Reykjavik: Whale Watching in Faxaflói Bay & Live Lava Show

Reykjavik: Whale Watching in Faxaflói Bay & Live Lava Show — An Honest Look

If you’re exploring Reykjavik and want to see some of Iceland’s most iconic natural displays, this combo tour offers a memorable day out. It combines the thrill of spotting whales in Faxaflói Bay with the fiery spectacle of a live lava show in the city. We’ve seen enough travelers come back raving about this experience, and it’s easy to see why.

What really appeals to us about this tour is the chance to see Iceland’s majestic marine life — from minke and humpback whales to dolphins and porpoises — in their natural habitat. Plus, experiencing the only live lava show in the world is a one-of-a-kind opportunity that adds a fiery twist to the day.

That said, there’s a small caveat: the whale sightings aren’t guaranteed, which is common with wildlife tours. You’ll want to be prepared for some uncertainty, especially in colder months. Still, for those who love nature and geology, this tour feels like a well-rounded peek into what makes Iceland so special. It’s best suited for travelers eager to combine marine wildlife with volcanic marvels, especially if you’re curious about Iceland’s geological forces.

Key Points

• Unique combo experience: whale watching and a lava show in one booking.
• Educational and entertaining: learn about whale species and Icelandic volcanism.
• Comfort and convenience: heated indoor cabins, free WiFi, warm overalls, and seasickness tablets.
• Flexible booking: cancel 24 hours in advance for a full refund and keep your plans flexible.
• Value for money: includes two major activities at a reasonable price.
• Ideal for nature lovers: combines marine wildlife viewing with geological fascination.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This 4.5-hour experience kicks off at Geirsgata 11, the central meeting point in Reykjavik. The day is nicely balanced between adventure on the water and an immersive volcanic display in the city. Here’s a detailed look at what’s involved:

Lava Show — 50 Minutes of Fiery Fun

The Lava Show is the highlight for geology buffs or anyone curious about volcanoes. Located at Fiskislóð 73, Reykjavík 101, this show is billed as the only live lava show in the world, making it a truly special event.

Upon arrival, you’re welcomed by the host who kicks things off with a short educational video about Icelandic volcanism. This sets the scene nicely, especially if you’re a first-timer. Then, the host begins playing with real flowing lava in a safe environment, creating a spectacle of red-hot molten rock. It’s as close as most of us will get to witnessing lava in action, and it definitely sparks a deeper appreciation for Iceland’s volcanic landscape.

Guests often mention how entertaining and educational the show is — it’s not just a spectacle but also offers insight into Iceland’s volcanic history and dangers. After the show, you’ll see the country in a new light, recognizing how much of Iceland’s identity revolves around fire and ice.

Whale Watching in Faxaflói Bay — 3 Hours of Marine Marvels

The main event is the whale watching tour departing from Old Harbour in downtown Reykjavik**. The boat heads out into Faxaflói Bay, which is renowned for its variety of marine mammals. Depending on the day and season, you’ll be on the lookout for minke whales, humpbacks, dolphins, harbor porpoises, and sometimes killer whales — a rare but exciting sight.

The vessel is well-equipped for comfort, with heated indoor cabins, free WiFi, and warm flotation overalls provided — perfect for Iceland’s chilly weather. The outdoor decks offer great views for whale spotting and bird-watching. During the trip, guides share their knowledge about the different species, making the experience both educational and engaging.

Itinerary Breakdown

• Start at Geirsgata 11: Arrive 30 minutes early to check in and get suited up.
• Transfer to the boat for whale watching: Enjoy the scenic views and anticipation.
• Whale watching in Faxaflói Bay: Usually lasts around 3 hours, with a chance to spot wildlife and take photos.
• Return to Reykjavik: The tour concludes back at the harbor, with the option to stay aboard if you didn’t see whales.
• Optional guided tour: Some packages include a 1-hour guided tour, giving more context about Icelandic marine life.

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What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews highlight the high quality of guides and the overall value. One reviewer mentioned, “Great time! We managed to see the whales, and the view was fantastic. Mind its freezing cold, bring all the warm layers that you can carry on.” Another said, “All was good, the boat trip to see whale and dolphins, and the lava show. Exceptional, to do with family.”

