Thrihnukagigur Volcano Descent & Hike
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore the world's only accessible magma chamber
- Marvel at vibrant mineral colors inside the volcano
- Hike across unique lava fields
- Learn about volcanic geology from expert guides
- Capture stunning photos of Icelandic landscapes
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided descent into Thrihnukagigur volcano
- Hike through lava fields
- Round-trip transportation from Reykjavik
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
From the base of Bláfjöll, embark on a 2-mile (3 km) guided hike across ancient lava fields. The trail is uneven and winds through a surreal volcanic landscape filled with cones and fissures. It’s a moderate hike that offers an up-close look at Iceland’s geological past. At the edge of the crater, you'll gear up with a helmet and harness before boarding an open cable elevator. This one-of-a-kind lift lowers you into the dormant volcano’s magma chamber — a rare opportunity not found anywhere else in the world. Safety briefings and professional guidance ensure a secure and memorable descent.
Pass by: The tour begins with a scenic drive from Reykjavík toward the Bláfjöll (Blue Mountains). Along the way, your guide provides fascinating insight into the geology and history of the Thrihnukagigur volcano.
Located just outside Reykjavík, the Bláfjöll (Blue Mountains) set the scene for your adventure. These rugged volcanic peaks are home to the Thrihnukagigur volcano and are known for their dramatic terrain and otherworldly beauty. It’s a striking backdrop for the start of your hike.
Descend 400 feet (120 meters) into the vast and colorful magma chamber of Thrihnukagigur. Explore this incredible natural space where the glowing lava once flowed, now solidified into a kaleidoscope of mineral-stained rock formations. Your guide will explain the volcano's last eruption and the formation of this geological wonder. After your time inside the volcano, ascend back to the surface and retrace your steps across the lava fields. Take in the final views of this unique terrain before returning to your vehicle. The tour concludes with a scenic drive back to Reykjavík.
Meeting point
Start Location
Unknown location
Important information
Know before you book
- Tour operates in English; ensure you understand the language.
- Children under 12 years old are not permitted on this tour.
- The tour is subject to weather conditions; check forecasts before booking.
Know before you go
- Wear sturdy hiking boots suitable for uneven terrain.
- Dress in layers to accommodate varying temperatures.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Good to know
- Wear warm and waterproof clothing, as well as hiking boots. Sneakers and jeans are not appropriate.
- Minimum age is 8 years
- Be aware that this tour includes a total of 7 km hike across an uneven mountain terrain in unpredictable weather conditions. No hiking experience is needed, but this does require moderate fitness levels.
Traveler reviews
Inside Volcano Tour
This was the absolute highlight of my trip. Although pricey, very very VERY worth it! Our guides were humorous, knowledgeable, and accommodating. The hike to the volcano was a little long, but not strenuous and our group was full of mixed-ages from young to old. The colors inside the volcano and just the sheer size of it will definitely leave you in awe. Highly highly highly recommend!
The best experience! 10/10!
This was an incredible and surreal experience! An absolute highlight of our trip to Iceland. I usually try to leave reviews covering “the good, the bag and the ugly” but there was nothing bad or ugly about this - except the bus driver who drove us to the location was a very erratic driver and not the safest, no one on the bus felt very safe on the way there or back. The entire experience and the guides were 10/10. I recommended this tour to multiple people while I was still in Iceland and I will tell anyone going to Iceland to do it too. My partner and I had the best time. The inside of the volcano is like nature’s cathedral and the walk across the lava field is so invigorating. It really felt like a once in a lifetime experience. And the veggie soup we were served at the end was one of the best I’ve ever had! Thank you for such a great day!
This is an experience not...
This is an experience not to be missed when visiting Iceland. The only place in the world that you can actually go into a "dormant" volcano and witness the interior beauty. The guides were wonderful and caring, and the entire experience - from arrival to departure - was second to none! HIGHLY recommend.
Unique tour close to downtown Reykjavik
In late August, my son aged 10 and I did the Inside the Volcano tour. My wife and other children (aged 12 and 10) opted to skip the tour so they could sleep in that morning. The meeting point is located ~ 30 minutes from downtown Reykjavik. Thereafter, you hike 40 minutes to another hut where you get geared up. You are then lowered into the volcano via a shaft. You have ~ 30 minutes to explore within the chamber before you head back up for delicious soup (we opted for the vegetarian option). Then, you can walk back to the original hut on your own (weather-permitting) or wait for your group to head back together. We opted for the former. Being inside a volcano for 30 minutes was a surreal experience. There is nowhere else in the world where you can do this. The price is exorbitant but it was well worth it because of how unique it is and the visual splendors you see in the chamber. I highly recommend doing this tour.
Phantastic
Use good clothing for rainy days ! Use good shoes - you need nothing to eat. A very good soup is provided !