Reykjanes Geothermal, Volcanoes and Cliffs Small Group Tour

About this experience

Explore the Reykjanes Peninsula on a 4-5 hour tour led by a geothermal specialist guide. Positioned over the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, this region showcases Iceland's intense underground power—from steaming mud vents to ocean cliffs.

Highlights:

- Walk Between Continents: Cross the footbridge joining the Eurasian & North American tectonic plates—no passport required!

- Geothermal Landscapes: Discover Kleifarvatn Lake, Seltún geothermal area, Brimketill rock pool, Valahnúkamöl cliffs, and Gunnuhver mud pools.

- Blue Lagoon: Photo stop at the iconic geothermal spa.

- Expert Insights: Learn about recent eruptions & volcanic activity from a specialist guide.

Ideal for Layovers & Late Departures:
Don't waste time in terminal lounges! Perfect for flight stopovers or final-day departures. Includes free onboard luggage storage and complimentary drop-off directly at Keflavík Airport (KEF) or the Blue Lagoon. Turn your wait time into an unforgettable adventure.

What's included

Itinerary

1. Tour stop

   Enjoy a scenic stop at Kleifarvatn, the largest lake on Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula, surrounded by dramatic volcanic hills and rugged black landscapes. Take in the peaceful views of the deep blue waters contrasting with the dark volcanic terrain, and discover how earthquakes and underground fissures have influenced the lake over time. Kleifarvatn is unusual because it has very little surface inflow and no visible river flowing out of it. This is a beautiful and tranquil stop for photography and a chance to experience the quieter, wild side of the Reykjanes Peninsula.

2. Tour stop

   Explore the otherworldly Seltún geothermal area, where Iceland’s volcanic forces are visible right at the surface. Walk along the marked paths through a colorful landscape of steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, hot springs, and mineral-rich ground. See clouds of steam rising from the earth and hear the bubbling and hissing of geothermal activity beneath your feet. The vivid shades of yellow, orange, red, and green are created by minerals and geothermal microorganisms thriving in this extreme environment. Your guide will explain how heat from deep beneath the Earth's surface drives the geothermal activity and why Reykjanes is one of Iceland’s most geologically active regions. Take your time to enjoy the unusual landscape and capture photographs of one of Iceland’s most fascinating geothermal areas. Please remain on the marked paths and follow local safety instructions, as the ground and geothermal features can be extremely hot.

3. Tour stop

   Experience one of Iceland's newest landscapes in the volcanic surroundings of Grindavík, where recent eruptions have dramatically reshaped the Reykjanes Peninsula. See vast fields of dark, newly formed lava created by volcanic activity in the Sundhnúkur crater row, and discover how molten rock has transformed roads and the surrounding landscape. Depending on current access and conditions, you may also see the impressive lava barriers built to help protect Grindavík from advancing lava flows. Your guide will explain the recent volcanic activity and how these eruptions have changed the landscape, roads, and life of the nearby fishing town. This is a unique opportunity to witness the powerful forces that continue to create and reshape Iceland today. Viewing locations and access may vary depending on volcanic activity, road conditions, and safety regulations.

4. Tour stop

   Iceland’s oldest lighthouse and panoramic Valahnúkamöl cliffs.

5. Tour stop

   Stand between two continents at the Bridge Between Continents, one of the most fascinating geological sites on Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula. Walk across the small footbridge spanning a natural fissure created by the movement of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Here, you can see a visible expression of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the plates are slowly moving apart and new crust is continually being formed. Take photographs from the bridge, explore the surrounding volcanic landscape, and learn from your guide how Iceland sits directly on this major tectonic boundary. The bridge provides a memorable opportunity to experience the connection between Iceland’s dramatic volcanic landscape and the powerful geological forces beneath it. For an extra memorable experience, step from one side of the fissure to the other and enjoy the feeling of standing between the North American and Eurasian plates.

6. Tour stop

   Discover the human story of Grindavík, a historic fishing town on Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula that has experienced extraordinary volcanic and seismic activity in recent years. Visit the Reykjanes Awakens exhibition, where powerful photographs document the earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, lava flows, evacuations, and dramatic changes that have affected Grindavík and the surrounding area. The exhibition offers an insight into how local residents and the community have faced these remarkable events. During your visit, you will also have the opportunity to see the dramatic impact of the lava flows around the town, including three homes that were caught in the path of advancing lava. Depending on the tour schedule, you will have an opportunity to take a lunch break in Grindavík. This stop combines Icelandic fishing culture, recent volcanic history, local stories, and the resilience of the Grindavík community.

7. Tour stop

   Experience the raw geothermal power of Iceland at Gunnuhver, one of the most active geothermal areas on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Walk along the marked viewing paths and watch powerful clouds of steam rise from the earth, hear the bubbling and hissing of geothermal vents, and see Iceland’s largest known mud pool. The constantly changing geothermal landscape reveals the intense heat and activity beneath the Reykjanes Peninsula. Gunnuhver is also connected to one of Iceland’s fascinating ghost stories. According to local folklore, the area takes its name from Gunna, a woman whose restless spirit was eventually trapped in the hot spring by a priest centuries ago. From the viewing platforms, travelers can take in the steaming geothermal landscape and surrounding volcanic terrain near Reykjanesviti lighthouse. This is a memorable opportunity to see, hear, and even feel the power of Iceland’s geothermal forces. For your safety, remain on the marked paths and viewing platforms.

Know before you go

• Wheelchair accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels