From Reykjavík: Volcanoes and Blue Lagoon Day Trip

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Iceland’s volcanic power and geothermal wonders in a single day, this tour offers a compelling way to do just that. It combines a scenic drive along the Reykjanes Peninsula, a guided hike to recent eruption sites, and a relaxing soak in the Blue Lagoon’s healing waters — all for around $216 per person. With a 4.6-star rating based on over 670 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this trip both memorable and valuable.

What we especially love about this experience is how it balances adventure with relaxation, all while showcasing some of Iceland’s most iconic geological features. The guides, such as Roman and Beggi, get high praise for their knowledge and enthusiasm, making even the moderate 2-hour hikes feel engaging rather than exhausting. The chance to witness fresh lava flows and hot springs up close is an unforgettable highlight. That said, a key consideration is the physical aspect: you’ll want to be comfortable walking on uneven terrain for a few hours, so good hiking shoes are essential.

This tour is ideal if you’re eager to see active volcanic landscapes and enjoy a bit of Iceland’s signature geothermal culture in one seamless day. It suits travelers who are physically capable of moderate walking and want a comprehensive, well-organized outing that combines natural marvels with wellness. If your trip plans include a love for geology, adventure hikes, and relaxing in hot springs, this day trip could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Diverse Experience: Combines volcanic hiking, geothermal sightseeing, and spa relaxation.
• Expert Guides: Highly praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to make complex geology understandable.
• Good Value: At $216, it includes multiple activities and transportation, offering good value compared to booking separately.
• Physical Activity: Involves around 2 hours of hiking each way on generally flat terrain — suitable for active travelers.
• Authentic Sights: Witness recent lava flows, steaming vents, and black basalt beaches, offering real-time volcanic drama.
• Relaxation Finish: Concludes with a soak at the Blue Lagoon, famous for its healing waters and tranquil setting.

An Early Start with Comfort

The tour begins with a pickup from one of 23 centrally located meeting points in Reykjavík, with options ranging from the iconic Hallgrimskirkja to the Harpa Concert Hall and the city’s bus terminal. If you opt for hotel pickup, the convenience saves you the hassle of navigation. The journey kicks off around 9 hours of total adventure, with flexible start times depending on the day.

Once on board, the drive toward the Reykjanes Peninsula whisks you past mossy lava fields, geothermal hotspots, fishing villages, and striking mountain lakes. This scenic route alone is worth the trip, offering a peek into Iceland’s rugged, raw landscape. The bus is comfortable, and the small group size (usually around 20-30 people) ensures you can ask questions and enjoy some personal attention from the guides.

Exploring Kleifarvatn and Seltún Geothermal Area

The first stop at Lake Kleifarvatn is a quick photo opportunity, but it’s a highlight — a vast, black-lava-dotted lake surrounded by rolling hills. Travelers have noted the black basalt beach here as particularly photogenic and unusual. After Kleifarvatn, the tour continues to Seltún, a geothermal area teeming with bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and colorful mineral deposits. A 15-minute walk here provides a visceral sense of Iceland’s geothermal activity and offers plenty of chances for dramatic photographs.

Reviews often mention how guides like Beggi or Mihal make these stops lively and educational, explaining the geothermal processes in clear, engaging language. We loved the way guides tie these sights to Iceland’s ongoing volcanic activity, making each stop feel like a living piece of Earth’s geology rather than just a photo op.

The Main Event: Fagradalsfjall Volcano Hike

The core of the trip is the approximately 3.5-hour hike to Fagradalsfjall Volcano in Geldingadalur Valley. The route is generally flat terrain, making it accessible for most active travelers. The hike showcases recent volcanic activity, with lava flows still visible and steaming vents creating an otherworldly landscape.

Recent eruptions in July 2023 have kept the area dynamic. While one review notes that the flow at Litli Hrutur has temporarily stopped, the area remains hot and mesmerizing. Travelers like Gabi mention that guides such as Hler make the experience even more memorable through enthusiastic explanations and genuine care. The guides also provide headlamps when needed, ensuring safety and visibility, especially in lower light conditions.

While the hike is about 2 hours each way, many reviewers comment that it’s worth every step. The chance to witness lava descending into old moss and rocks is a privilege few get, and the guides’ storytelling makes the journey engaging. Just be sure to wear good waterproof hiking shoes and appropriate clothing; the terrain can be uneven and sometimes damp.

