From Reykjavík: Volcanoes and Blue Lagoon Day Trip

If you’re eyeing a day that blends Iceland’s volcanic energy with soothing geothermal waters, this tour could be just the ticket. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve read through a lot of traveler reviews and tour descriptions, and it seems like a solid, well-rounded experience for anyone eager to witness Iceland’s fiery landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail.

What really catches our eye are the guided hikes near recent eruption sites—offering a chance to witness firsthand how nature reshapes itself—and the inclusion of an entry to the Blue Lagoon, which is often a highlight for visitors. Plus, the fact that many find this experience excellent value for money makes it worth considering. On the flip side, keep in mind that this is a full-day adventure with a moderate level of physical activity, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with several hours of walking.

This trip is ideal if you’re curious about Iceland’s volcanic activity but don’t want to spend multiple days on separate excursions. It’s also a good pick for travelers who appreciate guided insights and want a smooth, organized experience that covers a lot of ground—literally and figuratively. If you’re not keen on hikes or have mobility issues, this might not be your best bet, but for most, it offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty.

Key Points

• Includes a guided hike to recent eruption sites, offering a close-up look at volcanic activity
• Comfortable transportation and pickup from central Reykjavik simplifies logistics
• Entry to the Blue Lagoon with a comfort package, including a towel, silica face mask, and a drink—perfect way to relax after a day of exploring
• Approximately 9-hour day, making it a full but manageable trip
• Moderate hiking level, suitable for most active travelers comfortable with a 2-hour walk each way
• Rich in Icelandic landscapes, from lava fields to geothermal lakes and black beaches, providing fantastic photo opportunities

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Off in Reykjavík

Your day begins with a pickup from various central locations all over Reykjavik, making it easy to hop on without much fuss. The group size isn’t specified, but reviews suggest guides are knowledgeable and engaging, which makes the long day feel shorter. Expect to be on the road for around 40 minutes before reaching the first scenic stops.

Visiting Lake Kleifarvatn and Seltún Geothermal Area

Your first stops are designed to set the mood with stunning Icelandic scenery. Lake Kleifarvatn, with its dark, mossy shores, makes for a dramatic photo backdrop—many travelers comment on how peaceful and surreal it feels. From there, you’ll visit the Seltún geothermal area, where bubbling mud pots and steamy hot springs give a literal glimpse of Iceland’s volcanic heart.

These stops aren’t just pretty; they’re informative. Guides often share insights into how geothermal activity shapes the landscape, which can make the scenery even more fascinating. Since reviews praise guides for their knowledge, expect to learn a lot about the geology of this volcanic island.

The Highlight: Fagradalsfjall Volcano Hike

The main event is the hike to the recent eruption sites at Fagradalsfjall in Geldingadalur Valley. This isn’t a casual stroll—it involves roughly 2 hours of walking each way on relatively flat terrain, with a total of about 3.5 hours spent on the trail. The terrain is volcanic, with lava rocks and moss, and some might find the walk challenging if they have mobility issues or aren’t used to hiking.

What makes this stop special is the chance to stand near new lava flows from the 2021 eruption and the latest fissure opening in 2024 (though recent lava flow at Litli Hrutur has paused for now). Travelers consistently mention how incredible it is to witness lava descending from the volcano into the landscape, often comparing it to watching a force of nature in action. One reviewer sums it up: “Seeing the steam coming up from 4-year-old lava and feeling the heat was pretty surprising.”

Our favorite reviews underscore just how powerful and raw these sights can be. Guides help explain what you’re seeing, making the experience both awe-inspiring and educational. Expect to be wowed by the scale and color of the cooled lava formations—definitely a bucket-list moment.

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Relaxing at the Blue Lagoon

After the hike, you’ll be driven to the Blue Lagoon, where the focus shifts from fiery landscapes to pure relaxation. The tour includes the Comfort Package, which offers a towel, silica face mask, and a complimentary drink—just right after a day of activity. Many reviews rave about how rejuvenating the Blue Lagoon is, especially after a long hike.

