Lava Centre Interactive Volcano Exhibition
Active
1h - 1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
At the high-tech interactive Lava Centre exhibition you will learn about the birth and growth of Iceland as one of the world’s largest volcanic islands. It has risen during millions of years from the submarine North Atlantic Ridge, through countless volcanic eruptions. They occur as a large mantle plume locally adds molten rock to the magma up-flow beneath the rifting segments that line this ridge. The spreading along the ridge results in the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates moving apart 20 kilometres every million years, a fingernail a year.
Interact with the volcanoes and feel the trembling of the earthquakes.
A fantastic movie displaying the latest eruptions in Iceland and a beautiful observation deck round up a visit not to miss.
Available options
Lava Volcano Exhibition
Duration: 1 hour: The Full experience takes a minimum of 1 hour. Guests stay on average for 1.5 hours.<br/>Lava - Exhibition and Cinema: Ticket valid for the whole experience: Exhibition, Cinema and Observation Deck.
What's included
The reception area contains information on Iceland’s geology
Exhibition only
Cinema only
You have a choice of the Exhibition and the Cinema combined
Detailed itinerary
1
At LAVA Centre is a high-tech, interactive volcano and earthquake exhibition. It is the most awarded exhibition in Iceland. It tells the story of Iceland and explains why it is so active. It goes into details on the different volcanoes and types of volcanoes. A replica of the hot spot under Iceland (Magma plume) and a earthquake simulator will make your hair to rise. A movie about all the most recent eruption and a beautiful observation deck round up an experience not to be missed. LAVA Centre is right at the main road going east from Reykjavík and is the gateway to the South Coast and the Katla Geoopark.
Available languages
Written guide
DE
EN
FR
ES
Guide guide
PT
EN
IT
PL
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
10 reviews
5★
10
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.5
197 reviews
5★
139
4★
34
3★
16
2★
4
1★
4
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Availability for shows cannot be checked without making a booking. Credit cards will only be charged upon confirmation of show availability
Meeting point
Departure Point: The Lava Centre
Address: Austurvegur 14, Hvolsvollur, Iceland
63.7546735, -20.2372402
Directions: • Only 1 hour and 20 minutes from Reykjavík along Route 1
• Take Bus 52: https://www.straeto.is
Dates: Daily
Return point: Returns to original departure point
Important notes
Show the ticket at the reception
About Vik
Vik is a charming coastal village in South Iceland, known for its stunning black sand beaches, dramatic basalt columns, and picturesque landscapes. It's a gateway to some of Iceland's most iconic natural wonders, including Reynisfjara Beach and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks.
Top Attractions
Reynisfjara Beach
One of Iceland's most famous black sand beaches, known for its basalt columns, powerful waves, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Reynisfjall Mountain
A striking mountain with dramatic cliffs and views over Reynisfjara Beach and the surrounding area.
Nature
1-3 hours depending on hike length
Free
Dyrhólaey Arch
A dramatic rock arch formation with panoramic views of the coast and Reynisfjara Beach.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Vík í Mýrdal Church
A historic wooden church with a rich history and beautiful views over the village and coast.
Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free (donations appreciated)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Lamb Soup
A hearty soup made with Icelandic lamb, root vegetables, and herbs.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat, gluten (from bread served with it)
Fish and Chips
Freshly caught fish, typically cod or haddock, battered and fried, served with chips (fries).
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish, gluten (from batter and chips)
Skyr
A thick, protein-rich Icelandic yogurt-like dairy product, often served with berries or fruit.
Breakfast/Snack
Dairy product, can be sweetened or plain
Popular Activities
Hiking
Ice caving
Photography
Beach walks
Coffee breaks with a view
Stargazing
Visiting local churches and museums
Exploring Icelandic crafts and history
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer offers the best weather for outdoor activities, with long daylight hours and milder temperatures. However, it's also the busiest time of year.
8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F)
46°F to 59°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Icelandic
- Widely spoken: English, Danish, Norwegian, Swedish
- English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas
Currency
Icelandic Krona (ISK)
Time Zone
GMT+0 (Western European Time)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Vik is generally safe, but visitors should be cautious of natural hazards like powerful waves and unpredictable weather.
Important Precautions:
- • Stay away from the water's edge at Reynisfjara Beach due to powerful waves
- • Be cautious of weather changes and dress appropriately
- • Follow safety guidelines for all activities, especially hiking and ice caving
Getting there
By air
- Keflavík International Airport • 130 km (80 miles) northeast of Vik
By bus
Reykjavík Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are available but infrequent. Check schedules in advance.
Taxis
Available • Apps: None widely available, call local taxi services
Rentals
Car
Neighborhoods
Vik Village Center
Day trips
Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi Waterfalls
30 km (18 miles) northeast of Vik • Half day
Two stunning waterfalls where you can walk behind the cascading water. Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland's most famous waterfalls, while Gljúfrabúi is a hidden gem tucked into a canyon.
Katla Ice Cave
60 km (37 miles) northeast of Vik • Full day
A breathtaking ice cave formed within the Katla volcano. Guided tours are required to enter the cave.
Thakgil (Þakgil)
40 km (25 miles) northeast of Vik • Half day to full day
A stunning glacial valley with dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It's a popular spot for camping and outdoor activities.
Festivals
Vík í Mýrdal Music Festival • Late June to early July
Pro tips
- Visit Reynisfjara Beach at different times of day for varying light and wave conditions
- Dress in layers and be prepared for rapid weather changes, especially near the coast
- Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season
- Try local Icelandic cuisine, including lamb soup and fresh seafood
- Be cautious of the powerful waves at Reynisfjara Beach and stay away from the water's edge
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
