Reykjavik: Thrihnukagigur Volcano Guided Hiking Day Trip

Iceland is famous for its volcanic landscape, but few experiences match the thrill of actually stepping inside a dormant volcano. The Thrihnukagigur volcano offers a rare opportunity to descend 400 feet into a natural chamber formed by ancient lava flows, an adventure that combines scenic hiking, geological wonder, and a touch of adrenaline. After reading about this tour, I was struck by how many visitors rave about its uniqueness and the expertise of the guides—often noted as kind, knowledgeable, and passionate.

Two aspects stand out when considering this trip. First, the stunning scenery on the way to the crater, which includes a hike across what many say feels like a moon surface—an otherworldly landscape of lava fields and formations. Second, the inside of the volcano itself—the vivid colors, the vastness of the chamber, and the rare chance to step where few have been—make it truly special.

One possible consideration is the price point of $385 per person. While it might seem steep, many reviews emphasize that this fee covers expert guiding, all safety gear, transportation, and a memorable gourmet Icelandic soup afterward. Still, it’s good to be prepared for a physical activity involving a hike of around 45-50 minutes over uneven terrain, which might not suit travelers with mobility issues.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Unique access inside a volcano: The only place in the world you can descend into a magma chamber, making this a must-do for adventure seekers.
• Expert guides: Guides like Daniel and Ben get consistent praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and safety focus.
• Stunning landscape: The hike across lava fields offers surreal views, often compared to the moon’s surface, setting the scene for this geological marvel.
• Inside the crater: The chamber’s vivid colors and the expansive space inside are unlike anything I’ve seen, with some visitors describing it as “phenomenal” and “out of this world.”
• Good value for what’s included: The tour’s price includes safety gear, transportation, and a hearty Icelandic meat or vegetarian soup—an appreciated touch after the physical activity.
• Accessibility considerations: The hike is classified as moderate and involves uneven, hilly terrain—best suited for those comfortable with walking.

The Journey to an Icelandic Volcano: What to Expect

This experience begins with your choice of pickup in Reykjavik, followed by a roughly 45-minute coach ride to the base in the Bláfjöll mountains. The drive itself offers glimpses of the Icelandic wilderness that make you realize why so many travelers fall in love with the scenery.

Once at the mountain cabin Breiðabliksskáli, you’ll gear up with helmets and harnesses—safety always a top priority, especially given the 10-minute descent into the volcano. The hike from the base camp to the crater takes about 45-50 minutes on a trail that’s moderately challenging. Guides often mention the terrain as hilly and uneven, so good hiking shoes are essential (no sneakers or jeans).

The highlight, of course, is descending into the volcano. The small group of 4-5 people per guide ensures an intimate experience. The lift takes you down into the chamber, where you’ll have up to an hour to explore and absorb the sights. Visitors describe the chamber as vibrant—colors like reds, oranges, and purples are visible on the walls, a testament to the volcanic activity that once shaped this space.

After the exploration, everyone emerges back at the base for a well-deserved warm Icelandic meat or vegetarian soup, along with hot drinks and sweets. This communal meal offers a chance to discuss the experience and share photos. Many reviews mention how much they appreciated the guides’ explanations and friendliness—adding a personal touch to the adventure.

The Inside of the Volcano: Why It’s Special

I find the inside of the Thrihnukagigur chamber fascinating. It’s a natural marvel, a giant, colorful cavern formed by lava that cooled and solidified over thousands of years. The vivid hues and the vastness evoke a sense of awe. Some reviews describe the experience as “phenomenal,” emphasizing how rare it is to get this close to such a natural phenomenon.

The chamber’s size is impressive, and the fact that you descend in a lift designed specifically for safety makes it accessible for those with reasonable fitness levels. Inside, guides will narrate the volcano’s history, sharing insights about volcanic activity in Iceland—an active volcano with a dormant status, but one that’s still carefully monitored.

Scenic Views and Photo Opportunities

Throughout the hike, you’ll pass by lava formations and tubes, perfect for photos. Many visitors note that the views of Reykjavik, the Reykjanes Peninsula, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula are spectacular from the crater rim. The combination of the landscape’s stark beauty and the chance to see inside a volcano can make for some truly memorable photos.

Price and Logistics: Is It Worth It?

At $385 per person, this tour is definitely an investment, but it’s one many find justified by the uniqueness of the experience. The price covers transportation, expert guidance, safety gear, and post-tour food, which makes it a fairly comprehensive package. When compared to similar adventures around the world, being able to stand inside an extinct magma chamber is a rare privilege.

Timing-wise, the tour lasts roughly 4 to 6 hours, making it a full but not exhausting day. The starting times vary, so checking availability and fitting it into your Iceland itinerary is wise. The guided nature of the tour, small group size, and high safety standards contribute to its high rating (4.8 out of 5 from over 410 reviews).

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventure lovers, geology enthusiasts, and those looking for a truly one-of-a-kind activity in Iceland. The physical activity involved means it’s ideal for travelers who enjoy moderate hikes and don’t mind uneven terrain. The guides’ warmth and expertise make it accessible for most fit individuals, but not recommended for those with mobility impairments.

It’s also a great choice if you value authentic, immersive experiences over typical sightseeing. The chance to see inside a volcano and walk across a lunar-like landscape is hard to duplicate elsewhere. Plus, if you’re a photographer or just love capturing wild scenery, this is a dream.

The Sum Up

In a country filled with natural wonders, the Thrihnukagigur Volcano guided hike offers a rare opportunity to go inside a volcano—a bucket list experience for many. The combination of scenic lava fields, expert guides, and the awe of descending into a colorful chamber delivers genuine value. While the cost is on the higher side, most reviewers agree it’s money well spent for the adventure and memories created.

This tour is perfect for those who want more than just views—they want a story to tell and photos to cherish. It’s also well-suited for travelers with a good sense of adventure seeking to step into the very heart of Iceland’s volcanic landscape.

If you’re prepared for a moderate hike, eager to see something truly unique, and appreciate knowledgeable guides, this trip will likely be a highlight of your Iceland visit. Just remember to wear sturdy hiking shoes, dress warmly, and get ready for an experience that’s as educational as it is breathtaking.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, if you select the pickup option, transportation from Reykjavik to the mountain cabin is included. Otherwise, you’ll need to arrange your own journey to the meeting point.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour takes about 4 to 6 hours, including transportation, hiking, exploring inside the volcano, and the post-tour meal.

What should I wear?
Good hiking shoes are essential, along with warm layers. The mountain weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for wind and possibly rain.

Is the hike difficult?
The hike is classified as moderate—mainly straight walks with some uneven, hilly terrain. It’s suitable for most people in good health, but not ideal for those with mobility issues.

Can I go inside the volcano if I have fear of heights?
You will be descending in a lift, and the chamber itself is spacious, but if heights are a concern, it’s worth considering. The guides prioritize safety and comfort, and smaller groups ensure a controlled experience.

What’s included in the price?
All safety gear (helmets, harnesses), guides, transportation (if booked with pickup), and post-experience Icelandic meat or vegetarian soup, along with hot drinks and sweets.