Question 1

What are some good places to hike in the Reykjanes Geopark?

Accepted Answer

Reykjanesviti to Valahnúkur

This easy coastal hiking trail begins at the towering Reykjanesviti lighthouse and leads to the dramatic Valahnúkur cliff. The path offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, sea cliffs, and the ocean. It’s an excellent opportunity for birdwatching and enjoying the coastal scenery.

Garður to Sandvík

This hiking trail along the sea starts at the village of Garður and takes you to the beautiful Sandvík beach. An easy hike, you’ll pass by picturesque coastal scenery, bird colonies, and the remains of an old fishing village.

Volcanic cone Keilir

Keilir is a distinctive volcanic cone; a moderately challenging hiking trail to the summit of Keilir offers panoramic views of the surrounding lava fields, coastline, and Reykjanesviti lighthouse.

Question 2

Is the Reykjanes Geopark a good place to visit if you are limited in time?

Accepted Answer

This proximity to the airport makes the Reykjanes Geopark a convenient option for travelers with limited time in Iceland or those looking to explore the geologically rich landscapes of the Reykjanes Peninsula shortly after arriving or before departing the country.

Question 3

What makes Iceland’s geology unique?

Accepted Answer

Iceland’s combination of volcanic activity, tectonic processes, glacial and geothermal interactions, and unique geological formations make Iceland a remarkable destination for geologists, nature enthusiasts, and travelers seeking to experience the raw power and remarkable beauty of Earth’s geology.

Question 4

Are there only natural sites as part of the Reykjanes Geopark?

Accepted Answer

In addition to its geological significance, the Reykjanes Geopark is rich in cultural and historical heritage. The region is home to charming fishing villages, towering lighthouses, historic churches, and remnants of early human settlements. The cultural heritage reflects the historical connection between people and the surrounding landscape.

Question 5

What is the Blue Lagoon experience like?

Accepted Answer

The water isn’t deep, about 5 ft, and the bottom is covered with white silica mud, the result of a natural process of recondensation. It’s common to see visitors cover their faces with the mud—it’s excellent for your skin, and all guests receive a free silica mud mask with standard admission. The gift shop sells Blue Lagoon skin products with ingredients ranging from silica mud to algae found in other parts of Iceland.

Question 6

When was the Reykjanes Geopark created?

Accepted Answer

The geopark was established in 2005 to promote and preserve the unique geological and cultural heritage of the Reykjanes Peninsula.

Question 7

What is the most popular attraction on the Reykjanes Peninsula?

Accepted Answer

The Blue Lagoon is the most popular attraction on the Reykjanes Peninsula and arguably the most famous site in all of Iceland. Built on an 800-year-old lava field, the Blue Lagoon covers an area of 93,646 sq ft and draws visitors from around the world to soak in its gloriously milky-blue waters amid a dreamlike atmosphere. The geothermally heated water ranges between 37-39°C (98-102°F) and is heavenly any time of year.

Enjoying the steamy air while soaking during the summer is lovely, especially on sunny days. And in the winter, a visit here is eerie and fantastic; watching as snow falls from the jet-black December sky or as northern lights dance across it while lounging in hot water is sublime.

Question 8

Have there been recent volcanic eruptions in the Reykjanes Peninsula?

Accepted Answer

The most recent eruption in Reykjanes started in March 2021, near the Fagradalsfjall mountain. It marked the first eruption in this area in over 800. The eruption was dubbed a “tourist eruption “as it attracted significant attention due to its accessibility and the opportunity for people to witness the lava flows and volcanic activity up close.

Question 9

How close is the Reykjanes Geopark to the airport?

Accepted Answer

The distance between Keflavík International Airport and the Reykjanes Geopark depends on the specific sites within the geopark you wish to visit. However, the geopark is generally easily accessible from the airport, and travel times are relatively short. For example, if you plan to visit famous sites such as the Bridge Between Continents and the Blue Lagoon, they are located within a 30-minute drive from the airport. Other attractions and trails within the geopark are also within a reasonable driving distance from the airport.

Question 10

What part of Iceland is the Reykjanes Geopark located?

Accepted Answer

The geopark encompasses the southwestern part of the Reykjanes Peninsula, and Keflavik International Airport is on the peninsula’s western side.

Question 11

What is the purpose of the Reykjanes Geopark?

Accepted Answer

The Reykjanes Geopark aims to promote sustainable development and raise awareness about geology, nature, and cultural heritage. It emphasizes the importance of conserving the natural and cultural resources of the region while providing educational opportunities for visitors and local communities.

