Reykjanes Peninsula: Lava Fields, Lighthouses and Hot Springs near the Airport

Almost every visitor to Iceland lands on it, but few spend time exploring it. The Reykjanes Peninsula is the south-western tip of the country, where Keflavík Airport, the Blue Lagoon and a great many lava fields sit within a short drive of each other. If you have a long layover, a late flight or a free half day at either end of your trip, this is a convenient place to see Iceland's volcanic side.

Why the peninsula is worth a stop

Reykjanes sits on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The result is a landscape of young lava fields, craters, steaming ground and wild coastline, and it is all very close to the airport. The peninsula is also known for volcanic activity in recent years, so conditions here matter more than on most routes.

Because distances are short, you can see several places in a few hours, and the roads are generally straightforward. It also works well as a gentle start or end to a trip, without the long drives of a full day tour.

The main sights

• Reykjanes lighthouse and the western cliffs: a lighthouse on a hill, with sea cliffs and rugged lava coastline nearby.
• Gunnuhver geothermal area: a field of steam vents and boiling mud pools, with boardwalks and marked paths.
• Brimketill: a natural lava rock pool beside the sea, best viewed from a safe distance.
• Bridge Between Continents: a small footbridge across a rift between two tectonic plates.
• Krýsuvík and Seltún: coloured geothermal ground with walkways, and the nearby lake Kleifarvatn.
• Blue Lagoon: the best-known geothermal spa, which you must pre-book. See our guide to the Blue Lagoon from Keflavík Airport.

None of these require hiking boots, but the ground near geothermal areas can be extremely hot, so always stay on marked paths and boardwalks.

If you only have time for one stop, make it the Gunnuhver area or the lighthouse. Both are quick to reach from the main road, both show the peninsula's volcanic character and neither needs more than about 30 to 45 minutes. Combine them with a coffee stop and you have a satisfying mini-tour without a long drive.

Wind is the main comfort factor here. The peninsula is open and exposed, so even on a sunny day it can feel cold at the coast. A windproof jacket is worth having, and our guide to what to pack for Iceland lists the essentials by season.

Volcanic activity: check before you go

The peninsula has seen eruptions and earthquakes in recent years, and the situation can change. Some areas near the eruption sites and the town of Grindavík may be restricted or closed at times. This is not a reason to avoid the region, but it is a reason to check current information from the Icelandic authorities, the Icelandic Met Office and Safetravel the day you go, and to follow any closures and warnings.

A simple plan for a layover or arrival day

If you land in the morning and your hotel room is not ready, or you have several hours before a departure, a loop around the peninsula is an easy way to fill the time. A typical plan might be:

1. Meet your driver in arrivals and drop your luggage in the car.
2. Visit one or two sights close to the airport, such as the lighthouse and the Gunnuhver area.
3. Stop for a coffee or lunch in a nearby town.
4. Continue to Reykjavík or return to the airport with time to spare for your flight.

If you are leaving, give yourself plenty of margin. Our guide to early morning flights from Keflavík explains how to plan the timing, and our arrivals guide covers the other direction.

Exploring with a private driver

Public transport on the peninsula is limited, and sights are spread along minor roads. With a private driver you can combine your airport transfer with a few stops, and your luggage stays in the car. Your driver meets you in arrivals with a name sign, and we include 45 minutes of free waiting at the airport.

• Fixed price per car, not per person, with transfers from Keflavík to Reykjavík from 18,900 kr per car
• Economy (Tesla) for 1 to 4 passengers, Van (Mercedes Vito) for 5 to 7, minibus for 8 to 16 on request
• Pay a 20% deposit online and the rest to the driver by card or cash
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before pick-up
• WhatsApp support 24/7 on +354 777 3949

If you want to add stops, message us on WhatsApp before you book and we will tell you what is possible. Add your flight number when you book so your driver knows your arrival time.

FAQ

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