reykjanes peninsula day trip

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Sightseeing Tours

Reykjanes Peninsula & Hot Springs

Reykjanes, hot spring, kleifarvatn geothermal lake & krysuvik geothermal area.

Visit the stunningly beautiful but overlooked location of Reykjanes Peninsula. The hot springs, lava fields and moss-covered geothermal wonders will truly blow you away!

• Small Group Experience
• Reykjanes Peninsula
• Kleifarvatn Geothermal Lake
• Krýsuvík Geothermal Area
• Gunnuhver Steaming Mud Pools / Hot Springs
• Reykjanesviti Lighthouse & Bird Cliffs
• The Bridge Between the Continents
• Guided Minibus Tour
• Pick-up & drop off from Reykjavík
• English Speaking Tour Guide
• All Entrance Fees (except Blue Lagoon)
• Free WiFi on Board Your Bus

What to bring

• Warm and waterproof clothing
• Sturdy shoes

Tour Snapshot

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• No Booking Fees
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On this minibus tour, you will certainly feel like you are in another world. Thanks to its diversity of geothermal and volcanic activity, Reykjanes Peninsula is a UNESCO Global Geopark and also part of the European and Global Geopark network. Reykjanes is dotted with huge lava fields and is one of the very few places in the world where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge is visible above the sea level. Despite its relative proximity to Reykjavík and Keflavík International Airport, the peninsula is not crowded by tourists and stays an authentic gem off the beaten path.

The tour begins when with collection from Reykjavik, please note that this process can last up to thirty minutes, depending on your location. From there we will make the scenic journey to our first destination, Lake Kleifarvatn . Lake Kleifarvatn is the largest lake in Reykjanes Peninsula , situated in a dramatic volcanic crater close to the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. The lake is incredibly deep, reaching down close to 100 meters at certain points. It is also completely unique, as it has doesn’t have any rivers flowing into it, meaning that the amount of water in it is defined by the groundwater. In Icelandic legend, it is believed to be home to a strange mythical creature, an Icelandic version of the Loch Ness monster. This along with the spectacular natural scenery made up of coal-black cliffs, black sands, and murky waters, makes it a must-see during your Icelandic visit.

From there we will push on into the Krysuvik area , a hilly region known for the multi-colored sulfur deposits that dye its slopes. There are also several colorful crater lakes in the area, alongside bubbling hot springs and a myriad of different bird species, including kittiwakes, guillemots, and razorbills, who often dive from the cliffs into the blue Atlantic Ocean below.

After that, we will move to Gunnuhver , an expanse of molten seawater, which throws a massive plume of smoke into the air. It is surrounded by colorful rocks that have been dyed various shades of blue and orange by the volcanic activity in the area. It is famous for the rather tragic story of an old woman named Gudrun, who lived in the area sometime in the 18th century. Unfortunately, the locals suspected her of being a witch, meaning that they treated her with suspicion and dislike. By the time of her death, she had been involved in many disputes, including with a judge, who attended her funeral and was then found dead and mutilated the next day. The locals blamed the old woman’s ghost, who proceeded to torment the area until a local priest helped them to trap her in the hot spring. Icelandic folklore holds that she remains trapped there until this day and the spring is named after her. We will continue to pick our way down the coast, enjoying some spectacular birdlife on the cliffs of Valhnukar and seeing the lonely old Reykjanesviti Lighthouse , which gazes out to sea.

Our final stop is known as the Bridge between two continents, a small footbridge that crosses the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, which provides the perfect visual representation of how the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are drifting away from each other. It is located in the village of Sandvik and is one of the few places that you can cross continents on foot.

Our Reykjanes tour is perfect for anyone who wants to create some unforgettable moments in truly majestic Icelandic surroundings. It is also perfectly located, providing access to places like the Blue Lagoon , Keflavik Airport , and Reykjavik . This means that it could be a final day treat, after which we drop you at the airport, or combined with another wonderful tour, such as the Blue Lagoon. However, you want to do it: we promise that Reykjanes is a spectacular Icelandic destination that you won’t want to miss!

Practical information

Pick-up Information

Pick up is at 08:30 am from your hotel or a nearby meeting point in Reykjavík. Picking everyone up can take up to 30 minutes, your patience is much appreciated. Available pick-up points:   Arctic Adventures’s pick-up list .

Return time

You will return to Reykjavík around   03:30 pm   approximately.

The airport drop off is approximately  2.30 PM (14:30) , which is suitable when your departure flight time is at 4:00 PM (16:00) and later.

Please note

Admission ticket to the Blue Lagoon needs to be booked in advance, should you want to be dropped off at the Blue Lagoon.

If you want to visit the Blue Lagoon, you need to book the entry ticket by yourself in advance. We recommend to book for 3:00 PM (15:00) as drop off there would be around 2.45 PM (14:45). You will have to take the bus back to Reykjavik by yourself, or to Keflavík if your flight is later in the day.

How is it best to be ready for a pick-up for a tour with Arctic Adventures?

This is a great question. We ask all participants to be ready from the start of the pickup time indicated. This is because you may well be the first pick up of the day. Please be at your assigned location at the start time that you chose when booking the tour.

Here you should wait for your guide.

Have your email and phone number listed with us so we can contact you if we run into any trouble finding you.

View our   pick-up locations   in Reykjavík.

Can I drink alcohol before or during Arctic Adventures tours?

Before and during activities on the multi-day tours consumption of alcohol is prohibited. If we suspect that a participant is intoxicated, we will prohibit them from joining the activity.

After the activities of the day are finished, you are welcome to have a drink and relax.

Do you offer any family friendly tours, for younger children?

Yes, we do. Langjökull Ice Cave is a magical experience, the tour has no minimum age and is a wonderful option for the whole family. Whale Watching with our partner company Elding has been a favourite with families traveling with young children, these guys have a great success rate in seeing whales (upwards of 98% in the summertime).

Another option would be the Landmannalaugar Safari on this tour you get to explore parts of the Icelandic highlands and bathe in natural hot springs. Most of our super jeep tours  are also suitable for children over the age of 6 years old. If you would like a nice and relaxing experience we would also recommend the Golden Circle & Secret Lagoon tour .

Can the itinerary for the tour change?

Your safety is our number one priority! Keeping this in mind, Arctic Adventures reserves the right to adjust the itinerary and/or take different routes depending on conditions. Please read more information in our  cancellation policy .

Is there a guide on each Arctic Adventures tour?

Yes, there is a specially trained and certified guide on each of our tours. The only exception to this is for our   self-drive tours .

All of our tours are guided in English.

Can the guide advise if I am eligible for rescheduling the tour and/or a refund?

No, for all your questions and concerns you would need to contact our customer service.

What type of power outlets are used in Iceland? Do I need to bring an adapter?

The standard in Iceland is 230V and 50Hz and we use F-type power sockets and plugs, so you might have to bring an adaptor if you are visiting from UK, USA, Canada or other countries using a different voltage, Hz or plugs.

How are the tours rated in terms of difficulty?

Our tours are split into four different categories that help participants to understand what to expect from the tour. The categories are Easy, Moderate, Challenging and Demanding. Each tour is rated making it easier to find tours that suit you.

For further information about the   difficulty ratings   and descriptions.

How does carbon offsetting work?

We’ve partnered with the Kolviður Fund in a new carbon offsetting program, which passengers can select to participate in at the time of booking.

The Kolviður Fund   is the oldest, most respected carbon offsetting program in Iceland. With your support, one tree will be planted in special Kolviður forests in Iceland to carbon offset your tour with us.

Kolviður forests are strategically planted to absorb the maximum amount of CO2 and the forests are protected for a minimum of 60 years. During their lifetime the trees absorb carbon and store it in their root system, trunk, and branches. Trees also prevent soil erosion and maintain storage of carbon in the soil.

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Contact us for more information about this tour.

Arctic Adventures offers pick up service from selected Reykjavík pick up points. Note that you can always update your pick-up / drop-off location through our customer portal: https://my.adventures.is You can press the login button in your confirmation email for an easy login to the customer portal. If you experience an error with logging into the customer portal or can't find your booking, please contact us on Facebook Messenger, or send us a message here below. Chat with us on Facebook Messenger

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Reykjanes peninsula features stunning landscapes

A day on the Reykjanes peninsula

Are you planning a trip for a day or two close to Keflavík airport? You do not have to look far: The Reykjanes peninsula offers some of the best sights in Iceland, all within close distances.  

Before you start your journey, we recommend checking Safetravel.is for road and weather conditions and reading these tips about driving in Iceland .

CROSSING TWO CONTINENTS 

The Bridge between continents is a symbolic bridge crossing between Europe and North America.

The Reykjanes peninsula lies where the North-Atlantic Ocean ridge comes ashore, and the manifestations of the continental rift zone between North America and Eurasia are prominent. Reykjanes (meaning the steam peninsula) features a unique volcanic landscape, recognized by UNESCO as the Reykjanes Geopark with 55 defined geosites, including the Fagradalsfjall volcano that erupted in 2021 and again in August 2022 and July 2023 .

Since October 2023 there has been increased seismic activity in the Reykjanes area, which might indicate an upcoming volcanic eruption. View current news on the subject on Visit Reykjanes

The first thing you will notice when driving from Keflavík airport is the open treeless landscape of the region. The land is covered with black basalt lava fields and palagonite ridges, with steam rising from hot springs and geothermal power plants that harness the power of volcanism in the area.  

The closeness to the open sea offers the chance to see thousands of seabirds from shore and with a bit of luck, seals and cetaceans, especially during the early springtime. In addition, Large ocean waves crashing on the shore add to the powerful scenery. 

CLOSE BUT STILL REMOTE 

It is easy to find spots for solitude when hiking in Reykjanes Geopark.

Even though being close to the Keflavík international airport, it is easy to find spots where you feel the remoteness and solitude characteristic of Iceland. For those seeking culture, the museums of Reykjanes , such as the Museum of Rock’n Roll and the Viking World, are an excellent choice. Furthermore, the Reykjanes region also offers a nice selection of restaurants and cafés and the world-renowned Blue Lagoon spa. 

Below are a few recommendations for places to see in Reykjanes peninsula, and for further exploring, we recommend checking out the local travel site VisitReykjanes.is. 

11 SIGHTS ON THE REYKJANES PENINSULA 

Fagradalsfjall volcano on Reykjanes peninsula erupted in 2021 and again in 2022

1. Fagradalsfjall volcano, which erupted in 2021, 2022 and 2023, is a popular hiking location for a good reason. The new black basalt lava field is still hot and steaming, and the new spatter crater is a stunning sight. There are several hiking paths to choose from, with different lengths and levels of difficulty. Make sure you are prepared for the hike to the volcano and check the map and conditions on-site .

2. Grindavík town . The small fishing village Grindavík is only 10 km from the Fagradalsfjall eruption site. Perfect location for a pit stop before and after hiking to the volcano. You can choose from several restaurants serving local fish, shops for food and necessities and have a dip in hot tubs in the local swimming pool after a hike.

3. Brimketill is a natural pond on the rocky coast west of Grindavík. It magnifies the ocean waves and makes big splashes that are fun to see - from a safe distance. The folklore tells of the pond being used as a bath by the giantess Oddný. However, bathing in Brimketill is NOT for humans and caution around the pond is advised due to unexpected waves.

4. Reykjanestá is the uttermost south-western tip of the peninsula with a stunning landscape where the North-Atlantic Ocean Ridge comes ashore, manifested in rifts, fumaroles, craters, and lava from recent eruptions. The black sea stacks close to shore add extra decor, as well as the distant Eldey (meaning fire island) that rises steeply on the horizon. Eldey island is home to one of the largest northern gannet colonies in the world, with about 16.000 breeding pairs. EldeyIt is closed for bird protection, but you can watch the gannets live on a webcam here.

Gunnuhver is a powerful fumarole in one of the Reykjanes peninsulas geothermal areas

5. Gunnuhver is a powerful fumarole located at the tip of Reykjanes. The steam-rich hot spring takes its name from folklore about Gunna the ghost that was lured into the fumarole.

6. Stampar craters. The small, beautifully shaped Stampar is a series of craters formed in the Reykjanes Fires in 1210-1240. They line along a NE-SW fissure that marks the direction of the rift zone between the continents. 

7. The Bridge Between Continents is a symbolic footbridge across one of the fissures marking the boundary between the North-American and Eurasian tectonic plates. It is located in Sandvík bay, one of the main locations for Clint Eastwood's films Flags of our Fathers and Letters from Iwo Jima.

8. Hafnaberg is a bird cliff on the southern coast of Reykjanes that stretches 15 km and reaches 40 m in height. During the nesting season (from April to July) Krísuvíkurbjarg is home to various seabirds, fulmars, kittiwakes and auks like puffins and guillemots. 

Garðskagaviti is one of Iceland's many interesting lighthouses.

9. Selatangar is a historical site with relics from a medieval fishing station that was abandoned in 1880. The remains of the fishers huts and sheds were stockfish was stored can still be seen.

10. Seltún is a colorful geothermal area located on the banks of the Krýsuvík lake in the central part of the Reykjanes peninsula with bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles and boiling springs. 

11. Garðskagaviti is a lighthouse in the small village of Garður at the north-western tip of the Reykjanes peninsula and a popular spot for birdwatching and for northern lights during the winter. Two lighthouses, the old and new one, reflect different styles and architecture that becomes noticeable as you travel around Iceland.

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Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland: Things to Do, Itinerary, Map & Practical Tips

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: April 24, 2024

Are you looking for something nice to do near Reykjavik or a day trip off the beaten tourist path in Iceland? Or maybe you stumbled upon this article when researching what there is to see and do in Reykjanes Peninsula ? Or you are wondering what to expect from Reykjanes Peninsula tours and if it’s worth taking a tour and which one? You came to the right place!

This post should answer all your questions about visiting the Reykjanes Peninsula and give you plenty of inspiration and ideas for exploring this beautiful area, probably one of the most underrated places in Iceland.

In case you are wondering if Reykjanes Peninsula is worth it, yes, it absolutely is!

I spent quite a lot of time researching the best things to do in Reykjanes Peninsula that are worth your time the most. You can also read about a fun activity that we did in Reykjanes, something that made our visit to Reykjanes Peninsula unforgettable .

Further in this post, you can read about a few lesser-known places of Reykjanes ; hidden gems that we absolutely loved. At the bottom of this article, you can also find a suggested Reykjanes Peninsula itinerary for one day and a map indicating all the places mentioned in this article. Find out!

Visiting Reykjanes Peninsula – Overview:

• Why Visit Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland
• Reykjanes Peninsula Tours
• Best Things to Do in Reykjanes Peninsula
• Map of the Best Places to See in Reykjanes Peninsula
• One day in Reykjanes Peninsula – Suggested Itinerary

Where to Stay on Reykjanes Peninsula

Driving on reykjanes peninsula.

Reykjanes Peninsula & Why It’s Worth Visiting

Southern Peninsula Reykjanesskagi , or simply, Reykjanes Peninsula is home to Iceland’s main international airport, Keflavik, and the country’s most popular tourist attraction, the Blue Lagoon.

Because of the Blue Lagoon, locals now call the road around Reykjanes Peninsula The Blue Diamond Circle . They seem to love naming places ‘circles’ in Iceland – think of the famous Golden Circle east of Reykjavik and the Diamond Circle in the north of the country.

Reykjanes Peninsula is just a short ride from Reykjavik , from the Golden Circle, and from the South Coast of Iceland – one by one extremely popular places that all tourists visit. Yet, Reykjanes Peninsula is still completely overlooked by most visitors traveling to Iceland…

I have to admit that it also took me many trips to Iceland before I finally discovered the Reykjanes Peninsula. The moment we arrived, I couldn’t believe that it took us so long to visit…

Reykjanes Peninsula is a true gem, it’s like the very best of Iceland in a nutshell!

Stunning coastlines with lighthouses, dormant volcanoes surrounded by endless lava fields, colorful geothermal areas with steam and boiling water coming out of the ground, quirky little towns and some of the most adventurous activities in the country… These are just a couple of things that make Reykjanes Peninsula one of the most special places in Iceland.

Yet, it’s so little known and there are just a few tourists around. There were moments when it felt as if we were traveling in the highlands of Iceland (luckily, the main roads here are in perfect condition and are incomparable to those in the highlands).

I am convinced that Reykjanes Peninsula will see a tourism boom in the near future, but for now, it’s quiet and undiscovered. So get there before the rest of the world finds out!

Reykjanes Peninsula tours

If you are looking for the best Reykjanes Peninsula tours as a day trip from Reykjavik, you can find the best selection here . One of the biggest advantages of taking a tour is that you can learn a lot of interesting facts and stories about this region. And there are many stories to be told about Reykjanes indeed…

One of the best-rated group tours is this volcanic hike tour with the Blue Lagoon option .

It’s also possible to visit Reykjanes Peninsula if you have a long layover or a stopover in Keflavik airport. You could look for a private stopover tour or rent a car and take a self-drive trip following our suggestions for the best places to see in Reykjanes Peninsula (see below).

What to See and Do in Reykjanes Peninsula

When I googled ‘things to do in Reykjanes Peninsula’, Google presented me with a huge list of places to see. More than 50(!) attractions… First, I had no idea that there was so much to do in such a small area, and second, who would have the time…

So if you are like us and have just one day (or even just half a day) in Reykjanes Peninsula and want to see the best of the area, then take a look at our picks for some of the very best places to visit. It’s in no way a complete list of things to do in Reykjanes Peninsula. Just a small selection of some of the very best places and a couple of hidden gems that we loved the most.

We skipped some popular sites like the Blue Lagoon (because we’ve been there before), but since it’s such a popular place, I included some essential information for you. I also mentioned a few other places that we didn’t visit due to lack of time or interest.

I want to show you all the best options of what to see in Reykjanes Peninsula, so that you can use this list as an inspirational guide to help you decide what’s worth YOUR time the most. Find out!

Without further ado, here are some of the best things to do in Reykjanes Peninsula :

• Valahnúkamöl Cliffs

If you have limited time for Reykjanes Peninsula, the coastal area called Valahnúkamöl is probably worth your time the most. The rugged coast and the islands here have been shaped by lava and fierce waves of the sea. Even on a calm day, standing here feels like you are at the end of the world. Visit on a stormy day and you’ll feel the power of nature like nowhere else.

From Valahnúkur mountain and the surrounding coast, you can see a rocky little island called Eldey . It’s a protected bird reserve and home to the world’s largest gannet colony. The area has always been home to thousands of birds, but some of the species are now extinct.

You can’t miss the Last Great Auk statue by sculptor Todd McGrain, created as part of his Lost Bird Project. You can read the sad story of these giant birds on the informational panels. The 80cm (33”)-tall birds were hunted as trophies. The last breeding pair of Great Auk birds was killed on Eldey islet in 1844.

Practical information: If you have the time, you could spend an hour or two here. You can hike around the coast, just be careful with the sneaky waves, the wind, and the nesting birds. But even a short photo stop of a few minutes is really worth the drive.

The road to get here is good, but the last part is gravel and might be a bit more difficult to get to in a small car in winter. The parking area is really bumpy and wasn’t fun even in a 4WD in summer. Hopefully, they’ll fix this in the near future.

Reykjanesviti – Reykjanes Lighthouse

Built in 1878, destroyed by an earthquake a few years later, and rebuilt in 1907-1908, Reykjanesviti is the oldest lighthouse in Iceland. It’s located in the southwestern part of Reykjanes Peninsula, just near the Valahnúkamöl area.

You’ll pass here on your way to Valahnúkamöl and you can see the lighthouse on Bæjarfell hill from the road. If you have some time to spare, you should climb up the small hill for some really nice views.

The lighthouse has a light signal height of 69 meters above sea level. The building itself isn’t that special, but the surrounding area is really nice. Since you are visiting the Valahnúkur area anyway, you should definitely include the Reykjanes Lighthouse in your Reykjanes Peninsula itinerary.

Practical information: Reykjanes Lighthouse is easy to reach and the road is paved. You can see it from the car and you’ll need less than 10 minutes to walk up to the lighthouse.

A geothermal hot spring Gunnuhver is another nice stop when visiting the southwestern part of Reykjanes Peninsula. This steaming colorful geothermal area is a great place to see where Reykjanes (meaning ‘smokey point’) and Reykjavik (meaning ‘smokey bay’) get their names from.

You’ll see steam coming out of the ground in various places in Reykjanes Peninsula, but here at Gunnuhver, it seems to be stronger than anywhere else. There are also geysers spouting boiling water out of the ground. Make sure to stay on the boardwalks and admire all this incredible geothermal activity from a safe distance.

Just like in many other places in Iceland, this area also has its own story. Gunnuhver is supposedly named after a witch/ghost Gunna, who haunted the whole peninsula. She was then trapped by magic and lured into the boiling water.

Practical information: Gunnuhver is easy to reach and has two parking areas. One of the parkings is just off the main road, the other one can be accessed from road 425 on the way to Reykjanes Lighthouse. Count 10-20 minutes for a visit.

• Bridge Between Continents

The Bridge Between Two Continents is another popular attraction in Reykjanes Peninsula. Once again, ‘popular’ here means that you’ll probably meet another ten people or so…

It’s a small footbridge over a fissure where it’s easy to see the moving of the tectonic plates between Europe and North America. Together with Thingvellir National Park, this is one of the best places to see the place where two continents meet in Iceland.

This bridge was built as a symbol of the connection between Europe and America. It’s located really close to Keflavik airport and it is a fun short stop when visiting the Reykjanes Peninsula.

TIP: You can take some fun photos of you ‘holding’ the bridge when standing in the sandy gulf between the continents.

Practical information: Bridge Between the Continents is located in Sandvík, about 20 min drive from the airport. The parking is well indicated, just next to the main road 425. Count 15-20 minutes for a visit here.

Seltún Geothermal Area near Krysuv í k

The Seltún geothermal area near an old abandoned farm of Krysuvík has several nice stops. The main and the most visited attraction here is Seltúnshverir, which literally means the hot springs at Seltún.

Seltúnshverir , also called Krýsuvíkurhverir , is an easily-accessible colorful geothermal area with bubbling mud pools and hot springs. It also has a strong sulfur smell that is typical to all geothermal areas.

There are several similar geothermal areas in Iceland, but most of them are in the highlands or in the north of the country. So if you are visiting Reykjavik and the South Coast, and want to experience a real colorful stinky geothermal area in Iceland, Seltundshverir in Reykjanes Peninsula is probably one of the best places for that.

Just as with all geothermal areas, the colors are at their best when the sun is shining. But even on a grey day, it’s a nice short stop, one that is also included in all Reykjanes Peninsula tours.

On the other side of the road from Seltún parking you can find another interesting stop, Fúlipollur . Fúlipollur are two mud pools that stink of sulfur (even more than Seltunshverir). It’s just a short stop, but not a must.

The third stop in this area is Grænavatn , or the Green Lake. It’s a deep lake inside an explosion crater. The color of the lake varies: usually, it’s green, but it can also turn blue, or grey (if you visit on a rainy day, as we did). If the weather is good, you could take a short walk here.

Practical information: This geothermal area is located next to a paved road 42, about 40 minutes drive from Reykjavik, 45 minutes from Keflavik International airport, and 30 minutes from the Blue Lagoon. Count half an hour to an hour if you are planning to stop at all three places mentioned above.

