Iceland is a land where fire and ice collide, where raw, untamed energy simmers just beneath the surface. Imagine standing at the edge of a volcanic crater, steam rising in ghostly tendrils around you, the scent of sulfur hanging in the crisp Arctic air. Picture yourself walking on cooled lava, the jagged black rock beneath your feet a frozen testament to the earth’s fiery heart. This is Iceland—where every mountain, valley, and coastline has been shaped by the powerful hand of volcanic activity.
For those eager to immerse themselves in this geological wonderland, Volcano Express at Harpa in Reykjavík offers the perfect starting point. This sensory-driven exhibition transports you into the heart of Iceland’s volcanic story, blending stunning visuals, immersive soundscapes, and dynamic storytelling to bring the island’s fiery past and present to life. Whether you’re planning to explore Iceland’s active volcanoes firsthand or simply want to experience their raw power up close, Volcano Express sets the stage for an unforgettable journey.
Volcano Express: The gateway to Iceland’s volcanic heart
Kick off your volcanic adventure with a visit to the Volcano Express experience. This state-of-the-art exhibition immerses you in the dramatic forces shaping Iceland, from the heat of molten lava to the tremors of earthquakes. Located in Reykjavík’s Harpa, the Volcano Express is a sensory feast that sets the stage for your journey into Iceland’s volcanic landscapes.
- Immersive exhibits: Explore interactive displays that replicate the heat of lava and the vibrations caused by tectonic activity. Feel the rumble of the Earth under your feet and witness the dramatic visualizations of past eruptions.
- Educational value: Learn about the science of plate tectonics and the geological timeline of Iceland’s formation, perfect for visitors of all ages.
- Family-friendly fun: Kids and adults alike will enjoy hands-on activities that bring Iceland’s fiery forces to life.
Reykjanes peninsula – Lava fields and fumaroles
Volcanic history
The Reykjanes Peninsula is a geological marvel, where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge surfaces, creating a dynamic landscape shaped by volcanic and geothermal activity. Historically, this region remained dormant for approximately 800 years until the Fagradalsfjall volcanic system reawakened in 2021. The initial eruption began on 19 March 2021, marking the first volcanic activity on the peninsula in over eight centuries.
This resurgence continued with subsequent eruptions in August 2022 and July 2023. In late 2023, a series of eruptions commenced near Grindavík, with the most recent occurring in end of 2024. These events have transformed the peninsula into a focal point for studying and witnessing volcanic phenomena.
Tours and activities
For those eager to explore this dynamic volcanic landscape, there are plenty of ways to experience Reykjanes’ raw power:
- Guided walks on eruption sites – Walk over freshly cooled lava from the Fagradalsfjall eruptions and witness the aftermath of a recent volcanic event.
- Lava field tours – Explore the vast, moon-like lava fields that stretch across the peninsula, learning about the geological forces that shaped them.
- Photo opportunities – Whether capturing steam rising from Gunnuhver or the dramatic cliffs of Brimketill, Reykjanes offers endless opportunities for striking photography.
From the roaring heat of Gunnuhver to the eerie beauty of cooled lava flows, Reykjanes is a must-visit destination for anyone fascinated by Iceland’s volcanic wonders.
Golden Circle – Where nature meets history
Key attractions
The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s most famous travel routes, where breathtaking landscapes intertwine with the country’s deep historical roots. This 300-kilometer loop showcases some of Iceland’s most extraordinary geological and cultural landmarks.
- Þingvellir National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Þingvellir (Thingvellir) is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates drift apart, creating dramatic fissures and rift valleys. It is also the birthplace of Iceland’s democracy, as the Alþingi (Althing), the world’s oldest parliament, was established here in 930 AD. Walking through the Almannagjá gorge, visitors can witness both Earth’s shifting forces and Iceland’s historical legacy in one place.
- Geysir geothermal area – The legendary Great Geysir, which gave all geysers their name, lies here, though it erupts infrequently. However, Strokkur, the area’s most active geyser, erupts every few minutes, shooting boiling water up to 30 meters into the air—a thrilling display of Iceland’s geothermal power.