Question 12

Do tours go to the Blue Lagoon?

Accepted Answer

Many Reykjanes Peninsula tours feature a visit to the Blue Lagoon. However, if you’re traveling independently, it makes sense to visit right after you fly in or before you head home, as it’s very close to Keflavík airport. A rejuvenating soak is a great way to kick off your trip or end it on a relaxing note.

Question 13

Is Grindavík worth a visit?

Accepted Answer

Grindavík is an attractive town on the south coast of the Reykjanes peninsula. It’s home to many guesthouses, campsites, and restaurants, making it a really convenient place to stay or to stop on your journey around Reykjanes.

What’s more, many of the top sights of Reykjanes can be found close by. For example, the Blue Lagoon and the Fagradalsfjall volcano are both less than 10 minutes away, while the Bridge Between Continents is less than 20 minutes away.

Question 14

Where is Reykjanes peninsula?

Accepted Answer

Reykjanes is the peninsula to the southwest of the city of Reykjavík. Its southern tip is about 70 kilometres (43 miles) from the city—and about an hour’s drive. But many of the peninsula’s main sights are much closer than that.

The main city is Reykjanesbær, the fourth-largest city in Iceland. It’s made up of the towns of Keflavík and Njarðvík.

Question 15

What is happening at the Reykjanes ridge?

Accepted Answer

There are regular volcanic eruptions on the Reykjanes peninsula. This is because it sits on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, which makes the region one of the most volcanically active areas in the world.

The Mid-Atlantic Ridge is a tectonic boundary where two continents are moving apart. Imagine that the whole of Europe is moving away from North America, and in the gap between these two tectonic plates lots of volcanoes are to be found.

This is exactly what’s happening at Reykjanes.

Question 16

Is the Reykjanes peninsula worth it?

Accepted Answer

There are few places in the world that are as volcanically active as the Reykjanes peninsula. It’s been designated a UNESCO Global Geopark precisely because of its international importance.

Even if you’re not a geology buff, it still makes for a breathtaking experience. When volcanoes in the area erupt, it’s one of the safest places on the planet to see real lava. And when it’s not erupting, you can explore the fascinating landforms that these volcanoes have left behind.

Question 17

Is Reykjanes peninsula safe?

Accepted Answer

Reykjanes is a perfectly safe area to visit. In fact, it’s recognised as one of the safest places to see volcanoes on the planet. Just make sure you bring some sturdy shoes and a rain jacket, just in case.

Question 18

Is Reykjanes volcano still erupting 2023?

Accepted Answer

In 2021, 2022, and 2023, volcanoes on the Reykjanes peninsula have erupted. In 2023, the eruption occurred close to the Litli-Hrútur hill, just north of the previous Fagradalsfjall eruption sites. You could see fresh lava bubbling up and flowing down the side of a crater.

Eruptions in the area are really common, due to the very active volcanic systems on the Reykjanes peninsula. That’s why it’s been designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark.

Question 19

Which is the geothermal area of Reykjanes peninsula?

Accepted Answer

The Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark designates much of the Reykjanes peninsula. Most significantly, the Geopark includes the area around Fagradalsfjall and the Geldingadalir volcano, to the northeast of the town of Grindavík.

Question 20

How do you pronounce Reykjanes?

Accepted Answer

The word Reykjanes is very similar to the word Reykjavík, but it swaps the last syllable “vík” for “nes”. Pronounce that final syllable how you would pronounce the last syllable of the English word “happiness”.

So, there are three syllables in Reykjanes, and the emphasis comes on the first.

Question 21

How old is Reykjanes peninsula?

Accepted Answer

The Reykjanes peninsula is one of the youngest areas of Iceland. That’s because it’s also one of the most geothermically active. Thanks to the Mid-Atlantic Ridge which passes through the area, new land is always being formed.

So, Reykjanes is likely to be as old as 6 or 7 million years old. Given that the rest of Iceland was formed over 20 million years ago, Reykjanes is really pretty young.

Question 22

How deep is Reykjanes Ridge?

Accepted Answer

The Reykjanes Ridge is a part of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, which stretches all the way south through the Atlantic Ocean. The Reykjanes peninsula is a continuation of the Reykjanes Ridge, but while the peninsula is above sea level, the Ridge is below the water.

The Mid-Atlantic Ridge can reach depths of 2.5 kilometres. But closer to Iceland, the Reykjanes Ridge is only about 300 metres (980 feet) below sea level.

Question 23

What type of volcano is the Reykjanes peninsula?

Accepted Answer

Most volcanoes on the Reykjanes peninsula are fissure volcanoes. These aren’t the classic cone-shaped mountains that erupt in huge explosions of ash (although you can see one of those, Keilir, on the Reykjanes peninsula). Rather, fissure volcanoes are those where lava emerges from cracks or fissures in the ground.

As a result, their eruptions tend to be much more gentle. That’s why you can get quite close to the eruptions at Fagradalsfjall.

Question 24

Is Keflavík worth a visit?

Accepted Answer

Keflavík is best known as the location of Iceland’s main international airport. However, it’s a pleasant town in its own right and a convenient place from which to explore the Reykjanes peninsula.

In Keflavík itself, you’ll find the Icelandic Museum of Rock ‘n’ Roll, for example, as well as the Viking World museum, home to a replica of a Viking ship.

Question 25

When did Reykjanes last erupt?

Accepted Answer

The latest eruption in Reykjanes was seen in July 2023. This is another episode of a long period of activity in the Fagradalsfjall volcano system. The system has erupted three years in a row, in 2021, 2022, and 2023, most recently close to the Litli-Hrútur hill.

Even without a live eruption, the area makes for an incredible sight. Plus, it’s one of the safest places in the world to see an active volcano.

Question 26

Is Fagradalsfjall still erupting today?

Accepted Answer

In July 2023, Fagradalsfjall began to erupt again for about three weeks. This area of activity was a couple of kilometres away from the eruptions of 2021 and 2022.

The volcano is no longer erupting. But in such a volcanically active area, the chances are that it won’t be long before the next one.

Question 27

What does Reykjanes mean in Icelandic?

Accepted Answer

The name Reykjanes translates in English to “steam peninsula”. Even its name refers to its volcanic activity!

Question 28

Can I change my dates?

Accepted Answer

We understand that your travel plans might change. You can easily change the dates for your booked tours with only one phone call: (+354) 580 5400 by stopping by one of our sales offices, or by sending us an email to main@re.is. You will need to quote your confirmation number to change your dates and give us all the necessary information.

Please remember: Your date change must be requested at least a day before the scheduled departure.

Question 29

How can I make a booking for a group of people?

Accepted Answer

You can book for a group of people using our online booking system. Each booking must contain at least one adult.

Reykjavik Excursions Kynnisferðir takes pride in tailor-making and organising tours for private groups, from short trips within Reykjavik to full-circle programs. Our fleet of modern coaches consists of 80 vehicles, ranging from 6 to 70 seats and 4x4 coaches suitable for crossing un-bridged glacier rivers, reaching almost any destination in the highlands. For a tailor-made tour for groups, please send us an email to main@re.is.

Question 30

Where are your sales offices?

Accepted Answer

Icelandia operates a sales office at the BSÍ Bus Terminal in Reykjavík and a sales office at Keflavik Airport.

Question 31

What is your refund policy?

Accepted Answer

Reykjavik Excursions reserves the rights to alter routes, itineraries or timetables without prior notice, should the necessity arise. No liability is accepted for losses, theft or expenses due to delay of any agent, hotel, coach, operator, airline, guide, restaurant or any other persons or companies, however caused. Reykjavik Excursions is not responsible for losses in the event of Force Major, such as natural catastrophes, strikes, weather, war or other causes outside of the control of Reykjavik Excursions. All such losses and expenses are the personal liability of the traveller. We advice all clients to have a travel insurance, as they travel at their own responsibility on tours and transfers.

All cancellations should be in writing and notified at least 24 hours* prior to departure. Cancellations received less than 24 hours prior to departure will be charged full price. (*Except for Blue Lagoon bookings where cancellations must be received with at least 48 hours notice.)

*Cancellation for 3rd party tours depends on the cancellation policy from the tour operator

To request a refund please fill out a refund request.

Question 32

How far in advance can I book a day tour online?

Accepted Answer

If a tour is displayed online you can book it and hence guarantee your seat on the tour.

Question 33

I don't have a printer. Do I need to print out my tocket/voucher?

Accepted Answer

It is recommended that you print out your confirmation and bring it with you on paper for your tour. That helps us prevent delays and service you sooner, once you arrive for your tour.

If you cannot print your confirmation, please show up early for your tour so our staff has time to confirm your booking. You will be asked to present your confirmation number and identification. Be advised, that this might require some waiting on your behalf.

Question 34

I got sick and can't use my Day Tour ticket. Can I get it refunded?

Accepted Answer

All cancellations should be in writing and be notified 24 hours* before departure.

If you bought your ticket at one of the Reykjavik Excursions sale offices, and you notify 24 hours before your pick up, your ticket will be refunded.

*Except for Blue Lagoon bookings where cancellations must be received with at least 48 hours notice.

Question 35

I still haven't received a confirmation email about my booking. What is wrong?

Accepted Answer

You can expect up to 24 hours to pass before receiving a confirmation via email.

Try looking in your email's 'Trash' or 'Junk' folder. Sometimes confirmation emails can be misplaced by your email server and not reach your inbox.

If more than 24 hours have passed, or if you booked a tour with short notice, email us at main@re.is, and we will get back to you. Please provide a phone number where you can be reached.

Question 36

I have a problem with my online booking. What is wrong?

Accepted Answer

Our aim is to make it as convenient as possible to book a tour with Reykjavik Excursions. If you experience difficulties, they might only be temporary. Try booking again after a few minutes.

If the problem persists, you can call (+354) 580 5400 and talk to a sales executive. Please disclose tour name, tour date, no. of passengers, your name and contact information so we can complete your booking.

We would appreciate to hear about your booking problem, so that we can improve our booking system.

Question 37

Can I change my booking?

Accepted Answer

If you booked directly through Reykjavik Excursions, either online or at a sales office, you can always change your booking. Just make sure you do it in time, so pick-up information can be changed. To change your booking, contact us via e-mail, main@re.is or by phoning (+354) 580 5400. Please have all the necessary information at hand, including your confirmation letter.

If you booked through another travel agency, you have to make the changes through that agency and follow the terms set by them.

Question 38

What should I wear?

Accepted Answer

Warm, wind & waterproof jacket

Three layers of clothes as the weather can change quickly

Warm sweater, fleece and thermal layer

Warm trousers – waterproof and breathable

Sturdy water-resistant footwear/boots

Woollen socks

Warm hat and scarf

Warm and waterproof gloves

Crampons (advisable during winter) – can be bought on the spot. Some of our beautiful places in nature are protected and cannot be salted to protect nature. That is why it can get quite icy at Gullfoss and Geysir, so we recommend wearing crampons there.

Question 39

What is included in my tour?

Accepted Answer

All admission to sites, museums or exhibitions visited are included, unless otherwise stated in tour description.

Question 40

What does the guide do?

Accepted Answer

Reykjavik Excursions offers guidance in most of the tours. Guidance is in English. Some tours are additionally guided in German, French or Scandinavian (maximum 2 languages per tour).

Our tour guides are professionals with degrees in various languages and/or subjects relating to Icelandic tourism. Your guide tells you about the area you are visiting and leads the way throughout the tour. He will also be able to answer your questions, if you have any. Our aim is to offer quality tours that feature the different aspects of Iceland's nature, history, culture and modern living.

Question 41

I am in a manual wheelchair, can I join one of your day tours?

Accepted Answer

Passengers with reduced mobility and using a manual wheelchair are more than welcome to join our day tours. Please advise your reduced mobility when booking a day tour in order for us to be able to make appropriate measures. Our staff assists as much as possible in moving to/from or within the bus.

Question 42

What languages are spoken on the tours?

Accepted Answer

Guidance is in English.

Some tours are additionally guided in German, French or Scandinavian (maximum 2 languages per tour). Further information and details are listed with each tour.

Question 43

When is my pick-up / drop-off?

Accepted Answer

Reykjavik Excursions offers pick up at designated bus stops, and selected hotels, guesthouses and hostels at an extra cost. Pick up starts 30 minutes before departure and passengers are requested to be ready in time at your pick up location. Passengers are responsible for being ready and visible for their pick up. If passengers miss their Reykjavik Excursions pick up they need to arrive at BSÍ Bus Terminal in time for their tour´s departure at their own cost.

Attention passengers staying in hotels and guesthouses in the restricted area in the city centre need to go to the nearest bus pick up spot. For more information on pick up locations refer to our pick up location page. The pick up is operated by smaller and bigger coaches throughout the city, dictated by accessibility.

Drop off starts after indicated arrival time. Please note that drop off locations may not be directly in front of your hotel or guesthouse dictated by actual conditions (e.g. narrow streets, coach size, roadworks, etc.). Those staying in hotels and guesthouses in the restricted area in the city centre will be dropped off at the same place they were picked up from.

Pick up and drop off for day tours operated by subcontractors may vary, please refer to each tour.

Question 44

What kind of coaches do you offer?

Accepted Answer

Reykjavik Excursions bus fleet is one of the best in Iceland. Our fleet of modern coaches consists of 80 vehicles, varying from 6 to 70 seats and 4x4 coaches suitable for crossing un-bridged glacier rivers, hence reaching almost any destination in the highlands. Constant supervision, maintenance and upkeep ensure the quality of the coaches and professional drivers enhance the safety of all passengers.

Question 45

What about bicycles and larger baggage/suitcases?

Accepted Answer

Packaged and unpackaged bicycles can be transported if space is available. The cost per bicycle is 2.500 ISK. For maximum efficiency in the luggage compartment, we prefer that bicycles are packaged in boxes. Unpackaged bicycles must have the pedals removed and the chain covered. Additional luggage will be loaded as space allows and is subject to freight charges. The cost for each item, such as golf bags, skis etc. is 1.000 ISK per item.

If you are travelling with more luggage than is estimated per person we recommend you send us an e-mail (main@re.is) or call our main BSI Bus Terminal office, (+354) 580 5400 in order for us to make appropriate arrangements before your arrival.

Question 46

How much luggage am I allowed to take with me?

Accepted Answer

Flybus passengers are allowed to store two bags per person, weighing a maximum of 23 kg (50 lbs) each in the luggage compartment of the bus. Day tour passengers usually don't bring that much luggage, except for tours that have drop off at Keflavik International Airport, e.g. some Blue Lagoon tours. Passengers can also take aboard one small carry-on item.

Reykjavik Excursions take no liability for luggage, fragile valuables or perishable articles. All baggage must be claimed promptly upon arrival.

Question 47

What is your policy on smoking?

Accepted Answer

Smoking is prohibited on board Reykjavik Excursions coaches.

Question 48

What should I be aware of regarding liabilities?

Accepted Answer

Icelandia reserves the right to alter routes, itineraries or timetables without prior notice should the necessity arise.

No liability is accepted for losses or expenses due to delays or changes of arrival or departure of flights or other services, injury, sickness, accident, strikes, damage, negligence, weather, war or other causes outside the control of Icelandia. All such losses and expenses are the personal liability of the traveller.

Question 49

Do I need to bring my passport?

Accepted Answer

You do not need to bring your passport for the day tours. If you are going snowmobiling, you do need to bring a driver's license.

Question 50

Are the prices fixed?

Accepted Answer

Tours and services are subject to currency fluctuation and conditions of cooperative contractors that may provide transportation and other services.

Question 51

Can I travel with my pet?

Accepted Answer

Pets are not allowed on coach tours.

Question 52

I am a senior. Can some Day Tours be too difficult for me?

Accepted Answer

Nature is the main attraction on many of our excursions, meaning that some day tours require short to medium-long walks. If walking is required on the tour, it will be mentioned in the tour description.

We recommend that you find a tour suitable to your needs. Please read the tour descriptions for further information on each tour.

Question 53

For how long can I expect to sit in the bus between stops? Where does the bus stop?

Accepted Answer

The tours vary in length but we do stop at least every 1,5 - 2 hours for a stretch and a bathroom stop.

During all full day excursions there is a lunch stop at a local restaurant. Further information and details of each tour are listed on our website and in our brochure.

Question 54

Can I bring a packed lunch or is lunch provided?

Accepted Answer

Unless specifically listed, meals and refreshments are not included. During all full day excursions there is a lunch stop at a local restaurant. For the tours, you can either bring your own lunch or buy it on the way. It is not allowed to have lunch on board the coach.

Question 55

Does my child have to use a child seat in the bus?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all passengers should use seat belts and we at Reykjavik Excursions offer child's car seats for children 9–18 kg approx. (1–3 or 4 years old) Please note that Reykjavik Excursions cannot provide child car seats on the Highland Bus.

It is the driver's responsibility to ensure that all passengers wear seat belts according to Icelandic law and that children use an appropriate child's car seat for their age.

Children 0-3 years of age must use an appropriate child's car seats.

Children 3 or 4 years and older (over 18 kg) can use the normal seat belts on our buses.

Please contact our Customer Service with at least 24 hour notice if you are planning to travel with us and a child's car seat is needed so we can make sure that there is one available. Kindly note that operators are not required to provide children's car seats as it is not practical for them to carry a range of different child´s car seats on their vehicles. That is why we ask our customers to book a child's car seat in advance when needed.

Question 56

Are there seatbelts in the buses?

Accepted Answer

There are 2-point seat belts on all Reykjavik Excursions buses.

Fiery Sightseeing Trip and Lava Field Hiking Adventure in Reykjanes

BSÍ Bus Terminal - City center

Need to know

Requirements

Tour itinerary

Fagradalsfjall

Seltún

What’s included and what to bring on this tour

Included

Not included

Tour highlights

Are you wondering about something?

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