Reykjavik: Fagradalsfjall Volcano Hike & Grindavík with Geothermal Stop

Lava fields are still cooling on the Reykjanes Peninsula, and you walk across them today.

You hike across lava fields formed by eruptions in the last three years, stand at a viewpoint overlooking Fagradalsfjall Volcano, and walk through the geothermal vents at Seltún where steam rises from the ground. Lunch in Grindavík is included, and the van picks you up from your hotel and brings you back, so you don't arrange transport or worry about timing the stops.

Step-by-step itinerary

Volcano hike and Grindavík visit

• Pickup in Reykjavík
• Drive through volcanic landscapes
• Visit Seltún Geothermal Area
• Hike to Fagradalsfjall viewpoint
• Explore Grindavík fishing town
• Enjoy fish and chips lunch
• Return to Reykjavík

The experience

The van picks you up in Reykjavik and heads south toward the Reykjanes Peninsula, where the landscape shifts from green to black within an hour. Your first stop is Seltún, a geothermal area where the ground itself is alive: steaming vents crack the earth and mud pools bubble in shades of yellow and orange. You walk among them, close enough to feel the heat rising. It's the kind of place that makes you understand why Iceland sits on a geological fault line, and why people here have learned to live with volcanoes as neighbors.

Then comes the hike to Fagradalsfjall. It's 45 minutes up, and the path takes you across lava fields that erupted just a few years ago (2021, 2022, 2023), so the rock is still raw and sharp underfoot. The views from the top are what people come for: vast black expanses stretching toward the horizon, steam rising from fissures, the whole thing feeling less like a landscape and more like a wound in the earth that's still healing. You're standing on some of Iceland's youngest geology, and it changes how you think about solid ground.

After the hike, the drive takes you to Grindavík, a fishing town that's been through something. Protective barriers line the harbor now (built by residents to hold back lava flows and seismic shifts), and they're a reminder that living here means accepting that nature doesn't ask permission. You explore the tectonic rifts and lava formations around town, then sit down for fish and chips made from the local catch. It's not fancy, but it tastes like the sea and the place itself. The return to Reykjavik takes the afternoon, so you're back by evening with the kind of tired that means you actually saw something.

What’s included

• Hotel pickup in Reykjavik, air-conditioned transport throughout the day, entry to the Seltún geothermal area, the guided 45-minute hike to the Fagradalsfjall viewpoint, time to explore Grindavík and its tectonic rifts, and return transport to your hotel.
• WiFi is available on board.
• Fish and chips lunch in Grindavík is available for an additional fee.

Options for this experience

2 options

Tour with a meeting pointGuide in English · 10:00The meeting point is the BSI Bus Terminal, which is centrally located. Please arrive there at least 15 minutes beforehand.

Pickup at 09:30Guide in English · 10:00Pickup is included. This option covers pickup from various hotels and designated pickup spots in central Reykjavik.

You'll see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates and prices

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day except TuesdayDeparts at 10:00

Book up to3h before

AgesAdult (16 and older) · Child (10 to 15 years) · Under 10: can't be booked

GroupUp to 53

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.You can choose from 36 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPublic transport nearby

Operated by Reykjavik Excursions

Is this one for you?Right for travelers based in Reykjavik who want to see active volcanic geology without arranging their own transport or timing multiple stops: the pickup and fixed itinerary handle the logistics. The hike is moderate and takes 45 minutes, so plan for a full day out and bring sturdy shoes.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (10 to 15 years). Children under 10 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How long is the hike to Fagradalsfjall?

The hike is 45 minutes to the viewpoint. It's a moderate walk across lava terrain, so you'll need reasonable fitness and sturdy shoes.

What's included in the tour price?

Hotel pickup in Reykjavik, the scenic drive, entry to Seltún geothermal area, the guided hike, and transport to Grindavík are included. Fish and chips lunch is available for an additional fee.

When did the lava fields form?

The lava fields you see were created by volcanic eruptions in 2021, 2022, and 2023 on the Reykjanes Peninsula. The lava is still relatively fresh and cooling.

Is the vehicle air-conditioned?

Yes, the tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle for the drive and includes WiFi on board.

What should I wear?

Wear sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good grip, as lava rock is sharp and uneven. Layers are essential in Iceland, weather changes quickly. Bring a waterproof jacket.

Can I do this tour if I'm not very fit?

The tour requires at least moderate physical fitness. The 45-minute hike crosses uneven lava terrain, so you should be comfortable walking uphill on rough ground.

Is Grindavík safe to visit?

Yes. Grindavík remains open to visitors. Protective barriers have been built to manage volcanic and seismic risks, and the town continues to welcome tourists.