- Gullfoss waterfall – One of Iceland’s most stunning waterfalls, Gullfoss (Golden Falls) is a two-tiered cascade that plunges 32 meters into a rugged canyon. On sunny days, rainbows form in the mist, enhancing its ethereal beauty.
If you stood on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge in Þingvellir National Park, you would be literally straddling two continents! The Eurasian Plate and North American Plate are drifting apart beneath your feet.
Hekla’s role
Looming on the horizon near the Golden Circle, Hekla is one of Iceland’s most famous and feared volcanoes. Nicknamed “The Gateway to Hell” in medieval times, Hekla has a long history of powerful eruptions, with its last major event occurring in 2000. Unlike Fagradalsfjall’s slow-moving lava flows, Hekla’s eruptions are often explosive, producing vast ash clouds and reshaping the landscape. The volcano has inspired folklore for centuries, with stories claiming it was a passage to the underworld.
Tour recommendations
For travelers eager to explore the Golden Circle, numerous tour operators offer guided experiences that cover these incredible sites:
- Reykjavik Excursions – Offers full-day Golden Circle tours with knowledgeable guides.
- Gray Line Iceland – Provides both standard and small-group tours with additional stops at hidden gems.
- Arctic Adventures – Features Golden Circle & Snowmobiling tours for a more adventurous twist.
Whether standing between continents at Þingvellir, witnessing Strokkur’s geothermal power, or feeling the spray of Gullfoss, the Golden Circle is where Iceland’s geological wonders meet its rich history.
South coast – Glaciers, volcanoes, and waterfalls
Famous landmarks
Iceland’s south coast is a dramatic meeting point of fire, ice, and ocean, offering some of the country’s most iconic natural wonders.
- Eyjafjallajökull volcano – Famously known for its 2010 eruption, which disrupted global air travel, Eyjafjallajökull is a glacier-covered volcano that stands as a testament to Iceland’s unpredictable geological activity. Although quiet today, its snow-capped peak remains an awe-inspiring sight.
- Seljalandsfoss waterfall – One of Iceland’s most photographed waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss plunges 60 meters over a rocky cliff. What makes it truly special is the walking path behind the cascade, allowing visitors to experience the waterfall from all angles.
- Reynisfjara black sand beach – A hauntingly beautiful stretch of coastline, Reynisfjara is famous for its jet-black volcanic sands, towering basalt columns, and the powerful waves of the North Atlantic. The nearby Reynisdrangar sea stacks, rising like ancient sentinels from the ocean, add to the beach’s otherworldly atmosphere.
Historic eruption
One of Iceland’s most significant volcanic events occurred in 1973, when a sudden eruption on the island of Heimaey in the Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands) forced the evacuation of its entire population. The eruption lasted five months, covering parts of the town in lava and ash. Ingeniously, firefighters pumped seawater onto the advancing lava flows to slow their progress, successfully saving the harbor, which remains a vital fishing hub today. Today, visitors can explore the Eldheimar Museum, which preserves a house buried in ash, offering a fascinating glimpse into this historic disaster.
Adventure opportunities
The south coast is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering unforgettable experiences:
- Glacier tours – Venture onto Sólheimajökull Glacier for an exhilarating guided ice hike or explore the mesmerizing ice caves beneath Vatnajökull.
- Boat rides – Sail among floating icebergs in Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where seals can often be spotted resting on the ice.
- Hiking excursions – Trek to the DC-3 plane wreck on Sólheimasandur beach or explore the lush green trails around Skógafoss waterfall.
From towering waterfalls to volcanic black sand beaches, Iceland’s south coast is a land of untamed beauty and thrilling adventures, making it an unmissable part of any journey.
The highlands – Iceland’s fire districts
Hidden gems
Iceland’s highlands are a remote, untamed wilderness where fiery volcanic landscapes meet untouched natural beauty. Accessible only in summer and requiring a 4x4 vehicle, this region is a paradise for those seeking Iceland’s raw and rugged heart.
- Landmannalaugar – Known for its rainbow-colored rhyolite mountains, Landmannalaugar is a geothermal wonderland with steaming hot springs, dramatic lava fields, and vibrant hiking trails. The Brennisteinsalda trail showcases a surreal mix of red, orange, and green mineral-streaked hills, creating an almost otherworldly scene.
- Veiðivötn crater lakes – A hidden oasis deep in the highlands, Veiðivötn is a cluster of serene, sapphire-blue crater lakes formed by past eruptions. The contrast between the black volcanic rock and the crystal-clear water makes this area a breathtaking sight—and a peaceful retreat for fishing and solitude.
Adventure routes
For the most adventurous travelers, the Fjallabak trails weave through Iceland’s volcanic interior, revealing landscapes unlike anywhere else on Earth.
- Fjallabak Nyrðri (Northern Fjallabak) – This dramatic highland route takes explorers past glacial rivers, obsidian lava fields, and striking mountain ranges.
- Fjallabak Syðri (Southern Fjallabak) – A more rugged and challenging path, this trail winds through volcanic deserts and leads to hidden geothermal pools.
Both routes demand off-road experience and the right equipment, but the reward is an unforgettable journey through Iceland’s most otherworldly terrain.
Why visit
The highlands offer something truly unique: a chance to step into Iceland’s wildest, least-explored landscapes. With limited access and extreme conditions, a visit here feels like an exclusive adventure into Iceland’s volcanic soul. Many tours cater to intrepid explorers, including:
- Super Jeep expeditions – Navigate rough highland roads with expert guides.
- Multi-day hiking tours – Trek through lava fields and remote valleys, camping under the midnight sun.
- Photography safaris – Capture the stunning colors of Landmannalaugar and the eerie beauty of highland deserts.
For those craving the thrill of discovery, Iceland’s highlands promise an experience few travelers ever get to see—a journey through the true land of fire and ice.
Volcano Express – The ultimate starting point
What to expect
Before venturing into Iceland’s volcanic landscapes, Volcano Express, located inside the iconic Harpa Concert Hall, offers a thrilling, immersive experience that brings the country’s fiery nature to life.
This 15-minute cinematic journey uses cutting-edge visuals, sound, and sensory effects to simulate the heat of molten lava, the ground-shaking tremors of earthquakes, and the explosive force of volcanic eruptions. Through high-definition projections and dynamic storytelling, visitors can witness Iceland’s most powerful eruptions in a way that feels incredibly real.
Practical information
- Location: Harpa Concert Hall, Reykjavík
- Duration: Approximately 15 minutes
- Age suitability: Recommended for ages 4 and over
- Pricing: Affordable entry fees
Why it’s a must-see
Iceland’s volcanoes are some of the most active in the world, and understanding their power enhances the thrill of experiencing them firsthand. Volcano Express provides an exciting, educational introduction to the island’s geological forces, setting the stage for real-world adventures.
Whether you plan to explore the lava fields of Fagradalsfjall, visit the geothermal wonders of the Golden Circle, or stand in awe of Iceland’s mighty waterfalls, Volcano Express is the perfect way to begin your volcanic journey.
Conclusion: Experience the power of Iceland’s volcanoes
Iceland is a land where fire and ice collide, a place where the earth breathes, and where landscapes are constantly being reshaped by volcanic forces. Whether you’re walking across a freshly cooled lava field, standing between tectonic plates at Þingvellir, or feeling the mist of Gullfoss on your skin, every moment in Iceland brings you closer to the raw power of nature.
If you’ve ever dreamed of witnessing a volcanic eruption, exploring vast lava fields, or soaking in a natural hot spring surrounded by ancient craters, Iceland’s volcanic wonders await. From the dramatic cliffs of Reynisfjara to the colorful rhyolite mountains of Landmannalaugar, the island offers a lifetime of unforgettable experiences.
Before setting out on your adventure, Volcano Express is the perfect way to understand the fiery forces that shape Iceland. This immersive experience at Harpa Concert Hall brings volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and lava flows to life—allowing you to feel the heat, hear the rumble, and experience the thrill of Iceland’s geological power before stepping out into the real thing.
There’s nothing quite like standing on the edge of a volcanic crater, watching steam rise from the earth, or hearing the distant roar of an active volcano. Iceland is calling—are you ready to explore its fiery heart?
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