Reykjavik: Thrihnukagigur Volcano Guided Hiking Day Trip

Key Points

• Unique volcano interior: Descend 400 feet into the dormant Thrihnukagigur Volcano’s magma chamber.
• Scenic lava hike: Enjoy a 45-50 minute moderate walk across surreal lava fields with striking landscape views.
• Expert-guided experience: Guides are knowledgeable, safety-minded, and provide full safety equipment including helmets and harnesses.
• Comfort after the adventure: Finish with traditional Icelandic meat or vegetarian soup, plus hot drinks and sweets.
• Group size and safety: Small groups of 4-5 people ensure safety and intimacy during the descent.
• Duration and price: The tour lasts 4 to 6 hours and costs $408 per person.

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Reykjavik’s Thrihnukagigur Volcano Guided Hiking: A Deep Dive into This Unique Adventure

The Reykjavik: Thrihnukagigur Volcano Guided Hiking Day Trip offers a rare chance to step inside a volcano’s magma chamber, an experience unmatched anywhere else in the world. Priced at $408 per person and lasting 4 to 6 hours, this tour combines a scenic lava field hike with a fascinating descent into a dormant volcano, making it a compelling option for adventure lovers and those interested in Iceland’s volcanic activity.

This trip departs from various pickup points in Reykjavik, with optional transportation included. The journey begins at a mountain cabin near Bláfjöll, where a moderate 45-50 minute hike takes you across otherworldly lava landscapes. The highlight is the 400-foot (120-meter) descent into Thrihnukagigur’s magma chamber, an active volcano that cooled and became dormant, leaving behind this extraordinary natural feature. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, the scenic hike, and the unique opportunity to go inside a volcano, though some note that the cost is on the higher side compared to other Icelandic excursions.

Moving beyond just the descent, the tour offers stunning views of Reykjavik, the Reykjanes Peninsula, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula from various vantage points. The landscape is described as resembling the moon, with volcanic rock formations and lava tubes adding to the visual impact. After exploring the volcano’s interior, you’re treated to warm Icelandic meat soup or vegetarian alternatives, along with hot drinks and sweet treats, making for a cozy end to an exhilarating experience.

From the Base Camp to the Lava Fields

The starting point for the tour depends on your selected pickup location but typically involves a 45-minute bus ride from Reykjavik to the base camp near Bláfjöll. Once there, visitors are equipped with all safety gear, including helmets and harnesses, ensuring a secure and comfortable descent into the volcano’s chamber.

The hike to the volcano itself is a moderate walk on uneven and hilly terrain, but it remains accessible for most with good hiking shoes as a requirement. The scenery along the way features remarkable lava formations and tubes, providing plenty of photo opportunities. The small group size—generally 4-5 people—enhances the safety and allows guides to give personalized attention and explanations about the volcanic features.

Upon arrival at the crater, the guided descent takes about 10 minutes via a lift, descending inside the volcano into the magma chamber. This is the core attraction of the tour, offering close-up views of the chamber’s colorful walls, with hues ranging from reds to purples and blacks, illustrating the spectacular mineral deposits left by cooling lava. Inside, you can enjoy up to an hour of exploration, with guides always present to ensure safety and answer questions.

Inside the Volcano: An Unmatched Experience

Descending into Thrihnukagigur’s magma chamber is an experience that many describe as out of this world. The chamber’s vast size and the colors of the mineral deposits make it clear why this location is considered one of Iceland’s top attractions. Visitors are encouraged to take their time inside the chamber to fully absorb the surreal environment.

The safety procedures are thorough, with guides explaining behavior inside the volcano and monitoring the group at all times. The lift descent is slow and controlled, allowing ample opportunity to admire the layers of cooled lava and natural formations. Many reviews mention the guides’ expertise, their friendly attitude, and their ability to make everyone feel safe and well-informed.

