(former name: Geldingadalur Guided Hike)
Don’t miss out on this once in a lifetime experience and witness the newly formed lava in the Reykjanes Peninsula!
This first eruption in the Reykjanes Peninsula in about 800 years provides a unique opportunity to study the geologic mysteries of the region and is open for all to enjoy! Reykjavik Excursions offers a guided hiking tour to the volcanic eruption in Geldingadalur, known as Fagradalsfjall Volcano.
Reykjanes UNESCO Geopark is located on a peninsula divided between two continents. This unique place is on the drift zone between the North American and the Eurasian continental plates, resulting in incredible volcanic activity.
We start the day by exploring one of the most iconic features of the Icelandic volcanic landscape, the boiling mud pools of Seltún, and the steaming and colorful surrounding landscape.
As we drive along the Reykjanes peninsula, you are constantly in the presence of the roaring Atlantic Ocean, endless lava fields, and volcanic craters. It surely is an alien landscape, decorated by windblown palagonite and petrified “troll” formations.
Next up on our adventure is the youngest volcano in Iceland, Fagradalsfjall Volcano, and its surrounding lava fields. We’ll hike up to the craters where you will be able to explore the devastating yet beautiful aftermath of this recent volcanic eruption. You will have 2 hours to view the volcanic features and take pictures.
After the volcano hike, we’ll stop by the bridge between continents, where you can walk between the European and North American continental plates that divide the peninsula.
On our way back to Reykjavík, we’ll stop by the largest mud pool in Iceland, Gunnuhver where you can feel the ground shake from the enormous power released from the boiling water and steam released.
Please wear hiking shoes and bring crampons as conditions can be slippery, especially during winter.
Difficulty level: Moderate. There is hiking during this tour.
- Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
- Elevation: 300 m (984 feet)
Highlights
- The newly formed crater in Fagradalsfjall
- Boiling mud pools in Seltun and Gunnuhver
- The Bridge Between Continents
- Steaming activity and new areas of hot ground
Included
- Bus Fare
- Free Wi-Fi
- Guided tour and hike
Not Included
- Meals, refreshments, beverages
- Tour Pick-up/Drop-off (can be added at booking time)
Bring/Wear:
- Waterproof Hiking boots (mandatory)
- Crampons (in case of slippery conditions, especially during winter)
- We recommend bringing thermal layers, a winter hat, scarf, gloves, and wearing warm socks for colder days
- Packed lunch and snacks
- Bottled water
- Face mask to wear on the bus
- Alpine walking sticks (recommended)
Important
- Travelers need to bring their own face mask and are required to use it onboard all buses.
- Hikers are responsible for following social distancing rules during the hike.
- The tour operator reserves the right to alter routes without prior notice, due to road conditions.
