Reykjavík: Reykjanes Peninsula Geology & Hot Springs Day Tour

This 7-hour guided tour takes you deep into the Reykjanes Peninsula, one of the most geologically active regions on Earth. Sitting directly on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the peninsula is shaped by the constant movement of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates — and the evidence is visible at every turn.

Your journey includes a stop at Kleifarvatn, the largest lake on the peninsula, whose shoreline road offers dramatic mountain backdrops and fascinating geology. Nearby, the geothermal field of Seltún within the Krýsuvík area dazzles with vivid yellow, red, and green mineral deposits formed by sulfur-rich fumaroles and bubbling mud pots.

The tour continues to the lava fields of Nátthagi, created by the Fagradalsfjall volcano — the youngest land in Iceland. You'll also visit Grindavík, a fishing town reshaped by earthquakes and eruptions since late 2023, and Gunnuhver, Iceland's largest mud pot, located on the peninsula's southern tip.

Further highlights include the iconic Reykjanes Lighthouse, Iceland's oldest at 29 metres tall, and the Bridge Between Continents at Sandvík — a footbridge spanning a visible tectonic fissure that symbolises the connection between Europe and North America.

Please note: the Reykjanes Peninsula remains volcanically active. Itineraries may be adjusted if area closures occur, but the guide will always aim to reach the nearest accessible viewpoint.

Your guide will collect you from your chosen Reykjavík pickup point and the full-day tour lasts 7 hours. Throughout the day, an English-speaking guide provides commentary on the geology, history, and folklore of each stop.

• Kleifarvatn: Scenic drive along the shore of the peninsula's largest lake, with mountain views and geological history.
• Seltún / Krýsuvík: Walk through an active geothermal field of fumaroles, mud pots, and colourful mineral-stained ground.
• Nátthagi lava fields: Stand on Iceland's youngest land, formed by the Fagradalsfjall eruptions.
• Grindavík: View the earthquake and eruption damage to this evacuated fishing town.
• Gunnuhver: Iceland's largest mud pot, surrounded by steam vents and boiling clay.
• Reykjanes Lighthouse: Iceland's oldest lighthouse, standing 29 metres tall.
• Bridge Between Continents: Cross a footbridge over a real tectonic fissure at Sandvík.

Itinerary may be adjusted due to volcanic activity, with the guide redirecting to the nearest accessible viewpoint where possible.

The Reykjanes Peninsula offers a concentration of raw geological drama found nowhere else in Iceland — and this 7-hour guided tour covers its most compelling sites in a single day. Hotel pickup from Reykjavík is included, along with an English-speaking guide and free Wi-Fi on the bus, so there is nothing extra to arrange.

Unlike tours focused on a single attraction, this itinerary spans active geothermal fields, volcanic lava flows, a historically significant lighthouse, a tectonic plate boundary, and a town reshaped by recent eruptions. It is an ideal choice for travellers who want to understand Iceland's geology firsthand, with expert commentary at every stop.