Get set for a truly unique experience in Reykjavik: the Lava Show offers an up-close look at molten lava in a controlled environment. For $52 per person, you can spend between 50 and 75 minutes exploring Iceland’s fiery geology. This award-winning attraction has earned a 4.7-star rating from over 2,100 reviews, making it a popular choice for visitors wanting a memorable, educational experience.

The show takes place in a family-friendly indoor setting, with two options: the Classic Experience and the Premium Experience. The Classic is perfect for those seeking a safe, engaging introduction to Icelandic volcanism, while the Premium adds extra perks like a drink, VIP lounge access, a balcony seat, a backstage tour, and a piece of lava as a souvenir. The guided narration is lively, and the show is suitable for children aged five and above, making it ideal for families or anyone curious about Iceland’s volcanic activity.

Key Points

One-of-a-kind live lava demonstration in Reykjavik, the only one of its kind worldwide
Educational yet entertaining, with detailed explanations about Icelandic volcanism
Two experience levels: Classic and Premium, with additional VIP perks
Approximate duration: 50 to 75 minutes; check availability for exact times
Cost: $52 per person, with options to include drinks and VIP access
Highly rated with a 4.7/5 score from over 2,100 reviews

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Only Live Lava Show in the World: What Sets It Apart

This Lava Show stands alone globally as the only live production that showcases real flowing lava in a controlled environment. It’s a must-see for those interested in geology, volcanoes, or natural phenomena. The show begins with a short welcome from the host, followed by an educational video about Iceland’s volcanic history and potential dangers around the capital area. The live demonstration then unfolds — featuring molten lava pouring, flowing, and interacting in front of the audience.

The presentation is both fun and informative, with guides explaining the science behind the eruptions and lava reactions. The interactive nature and close proximity to the molten lava create a sensory-loaded experience, with viewers feeling the intense heat from the show. This is an experience that appeals whether you’re a geology enthusiast, a family with kids, or someone wanting a visual spectacle during your Iceland trip.

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Classic Experience: Safety and Education in a Family-Friendly Setting

The Classic Experience invites visitors to get up close to real molten lava in a safe, indoor environment. It’s designed to be family friendly, though children under five are not recommended to attend, as the show involves intense heat and some safety considerations. The educational aspect is a core feature, with guides providing detailed insights into volcanic activity, historical eruptions, and geological processes specific to Iceland.

Participants are provided with security goggles for safety, and the show features a live host who makes the experience fun and personal. The educational video enriches the experience, emphasizing Iceland’s volcanoes and eruption history. Visitors often appreciate how informative and engaging the guides are, with many praising the friendly staff and clear explanations.

This experience is suitable for families or groups seeking an educational yet exciting activity that offers a close look at real lava without any risk.

Premium Experience: Exclusive Access and Extra Perks

The Premium Experience elevates the classic tour with additional amenities. Upon arrival, guests receive an aperitif, and they enjoy exclusive access to the VIP lounge, creating a more luxurious atmosphere. The balcony seats—designated as the extra hot viewing area—offer a closer, more intense view of the flowing lava, along with a backstage tour of the furnace room.

One of the highlights of the Premium package is receiving a piece of lava as a gift, wrapped and ready to take home. This option is ideal for lava collectors or those seeking a more comprehensive behind-the-scenes look. The VIP lounge and balcony views allow for a more relaxed, intimate experience, with better vantage points and additional insights from staff.

Many guests find this option well worth the extra cost, especially for the VIP touch and exclusive access to parts of the show not available to regular ticket holders.

The Educational Content: Volcanoes, Eruptions, and Icelandic Dangers

The educational video that kicks off the show provides a brief yet thorough overview of Icelandic volcanism. It covers major eruptions in the island’s history and emphasizes the volcanic risks around the capital area. This information helps visitors understand the power beneath the land of ice and fire and why volcano monitoring is vital in Iceland.

