From Reykjavik: Blue Lagoon and Reykjanes Peninsula Tour

Discover Iceland’s Geothermal and Volcanic Landmarks in One Day

This guided tour from Reykjavik offers an engaging visit to the Reykjanes Peninsula, a region rich in volcanic activity and geological marvels. For $340 per person, travelers enjoy a full-day experience that includes visits to Krýsuvík volcanic zone, Gunnuhver mud geyser, and the Bridge Between Continents, ending with a relaxing soak in the famous Blue Lagoon. The tour lasts approximately one day, with starting times that vary and can be checked during booking.

What makes this tour stand out is its comprehensive nature, covering Iceland’s geothermal sites, volcanic landscapes, and tectonic plate boundaries, all within a single day. It’s well-suited for those interested in geology, volcanic activity, and the scenic beauty of Icelandic nature, with the added pleasure of relaxing in the Blue Lagoon at the end. The guided aspect ensures insightful explanations about each location’s significance and legends, making this an educational and scenic adventure.

While the tour is packed with highlights, it’s important to note that Blue Lagoon tickets are not included in the price, so booking in advance is recommended if you wish to enjoy the spa. Also, the tour involves walking across wooden walkways and some uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes and warm clothing are advised. This experience appeals especially to those who appreciate natural wonders, geology, and Iceland’s unique landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Guided full-day tour from Reykjavik covering geothermal and volcanic sites
• Includes visits to Krýsuvík, Gunnuhver mud geyser, and the Bridge Between Continents
• Relaxing soak at the Blue Lagoon (ticket not included) concludes the trip
• Learn about volcanic activity and local legends from knowledgeable guides
• Accessible for private groups and includes hotel pickup in Reykjavik
• Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera to capture the scenery

The Tour Starts in Reykjavik with Convenient Hotel Pickup

This tour departs from central Reykjavik, with pickup included at your hotel if located within the city. The transportation is arranged to comfortably shuttle travelers to each highlight on the itinerary, making for a smooth and efficient day. The group size is private, allowing for a more personalized experience, and guides are available in English, Russian, Ukrainian, and Polish.

The pickup process involves providing your hotel details, ensuring a stress-free start to your day. The return is also in Reykjavik, making it easy to plan the rest of your day after the tour. The overall flexibility and private group option make this experience ideal for those wanting personalized attention and a relaxed pace.

Exploring the Geothermal Wonders of Krýsuvík and Gunnuhver

The tour’s first stops showcase Iceland’s vibrant geothermal activity. At Krýsuvík, travelers see the active volcanic zone near Lake Kleifarvatn, characterized by hot mud springs and thermal rivers flowing through striking lava fields. The cosmic landscapes are accessible via wooden walkways, offering views of bubbling mud and steaming vents.

Next, the Gunnuhver mud geyser stands out as Iceland’s largest mud geyser, shooting streams of boiling clay up to several meters high. This site features streams of boiling clay at 300°C, and the guide shares the legend of Gunnuhver, an evil spirit believed to be trapped here by a priest. The landscape’s perilous beauty makes it a memorable stop, even if the fumes and boiling mud suggest caution.

Walking the Bridge Between Continents

A highlight of the tour is crossing the Bridge Between Continents, which spans the earth’s crustal fault at the boundary of Europe and North America. This site offers the chance to stand between two tectonic plates, illustrating Iceland’s unique position on the globe. The bridge symbolizes the connection between continents and demonstrates how Iceland’s landscape changes every year due to plate divergence.

This location also features informative signs explaining geological processes, making it a fascinating stop for geology enthusiasts. It’s a relatively short walk, but the views of the rugged landscape and the crack in the earth leave a lasting impression.

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The Coastal Cliffs and the Legend of Brimketill

The tour also visits the Brimketill natural pool, carved by Atlantic waves into soft lava rock. This picturesque water feature offers stunning ocean views and the legendary belief that trolls bathe here. Although swimming in Brimketill is dangerous because of ocean surf, the photo opportunities are plentiful and spectacular.

