Volcano Circle – Grindavík, Reykjanes Hot Springs & Lava Fields

Reykjavik , Iceland

Volcano Circle – Grindavík, Reykjanes Hot Springs & Lava Fields

Active

(83 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Join us for a tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula, an area marked by powerful geological activity. You’ll see Iceland’s youngest lava fields and visit the town of Grindavík, where devastating earthquakes split roads, lava flows damaged houses, and residents were forced to evacuate.

During the tour, you’ll explore a geothermal area with numerous hot springs, admire the scenic lake Kleifarvatn, see Iceland’s oldest lighthouse, cross the bridge between continents, and ancient lava fields covered in soft, vibrant moss, all over.

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The Reykjanes Peninsula, especially around Grindavík, remains geologically active. While no lava is currently flowing, an eruption could resume at any time. If that happens and certain areas close, this tour will adapt into an active volcano experience, stopping at the best possible viewpoint to witness the eruption—if conditions allow.
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Available options

Classic Reykjanes tour

Reykjanes tour<br/>Pickup included

What's included

WiFi on board

Transfer to/from Reykjavik

Detailed itinerary

Kleifarvatn is the largest lake on the Reykjanes peninsula and a sight to behold. The road along the lake is probably one of the most under rated tourist roads int the country which hugs the lake’s shore. The tall mountains on the other side, make the drive alongside the lake nearly as fun as stopping to admire it from various vantage points.

Fun Fact: In the year 2000, Kleifarvatn lost 20% of its water, when a fissure opened after an earthquake. The water drained into the nearby North Atlantic ocean through a subterranean channel. It has since recovered almost entirely.

Stop 2

On the fissure zone between 2 tectonic plates running across Iceland lies the large geothermal area of Krýsuvík. Within this area is Seltún, a geothermal field, where volcanic fumeroles, mud pots and hot springs have formed. The result of the geothermal activity is a landscape seemingly painted bright yellow, red and green; a result of sulfur interacting with the other minerals in the soil.

Here you will the most recent lava fields created by the volcano at Fagradalsfjall. This is the youngest land in Iceland and can sometimes be alive with molten rock and lava.

For less experienced hikers, visiting Nátthagi valley, which is being filled with lava from the eruption is quite an experience. The hike is around 20-30 minutes into the valley, mostly flat and considered an easy hike.

Once a small fishing village, Grindavik is becoming a tourism destination in Iceland and not just because it is home to the nation’s most popular attraction, the volcano at Fagradalsfjall. Grindavik boasts beautiful scenery with a lots of hiking trails.

A bridge between Europe and North America on Reykjanes Peninsula. The lava-scarred Reykjanes peninsula lies on one of the world’s major plate boundaries, the Mid Atlantic Ridge. According to the continental drift theory the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates are continuously drifting apart with great forces under the gaping rifts. As the plates diverge, linear fractures, known as fissures form due to stresses created by the tension that builds up as the plates move away from each other. The Bridge between two continents at Sandvík is a small footbridge over a major fissure which provides clear evidence of the presence of a diverging plate margin. The bridge was built as a symbol for the connection between Europe and North America.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

41 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

42 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the world's northernmost capital city, known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural surroundings, and unique Icelandic charm. It offers a blend of modern amenities and ancient geothermal wonders, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Top Attractions

Hallgrímskirkja

This iconic church is a landmark of Reykjavik, known for its distinctive architecture and towering spire. It offers panoramic views of the city from its tower.

Architecture/Religious 1-2 hours Moderate (ISK 1000 for the tower)

Harpa Concert Hall

A stunning modern concert hall with a glass facade that reflects the surrounding landscape. It hosts a variety of performances and events.

Architecture/Entertainment 1-2 hours Free to enter, performance tickets vary

Blue Lagoon

A geothermal spa known for its milky-blue waters rich in minerals. It's a popular spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Nature/Relaxation Half a day Expensive (ISK 49,900 and up)

Reykjavik Art Museum

A museum showcasing contemporary Icelandic and international art. It's housed in a striking building with a glass facade.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate (ISK 1400)

Perlan Museum

A unique museum located in a glass dome that offers a variety of exhibits, including a glacier exhibit and a planetarium.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate to Expensive (ISK 3,990 and up)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Plokkfiskur

A traditional Icelandic fish stew made with mashed potatoes, white fish, onions, and béchamel sauce.

Main Course Contains fish and dairy

Hákarl

Fermented shark, a traditional Icelandic delicacy known for its strong smell and taste.

Snack Contains fish

Skyr

A thick, creamy Icelandic yogurt-like dairy product, often served with berries or cream.

Dessert Contains dairy

Rúgbrauð

A dense, dark rye bread traditionally baked underground using geothermal heat.

Bread Vegan

Popular Activities

Glacier hiking and ice climbing Whale watching Snowmobiling on a glacier Caving and lava tunnel exploration Visiting geothermal spas like the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon Enjoying a traditional Icelandic massage or spa treatment Taking a leisurely walk around Tjörnin Lake in Reykjavik Visiting museums and galleries

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest time of the year with long daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is lively with numerous festivals and events.

8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F) 46°F to 55°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Icelandic
Widely spoken: English, Danish, German
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Icelandic Króna (ISK)

Time Zone

GMT+0

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Iceland is a very safe country with low crime rates. However, it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Be cautious when using ATMs, and only use ATMs located in secure, well-lit areas
• Research tour operators and rental companies before booking to ensure they are reputable and legitimate

Getting there

By air

Keflavík International Airport • 50 km (31 miles) from Reykjavik

By bus

BSÍ Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services and easy-to-use ticketing.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bustravel, Uber (limited availability)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Reykjavik Hlemmur Vesturbær

Day trips

Golden Circle

230 km (143 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day

A popular day trip route that includes three of Iceland's most famous attractions: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

South Coast

150-200 km (93-124 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day or overnight

A scenic drive along Iceland's south coast, offering a variety of attractions, including waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

240 km (149 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day or overnight

A scenic peninsula known as 'Iceland in Miniature' due to its diverse landscapes, including mountains, glaciers, lava fields, and beaches.

Festivals

Reykjavik Arts Festival • Late May to early June Iceland Airwaves • Early November Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival • Late January to early February

Pro tips

Visit the Blue Lagoon or another geothermal spa for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience
Explore Reykjavik's street art and murals, which can be found throughout the city
Take a day trip to the Golden Circle or another nearby attraction for a taste of Iceland's natural wonders
Try traditional Icelandic food, such as lamb soup, fish stew, and fermented shark
Visit a local brewery or distillery and sample Icelandic craft beer or spirits