Guides and hosts further expand on these themes, explaining how lava behaves, the different types of eruptions, and what signs indicate impending activity. The storytelling makes the science accessible and keeps the audience engaged. The show’s informative tone is balanced with humor and lively narration, making the learning experience enjoyable for all ages.

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The Viewing Experience: Seating, Views, and Atmosphere

The show offers various seating options, with the balcony seats providing an extra hot perspective, where viewers can feel the heat radiating from the flowing lava. Many reviewers highlight that standing up from the balcony enhances the viewing experience. The main seating area allows close proximity to the lava, with spectacular visuals of the molten rock.

The atmosphere is described as electric, with the sound of flowing lava and the visible glow creating an immersive environment. The hosts contribute to this with engaging explanations and humorous commentary. The visual display of lava pouring and flowing is often praised as stunning and beautiful.

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Logistics: Meeting, Duration, and Accessibility

The Lava Show starts at the ticket counter, where visitors show their voucher. The activity lasts about 50 to 75 minutes, with precise start times depending on the day. The English-speaking guide leads the tour, making it accessible for international travelers.

The location in Reykjavik is convenient for most visitors, and the indoor setting ensures comfort regardless of weather. The group size is manageable, and the show is designed to be accessible, though the intense heat and some visual effects might not be suitable for very young children or those with certain sensitivities.

Cost and Value for Money

At $52 per ticket, the Lava Show offers excellent value considering the quality of the experience and the up-close view of real lava. The Premium Experience adds extra perks, making it a worthwhile upgrade for those interested in VIP access and behind-the-scenes views. Many reviews mention the good price compared to the unique opportunity to see flowing lava in person.

The show’s educational content and entertaining narration are appreciated as added value. Some guests mention the possibility of souvenir purchases at the gift shop, including lava jewelry and other items, which can be a nice memento of the visit.

Overall Impression and Who Will Enjoy This Tour

The Reykjavik Lava Show stands out as an educational, visually stunning, and fun experience that combines science with spectacle. It suits families, geology enthusiasts, and anyone curious about volcanoes or Iceland’s fiery landscape. The friendly guides, engaging presentation, and the sensory impact of real flowing lava make it a memorable highlight of any trip to Reykjavik.

While not suitable for children under five or those sensitive to heat, the classic and premium options cater to different preferences and budgets. The show’s ratings and positive reviews reflect its reputation as a must-see that offers value and entertainment in equal measure.

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Reykjavik: LAVA SHOW – Immersive Experience Entry Ticket

4.7

(2168)

“really fascinating to learn all about the history and to see how the lava reacts. Bar staff could not have been nicer. Backstage tour not the best …”

— Amandajane, May 30, 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Lava Show suitable for children?
Yes, it is family-friendly but not recommended for children under five years old. Younger children can attend if a ticket is purchased, but parental discretion is advised.

How long does the Lava Show last?
The duration is approximately 50 to 75 minutes. Check availability for exact start times.

Does the Premium Experience include additional benefits?
Yes, it features an aperitif, VIP lounge access, balcony seats, a backstage tour, and a piece of lava as a gift.

Are safety goggles provided?
Yes, all participants receive safety goggles for protection during the show.

What is the educational content about?
It includes a short video about Icelandic volcanism, major eruptions, and the volcanic risks around Reykjavik.

Can I see real flowing lava at the show?
Absolutely, the show features real molten lava flowing in a controlled environment, offering close-up views.

Is the show accessible?
The indoor setting and managed environment make it generally accessible, though the heat and visual effects may affect some visitors.

How much does the show cost?
Tickets are $52 per person, with options for a more premium experience at an additional cost.

Where does the tour start and end?
You show your voucher at the ticket counter, and the activity ends back at the same location.

What makes this show a must-do in Reykjavik?
It’s the only live lava demonstration globally, combining science, spectacle, and education in a safe, engaging setting that’s highly rated by previous participants.