- The magma chamber covers 3,270 square metres and reaches 213 metres deep, accessible only by elevator
- You spend 45 minutes inside the volcano, which has been dormant for more than 4,000 years
- Pickup from Reykjavík comes at an additional fee
What Makes Þríhnúkagígur Unique
Þríhnúkagígur translates as Three Peaks Crater and sits in the Brennisteinsfjöll volcanic system near Reykjavík. The volcano has not erupted in the past 4,000 years. The magma that once filled the chamber drained away, leaving a hollow void beneath the surface.
Cave explorer Árni B. Stefánsson discovered the chamber in 1974. It opened for tourism in 2012. Þríhnúkagígur is the only accessible lava chamber on planet Earth.
The chamber measures 3,270 square metres in area and drops 213 metres deep. You travel down in an elevator, spending 45 minutes inside. The experience makes it unlike any other volcano tour in Iceland.
Þríhnúkagígur Magma Chamber Tours
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Most visitors take the bus from Reykjavík to the meeting point, though you can drive yourself. Pickup service from the city comes at an additional fee. Check which option suits your schedule and budget when you book.
The guides who walk with you to the volcano have an undying passion for nature and people. The guides that take you down into the volcano are all heavily experienced mountaineers. Many are still part of the Icelandic wilderness rescue squads. Once at the crater, you descend by elevator into the magma chamber.
You spend 45 minutes inside the volcano. The guides share information about the geology and history. After ascending, you return to base camp where lamb soup is available. Check the tour details on GetYourGuide for the full schedule.
For a different underground experience, consider the lava tunnel tour or the Into the Glacier tour at Langjökull.
- Only accessible magma chamber on Earth, a truly unique geological experience
- Experienced mountaineer guides lead the descent into the chamber
- You spend 45 minutes inside the volcano to explore the chamber
- Opened for tourism in 2012
- Lamb soup available at base camp
- Pickup from Reykjavík costs extra if you do not drive yourself
- Check safetravel.is before you go as weather can affect access
- Check tour availability before you plan
Physical Requirements and Access
Check the tour requirements when booking on GetYourGuide. Dress in layers and wear sturdy footwear suitable for hiking on volcanic rock.
Weather and road conditions can affect access. Always check safetravel.is and road.is before you go. If conditions are unsafe, tours will be cancelled or rescheduled.
People who prefer less strenuous activities may find Perlan museum or the Lava Show in Reykjavík more suitable.
Comparing Volcanic Experiences in Iceland
| Experience | Access | Depth | Activity Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Þríhnúkagígur | Elevator descent | 213 metres | Magma chamber tour |
| Raufarhólshellir | Walk-in | Surface level | Lava tunnel walk |
| Langjökull ice tunnel | Walk-in | Surface level | Man-made ice tunnel |
| Fagradalsfjall | Hike | Surface | Active eruption site (when erupting) |
Þríhnúkagígur is the only option that takes you inside a magma chamber. The others offer surface or near surface volcanic experiences.
Getting to the Meeting Point
The meeting point is outside Reykjavík. You can drive yourself or pay for pickup from the city. Driving gives you flexibility to explore nearby sites.
If you take the bus, confirm the pickup time and location when you book. Late arrivals may not be able to join the tour. Allow extra time for unexpected delays.
Consider combining the volcano with other day trips from Reykjavík if you have several days in the area.
Season and Booking Timing
Check the tour details on GetYourGuide for operating dates. Book as early as possible to secure your preferred date.
If your dates are flexible, you have a better chance of securing a slot. Confirm your booking and check for updates closer to your travel date. Weather can affect tours, so have a backup plan.
Winter visitors may prefer natural ice cave tours or northern lights excursions instead.
Compare prices, reviews and free-cancellation options before you book.
Check availability →What to Expect Inside the Chamber
The magma chamber is a vast, empty space. The elevator lowers you into the chamber. Once at the bottom, you walk around the chamber floor for 45 minutes.
The guides explain how the magma drained and the geological history. Bring a camera, but check the tour rules before you descend.
Dress warmly. The experience is unlike any other geological site in Iceland, including the Golden Circle or south coast attractions.
Þríhnúkagígur offers the only chance on Earth to descend into a magma chamber, making it a unique geological experience. Check tour availability and prepare for a day outdoors.
Frequently asked questions
Can you self-tour Þríhnúkagígur volcano?
No, the magma chamber is only accessible through the official guided tour operated by 3H Travel.
How deep is the Þríhnúkagígur magma chamber?
The chamber reaches 213 metres deep and covers an area of 3,270 square metres. You descend by elevator.
How do you pronounce Þríhnúkagígur?
Þríhnúkagígur translates as Three Peaks Crater.
When did Þríhnúkagígur last erupt?
The volcano has not erupted in the past 4,000 years and has been dormant for over 4,000 years. It was discovered in 1974 and opened for tourism in 2012.
Is there a bus to Þríhnúkagígur from Reykjavík?
Pickup from Reykjavík is available for an additional fee. You can also drive yourself to the meeting point.