Nearby, a monument commemorates the disappeared white-winged gull, and in summer, the cliffs host nesting colonies of northern fulmars. On rare occasions, whales can be seen swimming close to the coast, adding to the scenic allure of this coastal region.

The Power of Iceland’s Volcanic Activity at Krýsuvík

The Krýsuvík volcanic zone offers a surreal landscape with hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and thermal rivers. Located near Lake Kleifarvatn, this area resembles a cosmic terrain—a testament to Iceland’s ongoing volcanic activity. Travelers walk along boardwalks that traverse the geothermal features, making it accessible while still offering close-up views of volcanic phenomena.

The guide explains how the region’s volcanic activity is connected to Iceland’s geological evolution, making it more than just a scenic spot—it’s a living laboratory of natural forces at work. The colors and textures of the land create dramatic photo opportunities.

Visiting Gunnuhver: The Legend and the Lava Field

Gunnuhver is the biggest mud geyser in Iceland and features boiling clay streams and steam vents. The legend of Gunnuhver, an evil spirit, adds a touch of local folklore to the site. The hot springs here are dangerous to approach but can be observed safely from designated areas, thanks to platforms and signs.

The landscape’s otherworldly appearance stems from the lava fields and geothermal activity, illustrating Iceland’s volcanic nature. The steam clouds and mud pools create a dramatic scene often captured in photographs, emphasizing the raw power beneath the surface.

Relaxing in the Blue Lagoon’s Therapeutic Waters

The tour concludes with a visit to the Blue Lagoon, a world-famous geothermal spa known for its healing silica mud and relaxing waters. The ticket price is not included in the tour fee, so pre-booking is recommended to secure access. Visitors enjoy the silica mud masks, saunas, steam rooms, and in-water massages offered at the lagoon.

The Blue Lagoon’s tranquil setting amid Iceland’s rugged landscape provides a perfect wind-down after a day of exploration. Soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters offers potential skin benefits, making it a favorite ending for many travelers. The spa facilities ensure a comfortable and indulgent experience.

Practical Details and Tips for the Tour

The tour lasts around one day, with flexible starting times that can be checked during booking. The group is private, with hotel pickup and drop-off included in Reykjavik. Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Since Blue Lagoon tickets are not included, booking in advance ensures a spot for the spa experience. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for guests with mobility needs. The guides are available in multiple languages, including English, Russian, Ukrainian, and Polish.

Why This Tour Offers a Well-Rounded Icelandic Adventure

This guided tour provides an excellent opportunity to see the geothermal and volcanic wonders of Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula in a single day. The combination of geological sites and the Blue Lagoon makes it ideal for those interested in natural forces, legends, and relaxation. The private group format ensures a personalized experience, and the knowledgeable guides enhance understanding with engaging stories and explanations.

While the pace is brisk to cover all stops, ample time is allocated at each site for photos and exploration. The scenic landscapes and legendary sites like Gunnuhver and the Bridge Between Continents create memorable moments. The Blue Lagoon offers a luxurious finish, perfect for unwinding after the day’s adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are tickets to the Blue Lagoon included in the tour price?
No, the Blue Lagoon tickets are not included. It’s recommended to book tickets in advance to ensure availability.

How long is the tour from Reykjavik?
The tour lasts approximately one day, with starting times that vary. Check availability during booking.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera to capture the landscape.

Are hotel pickups available in Reykjavik?
Yes, hotel pickup is included if your accommodation is within Reykjavik.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides are available in English, Russian, Ukrainian, and Polish.

Is lunch included during the tour?
No, lunch is not included. There may be opportunities to purchase food at some stops.

What is the significance of the Bridge Between Continents?
It marks the boundary between two tectonic plates—Europe and North America—and symbolizes Iceland’s geological activity.

How physically demanding is this tour?
Most stops involve walking on wooden walkways and gentle terrain, suitable for most guests with average mobility.

Can I customize or extend this tour?
The current tour is fixed in itinerary and designed as a full-day experience. Customization may be available upon request.

This From Reykjavik: Blue Lagoon and Reykjanes Peninsula Tour offers a compelling mix of geothermal marvels, volcano legends, and relaxation, making it an engaging and scenic way to explore Iceland’s unique landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby