Reykjanes Peninsula: Volcanos & Blue Lagoon Self-Guided Tour

Exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula becomes a flexible and immersive experience with the Reykjanes Peninsula: Volcanos & Blue Lagoon Self-Guided Tour. Priced at $49.99 per group (up to 4 people), this three to four-hour driving route offers a detailed look at Iceland’s volcanic landscape, rugged coastlines, and geothermal wonders. The tour’s highlight, of course, is Blue Lagoon, which is included in the itinerary but requires a separate reservation. This makes the tour perfect for those wanting to explore at their own pace, with the added convenience of an offline audio guide app that can be used for up to a year.

What sets this tour apart is its self-guided format, which offers the flexibility to linger at favorite spots or skip others, making it ideal for travelers who prefer personalized pacing. The audio storytelling provided by the app is praised for being interesting, current, and insightful, ensuring a rich narrative accompanies each stop. Although Blue Lagoon admission is not included, the tour covers a comprehensive route with key highlights that illustrate Iceland’s geology, history, and volcanic activity.

Key Points

• Self-guided driving tour covering the Reykjanes Peninsula, with audio narration accessible via the Action app.
• Price of $49.99 for the entire group, valid for one year for repeated use.
• Includes notable stops such as Blue Lagoon, Gunnuhver Hot Springs, Reykjanes Lighthouse, and Fagradalsfjall Volcano.
• Blue Lagoon visit is not included in the price and requires a separate reservation.
• Flexible schedule: start anytime, pause, and explore at your own pace over 3 to 4 hours.
• Highlights: dramatic sea cliffs, geothermal fields, the Bridge Between Continents, and volcanic ruins.
• Accessible offline: maps and audio work perfectly without cellular signal.
• Ideal for groups of up to 4 in one car, with no additional per-person costs.

Convenient Start & End Points in Iceland

This tour departs from XC9V+7JP, Njarðvík, and ends at the Seltún Geothermal Area. The self-guided route is designed to maximize your time, taking in the most notable sights along the Reykjanes Peninsula. The start point is accessible via public transportation, making it easy to reach without hassle.

The tour hours run from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, giving travelers flexibility to begin whenever suits them during the season between May 28, 2024, and June 17, 2026.

Exploring the Blue Lagoon and Its Origins

The Blue Lagoon is the first stop on the route. Historically, the local residents of Grindavík used volcanic steam vents to bake bread. Scientists in the 1970s expanded on this idea, exploring geothermal activity for heat, which later led to the development of the Blue Lagoon as a world-famous attraction.

While admission is not included, the 39-mile segment dedicated to the lagoon allows ample time to enjoy its milky-blue waters and stunning surroundings. The tour covers the essentials of the lagoon in 2 to 3 hours, making it a perfect introduction to Iceland’s geothermal wonders. Remember that Blue Lagoon tickets require a separate booking.

Discovering Hafnir and Its Coastal Charm

Next, the tour takes travelers to Hafnir, a small village overlooking a quiet bay. Despite its tiny population of a few hundred, the area once hosted two of Iceland’s largest estates, which had a history of conflicting ownership. This spot offers a glimpse into local life and Iceland’s rural past, all within a 10-minute stop that’s free of charge.

Hafnir’s peaceful setting is ideal for a quick stroll, with views over the water and a sense of untouched Icelandic coastal life.

The Dramatic Hafnarberg Sea Cliffs

Following Hafnir, the route leads to the Hafnarberg Sea Cliffs. These stunning cliffs showcase the raw power of the Atlantic Ocean, with an easy trail of about three miles that takes roughly an hour to walk. The cliffs are a favorite for birdwatching, with kittiwakes, guillemots, and even puffins nesting here.

The free access and incredible ocean views make this a highlight for nature lovers. The trail’s gentle terrain ensures it’s manageable for most visitors.

Walking the Bridge Between Continents

One of the most unique features of this tour is the Bridge Between Continents, which spans the fault line dividing the North American and Eurasian Plates. Though only about 50 feet long, you can walk from North America to Europe in just a few steps — a fun and tangible way to see tectonic activity.

This free attraction offers both a moment of geological awe and a perfect photo opportunity. It emphasizes Iceland’s position on the boundary of two massive tectonic plates, which is fundamental to understanding its volcanic activity.

Gunnuhver Hot Springs and the Main Volcano

Next, the tour visits the Gunnuhver Hot Springs, a geothermal area just beside a still-active volcano. The hot springs exhibit steam vents and mud pots, creating a landscape that looks like an active volcano’s surface. The nearby Gunnuhver Volcano itself rises gently to the right, adding to the geothermal spectacle.

The hot springs are a geothermal field of high temperature, showcasing Iceland’s volcanic activity firsthand. This stop is both scenic and educational, illustrating how geothermal energy shapes the landscape.

The Iconic Reykjanes Lighthouse

Travelers will pass the Reykjanes Lighthouse, which has guided sailors since 1878. This historic lighthouse sits atop a cliff, giving commanding views over the ocean and the rugged coastline. Its location marks the southern tip of the peninsula, with a 10-minute stop for photos and appreciation of maritime safety history.

The lighthouse’s sturdy presence offers insight into Iceland’s relationship with the sea and the importance of navigation in this turbulent region.

The Surprising Valahnukamol and Its Penguin-like Statue

A fun stop on the route is Valahnukamol, where a statue resembling a penguin greets visitors. Although the bird is not a penguin, its stout shape and position evoke one, adding a whimsical touch to the landscape. The stop allows time for photos and a brief stroll to enjoy the surroundings.

This spot enriches the tour with a playful element, contrasting Iceland’s serious geological features with a bit of local charm.

Brimketill Lava Rock Pool and Mythology

The Brimketill lava rock pool is an intriguing natural feature shaped by volcanic activity. Its name means “whitewater cauldron”, and local stories tell of a giant troll named Oddný, who supposedly owned the cauldron. The tale adds a folklore dimension to the scenic rocky pool, which is perfect for photos and soaking in the wild Atlantic ambiance.

The location is known for its powerful waves and stunning views, making it a favorite stop for nature and mythology enthusiasts alike.

Fagradalsfjall Volcano: Iceland’s Recent Eruption Site

The Fagradalsfjall Volcano is a key highlight, especially since its eruption in 2021 marked the start of the New Reykjanes Fires, breaking nearly 800 years of volcanic silence on the peninsula. Standing 1,200 feet tall, it symbolizes Iceland’s active geology.

Visitors can learn about recent volcanic activity and witness the landscape shaped by recent eruptions. This site is both scientifically fascinating and visually impressive, embodying Iceland’s vibrant volcanic character.

Optional Stop at Selatangar Ruins

A quick 5-minute drive takes visitors to the ruins of Selatangar, an old fishing station. This archaeological site gives a glimpse into historic Icelandic life, with remnants that tell stories of past livelihoods and hardships. It’s a short but meaningful detour, offering insights into local history.

Because it’s optional, visitors can choose whether to explore this site or spend more time elsewhere.

The Cliffs of Krýsuvíkurberg and Birdlife

The Krýsuvíkurberg Cliffs are a striking natural feature known for their sheer face and bird colonies. This area is a hotspot for seabirds, including kittiwakes, guillemots, and puffins. The cliffs are accessible via a quick turn-off and provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching and photography.

The landscape’s rugged beauty is a testament to Iceland’s geologic activity, with the cliffs offering a natural habitat for diverse bird species.

Additional Tour Features and Practicalities

This self-guided tour includes engaging storytelling, offline maps, and a user-friendly app that plays automatically based on your location. The audio guide is praised for being professional and captivating, making the drive both informative and entertaining.

It’s designed for groups of up to four in one car, making it a cost-effective way to see the peninsula. The route is not an entrance ticket—attractions like Blue Lagoon require separate booking—and the tour can be started anytime during operating hours. The full route is designed to be completed in about 3 hours, though side trips can extend this.

Final Thoughts on the Reykjanes Peninsula Self-Guided Tour

This self-guided driving adventure offers a balanced mix of geological marvels, historic sites, and spectacular scenery. The price of $49.99 makes it a good value, especially considering the year-long usability and offline accessibility. It is particularly suited for travelers comfortable with using their own smartphone and app.

The main limitations are that admission to Blue Lagoon is not included, and some may find the geothermal and volcanic stops less accessible for those with mobility challenges. However, the flexibility and rich content make this tour highly appealing for those wanting to explore Iceland’s volcanic heart at their own pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Blue Lagoon included in the tour price?
No, the Blue Lagoon requires a separate reservation and admission ticket. The tour covers the lagoon’s surrounding area and includes it as a stop, but entry is paid separately.

How long does the tour take?
The core route takes approximately 3 hours, but with side trips and photo stops, it can extend to 4 hours or more.

Do I need internet during the tour?
No, once the Audio Tour Guide App is downloaded in good Wi-Fi or cellular signal, it works offline during the entire route.

Can I start the tour at any time?
Yes, the tour is self-guided and flexible, allowing you to start during operating hours (8:00 AM to 10:00 PM).

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Most stops are accessible and involve minimal physical activity, but some areas like the cliffs or geothermal fields may require caution.

How many people can participate in this tour?
The booking is per car, accommodating up to 4 people, making it cost-effective for small groups or families.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes engaging storytelling, offline maps, and easy-to-use app navigation. It does not include attraction tickets, which are paid separately.

Can I revisit the tour route later?
Yes, the purchase is valid for one year, allowing multiple trips or revisits to the same route.

What are the main highlights I should not miss?
The Blue Lagoon, Bridge Between Continents, Gunnuhver Hot Springs, Fagradalsfjall Volcano, and the Reykjanes Lighthouse are key sights that define this route.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour is designed for most travelers, with only some stops involving walking or viewing cliffs. Use caution near rugged or geothermal areas.

How do I access the tour?
After booking, you’ll receive an email and text with setup instructions, including a password. Download the Action app, enter the password, and begin exploring on-site.