Krýsuvíkurberg Cliffs

Together with Valahnúkamöl coast, the cliffs at Krýsuvíkurberg are probably the most beautiful places in Reykjanes Peninsula. The coastline here is simply stunning!

The steep black cliffs stretch for a distance of over 4 kilometers and in summer, you’ll see tens of thousands of birds nesting here. If you are lucky, you might even get to see puffins (in season), but that’s not the reason to come here. The scenery is phenomenal and to me, seeing the Krisuvikurberg cliffs was one of the main highlights of our day in Reykjanes Peninsula.

You can see some really nice landscape just near the parking area at the end of the gravel road, but you can also hike along the coast if you have more time. Just be careful and hold on to your kids – there are no railings here and the wind can be really strong.

Practical information: The cliffs at Krýsuvíkurberg are best seen from a small parking area, 3km off the main road 427. Turn off at the small sign to Krýsuvíkurbjarg and follow the gravel road for 3 kilometers. This road was in good condition in summer, but at one point we had to cross a tiny water stream. It wasn’t deep, but it’s probably best to only come here if you have a 4WD. I read that some people park the car just off the main road and walk to the cliffs in about 45 minutes.

Count at least half an hour for a visit (driving the gravel road and a short photo stop included). This is also a great picnic spot and we had our picnic lunch with the view of the cliffs.

Strandarkirkja

As I said, pretty much every place on Reykjanes Peninsula has its own story. The story of the 12-th century Strandarkirkja is that of hope and miracles. It’s even often referred to as the ‘miracle church’.

According to a local legend, a group of sailors was caught in a storm off the southern coast that is known for its hidden reefs and rough coastline. They prayed to God promising to build a church at the place where they could safely land ashore. An angel of light appeared and guided them through the rough sea into a safe bay. The sailors kept their promise and built the wooden church, Strandakirkja.

The nearby bay is named Engilsvík (Angel’s Bay) and the area has been a kind of pilgrimage place with many Icelanders coming here to pray for all kinds of miracles. Strandakirkja has many miracles attributed to it. The church has been so popular and had so many supporters that it was one of the richest churches in Iceland for a long time.

The coastal area next to the church is also nice to see. The power of the sea and the crashing waves makes you realize how tough the life of the fishermen should have been. You’d also start believing in miracles if you survived a storm here!

Practical information: Strandarkirkja is located in Selvogur, 2 km off the main road 427. The road is paved and there is a big car parking by the church. The church is open to everyone and you can visit inside free of charge. There are public bathroom facilities as well.

ATV tour in Grindavík

If you are looking for something truly unique to do in Reykjanes Peninsula, have a driver’s license, and have a sense of adventure, you could try a quad-bike ride near Grindavik . What a special way to experience this incredible scenery!

Riding these powerful all-terrain vehicles, you can get to places that you’d never see otherwise. Not to mention that it’s a fun activity in itself. Just be warned – it’s a thrilling ride, to say the least. Our kids absolutely loved it, but they didn’t have to do the driving… 🙂 Once you get used to the vehicle and figure out how it reacts to what you do, it’s really fun. Still, it was a pure adrenaline rush and an experience I won’t quickly forget.

We drove past Grindavík lighthouse, through the lava fields, and up to a high mountain from where we had 360° views of Southwestern Reyjanes Peninsula. We could even see the Blue Lagoon in the distance.

Practical information: You can book the ATV tour on Reykjanes Peninsula here . They allow kids from 6 years old as well – one per quad, sitting behind a parent. With three kids, we arranged that one of them could ride together with the guide. You get helmets, gloves, a warm overall, and also additional waterproof suits if necessary, so no worries about getting cold.

Blue Lagoon

The geothermal pool Blue Lagoon has been Iceland’s most popular tourist attraction for years. You can love or hate it, but it’s a bit like seeing the Eifel Tower in Paris or the Tower Bridge in London – you have to experience it once.

Visiting the Blue Lagoon is, therefore, considered one of the best things to do in Iceland. So it’s definitely not to be missed when visiting the Reykjanes Peninsula.

You probably have seen countless pictures of the milky-blue water surrounded by black lava. Yes, it’s that blue and yes, it’s that beautiful. The water is coming from the nearby geothermal plant and is hottest near the vents where it comes out. It’s easy to find a spot where the water temperature is to your liking, get a drink at the pool bar, a silica mud mask, and spend several hours here…

There are saunas, and steam rooms, you can have lunch at the restaurant, book a massage or one of the spa treatments, and spend half a day at the Blue Lagoon… Just make sure to book everything in advance – from entrance tickets to spa treatments or restaurant reservations.

Practical information: Count at least 2 hours for a visit to the Blue Lagoon, but you can stay as long as you want to (the ticket is valid the whole day). You can find practical info and book your tickets here . If your ticket doesn’t include towels, we recommend packing quick-drying travel towels . They will come in handy in other pools in Iceland as well.

The best way to get to the Blue Lagoon is by car or by taking the Blue Lagoon shuttle bus from Keflavik airport or from Reykjavik .

Selatangar is one of the lesser-known places, off the beaten path in Reykjanes Peninsula. To us, this was a true hidden gem, one of the most special places we visited in Reykjanes Peninsula.

Selatangar is an old fishing station used from the Middle Ages until the end of the 19th century. It has been abandoned since 1884. You can still see the ruins of many old fishermen’s huts and sheds lined along the coastline here, but you’ll have to make some effort to see them. The road to get here is really bad (see practical info below) and even once you get to the small car parking area, there are no signs indicating where to go.

At the car parking, there is an informational sign explaining what the place is, but it doesn’t say where to find it. Once we found the ruins, next to them, on the ground, we also found an informational panel explaining the history of the place and how life here used to be.

It seems as if Selatangar is one of those landmarks that Icelanders aren’t willing to share much. The signs look recent, yet they haven’t been maintained. This might also have to do with the harsh environment – it’s possible that signs would easily blow away with the wind.

Good to know: If you look well, you’ll see a wooden pole on the left side of the car parking when looking towards the sea. behind the pole, you can find a narrow walking path leading through the lava fields to the east.

Follow this path and in about 10-15 minutes you’ll see the ruins of the first fishermen’s shed in the distance. From there, you can continue further along the coast. If you have the time and patience, you can find ruins of about 20 structures.

Farmers from the surrounding area rowed out to sea in open boats from here and used the huts and sheds to sleep and store and dry the fish. It’s a really special, historic place, and one that makes you realize what life was like in Iceland in the past.

To us, places like Selatangar are some of the best and most memorable travel experiences. If you love offbeat places and have some time to spare (and drive a car that can handle the rough road), I really recommend visiting here. If you rather just stick to the most popular attractions of Reykjanes Peninsula, you can skip Selatangar.

TIP: From the car parking you can also walk straight to the sea. The waves here are unbelievable – the incredible power of nature! Make sure to keep a safe distance from the water.

Practical information: Located about 2km off Road 427 between Grindavik and Krysuvik, Seltangar can be reached by a really rough road that is challenging even for a big 4WD. The road is well indicated with a sign. 4×4 jeep is the best way to get here, but you can drive this road in a regular 4WD as well. We did it (very slowly) and we met other people who came here in a 4WD car, in a camper and also in a minibus. If you have plenty of time, you could also walk 2km from the main road.

As a prime fishing location, Garður was the biggest village of Reykjanes Peninsula in the past. Nowadays people mostly come here to see Garðskagi headland , a beautiful windy area with two lighthouses and lots of seabirds.

Garðskagi, at the northwestern tip of Reykjanes Peninsula, offers magnificent views. It’s one of the best places to see a sunset in Reykjanes and in winter, it’s a great spot for watching the Northern Lights. If you are lucky, you might spot some seals, dolphins, or whales here too.

In this area, you’ll find two lighthouses. The Old Garður Lighthouse is quite low and stands very close to the sea. It’s therefore not always visible in a storm. That’s why a ‘new’ Garður lighthouse was built nearby in 1944. With its 28 meters, this new lighthouse is the highest lighthouse in Iceland. From the top, you can get near 360° sea views.

Other things to do in Gardur include a small folk museum, the Old Lighthouse Cafe (Röstin Restaurant), and a local swimming pool with hot tubs. It’s a great budget-friendly alternative to the Blue Lagoon.

Good to know: There is also a really nice local pool in the nearby Keflavik town.

Fagradalsfjall & Merdalir Volcanos

On March 19, 2021, the Fagradalsfjall Volcano erupted filling the nearby Geldingadalir Valley with burning lava. Immediately, it became the most popular sight of Reykjanes Peninsula attracting locals and tourists alike.

Just a year later, Merdalir Volcano erupted nearby. And a few months later, there was yet another eruption…

There have been some serious eruptions at the end of 2023 – the beginning of 2024 in this area again. At the moment of the last update, all volcano eruptions have stopped. However, the lava flows are still very interesting to see.

TIP: There are lots of hiking tours to these volcanos , many of which also include some of the highlights of the Reykjanes Peninsula. Some tours also visit the Blue Lagoon. Since the situation changes all the time, you really need to check the most up-to-date information if you want to visit this area.

More Things to Do in Reykjanes Peninsula

As already mentioned, there is so much to see and do in Reykjanes Peninsula that it’s impossible to experience it all in one day. If you have more time, you may also want to visit the following places on Reykjanes:

• Keflavik town – the waterfront area is nice.
• Viking World Museum in Njardavik.
• Hvalsneskirkja in Hvalnes.
• Hafnarberg sea cliffs near Hafnir.
• Lake Kleifarvatn.

Map of Best Places to See in Reykjanes Peninsula

Further below you can find our suggestions on how to see the best of Reykjanes Peninsula in one day.

To help you plan your trip, I created this map indicating all the best things to do in Reykjanes Peninsula. Take a look!

You can click on the icons to see more information.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

How to See the Best of Reykjanes Peninsula in One Day – Itinerary

There are many ways to plan your day in Reykjanes Peninsula. It depends on where you start, where you end, and on how much time you have. If you plan well, it’s possible to see all the main Reykjanes Peninsula attractions in one day.

We stayed along the Golden Circle the night before and we stayed at a hotel next to Keflavik airport after visiting Reykjanes Peninsula. It was our last day in Iceland and we returned our rental car in the evening and flew home the next morning.

Here is a suggested Reykjanes Peninsula self-drive itinerary for one day , based on how we did it:

• Strandakirkja
• Seltún Geothermal Area
• Krysuvikurberg Cliffs
• ATV tour of Reykjanes Geopark
• Reykjanes Lighthouse
• Gunnuhver Geothermal Area
• Garður (also nice at sunset)
• End your day at the Blue Lagoon or one of the local pools

As already mentioned, you can easily visit Reykjanes Peninsula as a day trip from Reykjavik. On the other hand, its location next to the airport makes it easy to visit Reykjanes just after arriving in Iceland or on the last day of your Iceland road trip, as we did.

There are several smaller self-catering accommodations scattered along the Reykjanes Peninsula, but the biggest town and probably the best place to stay in Reykjanes Peninsula is Keflavik town , close to the airport. That’s also where you’ll find most restaurants, shops, and other facilities.

We stayed in Keflavik several times – once at the B&B Hotel Keflavik Airport (it offers a free shuttle bus to the airport) and once in the town center. There are several hotels there – Hotel Keflavik , Hotel Keilir , Hotel Berg , Park Inn by Radisson – and a few other accommodations.

Keflavik town center is a great place to stay if you have a car. The swimming pool is nearby, there are restaurants, and it has a really nice waterfront area where you can take a long walk. However, none of the hotels in the town center offer a free shuttle to the airport. Taxi from Keflavik town to the airport will cost you around 25-35 EUR (depends on the taxi too – we once paid 25 EUR and once – 35 EUR for the exact same ride).

If you are looking for a camping in Reykjanes Peninsula, there are several options. One of the most scenic locations is probably that of the Gardskagi campsite in Gardur.

If you are wondering what the roads are like on Reykjanes Peninsula, they are comparable to the rest of Iceland. The main roads are good two-lane paved roads with no shoulder – just like in most other regions in Iceland.

Several attractions are a bit off the main roads and there you’ll have to drive on gravel. Gravel roads on Reykjanes Peninsula are in varying conditions: from perfect flat roads that are doable in any car to really rough 4WD tracks that are almost impassable if you don’t have a 4×4 super jeep.

So if you are planning to get off the main roads in Reykjanes Peninsula, you should get a 4WD as a minimum. Make sure to do some research and try to find out what each specific road is like.

Please note that driving in Iceland in winter is a whole other story than driving in summer. If you are planning on renting a car in winter, please read what to expect when driving in Iceland in winter .

So, this is our guide to visiting Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland. I included as much information as I think could be useful, but if you have any additional questions, don’t hesitate to leave a reply below and I’ll try to help.

Traveling to Iceland soon? We have visited many times and put together multiple travel guides like this one. Here you can find our complete travel guide to Iceland . Check it out!

READ ALSO: Where to Stay in Reykjavik

More tips for your trip to Iceland:

• When to go: When to Visit Iceland – Summer vs. Winter
• Where to stay: Where to Stay in Iceland
• What to see: Must-see Places in Iceland
• Reykjavik: Best of Reykjavik & Reykjavik 1-day Itinerary
• Airport transfers: How to Get to Reykjavik from Keflavik Airport
• Budget: How Expensive is Iceland (& How to Save Money)
• Packing: What to Wear in Iceland in Winter and What to Pack for Iceland in Summer
• Tours: Best Tours and Day Trips in Iceland
• Winter day trips: Best Winter Day Trips from Reykjavik

Iceland road trip Itinerary suggestions:

• General Itinerary Suggestions: Iceland Itinerary Suggestions for 1 to 14 Days
• Complete Ring: Iceland Route 1 Road Trip
• South Coast: 4 Days in Iceland – Best Itinerary
• South & West Iceland: Iceland Itinerary for 7 Days
• North, West & the Highlands: Iceland Itinerary for 10 Days
• The Highlands: Iceland’s Highlands Private Tour

Destination guides for popular and lesser-known places all over Iceland :

• South Iceland: Best Iceland’s South Coast Attractions
• West Iceland: Snaefellsnes Peninsula
• Northwest: Westman Islands
• Reykjavik: Perlan Museum in Reykjavik
• North Iceland: Things to Do in and near Myvatn & Things to Do in Siglufjordur
• Highlands: Haifoss Waterfall and Places to See Nearby

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

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Friday 17th of March 2023

Thank you so much for your info. I am studying your site closely in preparation for my 7-day trip in August. I'm wondering if you have heard if the Raufarholshellir lava tube is worth doing. We are planning to take your suggestion and do the ATV tour out of Grindavik for sure.

Monday 20th of March 2023

Hi Hattie, yes, I heard great things about Raufarhólshellir lava cave. It's also very close to Reykjavik and you only need an hour, so it's pretty easy to visit. Just be sure to reserve a time slot in advance!

Tuesday 10th of March 2020

Thanks so much for all of this excellent information! We are planning to do this itinerary, the Iceland 4-Day and Snaefellnes Peninsula in September 2020. Do we need a 4WD vehicle? In some places in the itineraries you mention bad or bumpy roads but then in other places that it might not be necessary to have 4WD in summer. If you had the plans that we have, what would you do?

Hi Candy, normally, you don't need a 4WD for our 4-day itinerary or Snaefellnes/Reykjanes Peninsulas in September. However, there are some places that you won't be able to reach in a regular car - for example, the two orange lighthouses in Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Also Krysuvikurberg on Reykjanes Peninsula requires a somewhat higher car. So it's really your call, depending on what exactly you want to do. If you plan to drive any of the F-roads, make sure you rent the right car that is actually allowed on them. Otherwise, just stick to the Ring Road and the main roads and you'll be fine in a regular vehicle.

My own personal choice is to go with a 4WD for all Iceland trips (+ full insurance, always). We always end up venturing a bit off the main road, exploring some less visited areas, and it's nice not to have to worry about the car or insurance not covering our adventures. Mind you, we don't do anything extremely adventurous, but it's good for our peace of mind. On our last trip, we rented a Kia Sorrento 4WD (we travelled with 3 kids, so needed a big car). But if it's just two of you, you may be fine with a smaller/cheaper car like a Dacia Duster 4x4.

Hope this helps. You'll love Iceland!

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Iceland with helpful guides and tips!

11 Best Things To Do In Reykjanes Peninsula You Shouldn’t Miss

March 18, 2023 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   Leave a Comment

Looking for the best things to do in Reykjanes Peninsula? We’ve got you covered with some of the most fascinating sites that the southwest of Iceland has to offer. 

Planning your trip to Reykjavik last minute?

Make sure to book ahead! Hotels and tours often sell out the closer you get to your trip. Here are our top picks for Reykjavik!

Top Experiences And Tours In Reykjavik:

• Golden Circle Full-Day Tour From Reykjavik (Likely To Sell Out!)
• Northern Lights Bus Tour (Go with a local guide)
• Whale Watching & Marine Life Cruise (Often sells out!)
• Keflavik > Reykjavik Bus Airport Transfer  (Skip the line!)
• South Of Iceland Full Day Trip   (Our pick!)

Top Hotels In Reykjavik:

• 201 Hotel (Highly rated!)
• Reykjavik Residence Apartment Hotel (Includes a kitchen)
• Center Hotels Plaza (Central location in Old Town)
• R13-A Townhouse Hotel (Great for families!)

The Reykjanes Peninsula often gets overlooked for the more popular south coast, Golden Circle, or Ring Road tourist routes, but given its proximity to the Keflavik Airport and its unique natural landscape, it should be given its time in the spotlight. 

Many of the stops along this route are quick, leaving you ample time to pack in a full schedule. Now hop in the car or book a tour because the lava rock and rocky seas of the Reykjanes Peninsula await you!

What Is The Reykjanes Peninsula and Why You Should Visit

You’re driving away from the Keflavik Airport after just landing in Iceland and what is the first thing you see? The endless lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula. Depending on the time of year they’ll be blanketed with snow or moss, but they stretch as far as the eye can see. 

The Reykjanes Peninsula is geologically fascinating as a region of high volcanic and geothermal activity thanks to its location along the Mid-Atlantic Rift. Unsurprisingly the entire peninsula has been named a UNESCO Global Geopark.

You’ll have the opportunity to walk between continents, be enveloped by steam in otherworldly landscapes, and watch the raging Atlantic Ocean crash against jagged walls of lava rock. 

If that’s not enough, the Reykjanes Peninsula is home to the Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland’s most well-known tourist attractions. Soaking in the warm waters of the lagoon is a surefire way to forget any worries and relax to the fullest. 

Best Reykjanes Peninsula Tours

Though we’re giving you a selection of the best activities on Reykjanes Peninsula, perhaps you’d like to take the planning out of your trip altogether. In this case, you might consider picking a tour and letting the tour company and guide lead you to the best spots.

In some cases, you’ll be required to take a tour, such as at the Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel where one of four different guided tour options is the only way to view the tunnel. 

For the rest of the peninsula, you’ll have the option of joining a tour leaving from Reykjavik or renting a car and exploring on your own. 

If you’ve decided on taking a tour, you’ll want to consider the Guided Volcano and Lava Field Hike with Geopark or the Volcano Eruption Site and Reykjanes Tour . 

These tours cover many of the most popular Reykjanes sites such as the Gunnuhver Hot Springs and the bridge between continents, but they also give you a glimpse into the most recent volcanic activity on the peninsula. 

On both tours, you’ll get to walk the landscape around the Meradalir Volcano that erupted on August 3, 2022. The Guided Volcano and Lava Field Hike tour will also take you to the Geldingadalur Volcano which erupted on March 19, 2021. 

Though the volcanoes are no longer actively erupting, it’s a wonderful opportunity for you to see the country’s most recent lava formations up close. 

Getting To The Reykjanes Peninsula

Regardless of how many total vacation days you have in Iceland, a trip around the Reykjanes Peninsula is easily accomplished thanks to its proximity to Reykjavik, Selfoss (the largest south coast town), and the geothermally active south coast area of Hveragerði.

If you choose to take a tour you’ll find plenty of options leaving from Reykjavik. If however, you’d like the flexibility of exploring on your own time, a rental car is the way to go. 

Many of the best things to do in Reykjanes Peninsula can be reached in a 2×2 vehicle, but there are a couple of sites with rockier roads that are best reached in a 4×4.

Since the Keflavik Airport is on the peninsula it makes a trip to the Blue Lagoon particularly easy if you choose to visit right after landing or at the end of your vacation on your way back to the airport. 

There are a number of bus transport options including the official Destination Blue Lagoon bus that will take you from Keflavik (or Reykjavik) to the Blue Lagoon and back. 

Map Of Reykjanes Peninsula

If you’re a more visual person we’ve provided a map so you can see where this list of things to do in Reykjanes Peninsula takes you and the peninsula’s location in relation to the Keflavik Airport, Reykjavik, Selfoss, and Hveragerði. 

Take A Guided Tour Through The Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel

One of the best things to do in Reykjanes Peninsula with kids is down below the earth’s surface just 30 minutes from the capital. The Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel stretches for 4,500 ft drawing visitors from around the world all year round to its otherworldly depths. 

This lava tunnel is accessed through a 1 hour guided tour where you’ll be led with the help of provided helmets and headlights through the main part of the tunnel. The tour cost is reduced for teenagers and free for kids aged 3-11. 

If you are an adult wishing to go further and have the stamina to do so, you can join the 3-4 hour Lava Falls Adventure Tour.

As you walk through this natural wonder you’ll see colorful, mineral-rich walls and natural skylights where the tunnel’s roof caved in. You’ll also be remarkably in tune with the sounds of the cave as you push further into the darkness. 

Get Envolped By Steam At Gunnuhver

One of the most hauntingly eerie of the Reykjanes tourist attractions is Gunnuhver, home to Iceland’s largest mud pool with fiercely boiling 570F seawater. In addition to the mud pots, you’ll find steam billowing from the ground in clouds so large it feels as though they could consume you. 

In addition to the somewhat eerie appearance of this geothermally active site, the story behind its name involves a suspected witch named Gudrun whose spirit is said to be trapped in the hot springs. 

If you’re up for feeling a bit of mist on your face you can view the hot springs up close from a ramp. If you’d rather opt for the zoomed-out view from a distance you’ll find a second ramp that gives you a more complete picture of the area. This is one of the coolest places to visit in Iceland!

Walk From North America To Europe At The Bridge Between Continents

The Bridge Between Continents allows you the unique opportunity to walk from North America to Europe in a span of seconds. To cross the Mid Atlantic Ridge where these two tectonic plates are separating at a rate of a couple of centimeters per year, you’ll cross a small 50ft footbridge. 

With basalt columns and a vast volcanic landscape split by a pathway of black sand, you get a sense of the impressive impact these tectonic plates have on the surrounding landscape. 

Also known as Miðlína or Leif the Lucky Bridge (after the famous explorer Leif Erikson), The Bridge Between Continents is one of the top Reykjanes tourist attractions, perfect for a quick but fascinating stop as part of a larger road trip.

Relax And Soak For Hours At The Blue Lagoon

Looking for things to do near Keflavik Airport when you first arrive in Iceland? There’s no nearby stop more iconic than the Blue Lagoon . While there are plenty of wonderful free things to do on Reykjanes Peninsula, if you’re willing to splurge a little, the Blue Lagoon is worth the stop.

The Blue Lagoon is located in the town of Grindavik and has rapidly become one of Iceland’s most popular and luxurious tourist attractions featuring milky blue, mineral-rich waters ideal for relaxing and healing. 

A swim-up bar adds to the luxury, while the surrounding vast fields of lava rock act as a reminder of Iceland’s uniquely beautiful landscape. 

There are limited things to do in Reykjanes Peninsula at night, but given the right weather conditions, the Blue Lagoon can be particularly magical at night. Imagine sitting in the lagoon and looking up at the sky dancing with Northern Lights or being bathed by the summer midnight sun. 

Be sure to book tickets for the Blue Lagoon well in advance of your trip as its popularity and limit on the number of guests per hour make it impossible to get into at the last minute. 

Watch The Birds At Krýsuvíkurberg Cliffs

Avid bird-watchers will agree that the Krýsuvíkurberg Cliffs are among the best places to visit in Reykjanes Peninsula. This is an ideal location to visit in the summer when nearly 60,000 seabirds find refuge among the cliffs to breed. 

Beyond the opportunity to see puffins and peewits among others, the landscape itself is remarkable with layers of lava forming the cliffs that the Atlantic Ocean so fiercely crashes against. 

Driving to a parking lot within easy walking distance of the cliffs is best done in a 4×4 as the road is rocky and requires more attentive navigating. Though the road may not be the easiest, you’ll be greeted at the end with a stunning coastline that might just take your breath away.

Climb To Reykjanesviti Lighthouse Then Take In The Views At Valahnúkamöl

Why not knock out two of the best Reykjanes activities at once? Your first stop will be at Reykjanesviti, Iceland’s oldest lighthouse. Though the original lighthouse was built in 1878, the ensuing destruction from an earthquake led to the current structure being erected from 1907-1908. 

Though you can’t go inside the lighthouse, you can climb up to its base for a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape which includes your next stop, Valahnúkamöl. Be aware that the road from the lighthouse to Valahnúkamöl is not particularly smooth. 

Valahnúkamöl is a stunning seaside cliff (one of many on the Reykjanes Peninsula) formed in a volcanic eruption and made of pillow lava. Stay for a while and take in the views particularly of the volcanic island Eldey, jutting out of the ocean just 9 miles offshore.

Watch Waves Crash Into The Brimketill Lava Rock Pool

Like many of the best things to do in Reykjanes Peninsula, Brimketill takes you seaside. This time you’ll be viewing a fascinating natural pool made of lava rock, molded from many years of taking a beating from the rough Atlantic seas. 

A viewing platform gives you an opportunity to soak in the scene as well as the surrounding landscape. Do not venture down to the pool however as the sharp rock, rough waves, and unpredictable weather make it very dangerous. 

If you enjoy a good backstory, the pool was once named after the giantess Oddný who bathed and washed her clothes in Brimketill before losing track of time and being turned to stone by the morning light. 

Admire The Vibrant Colors And Geothermal Activity At Seltún

Does it smell like rotten eggs? Congratulations, you’ve arrived at one of the top attractions in Reykjanes Peninsula, the Seltún geothermal area. Thanks to its location in the fissure zone of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, Seltún and the greater Krýsuvík area are rampant with geothermal activity.

As you navigate your way along the boardwalk, you’ll see bubbling mud pools and steam rising from the ground, all surrounded by colorful hues of red and yellow courtesy of mineral deposits.

Take a minute to enjoy the educational signs as you walk through the landscape so you can have a better understanding of the geological goings-on around you. 

Admire The Impressive Coastline At Festarfjall

Talk about a dramatic coastline. The ocean waves rolling over a black sand beach against a wall of black cliff is enough to draw you in. 

Pair that with the subglacial volcano Festarfjall and what ensues is a sight that’s equally as stunning and unique as the rest of the Icelandic landscape you’ve been viewing throughout your trip. 

Though a captivating sight at any time of year, a visit to Festarjall might just be one of the best things to do in Reykjanes Peninsula in winter if you’re hoping to get a glimpse of the mountain dusted in a layer of snow that contrasts beautifully with the black of the sand and cliffs. 

Wander The Ruins at Selatangar 

Haunting, tempestuous, seemingly uninhabitable…these are all descriptions that come to mind when visiting the ruins at the old fishing station of Selatangar. Selatangar remained an important fishing hub until 1880, but if you visit now, it’s hard to believe anyone ever braved the rough conditions. 

The ruins that you visit today are nothing more than the foundations of small huts, hardly suitable for fending off the Icelandic storms. The Atlantic Ocean still rages against the black lava rock as cold winds sweep through the area. 

Unsurprisingly, as is the case with a number of the Reykjanes tourist attractions, there is a story behind the location this time involving a ghost named Tanga-Tómas who haunts the area. Whether you encounter a ghost or not, it’s hard to deny the eerie nature of this abandoned fishing village. 

You’ll want to drive a 4×4 vehicle when visiting this site to avoid getting having problems traveling over the rough terrain. 

Stop For A Meal And Groceries In The Town Of Grindavik

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Reykjanes Peninsula before or after a soak at the Blue Lagoon, the town of Grindavik should definitely be on your list. This is an ideal stop for a meal and/or a grocery run at Nettó before heading to your next destination. 

Grindavik centers around the fishing industry. The town is even home to the Saltfish Museum featuring all the information you could want on the country’s former largest export. 

In a town so synonymous with fish, you’d be remiss not the visit Bryggjan for a bite to eat and indulge in their famous Lobster soup or their cod and trout dishes. Looking for a simpler meal? Head to Papa’s Restaurant for delicious pizza. 

We’re thrilled you’ve chosen to embark on a trip around the Reykjanes Peninsula. 

Whether you’re searching for the best things to do in Reykjanes for adults or are traveling with children as a family, these 11 sites are a great place to start for anyone of any age to get a glimpse of the powerful landscape. 

Perhaps you’re visiting landscapes for the haunting thrill of the associated folklore or maybe you’re looking to have your breath taken away by the raw beauty of this southwest Icelandic landscape. Either way, you’re in for a real treat.

If you have any questions as you plan what to do on Reykjanes Peninsula, feel free to leave us a comment below. 

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13 Things to do on the Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland (Map & Itinerary)

Everyone visiting Iceland sees part of the Reykjanes (pronounced Reyk-ee-ness) Peninsula, as this is where the Keflavík International Airport is located. You will also find Iceland’s most popular tourist attraction, the Blue Lagoon, on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Yet there is so much more to see that most visitors miss. It is very easy to include a day trip or include the Reykjanes Peninsula on your Iceland itinerary .

Sadly, the Reykjanes Peninsula is often overlooked by visitors touring the Golden Circle or the South Coast. Don’t make that mistake! If you are wondering if visiting the Reykjanes Peninsula is worth it, I’ll tell you absolutely yes! There is plenty to see and do on the Reykjanes Peninsula and its proximity to the international airport and capital city of Reykjavik really make it a must-visit destination.

In this post I will tell you why to visit the Reykjanes Peninsula , the best things to do on the Reykjanes Peninsula (with a map of those destinations), and how to organize a one-day itinerary for visiting the Reykjanes Peninsula .

Why Visit the REykjanes Peninsula

Reykjanes means “steamy” and this volcanic area on the southwesternmost tip of Iceland features plenty of geothermal fields, ancient craters, and fissures that make it live up to its name. The Reykjanes Peninsula is also home to the Geldingadalur Volcano, the site of Iceland’s most recent volcanic eruptions.

The Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark covers the Reykjanes Peninsula, where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge rises above sea level and you can see the boundary between the tectonic plates. Its barren landscape has been compared to the moon and was used as a military base for the U.S. until recently. 

On the Reykjanes Peninsula, you will be able to take in the view from the top of a lighthouse, visit beaches, walk across the bridge between two continents, and see powerful steam vents and geothermal hot pots. You can also see the newest land formations in Iceland at the Geldingadalur volcano lava fields.

If you prefer man-made attractions, of course, there is the famous Blue Lagoon , as well as the Viking Museum, and the Icelandic Museum of Rock and Roll . Read on for a full list of things to do on the Reykjanes Peninsula with a one-day (or more) itinerary, complete with a map and tips.

Getting to the Reykjanes Peninsula

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. All opinions are my own.

It is easy to add a day trip to the Reykjanes Peninsula to a trip to Reykjavik or the South Coast of Iceland. You will need a full day to fit in everything on this itinerary, possibly even extending it to two days depending on how much time you want to spend at the Blue Lagoon or the lava fields.

Or, you could split this up into two days for your arrival day and departure day. When you arrive, hit the Blue Lagoon and then see a few more of the sights. Then on your departure day see if you can visit the Lava Tunnel and another sight, depending on when you flight departs.

Most arriving flights land early in the morning and you need to kill time anyway before checking into your hotel or Airbnb. Also, most departing flights to the U.S. leave in the late afternoon so you can fit in a visit and finish at the airport.

If you are renting a car at the airport for your visit to Iceland, it is easy enough to explore the Reykjanes Peninsula. However, if you are basing yourself out of Reykjavik without a car, you will need to sign up for a tour.

If you book a tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula with Hidden Iceland using promo code WE3TRAVEL, you will save 10 percent.

I’ve done a bit of both. The first time I visited the Reykjanes Peninsula it was part of a small group tour that included sites in Reykjavik and a drop-off at the airport. However, because of others’ earlier drop-off times at KEF airport, I didn’t get to see everything. So when I returned to Iceland to explore Snaefellsnes and the West Fjords , I decided I wanted to see what I missed in Reykjanes as well. Plus it was nice to visit this area when it wasn’t snow-covered this time around!

This time I took a private three-to-four-hour tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula. I had stayed overnight in Reykjavik on my last night and needed to arrange for a FlyBus or transfer to the airport anyway so I filled my downtime with seeing a little bit more of Iceland before flying home. 

Best Things to do on the Reykjanes Peninsula

Here are the top sights and attractions on the Reykjanes Peninsula. I’m listing these in the order that you would visit each attraction if you were planning a one-day Reykjanes Peninsula itinerary from Reykjavik. This would start at the Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel on the way to Reykjanes and finish with a relaxing soak at the Blue Lagoon. Obviously this could be reordered depending on what you most want to visit and any time constraints.

Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel

The Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel is one of the longest and best in Iceland, plus it is easy to get to as it is just 30 minutes from Reykjavik. Tours run approximately one hour and leave on the hour from 9 am to 5 pm. This allows you to get an early start and fit in a full day on the Reykjanes Peninsula.

You will get to see the inner workings of a volcanic eruption as you walk through a lava tube created 5200 years ago during the Leitahraun volcanic eruption. Helmets and lamps are provided but you should dress warmly and wear sturdy shoes to walk over uneven and sometimes wet surfaces.

Book a tour of the Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel

Seltun Geothermal Area and Kleifarvatn Lake

If you are visiting the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa from the airport, you can swing by the Seltun geothermal area and Lake Kleifarvatn afterward. However, if you are starting from Reykjavik, stop at the Seltun geothermal area after your Lava Tunnel tour.

Kleifarvatn Lake is one of the deepest lakes in Iceland and the largest on the Reykjanes peninsula. It is a beautiful spot to photograph because of the volcanic landscape and lava fields surrounding the lake. There is even a belief that a “Loch Ness Monster-like” giant worm and a medium-sized whale live in the lake.

Just down the street, you will find the Seltún Geothermal area. This area features mud pots and hot springs that are easily accessible from the parking lot along a boardwalk. When I visited in the winter this area was snow-covered and I didn’t get to see the beautiful colors that this geothermal area is famous for.

Geldingadalur Volcano

It is not a long walk to the edge of the lava field that was created by the recent eruptions of the Geldingadalur Volcano (also referred to as Fagradalsfjall á Reykjanesi). However, it is a much longer and more challenging hike if you want to go closer to where the eruptions took place.

The volcano isn’t actively erupting at the time of this writing, so there isn’t any active lava flows or eruptions to view. This is always subject to change so I would encourage you to visit the  Safe Travel  website before you embark to check danger levels due to gases, weather, landslides, or falling rocks, etc.

If you do decide to walk all the way out to where the lava was erupting (if it restarts), that hike will take at least a couple of hours, plus time spent taking in the view and experience. Therefore it would be hard to fit in everything on this itinerary and you might need to split your visit into two days or skip some of the sights.

Book a helicopter volcano viewing tour

Grindavík

It makes sense based on location to visit the Blue Lagoon next. However, I still think it is nice to end the day with a relaxing soak after a day full of exploring and hiking. This way you also don’t need to rush your time. However, when you visit is up to you. You can also visit the Blue Lagoon on your arrival or departure day and save your Reykjanes Peninsula itinerary for its own day.

Whether you visit the Blue Lagoon or not, Grindavík is a cute fishing town near the Blue Lagoon. In this small town, you can find hiking trails, swimming facilities, and even one of Iceland’s best golf courses. 

This is also a good stop for lunch. In Grindavík fishing village you will find several good restaurants, such as  Salthúsið Restaurant ,  Bryggjan restaurant (great lobster soup), or Papas restaurant (try the lobster pizza!)

While in Grindavík, also stop by the Brimketill naturally carved pool in the lava on the shore edge west of town. You can take a small set of stairs from the parking lot down to a viewing platform. Just beware that waves can almost reach the parking lot so the stairs can get slippery and you can get soaked.

Gunnuhver / Gudrun’s Geysir

This geothermal area features bubbling mud pools and steaming fissures. The largest feature is the Gunnuhver mud pot. Legend has it that this was named for a ghost who attacked people and shook the houses, which a local reverend was able to get rid of by forcing her into the mud pot. 

When I visited the first time, this area was active but not nearly to the extent that it is today. Today, Gunnuhver shoots high into the air and the spray blows across the viewing platform, so take care with your camera and wear a raincoat. If you visit in the winter, also watch out for ice on the boardwalks because of the spray.

There are two different parking lots and walking paths to access Gunnuhver. Expect to spend around 15 minutes taking in this area. From there, you can choose to walk over to the Reykjanes Lighthouse.

Reykjanes Lighthouse / Reykjanesviti

The first lighthouse built in Iceland was erected here in 1778. However, it collapsed a few years later due to earthquakes. The present lighthouse was constructed in the early 1900s and stands approximately 69 meters above sea level and is 26 meters high. You can’t climb this lighthouse, but you can walk up the hill to the lighthouse and enjoy the view from there.

Valahnúkamöl / Eldey

A short drive past the Reykjanes Lighthouse will bring you to the Valahnúkamöl. This mountain was formed from a volcanic eruption. This rugged, yet scenic spot is also a good chance to learn about the dividing line between the two continents and how it travels from the sea and cuts through Iceland. 

If you have time, you can climb the cliffs, but it is worth at least taking a walk along this coastline. The jagged rocks jutting from the water give evidence of the area’s turbulent formation. 

In the distance, you can see Edley Island. This 77-meter-high rock protrudes out of the sea about 15 kilometers south of the Peninsula. You will need a good lens or binoculars to see it clearly, but today the island is home to the largest Gannet colonies in the world. 

The Great Auk, a now-extinct bird species, had also made its home on a skerry near Eldey. The skerry sank into the sea following volcanic activity in 1830 and the last Great Auk was killed in 1844 for a Danish natural history collector – which is more than ironic. Today you can see a sculpture of a Great Auk from artist Todd McGrain from his “Lost Bird Project” on the shore below Valahnúkur. 

Plan on spending at least an hour exploring the coastline and the cliffs.

Bridge Between Two Continents

The Eurasian and North American plates are moving apart at about a rate of two centimeters per year. On the Reykjanes Peninsula, you can walk across the “Leif the Lucky” bridge, named after Icelandic explorer Leif Erikson. This Bridge between the Continents connects these two plates. 

Here you can cross the 60-foot-long bridge or walk through the sandy soil of the Alfagja rift valley between two continents. It isn’t a lot to look at but the concept of standing between continents is intriguing, hence why people also like to snorkel or dive between the continents in Thingvellir National Park. 

Hvalsneskirkja Sandgerdi

Sandgerði is a fishing community on the northern tip of the peninsula. You will find many holiday houses and a pretty stretch of coastline. If you enjoy checking out some of Iceland’s scenic churches, then be sure to make a stop at Hvalsneskirkja (FYI – kirkja means church in Icelandic.) This black stone church was built in 1885-1887.

Today you can visit the church and well-maintained cemetery, but the church may or may not be open to visitors without an appointment. 

Gardur / Gardskagi

Gardur, which means garden or yard, was named after the earthen walls that once indicated boundaries between local properties. Today it is perhaps most well-known for being the hometown of the lead singer for Of Monsters and Men. 

You can also visit the Gardur Peninsula Historical Museum and see the Gardskagi Lighthouse. The Gardskagi Lighthouse was built in 1944 and is the tallest lighthouse in Iceland. You can purchase a ticket in the heritage and maritime museum next door and climb to the top to take in the view from the balcony. It is also home to two shows about the Northern Lights and Icelandic Whales.

You can also visit the Old Gardskagi Lighthouse, which is now home to a cute café and coffee shop. If you make a purchase, you can climb up the ladders to the top of this lighthouse as well and get a nice perspective of the coast and the taller lighthouse.

Icelandic Museum of Rock and Roll

If you have a little more time on the Reykjanes Peninsula before catching a plane or heading back to Reykjavik, check out the  Icelandic Museum of Rock and Roll  in Keflavik near the airport. 

The museum was opened in April 2014 to cover the story of rock and pop music in Iceland from 1930 to the present. Guests receive a tablet and headphones to learn and hear more about each of the artists, including Sigtryggur Baldursson (the drummer of Sugarcubes), Björk, Sigur Rós, Of Monsters and Men, and Hljómar. The museum also has a sound lab where visitors can try out an electric drum kit, guitar,bass guitars, and keyboards. 

Viking World Museum

If Icelandic music isn’t your jam, maybe Vikings are. Families especially will enjoy the Viking World Museum . Here you will find a full-size replica Viking ship (that actually sailed to America) and exhibits about Nordic mythology. Kids especially will enjoy dressing up as a Viking and looking at the animals outside.

We enjoyed this museum much more than the Saga Museum in Reykjavik. I would mark it as a must do if you are traveling with kids or you have a particular interest in Vikings, exploration, or Nordic mythology.

Blue Lagoon

I’ve spelled out all my reasons why I didn’t love the Blue Lagoon , but I understand that for many a trip to Iceland isn’t complete without a dip in the famous milky blue waters of the Blue Lagoon. It would be a great way to end the day of exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula. Just be prepared for crowds, a hefty price tag, and a commercial environment. 

You can visit the Blue Lagoon and explore the Reykjanes Peninsula all in one day since I would usually recommend budgeting two-to-three hours at the Blue Lagoon. However, it may make sense to split them up. For example, visit the Blue Lagoon when you arrive in Iceland and you are tired and jet-lagged to kill time before you can check into your accommodations. Then, explore more of the Reykjanes Peninsula before flying out on your departure day.

Map of Reykjanes Peninsula and Points of Interest

Map source: Google My Maps

Reykjanes Peninsula 1-Day Itinerary

As I’ve outlined above, it is easy to visit the Reykjanes Peninsula in one day trip from Reykjavik . Depending on your interests, I would leave Reykjavik around 8 am and plan to return in the evening. If you are self-driving, it helps to have a 4 wheel drive car to navigate some of smaller, gravel roads and parking lots on Reykjanes, which may have large potholes, but the main roads are easily navigated, as are most of the main roads in Iceland. Following are the attractions in the order they should be visited according to this itinerary. I’ve included approximate time spent at each stop, not including travel time between attractions.

• Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel (1 hour)
• Seltun Geothermal area (30 minutes)
• Geldingadalur Volcano (1 to 3 hours)
• Grindavik (1 hour for lunch)
• Gunnuhver geothermal area and Reykjanes lighthouse (45 minutes)
• Valahnúkamöl cliffs and coast (1 hour)
• Bridge Between Two Continents (30 minutes)
• Hvalsneskirkja (church) (15 minutes)
• Gardur Lighthouse (45 minutes)
• Icelandic Museum of Rock and Roll or Viking World Museum (choose 1 — 1-2 hours)
• Blue Lagoon (2-3 hours, plan on having dinner here before returning to Reykjavik)

Where to Stay on the Reykjanes Peninsula

There are a number of small hotels on the Reykjanes Peninsula, as well as a number of chain hotels near the airport. I would recommend Hotel Berg , which also has a rooftop hot tub and provides free airport transportation.

More Iceland Travel Tips

• Itineraries: 5 Days in Iceland’s South Coast, 4 Days in the West Fjords
• Packing: Iceland summer packing list , Iceland winter packing list
• Budget: How much does a trip to Iceland cost?
• Day trips: 7 Essential day trips from Reykjavik , Snaefellsnes Peninsula day trip
• Travel tips: 25 Iceland travel tips , Tips for visiting Iceland in the winter
• Tours: Glacier hiking in Iceland , Glacier lagoon boat tour , Where to find puffins in Iceland
• Food: Where to eat in Reykjavik

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Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: December 5, 2022

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Ása Steinars

3 minute read

A day trip around the Reykjanes Peninsula

Find out what the volcanic region has to offer.

Witnessing a volcanic eruption in close proximity is a once in a lifetime experience, or more often if you live in Iceland.

Inspired by Iceland collaborated with Ása Steinars on an adventure around the Reykjanes Peninsula. The volcanic region is filled with intriguing destinations to explore, and Ása is here to share how you can make the most of a day trip around the peninsula.

If you're in Reykjavik and want to explore stunning nature without having to venture far, a drive around the Reykjanes Peninsula is the perfect road trip. The Reykjanes Peninsula is situated on a rift zone between two very active tectonic plates that make for wild and stunning nature. When driving around the peninsula, you'll see a great variety of nature, many signs of old volcanic activity, and the currently active erupting volcano at Geldingadalir . I set out of Reykjavik for a road trip to explore this area, and here's what I found:

Starting from the capital Reykjavik, the drive around the peninsula offers a perfect loop that can be done in one day. I started by driving along the north coast of Reykjanes until I reached the take off-road to Keilir mountain. The road was bumpy, and a 4x4 is definitely best to have access here. After about an hour of slow driving, I parked and set out for a quick hike to Lambafellsgjá, a deep volcanic crack, and I managed to hike through the entire length of it. Just next door is the incredible area of Sog. This is an excellent stop for a hike in stunning landscapes.

Next up on tour is Keflavik, an old fishing village close to the international airport. Go for a walk in the harbor and check out Duus Museum, the local Art and Cultural Center. By now, you're probably ready for lunch, and Hotel Keflavik and Hotel Berg are great options for food.

I continued along the coast to the northern tip of the peninsula, Garðskagaviti. Take a walk to the lighthouse and get close to the ocean. It's a great viewpoint where you can feel the wind and the waves. On a clear day, you can see from here north to Snaefellsjökull (glacier).

The road continues along the coast through lush green fields with roaming lambs and horses. Make sure to stop at Hvalsneskirkja. Some say it's the most beautiful church in Iceland. The fields here are covered in bright yellow flowers in summer—it's super beautiful!

Driving south on the peninsula's west coast, you'll see many signs of former volcanic activity. A fun stop along the road is Stampar Gigar, two black craters in the middle of an ancient lava field. Park the car and take a walk up one of them for a good view.

The road continues along the coast. Soon, you'll see steam rising into the sky, a clear sign that you're approaching Reykjanesviti. This is a geothermal area, and much of the steam is from power plants. There are also many sites to explore, including Gunnuhver, Reykjanesviti lighthouse, and sea cliffs.

The early stages of the Geldingadalir eruption in April 2021.

Next is an active volcano, but first, a stop in Grindavik for food. It's a good idea not to hike to the volcano hungry! Cafe Bryggjan serves a great lobster soup in Grindavik harbor. After a hearty bowl, I felt ready to take on the volcano.

The area of the volcano constantly changes due to the lava flow, so check the recent updates before heading in. SafeTravel is a good source of reliable information. A big parking lot and a well-marked trail will lead you to the lava and volcano. Wear warm hiking shoes and warm clothes, and bring snacks and water for the trip. Also, remember that the gasses from the lava can be hazardous, and you don't want to breathe them in. So stay safe!

You have seen some fantastic nature by now, but there's one highlight left. The perfect way to finish a day of exploring Iceland is with a soak in hot geothermal water. Luckily you're not more than 15 minutes drive from the famous Blue Lagoon. Relax in hot water and even consider a dinner at their restaurant. You have definitely earned it!

You can see more from this journey in the highlights on Inspired by Iceland's Instagram page.

For more of Ása's adventures, follow her on Instagram For all more on the Reykjanes Peninsula, check out Visit Reykjanes

This article was written by Ása Steinars

Ása Steinars is an adventure photographer from Iceland.

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Top Things to do in Reykjanes Peninsula

Welcome to our guide on the top things to do in Reykjanes Peninsula , Iceland. Reykjanes is a unique and diverse region that is often overlooked by tourists, but it’s a true hidden gem that offers a wide range of activities and sights. From geothermal pools, to volcanic landscapes, to historical sites, Reykjanes has something to offer for every type of traveler. In this blog post, we will be highlighting some of our top picks for things to do in Reykjanes Peninsula, as well as tips on how to make the most of your visit. So, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, read on and discover why Reykjanes is a must-see destination in Iceland.

It wouldn’t be wrong to say that Reykjanes peninsula has not been as much credit as it deserves for the exceptionally beautiful sites that it hides in plain sight. Home to the infamous Blue Lagoon and many other top attractions of the country, Reykjanes peninsula can be a lot more rewarding if tourists take a little bit of time searching around the landscape. Most tourists prefer to drive straight to the capital city of Reykjavik and get started on exploring the rest of the country, the more known parts of it.

The Reykjanes Peninsula is conveniently placed on a drift zone that is created by the meeting of two different tectonic plates – the North American plate and the Eurasian plate. The drift zone and the placement of the plates caused many a different geological formation to come up like hot springs, lava fields, geothermal geysers, craters and whatnot. There are several beautiful rock formations in the area, long-stretched lava fields that are covered with moss instead of lush green vegetation, and the waves that come crashing on the lava rocks. On top of all the natural charisma, the peninsula is also covered with beautiful little fishing towns, big and small alike. There are museums, restaurants, nightlife, caves and many other things. Following are some of the top things on the Reykjanes peninsula that every tourist must see as and when they come to Iceland:

• Tours to Reykjanes Peninsula
• Best of Iceland
• Tours in Iceland
• Explore all locations in Reykjanes Peninsula
• Active Volcano Tours
• Blue Lagoon Tours

The Blue Lagoon

Probably one of the most famous attractions in the country, the Blue Lagoon will definitely be on every travel itinerary that is made for Iceland. The blue lagoon is located a little outside of the capital city of Reykjavik , about 30 minutes away, and is a geothermal spa that has been constructed around a mud pool that is filled with milky azure-colored waters. The blue lagoon was initially just a mud pool filled with wastewater that came from Svartsengi geothermal plant. The very first person who bathed in the pool, Valur Margeirsson, met a lot of resistance from others because the point of bathing in a nonsensical mud pool filled with weird blue water escaped them. Although, the healing properties of the azure-colored water came to light eventually and people began to take interest in the pool. Several skin conditions like psoriasis were found to be relieved when the patients bathed in the water of the blue lagoon.

Since then, there have been several developments when it comes to the attractiveness of the lagoon. Once a lone mud pool surrounded by black lava rocks and nothing else, the blue lagoon now is a full-blown geothermal spa with hotels located around it along with several research centers and swimming facilities. The Blue Lagoon is also one of the most expensive lagoon-spa in the country and is always booked ahead for days if not months.

The healing and regeneration qualities of the pool are thanks to the rich reservoirs of silica and Sulphur. One of the research facilities located near the lagoon has developed several silica mud skin treatments for the tourists to take on for example body and face masks. These masks are available for free for the visitors to try out. The water in the lagoon stays at a constant temperature of about 37°-39°C which means that the lagoon is available to be visited any time of the year. In addition to all that, there gorgeous restaurants in the vicinity of the lagoon such as the LAVA restaurant, the Blue Café, etc. From healthy meals to cocktails, sauna, spa, luxurious hotel stays, healing and soothing dips, massages, and everything else that one can imagine to have included in their luxurious retreat is going to be something that you will find in the Blue Lagoon.  

• You can read more about the Blue Lagoon here. 

Garðskagaviti Lighthouse

A wonderful destination for photography enthusiasts, Reykajnestá is the south-western tip of the Reykjanes Peninsula. It is essentially a group of beautiful and unique rock formations and cliffs standing tall in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean near the shore. Reykajnestá is located fairly close to the Blue Lagoon and Keflavík airport which means that you can combine a trip to the Blue Lagoon and Reykajnestá in a single venture and make a day out of it. Reykajnestá is also popular for its very rich birdlife but people mostly visit it for the natural photography chances that they get here. The statue of the Great Auk is also located on these cliffs close to the area where the last mating pair was killed. When traveling to Reykajnestá, you will have to cross a geothermal area as well so, firstly make sure that you are careful if you are going on a self-guided tour here, and second, do not forget to take some memorable pictures here as well. It is another absolute beauty of the peninsula along with Reykajnestá.

• Read more about Reykjanestá here. 

Gunnuhver – Krýsuvík

A rather unique existence when it comes to looks, Gunnuhver is a geothermal area or field located in the southwest part of the peninsula. It is field with mud pools and fumaroles and has steam rising from it at all times, giving birth to a very dramatic landscape in the process. Gunnuhver has many ever-evolving geothermal pool that often increase in size and often engulf the paths that have been carved to roam around the area safely. On top of that if you are fan of the supernatural then Gunnuhver is the place for you. Gunnuhver also holds the largest mud pool in the country which makes it perfect for geology enthusiasts.

There is a very old legend attached to the geothermal area of Gunnuhver. There used to be a village close to the area where a woman named Gunna lived. She was poor and had to live under the authority of a rich lawyer – her landlord. Once time when she was not able to pay her rent, the lawyer took her only possession, a pot. She went on a hunger strike opposing him and died in the process.

As Gunna was being carried to the burial ground in her casket, the body disappeared and the congregation heard a whisper, “no need deep to dig, no plans long to lie”. The congregation took it as the ghost of Gunna. Later, the body of the lawyer was found decapitated in his home which was followed by the similar deaths of his family members. The ghost haunted the whole peninsula until the day a priest showed up – Eirikur. He asked the villagers to bring a ball of yarn place one end of it in the place that is haunted and take the other to the geothermal pool near-by. The ghost followed and fell into the pool with the yarn ball. It is said that one can still see the ghost of Gunna behind the mist trying to escape from the hot spring it is tied to.

• Read more about Gunnuhver here.

The Volcano in Fagradalsfjall

The location of the peninsula results in several geothermal activities and formation, which has already been established. One of these formations are the countless fissures found all over the peninsula. The infamous Silfra fissure is also a result of the same thing. One of the major fissures which is located in Sandvík has a beautiful bridge built all over it, located on the west side of the peninsula. The bridge is completely safe to be visited or walked upon. Once can even travel down the fissure and explore it entirety if interested. The bridge was initially built as a symbol of connecting North America and Europe.

• Read more about the bridge between continents

The Icelandic Museum of Rock'n'Roll

 There is no fan of rock music who wouldn’t have the time of their life in this amazing existence that we know of as the Icelandic Museum of Rock n’ Roll . The museum is located in the town of Keflavík which is also known to be the home of all the top rock bands of Iceland. The town is also often referred to as “The Beatles Town”. The museum represents an exhibition of the history of rock and pop music in the country. There is an iPad tour of the museum where visitors can listen to the top rock anthems of the country while learning more about the history of it all. There is a sound lab in the museum where visitors are free to try out electric musical instruments like electric drums, guitars, etc. There is a karaoke singing room in the museum where not only singing but recording is also an option. The cinema room of the museum can be accessed to watch documentaries about some of the top musicians. There is a small gift shop in the vicinity of the museum that contains CDs and DVDs of rock and pop songs and then there is a small café which has roasted dishes and Arabian coffee beans as its specialty. You can sit back and enjoy some delicious snacks and a cup of coffee while enjoying the music of some of Iceland’s finest.

Viking World

For anyone who is interested in knowing the history of the Viking of Iceland , the Viking World museum is the perfect way to get one on one with the history of the place. The biggest attraction of this museum is the seemingly floating reconstructed ancient Viking vessel that has been made using only the tools that were available to the Vikings. The said replicated vessel was recovered in 1880 and the replica was completed in the 1996. The replicated vessel was even taken for a sail on the waters that lead to America to celebrate the 1000-year anniversary of America being discovered by the Vikings. The vessel on display is suspended in air to look like it is floating in air. The name of the ship is Íslendingur or the Icelander. There are four different exhibitions that you can look forward to when you visit this museum. The first one is the Icelander itself, the second is Vikings of the North Atlantic, the third is The Settlement of Iceland and the fourth one is Fate of the Gods which deals with the ancient history of the pagan gods from old Scandinavian mythology.

Brimketill is a beautiful pool made with lava rocks located on the coast of Reykjanes Peninsula. It is well-known for its changing wonderous landscapes that change according to every season. The name of the pool literally translates to “Whitewater cauldron” which is kind of legit given the appearance of the pool with black rocks surrounding the white foaming water of the pool. It is said that there used to be a troll named Oddný who used to bathe and wash clothes in the pool which is why common folks avoided to visit it during the night since that is the time when trolls and giants are active. The pool used to be called Oddnýjarlaug which translates to “Oddný pool”. The pool was made because of erosion that took place as the waves hit the volcanic rocks around the coast. While there are several people sighted bathing in the pool, safety should be taken in consideration.

• Read more about Brimketill

The Giantess in the Cave

A cave that is dedicated to the good giantess of Iceland, this fascinating cave is the home to a giantess who lives here. The cave was built in 2008 and the giantess transferred in it the same year. The giantess doesn’t have a name, probably because it has been lost in handing down of the legends and myths but she is known as Giganta- Skessan. The giantess is a part of a series of story that named little girl Sigga and the Giantess. The story explains the journey of the giantess moving into the cave from the mountain. Norðanbál, the artist/architect group who created the cave got the idea of building this cave and bringing the story to life.

There is a literal giantess placed in this cave located near the Keflavík town in the marina. She is about 5 meters tall and her eyes are the size of a football. The giantess has a rocking chair in which she sits, eats, burps and sleeps. The cave is about 15 sq. meter in size and has a postbox where children can drop letters for the giantess. The story book that mentions the story of the giantess mentions what a heart of gold she has. She helps little Sigga on many occasions and the villagers as well. The 16 stories record their adventures.

Reykjanesviti Lighthouse

The oldest lighthouse of Iceland, Reykjanesviti lighthouse and is located on the tip of the Reykjanes peninsula near the coast. Reykjanesviti lighthouse was built in the year 1878 but it damaged pretty bad eight years after its construction when an earthquake hit the area. Another building was made in the 1907-1908 and the constant erosion of the land will probably require a new building in the next few years. The lighthouse is located in the close vicinity to the blue lagoon as well as Gunnuhver geothermal area which means that the calming surroundings of this decent place can be easily added to the tour itinerary of the peninsula.

Even though little known, the Reykjanes peninsula is one of the best places to visit during your travels in the land of ice and fire. If you are planning a layover in the country then Reykjanes peninsula can be a good way to spend the limited time that you have in the country. Either way, these destinations are less-traveled and are some of the top places that show the rugged beauty of Iceland. We hope you enjoy your time spent exploring the Reykjanes peninsula.

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Reykjanes Peninsula Day Trip from Reykjavik with Lava Tunnel and Blue Lagoon Premium Entry

• Raufarholshellir Lava Tunnel
• Krysuvik Mud Springs
• Reykjanes Peninsula
• Reykjanesviti cliffs and lighthouse
• Gunnuhver geothermal geyser
• Blue Lagoon

• Spend half the day exploring and half the day relaxing
• Full-Day private luxury tour with a local expert
• You want to combine two iconic Icelandic experiences in one convenient day. 
• You are looking to get the most out of your Reykjavik layover. 
• Krysuvik mud springs
• Reykjanesviti cliffs and lighthouse 
• A car will be at your disposal for the entire duration of the tour. You will be picked up and dropped off at your hotel. 
• Included in your premium entry to the Blue Lagoon is the world-famous Silica mud mask, allowing you to pamper your skin, a refreshing drink of your choice at the swim-up bar, and the convenience of using a towel, slippers, and a plush bathrobe.
• Check out our upcoming online lectures on the region. 
• It is possible to bring a fold-up wheelchair on this tour and we can cater the stops and sites accordingly. If you require a heavier wheelchair or more extensive assistance, please contact us and we will advise. 
• Service dogs must quarantine for 2 weeks upon arrival in Iceland, please reach out to us if you are staying for a long period of time and would like to bring your service dog on this tour. 

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Reykjanes Peninsula Day Tours

Experience the beauty of the Reykjanes Peninsula, one of the most fascinating areas in Iceland, with a day tour from Reykjavik. This hand-picked selection of Reykjanes Peninsula Day Tours offers a unique opportunity to explore this incredible land of geothermal wonders, ethereal landscapes, and rich cultural history.

The Reykjanes Peninsula is experienced by most tourists as the road from Keflavik International Airport. The tarmac and lava fields are nice, but this road hardly does the Reykjanes Peninsula justice.

The Geldingardalur Volcano changed things a bit and created interest in the area. There are now several tours where you can see quite a lot in a single day from Reykjavik.

Photo Tours

These private photo tours of the Reykjanes Peninsula will offer you the chance to explore a vast, rugged landscape and experience Iceland’s unique geologic wonders. Witness the incredible volcanic and geothermal activity of the region while capturing the grandeur of its ethereal beauty with your camera.

Arctic Shots

• 7-hour tour
• 24-hour cancellation policy

photo-infused tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula This is a bespoke, private tour of Reykjanes that is run by professional photographers.

North Pole Studio Photo Tour

• 8 -10 hours, approx.
• 24 hour cancellation policy

This private tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula is with a professional photographer.

Featured Locations

• Gunnuhver Hot Springs
• Reykjanes Lighthouse
• Valahnukamol
• Fagradalsfjall Volcano Eruptions: 2023, 2022, 2021
• Seltún Geothermal Area
• Kleifarvatn Lake

Private Tours of Reykjanes

In addition to its natural features, these private tours will allow you to explore the region’s proud cultural history at your own pace. Learn about the myths and folklore surrounding the legends of Reykjanes and experience the vibrant culture of the area. Take in the stunning views of the volcano at Eldvörp and the renowned Blue Lagoon.

• 6-hour tour

These private tours are flexible for your needs and interests. They both include the bridge between continents, the Gunnuhver geothermal zone, the blue lagoon, and much more.

Small Group Tours

On a Reykjanes Peninsula small group tour, you’ll explore sites like the Seltún Geothermal Area, the UNESCO-listed Krafla Lava Fields, Lake Kleifarvatn, and the Moonlight Valley. There’s also the opportunity to stop by various interesting artefacts and monuments along the way, such as the Gunnuhver Hot Springs, the lighthouse at Reykjanesviti, and the spectacular Brimilsstaðir Stone Age Settlement.

These small group tours will show you the geological wonders of the Reykjanes Peninsula.

Seasons & Access

The Reykjanes Peninsular is well maintained to support the airport, fishing, geothermal energy, and local skiing.

Spring: some of the mountain roads become available. The northern lights are good until early April.

Summer: it doesn’t get dark (unless you explore a lava cave). The light can get too harsh in the middle of the day. I recommend late afternoon or evening for the best photography. Bird-life is very strong. Camping temperatures are comfortable.

Autumn: Auroras start at the end of August. Fauna colours can be amazing on the lava fields. Surprise snowstorms can occur, adding to the drama.

Winter: some locations might become difficult to get to. The light is great all day, so head out of Reykjavik when it’s dark and come back when it’s dark. Northern lights are possible throughout the winter.

Reykjanes Highlights

For me, the natural highlights of the Reykjanes peninsula are its volcanic landscape and dramatic coastline. This is the youngest part of Iceland and the site of the most recent volcanic eruption.

Lake Kleifaratn is a volcanic lake and used to be the deepest lake in Iceland. The lake is unique because it has no rivers leading into or leading out of it. The lake is instead fed by lava tubes, which create a network throughout Iceland.

Close to Kleifarvatn is a volatile geothermal zone known as Seltun. Here you can see bubbling hot springs with a variety of colours and lots of steam.

Around the coast of the Reykjanes Peninsula are many historical lighthouses, fishing villages, and dramatic cliffs. One of the more famous fishing villages is Grindavik which offers nice lunches for seafood fans.

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News | Lava Cooling Efforts Near Svartsengi Power Plant Halted

Lava Cooling Efforts Near Svartsengi Power Plant Halted

• Ragnar Tómas
• June 19, 2024
• Nature , News

A small lava spurt breached the barrier protecting the Svartsengi power plant on the Reykjanes peninsula yesterday. Firefighters responded by using water from fire trucks to halt the lava flow. They also experimented with cooling machinery but encountered issues relating to water pressure.

Extensive operations

Yesterday, a small spurt of lava from the eruption near Sundhnúkagígaröð on the Reykjanes peninsula breached the earthen barrier protecting the Svartsengi power plant. The Grindavík fire department, along with various contractors working for the Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management, managed to stem the flow of the lava by pumping water from fire trucks.

The team also experimented with cooling machinery in the event that the lava would begin to flow farther over the barrier.

In an interview with Vísir yesterday , Einar Sveinn Jónsson, Chief of the Grindavík Fire Department, noted that the lava had not flowed far over the barrier but that if it encroached any further, they wanted to be ready to respond: “There are men operating machinery on top of the barrier endeavouring to stop the flow of lava,” Einar stated. “There is a significant distance to the Svartsengi power plant, but we do not want any flow over the barrier.”

Last employed in 1973

As noted by Vísir, lava cooling has not been employed since the eruption on the Westman Islands in 1973. According to Einar, the method is not technically complex, although it requires a substantial amount of water to be effective.

“It requires large pipes and a lot of water. These are extensive operations. We get water from the Svartsengi power plant. We have support from Isavia [a public company that operates the airports in Iceland], the Suðurnes Fire Department, and the Árnessýsla Fire Department, along with dedicated people from the Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management,” Einar told Vísir .

Einar added that he did not know how long operations would last but that the team would remain in place for as long as necessary. “We will take the evening as it comes and see what happens,” he concluded by saying.

Read More: Wall of Fire (On the Construction of Lava Barriers on Reykjanes)

Water-pressure issues

In an interview with Vísir this morning , Ásgeir Þórisson, duty officer with the Suðurnes Fire Department, stated that the firefighters’ experiment with lava-cooling machinery yesterday had proven unsuccessful; the team had encountered problems relating to water pressure. Hjördís Guðmundsdóttir, Director of Communications with the Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management, stressed that these efforts had simply been an experiment.

As reported last week , the Icelandic government has approved nearly ISK half a billion [$3.6 million / €3.3 million] for equipment to cool lava near Grindavík and Svartsengi, but this equipment has yet to arrive in Iceland.

As reported by RÚV this morning , lava-cooling efforts were halted this morning; although experiment with lava-cooling machinery had failed, two fire trucks had pumped water at the lava for hours on end. It will become more apaprent how effective their efforts were as the morning progresses.

Continuous lava flow

As noted by the Icelandic Meteorological Office yesterday , the eruption on the Reykjanes peninsula remains fairly stable, with lava flowing from one crater, mainly northwards along Mt. Sýlingafell. Land uplift in Svartsengi continues at a similar but slightly slower rate than before the eruption started.

This article was updated at 9:23 AM

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Best Volcano Tours in Iceland

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Helicopter Tour over the Live Volcanic Eruption on the Reykjanes peninsula from Reykjavik

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Scenic 1 Hour Helicopter Tour over the Active Reykjanes Volcano Area with Transfer from Reykjavik

30-Minute Active Volcanic Eruption and Reykjanes Area Sightseeing Helicopter Tour

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Thrilling 35-Minute New Volcanic Area Helicopter Tour from Reykjavik

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Airplane Sightseeing Tour Over the Live Volcanic Eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula

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Self drive tours in iceland, tour calendar, nature tours in iceland, adventure tours in iceland, cheap bus tours in iceland, top tour destinations in iceland, verified customer reviews.

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Ahmed drissi el bouzaidi

Just go for it don't think twice just do it. What an absolute highlight.

Melis Pahali

Destinations visited and the road itself present very beautiful landscape. Tour guide Joanna is a nice person, good leader. About the execution of the planned program, she manages the process very well. She is friendly, supportive (encouraging), she has a broad knowledge about the region and the related history. Also the bus driver Arthur is a nice and friendly person. His bus is clear and comfortable. Thanks to them for everything. They enrich the program itself and the tour company.

Edward Cobden

Informative friendly guide, Iceland native was very organized and added several extra stops to make the day full and enjoyable.

Thomas Tremblay

This was an amazing experience! The views were phenomenal. The pilot was super friendly and gave us so many views of the volcano. Highly recommend.

Embarking on a volcano tour in Iceland takes you on an exciting journey into the heart of this land of fire and ice, where dramatic geological forces have sculpted the landscape for millennia. These tours offer the perfect blend of adventure, education, and natural beauty, giving travelers a unique opportunity to witness the raw power of volcanic activity.

As you set out on a volcano tour, you'll venture into Iceland's volcanic realms, rich in history and geological significance. These tours often feature expert guides who share their extensive knowledge, shedding light on the volcanic processes that have shaped Iceland's topography.

One of the remarkable aspects of volcano tours is the chance to witness volcanic features up close. Travelers may explore volcanic craters, lava fields, and even enter magma chambers of dormant or extinct volcanoes such as the Thrihnukagigur volcano in West Iceland .

On rare occasions, you can even witness an active eruption of volcanoes in Iceland from a close yet safe distance. Some of the most recent visitor-friendly ones occurred in the Litli-Hrutur and Fagradalsfjall  volcanoes on the Reykjanes peninsula , with eruptions taking place in 2021, 2022, and 2023.

The most recent 2023 and 2024 eruptions in the Sundhnukagigar crater row have only been visible with a helicopter tour.

Beyond the natural wonders, volcano tours also emphasize safety and environmental conservation. Tour operators prioritize responsible exploration, ensuring these fragile and unique environments are preserved for future generations.

Frequently asked questions

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