Reykjavik: Whales & Lava Show

Discover Iceland’s wild spirit through two spectacular experiences that reveal the country’s deep connection to both the ocean and the forces beneath the earth. This exciting combo begins with Elding’s classic whale watching tour from Reykjavík Old Harbour, where you will set sail into Faxaflói Bay aboard a comfortable vessel designed for excellent sightseeing and wildlife viewing. Over approximately 3 hours, you will search for some of Iceland’s most iconic marine species, including minke whales, humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins, and harbour porpoises, all while enjoying expert live commentary from passionate guides.

The cruise offers more than just wildlife sightings — the sweeping views of Reykjavík’s coastline, surrounding mountains, and open sea create an unforgettable backdrop for your adventure. After returning to shore, continue independently to the nearby Grandi Harbour District, home to the one-of-a-kind Lava Show Reykjavík. Here, you will witness a remarkable recreation of a volcanic eruption using real lava, heated until molten and then poured into a specially designed indoor showroom. As the lava glows, crackles, and flows only a short distance away, you will not only see it, but also hear it, feel its heat, and even sense the unique atmosphere it creates.

Before the live demonstration, the experience begins with an engaging introduction and educational film that explains Iceland’s volcanic landscape, nearby volcanoes, and some of the country’s most dramatic eruptions. The combination of real wildlife in the open ocean and real molten lava in a safe indoor setting makes this one of Reykjavík’s most original and memorable combo tours. Perfect for travellers who want to experience Iceland’s nature from two powerful angles, this tour blends adventure, education, and awe in one seamless day.

Approximately 4 hours

• Join a 3-hour classic whale watching cruise in Faxaflói Bay from Reykjavík Old Harbour.
• Search for minke whales, humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins, and harbour porpoises in the wild.
• Experience the unique Lava Show Reykjavík, featuring a live demonstration with real molten lava.
• Learn about Iceland’s volcanic history through an educational presentation and immersive live show.
• Combine two of Iceland’s most dramatic natural elements — ocean wildlife and volcanic power — in one day.

Prices start from 139 EUR (exact pricing may vary based on group size and additional services).

• 3-hour Classic Whale Watching tour
• 50-minute Lava Show in Reykjavík
• Excellent live guide during the whale watching experience
• Educational presentation as part of the Lava Show
• Free WiFi on board the whale watching vessel
• Access to indoor and outdoor viewing areas during the cruise

1. Choose your preferred combo schedule depending on availability:

   • 09:00 – Whale Watching at 09:00 and Lava Show at 14:00

   • 10:00 – Lava Show at 10:00 and Whale Watching at 13:00

   • 13:00 – Whale Watching at 13:00 and Lava Show at 18:00

2. Arrive at least 15 minutes before the first activity at the relevant meeting point.

3. If starting with whale watching, check in at Elding Whale Watching at Reykjavík Old Harbour and board the vessel for a 3-hour cruise into Faxaflói Bay.

4. Search for whales, dolphins, porpoises, and seabirds while listening to engaging live commentary about Iceland’s marine life and coastal ecosystem.

5. Enjoy the cruise from outdoor decks for the best sightings or stay comfortable inside the heated indoor saloon with panoramic windows.

6. Return to Reykjavík Old Harbour after the whale watching experience.

7. Make your own way to the Lava Show Reykjavík venue in the Grandi Harbour District.

8. If starting with the Lava Show, arrive at the venue and begin with a welcome from the host followed by a short educational video about Icelandic volcanism and nearby volcanoes.

9. Watch the live lava demonstration as real lava from the 1918 Katla eruption is superheated and poured into the showroom to recreate a miniature volcanic eruption.

10. Observe the glowing lava up close and safely experience the heat, sound, movement, and atmosphere of molten rock in a controlled environment.

11. After the Lava Show, continue to your whale watching departure time if the whale cruise is scheduled second.

12. Complete both activities and enjoy the rest of your day in Reykjavík with a deeper appreciation of Iceland’s ocean life and volcanic forces.

• Pickup is not included, but optional pickup is available for an extra charge
• Drop-off is not available for this combo tour
• Please arrive at least 15 minutes before each activity starts
• Meeting points:
• Elding Whale Watching, Ægisgarður 5c, 101 Reykjavík, IS
• Lava Show, Fiskislóð 73, 101 Reykjavík, IS
• Difficulty level: Easy
• Minimum age: 1 year
• Booking cut-off: 1 hour before departure
• The Lava Show is family-friendly, but may not be best suited for children aged 0–4 years
• It can get very hot in the showroom when the lava is poured, so guests are advised to remove some outer layers before the show begins
• The experience is safe, but pregnant women, guests with infants, and those with cardiovascular conditions are recommended to sit toward the back or near the exits as a precaution
• Free WiFi is available on board the whale watching vessel
• Cancellation policy: Refund if cancelled at least 1 day before the event