For those interested in lava, one reviewer simply stated, “Probably the only place to see real lava so close and get to know about it. Recommended.”

Practical Details

The tour costs $149 per person, which covers both activities, making it a decent deal for such a unique combination. The tour is flexible: you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, and you can book now and pay later, giving some peace of mind if travel plans shift.

It’s important to note that if the whale-watching trip is canceled — due to weather or environmental reasons — your lava show ticket remains valid for the originally booked date but is non-refundable.

The Experience for Different Types of Travelers

This tour is particularly well-suited for anyone fascinated by nature, wildlife, or geology. It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling with friends or family who want a varied experience packed into a half-day.

Since the boat provides warm clothing and sheltered spaces, it’s manageable even for those who might be sensitive to cold or seasickness (seasickness tablets are available). However, if you’re a very light sleeper or easily seasick, you might want to consider your comfort level for a 3-hour boat ride.

The lava show is ideal for curious minds, geology enthusiasts, or anyone who simply wants a visually stunning demonstration of Iceland’s fiery heart. It’s a unique experience, with real lava played with in a safe, educational environment.

A Balanced Look at the Tour

While the value is good considering the two activities bundled together, keep in mind that wildlife sightings depend heavily on luck and environmental conditions. Some days, whales might be shy or absent, which can be disappointing if you’re really hoping to spot them. However, the tour offers a free ticket to rejoin if you don’t see any whales, so you’re not completely out of luck.

The lava show is a clear highlight that offers a deep dive into Icelandic volcanoes, making it a memorable experience regardless of the weather outside. The guided tour aspect adds educational value, making the tour more than just sightseeing.

Pricing-wise, $149 for two engaging activities plus amenities like WiFi, warm overalls, and indoor cabins is reasonable — especially since Reykjavik is known for being on the pricier side overall. It’s a well-rounded way to spend half a day without feeling rushed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re interested in wildlife and geology, this combo tour covers both bases well. It’s especially good for travelers who want a diverse experience without the hassle of booking separate activities. Nature lovers, families, and curious travelers looking for a mix of adventure and education will find this appealing.

However, if your main goal is guaranteed whale sightings or a more exclusive whale experience, you might want to look into specialized whale tours with higher chances of sightings — but be aware those might cost more.

And if you’re more a fan of one activity than the other, remember you can often rebook or return to certain parts of the experience, especially the lava show, which is a standalone highlight.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-focused, the tour’s indoor facilities and educational components make it manageable for older children. Just keep in mind the boat ride can be cold and bumpy, so dress warmly.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing is a must. The tour provides warm flotation overalls, but layering is key to stay comfortable. Also, consider bringing your camera, hat, and gloves.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The flexible booking policy offers peace of mind.

What happens if I don’t see whales?
The tour offers a free ticket to rejoin the whale watching trip if no whales are spotted during your scheduled outing, though this depends on environmental factors.

How long does each part last?
The lava show is about 50 minutes, and the whale watching trip runs approximately 3 hours.

Are there amenities onboard the boat?
Yes, the boat features heated indoor cabins with toilets, a bar where you can purchase drinks, and free WiFi.

What’s the best time to go?
Departure times vary, so check availability. Morning and afternoon sessions are offered, but always verify what suits your schedule best.

Final Thoughts

This Reykjavik combo tour of whale watching and a live lava show offers a diverse, engaging way to experience some of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a balance of marine wildlife adventure and volcanic spectacle, all in a manageable half-day. The inclusions like warm clothing, WiFi, and the opportunity to rejoin if no whales are seen add value and comfort.

While wildlife sightings depend on luck, the educational aspect and the unique lava show make this a memorable trip regardless. It’s especially suitable for travelers wanting a dynamic, multi-layered experience that captures Iceland’s fiery and icy essence.

If you’re someone who loves to learn, explore, and witness nature’s raw power, this tour might just be a highlight of your Iceland trip. Just remember to pack your layers and a sense of adventure — the surprises are part of the fun.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Ready to book? Check availability and see departure times to start planning your Icelandic adventure today.