After emerging from the chamber, the group makes their way back to the base camp for the refreshing warm soup and drinks. This post-adventure meal adds a cozy touch to the day, especially appreciated after the sometimes challenging weather that can include rain or wind.

Scenic Lava Field Walks and Views of Iceland

The hiking route across the lava fields features terrain that is hilly and uneven, with straight walks and limited elevation gains. The landscape itself is striking, with lava tubes, craters, and volcanic rock formations creating a landscape that resembles a moonscape.

Along the trail, guides often point out wildlife and geological features, enriching the experience with context and stories about volcanic activity in Iceland. The scenic views from the mountain cabin and during the walks are frequently highlighted as a major highlight, with some reviews describing the journey as breathtaking.

The shorter hikes and easy terrain make this trip suitable for most physically fit participants, although mobility impairments are not accommodated. The timing allows for plenty of photo opportunities and rest before descending into the volcano.

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The Guides and Safety Measures

This tour’s success largely hinges on the expert guides who accompany each group. According to reviews, guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and safety-conscious, ensuring everyone understands all safety procedures before entering the volcano. They also share interesting facts about Iceland’s volcanic history and geology, making the experience both educational and exciting.

The small group size of 4-5 people is deliberate, allowing for more personalized attention and a safer environment. All necessary safety gear, including helmets and harnesses, is provided, and the entire operation emphasizes safety and comfort during the descent and exploration.

Food, Comfort, and Post-Tour Relaxation

After the descent and exploration, visitors are welcomed back at the base camp with warm soup, available in meat and vegetarian options. The hot drinks, including coffee, tea, and hot chocolate, along with sweets, keep spirits high after the adventure. Many reviews emphasize how thoughtful this gesture is, providing a warm finish to an intense day.

The return trip to Reykjavik takes approximately 45 minutes, with drop-off at multiple locations around the city, making it convenient for travelers staying in various parts of Reykjavik.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

While the $408 per person cost may seem high, reviews consistently highlight the value for money given the rare opportunity to descend into a volcano’s magma chamber. The combination of a scenic lava hike, professional guides, safety equipment, and warm food at the end contributes to a comprehensive and memorable experience.

The tour’s duration of up to 6 hours allows for a relaxed pace, ample time to enjoy the scenery, and photo opportunities inside the volcano, making it a worthwhile investment for adventure-seekers. The small group size enhances the overall experience, ensuring personalized attention and safety.

Reykjavik: Thrihnukagigur Volcano Guided Hiking: Final Thoughts

This tour offers a truly special experience for those interested in volcanoes, geology, and adventure travel. The descent into the magma chamber is the standout feature, providing a rare glimpse inside the Earth’s natural formations. The scenic hike across lava fields and breathtaking views of Iceland’s landscapes add to the trip’s appeal.

While the cost is relatively high, the combination of unique access, professional guides, and the comfort of warm food afterward makes this tour a solid choice for those wanting an unforgettable day in Iceland. It is especially suitable for active travelers with good hiking shoes and an interest in volcanoes and outdoor adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
This tour is best suited for individuals who have good mobility and can handle the moderate hike. It is not suitable for those with mobility impairments.

What should I wear on the tour?
Participants are required to wear good hiking shoes and warm clothes. The weather can be unpredictable with rain or wind, so layered clothing is recommended.

Is transportation included?
Transportation from selected locations in Reykjavik is included if you choose the pickup option. The bus ride to and from the base camp lasts about 45 minutes.

How long do I spend inside the volcano?
You are allowed to spend up to an hour exploring the interior of the chamber, with guides ensuring safety and offering insights.

What food is offered at the end of the tour?
The post-visit meal includes traditional Icelandic meat soup or a vegetarian alternative, along with hot drinks and sweets.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Are guides bilingual?
Guides speak English and Icelandic, providing clear explanations and safety instructions.

What makes this tour stand out?
The chance to descend into a volcano’s magma chamber, combined with scenic lava field hikes and small group sizes, makes this a uniquely memorable Icelandic adventure.

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