The lagoon’s mineral-rich waters are famously soothing, and many travelers mention how they feel their muscles soften almost immediately. The experience isn’t just about the thermal waters; it’s also about the setting—surrounded by black lava fields and steam rising from the water, it’s almost otherworldly.

While the lagoon is often crowded, the 2.5 hours allocated generally give enough space to relax, soak, and enjoy the scenery. Some reviews highlight that this is a perfect way to end a busy day, especially since many mention it’s “magical” and “beautiful.”

Logistics and Practicalities

Transportation is organized, with pickups from numerous centrally located stops—something that most travelers appreciate for convenience. The tour runs for about 9 hours, which is ample time to see everything without feeling rushed. The itinerary is quite full, with several stops, hikes, and a soak, so pace yourself accordingly.

The hike is rated moderate, suitable for most travelers used to walking. Guides are known for their friendly professionalism, and the reviews suggest that they’re very knowledgeable—many mention guides like Roman, Beggi, and Michal with high praise for their enthusiasm and explanations.

Price and Value

At around $216 per person, this tour offers a lot: guided hikes, transportation, geothermal stops, and a Blue Lagoon visit. Given that entrance to the Blue Lagoon alone usually costs around $80+ for the Comfort Package, this all-inclusive price feels like good value. Travelers often comment on how much they get for their money, especially considering the combination of active and relaxing experiences.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience caters well to those who want a full day of Iceland’s volcanic and geothermal sights without the hassle of planning. It’s especially great if you’re comfortable with moderate hiking—that’s about 2 hours each way—and want a guided experience to enhance the visit. It’s not ideal for those with mobility impairments or very young children, as the hike is the most physically demanding part.

It’s also perfect if you’re someone who enjoys learning about geology and volcanic activity, as guides tend to be very informative. The Blue Lagoon adds a luxurious touch to unwind after the adventure, making it a well-rounded day trip.

Final Thoughts

This Volcanoes and Blue Lagoon day tour from Reykjavík offers a compelling combo of nature’s raw power and soothing comfort. You’ll get the chance to stand near recent volcanic eruptions, walk on lava fields, and see how Iceland’s landscape is continually being reshaped. When the day winds down, the Blue Lagoon provides a chance to relax and reflect on your volcanic adventure in style.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want a guided, hassle-free experience that packs in adventure, learning, and relaxation. The inclusion of transportation, expert guides, and the Blue Lagoon makes the price quite reasonable compared to booking these elements separately.

While it involves a fair bit of walking and moderate effort, the reviews show that most who undertake this adventure find it well worth the effort. The stunning scenery and the chance to witness Iceland’s volcanic activity up close make this a memorable highlight of any trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour isn’t recommended for children under 14 years old, mainly because of the hiking involved and the physical demands of the trek. It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with several hours of walking.

What should I bring for the hike?
You should bring rain gear and waterproof hiking shoes, as the terrain can be volcanic and muddy. It’s also smart to pack water, snacks, and perhaps a camera for all the photo-worthy moments.

How long is the hike to the eruption site?
The hike takes approximately 2 hours each way, on generally flat terrain. It’s about 3.5 hours of walking total, so be prepared for a good physical workout.

Can I join the Blue Lagoon without the tour?
The Blue Lagoon is included in this tour with the Comfort Package, which means you don’t need to book separately if you go with the tour. If you prefer to visit on your own, you’d need to book entry independently.

What if the lava flow at Litli Hrutur has stopped?
As of August 2023, the flow at Litli Hrutur has paused, but the area remains hot and interesting to visit, with lingering smoldering and recent volcanic activity visible.

Does the tour include food?
No, food and drinks are not included, so it’s a good idea to bring some snacks or eat beforehand. The Blue Lagoon experience does include a complimentary drink, though.

How long does the entire trip last?
The full experience is about 9 hours long, making it a full-day commitment but one packed with unforgettable sights and activities.

If you’re looking to tick off Iceland’s volcanoes and geothermal marvels in one well-organized day, this tour might just be the adventure you need. It offers a good mix of active exploration and relaxing downtime, all with expert guidance to make the most of your volcanic voyage.

You can check availability for your dates here: