Inside the Volcano: Small-Group Tour and Lava Field Hike

Experience the Inside of an Icelandic Volcano for $449.78 per Person

This small-group tour from Reykjavik offers an extraordinary adventure inside Thrihnukagigur, Iceland’s only accessible magma chamber. With a duration of approximately 5 to 6 hours, the tour combines a scenic drive, a moderate 2-mile hike through icy lava fields, and a descent by open cable elevator into the volcano’s crater. Led by a professional guide, the experience is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness and good hiking shoes. The tour garners a 4.5-star rating from over 150 reviews and is recommended by 94% of participants.

This adventure is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a truly unique experience. Its popularity, with bookings made on average 101 days in advance, reflects its status as a highlight for those wanting to see Iceland’s volcanic geology up close. A full safety briefing and all necessary safety gear ensure security during the descent, and the refreshments provided afterward add a warm touch to the day. However, potential participants should be prepared for the physical effort involved in the hike and the unpredictable weather.

Key Points

• Unique descent into Thrihnukagigur’s magma chamber using an open cable elevator
• Guided hike through lava fields and around volcanic cones with scenic views
• Approximately 5 to 6 hours total, including pickup, drive, hike, and return
• Suitable for ages 8 and up with moderate fitness and good hiking shoes
• All safety equipment provided, with an emphasis on safety and professional guidance
• Delicious lamb soup served after the tour, with warm refreshments

Starting the Journey from Reykjavik to the Blue Mountains

The adventure begins with pickup from selected Reykjavik hotels, making transportation seamless and comfortable. A scenic drive takes travelers to the Blue Mountains (Bláfjöll), where the volcanic landscape begins to unfold. As the tour guide showcases the geological history of the area, visitors get a sense of the ancient forces that formed this rugged terrain 4,000 years ago.

Arriving at Thrihnukagigur, the group receives a safety briefing before gearing up with helmets and harnesses. The exterior scenery is striking, with jagged lava formations and steaming fissures, which provide a dramatic backdrop for the hike ahead. The moderate difficulty of the trail makes it accessible to most physically capable participants, though footwear and clothing should be suited for uneven, potentially cold conditions.

Exploring the Blue Mountains Before Entering the Volcano

The Blue Mountains are known for their dramatic volcanic peaks and otherworldly landscape. The guide discusses how these lava fields and craggy cones formed over millennia, giving insight into Iceland’s volcanic activity.

Hiking across rough terrain, participants see steaming fissures, volcanic cones, and scattered mineral deposits, which showcase the volcano’s powerful natural history. This part of the tour usually takes about an hour and offers ample opportunities for photography and close-up views of lava formations.

The uneven ground and sharp rocks mean that proper hiking shoes are essential — sneakers or jeans are not recommended. This walk provides a raw glimpse into Iceland’s geological past and helps set the stage for the interior exploration.

Descending into Thrihnukagigur’s Magma Chamber

The core of this tour is the descent into the dormant Thrihnukagigur volcano, which is 400 feet (120 meters) below the rim. After a safety check, visitors don their helmets and harnesses and board the open cable elevator. The lift is a rare feature, allowing an up-close view of the volcano’s interior, a world that is normally inaccessible.

As the elevator slowly lowers, the walls of the magma chamber reveal a kaleidoscope of colors and mineral deposits, shaped by solidified magma and scorching eruptions from thousands of years ago. The views inside the chamber are stunning, with towering rock formations and vivid mineral stains that make each angle look like a natural masterpiece.

Walking Inside the Volcano’s Interior

Once at the base of the volcano, the guide leads the group through the vast interior of the chamber. The imposing rock dome above is spectacular, and the colors on the walls tell stories of the last eruption. Participants get to walk around, observing the textures, shapes, and colors created by magma that once flowed freely.

This part of the tour offers a rare glimpse into volcanic processes and geological formations. The guide shares stories and insights about the volcano’s history, helping everyone imagine the powerful forces that shaped this natural wonder.

The Scenic Hike Across Lava Fields Back to Reykjavik

After exploring the interior, hikers ascend back to the surface and retrace their steps across the lava fields. The scenic walk is moderate in difficulty but offers beautiful views of cones, fissures, and steaming vents. The rocky terrain provides a raw landscape that highlights Iceland’s volcanic character.

The hike concludes at the rim of the crater, where a short safety briefing prepares everyone to reboard the cable elevator. Once back outside, the group enjoys final panoramic views of the lava fields before heading back to Reykjavik in comfort.

The Cultural and Culinary Touches of the Tour

The tour includes a warm lamb soup served at the end, which many reviews highlight as a delicious reward after the physical activity. This refreshing meal offers a comforting finish to an intense day of exploration, and the friendly staff ensures a relaxing atmosphere.

Participants also get to appreciate the surreal landscape of the Blue Mountains and the volcanic cones, making this experience both educational and visually stunning. The small-group format keeps the experience intimate, allowing for personalized guidance and clear explanations.

Practical Details and Safety Considerations

This 5 to 6-hour tour is designed for people aged 8 and older with moderate fitness levels. Participants should wear warm, waterproof clothing and hiking boots, as the terrain is uneven and potentially wet. Sneakers and jeans are not appropriate. The total hike covers about 7 km, and weather conditions can be unpredictable, so proper gear is essential.

The tour is capped at 18 travelers, ensuring personal attention from guides. All safety gear, including helmets and harnesses, are provided, and a comprehensive safety briefing helps keep everyone secure throughout the descent.

Customer Feedback and What Makes This Tour Special

The majority of reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, particularly for their friendly demeanor and expertise. The descent into the volcano is frequently described as “unbelievable,” with many calling it a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience. The stunning colors inside the chamber and the chance to walk inside a volcano make this tour stand out.

Many also highlight the scenic hike, the unique geological features, and the warm lamb soup afterward as key highlights. However, some reviews note the challenging weather at times, stressing the importance of good outdoor gear.

Thrihnukagigur Volcano Inside Tour: An Unmissable Icelandic Adventure

In summary, this small-group tour offers a rare opportunity to step inside an extinct volcano’s magma chamber. Combining a scenic drive, a moderate hike, and an exciting descent using a cable elevator, the experience is both educational and awe-inspiring. The delicious lamb soup, personalized guidance, and stunning scenery make it a clear highlight for outdoor lovers and geology enthusiasts alike.

While the long walk across lava fields and the variable weather can be challenges, the unique beauty and storytelling guides ensure a memorable day. This tour is ideal for those eager to see Iceland’s volcanic power up close and willing to prepare accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 8 years, provided they are comfortable with moderate physical activity and uneven terrain.

What should I wear for the tour?
Participants should wear warm, waterproof clothing and hiking boots. Sneakers and jeans are not recommended due to the rocky, potentially cold environment.

How physically demanding is the hike?
The hike covers approximately 7 km over uneven mountain terrain. It requires moderate fitness but no prior hiking experience is necessary.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes guided descent into the volcano, all safety gear, pickup and drop-off, and light refreshments such as lamb soup afterward.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour requires good weather to operate. If canceled due to poor weather conditions, participants are offered a full refund or alternative date.