For most of the 20th century, the Reykjanes peninsula was characterized by a rather unattractive US navy air base which is the reason for Keflavik International Airport's location. Many Icelanders associated the area with heavy industry, power plants and military bases, but today this peninsula, which is a thriving geothermal area, has become a UNESCO listed Geopark, where you can see the tectonic plates pull apart the Mid Atlantic Ridge and you can find bubbling hot springs. As a result, it is both fascinating and beautiful.
The tour starts with a visit to the ON Geothermal Energy Exhibition (admission is included) about 30 minutes from Reykjavik. The exhibition explains the utilisation of geothermal energy in Iceland in a fun and informative way. Following the exhibition, the you will stop at Strandarkirkja, a small church on the south coast. It’s a fascinating place with an interesting story and some great photo opportunities. A little further along the south coast of the peninsula, your tour will stop at the beautiful geothermal area of Krýsuvík where you will find solfataras, fumaroles, mud pots and hot springs. Here you will also experience Gunnuhver: a favourite destination for many, as it is the largest mud geyser in Iceland, about 20 metres wide.
After visiting the geotermal area, you will continue to Grindavík is a small fishing village of about 3,000 inhabitants. The village has a long history, including a pirate invasion from Morocco and Algeria in the 17th century and the subsequent abduction and enslavement of fifteen residents. The reefs near the town can be very difficult to navigate, and many ships have crashed outside this village. The tour stops for views of one shipwreck on this tour, a testimony to the ruthlessness of the ocean.
Finally, the magnificent coastline and dramatic breaking waves by the Reykjanesviti lighthouse are a feast for the senses and crossing the “Bridge Between the Continents” which connects the American and Eurasian tectonic plates is a unique geological experience.
Between the lava fields and geothermal hot spots, this tour offers close encounters with the life and power of this beautiful peninsula.
The tour ends in Reykjavik. Optionally, you may ask your driver to end the tour and be dropped off at the Blue Lagoon SPA, which is a renown SPA resort in the area. In this case you must purchase the tickets yourself in advance and you will return to your hotel or residence with a Blue Lagoon shuttle at 8pm.
Private guided tour
Admission to the Blue Laggon SPA (optional)
