11-Hour Combo Tour of Meradalir Volcanic Area & Northern Lights Hunt from Reykjavik

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Description

Summary

Tour starts
Reykjavík, Iceland
Duration
11 hours
Difficulty
Moderate
Languages
English
Available
Aug. - Apr.
Minimum age
12 years old

Description

Witness two of the most spectacular nature shows in Iceland when you book this combo tour of northern lights hunting and hiking to the Fagradalsfjall volcano in Meradalir valley. Travelers who don't wanna miss the rare opportunity to see the aftermath of a recent volcanic eruption up close should look no further than here.

The small-group tour starts in Iceland's capital, Reykjavik, where you will meet your experienced guide as you get picked up from your hotel. Aboard a comfortable small bus with Wi-Fi, you will journey for 39 miles (63 kilometers) to reach the first destination of your adventure.

The Reykjanes Peninsula, a region in Southwest Iceland, is famous for its dramatic lava landscapes, Blue Lagoon spa, and active geothermal areas. But thanks to a back-to-back eruption in the Fagradalsfjall area, the peninsula became even more popular, attracting thousands of tourists worldwide.

The volcanic eruption of the Fagradalsfjall volcano began in early 2021 and lasted for six months. The event created stunning new lava fields and formations in the valley. In August of 2022, a massive fissure eruption happened again in the nearby valley of Meradalir, followed by more successive eruptions on the peninsula.  

Today, you are one of the few lucky ones who will get to see some of these eruption sites by hiking. Beginning near the fishing town of Grindavik, you will have a thrilling hiking experience covering at least seven miles (12 kilometers), including the return trip. 

The rugged terrain might be challenging for some people because of the uphill hike, but the breathtaking scenery and landscapes around you are good distractions. These panoramic views of mountains and lava fields are also excellent subjects for photography.

At the Meradalir eruption site, you may still see steam rising from the 1000-foot (300-meter) fissure. In addition, you will also see streaks of color from the lining of the large crack near the crater of the Fagradalsfjall volcano. These are fresh traces of the recent eruptions.

All in all, the first part of the combo tour would take around seven hours. Soon after, you'll return to Reykjavik early in the evening for a quick dinner and preparation for the northern lights hunting.

Later in the evening, your guide will pick you up again, and you will venture away from the city, where the possibility of seeing the enchanting aurora borealis is higher. Aboard another bus with free Wi-Fi, you will travel to a secret location in the wilderness of Iceland.

Although there is no assurance that you will see the northern lights on your tour because they are natural phenomena, Iceland is still one of the best places to hunt for them. Moreover, your tour guide knows the exact and best locations to see the magical lights, so always ready your camera to not miss this great opportunity.

Should the lights not appear, or if this part of the tour is canceled due to an unpromising forecast, you'll get to try northern lights hunting again without charge. 

The tour ends as you return to Reykjavik with great photos and memories of the land of fire and ice.

Don't miss this rare chance to see not one but two spectacles of nature, from the eruption site of a volcano to the elusive aurora borealis, with this 11-hour combo tour. Check availability now by choosing a date.

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Included

Bus transfer from Reykjavik
Free Wi-Fi on board bus
Hot chocolate on the northern lights tour
Small group tour (maximum of 15)
Experienced and English-speaking guide

Activities

Hiking
Sightseeing
Northern lights hunting

What to bring

Winter clothes with thermal layers
Waterproof and breathable hiking pants
Sturdy and comfortable hiking shoes
Hat and gloves
Face mask as protection against volcanic ash (recommended)
Hiking poles (optional and can be rented upon booking)

Good to know

- This tour is not recommended for people with heart and back conditions, as the hike can be challenging.

- The volcanic activity on the site varies from day to day. But the whole valley is stunning, regardless.

- You may join the northern lights tour again for free if you don't see it on your first tour.

- Departure for the first leg of the tour is around 11:00-11:30 AM, while departure for the second part is around 9:30 and 10:00 p.m.

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