A Peek at the Eruption Sites

The tour also includes stops at the new eruption sites, where you can observe volcanic vents, steaming fissures, and the raw power of volcanic activity. Travelers have described these moments as surreal — standing on lava fields that are only months old, with steam still rising from cracks in the earth. The guides excel at providing context, explaining how the lava flows shape Iceland’s landscape and what future eruptions might mean.

Ending with a Relaxing Blue Lagoon Experience

After a day of exploration, the tour concludes with a well-deserved visit to the Blue Lagoon. Included in the package is the Comfort Entrance, which provides a towel, silica face mask, and a free drink. With around 2.5 hours here, you’ll have ample time to soak, unwind, and reflect on your day. Reviewers like Tamara and Catherine mention how rejuvenating this experience is, especially after hours of walking on lava and hiking over uneven terrain.

The Blue Lagoon’s milky-blue waters and mineral-rich silica scrub are famously soothing, making it the perfect way to unwind. It’s also a social setting that can be lively or quiet, depending on when you visit.

Transport and Logistics

The entire tour runs smoothly thanks to reliable transportation. Pickup is offered from multiple locations or hotels, making logistics easy. The bus drive back to Reykjavík takes approximately 45 minutes, giving you some time to rest and reflect on the day’s adventures. The group sizes are kept manageable, ensuring you won’t feel lost in a crowd.

If you’re curious about Iceland’s volcanic activity, enjoy moderate hikes, and love combining outdoor adventure with relaxation, this tour checks all those boxes. The guides’ passion and expertise shine through, turning what could be a basic sightseeing trip into a thoroughly engaging experience. It offers excellent value, considering the combination of hikes, sightseeing, and access to the Blue Lagoon.

However, it’s not suited for everyone. The 2-hour hikes each way on uneven terrain mean you should be comfortable walking for extended periods. Children under 14 or those with mobility issues may find it challenging. Also, the tour involves some physical exertion, so packing waterproof hiking shoes and rain gear is advised.

In terms of value, the reviews repeatedly highlight how much is packed into this day — not just sightseeing but also educational insights, active exploration, and well-earned rest at the Blue Lagoon. The inclusion of transportation, guide, and entrance fee makes it a convenient and cost-effective way to see some of Iceland’s most iconic sites.

This Volcanoes and Blue Lagoon Day Trip offers a well-rounded look into Iceland’s volcanic landscape, with enough physical activity to satisfy adventure lovers and plenty of relaxation for those seeking peace afterward. The expert guides, like Roman and Beggi, bring the geology to life with enthusiasm, making the experience both educational and fun.

You’ll appreciate the diversity of sights — from steaming vents and lava fields to black basalt beaches — and the chance to witness ongoing volcanic activity in a safe, guided environment. The Blue Lagoon provides a luxurious and soothing finish to a day packed with natural drama.

For travelers who want a comprehensive Iceland experience in one day, especially those with a bit of stamina and a curiosity for geology, this tour stands out as a smart choice.

How early does the tour start?
Start times vary depending on the day and location, but check availability for precise scheduling.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup is available from multiple designated stops and hotels in central Reykjavík. Contact the provider to confirm your pickup point.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, rain gear, and waterproof hiking shoes. Jeans are not recommended as they can become damp and uncomfortable during hikes.

How long is the hike?
The hike to Fagradalsfjall Volcano involves about 2 hours each way on generally flat terrain, making it suitable for most active travelers.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
No, this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the nature of the hike and terrain.

What is included in the Blue Lagoon package?
The Comfort Package includes entrance, towel, silica face mask, and one free drink.

How long do we spend at the Blue Lagoon?
Approximately 2.5 hours, enough for a relaxing soak and some downtime.

What happens if lava flow has stopped?
While recent flows at Litli Hrutur have paused, the area still remains steaming and visually impressive. The guides keep you informed about current conditions.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so consider bringing snacks or purchasing at stops.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour strikes a nice balance between active exploration and relaxing recovery, offering a true taste of Iceland’s volcanic personality. Whether you’re a geology buff, adventure seeker, or simply want to experience Iceland’s natural beauty in a single day, it’s a trip worth considering.