experience, but the guides’ support kept everyone comfortable and secure.

One reviewer mentioned that the drive back from the base camp was “scary,” with a guide trying to thrill the group. While mostly positive, it’s a reminder that safety is paramount, and the drive can be rough in certain conditions.

Cancellation and Flexibility

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if weather conditions look poor or if plans change. Payment is often “reserve and pay later,” which adds convenience.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

• Many rave about the friendly, knowledgeable guides like Sole and Ole, who make the journey educational and reassuring—crucial in such an adventurous setting.
• The lava scenery on the hike is described as “breathtaking” and “lunar-like,” perfect for photography.
• The inside of the volcano is described as “incredible,” with vibrant colors and textures that leave visitors awestruck.
• Several mention the post-visit soup and hot drinks as a thoughtful and comforting touch, especially after a chilly hike.
• A handful of travelers noted that time inside the crater could be longer, but overall, the experience is well-paced and safe.

This tour is ideal for adventure seekers who love hiking and natural wonders. It’s perfect for those wanting a very close encounter with a volcano and are comfortable with safety gear and uneven terrain. Photographers will love the vivid interior views, while geology buffs will enjoy the educational aspect.

However, travelers with mobility challenges or those worried about weather conditions might want to consider alternatives or be prepared for potential delays or discomfort. The tour is also best suited for those willing to invest a bit more for an unparalleled, memorable experience.

The Thrihnukagigur Volcano tour offers a rare blend of adventure, natural beauty, and educational value that truly stands out in Iceland. It’s not just a walk in the park; it’s an inside look at Earth’s fiery heart, combined with a beautiful hike and warm Icelandic hospitality.

While the cost might seem high, the quality of guidance, stunning scenery, and uniqueness of the descent make it well worth the investment for anyone craving a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s best suited for travelers eager to explore beyond the usual sights, and those prepared for a moderate physical challenge in unpredictable weather.

If you’re after an authentic, memorable Icelandic adventure that combines scenery, geology, and a touch of adrenaline, this tour could be the highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, if you select the pickup option, the tour provides pickup and dropoff from selected locations in Reykjavik.

What should I bring?
Hiking shoes are essential. Warm clothes are recommended due to the mountain weather, which can be unpredictable and cold.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts around 6 hours, including the drive, hike, descent, and meal.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments, and the moderate difficulty hike may be too challenging for some children depending on their age and fitness.

What is the maximum time I can spend inside the volcano?
Travelers typically spend up to an hour inside the crater, but this can be adjusted based on individual preferences and guide instructions.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Weather conditions might affect the experience, but safety is a priority.

In all, the Thrihnukagigur Volcano tour offers a rare opportunity to step inside a volcano’s mysterious chamber, combined with a scenic hike and warm Icelandic hospitality. It’s a bold choice for those seeking an authentic, awe-inspiring adventure that’s hard to find elsewhere.

You can check availability for your dates here: