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Did you know Iceland is home to over 130 active and dormant volcanoes? Among them, Thrihnukagigur stands out as a true marvel, drawing adventurers and geology lovers from around the world.
Just a short drive from Reykjavík, this dormant volcano invites you to explore a massive magma chamber below the Earth's surface, offering a breathtaking experience that showcases Iceland's fiery past in vivid mineral colors and ancient rock formations.
In this article, you'll uncover what makes Thrihnukagigur a geological treasure, learn about its fascinating history, and get the inside scoop on what to expect during your descent. Plus, we'll share practical tips for visiting, the best time to go, and other must-see spots nearby to make the most of your Icelandic journey. Get ready to discover Thrihnukagigur's hidden wonders!
What Makes Thrihnukagigur in Iceland Unique?
Thrihnukagigur is a dormant volcano in Iceland and stands as the only place in the world where visitors can safely descend into a magma chamber. Also known as 'Three Peaks Crater' for its unique triple peaks, this incredible site spans 3,270 square meters (35,200 square feet) and plunges 213 meters (699 feet) deep.
Though the last eruption happened about 4,500 years ago, its magma chamber, often called the heart of the volcano, remains intact. This is a rare phenomenon that defies the typical collapse seen after eruptions. In most volcanoes, liquid rock accumulates in the magma chamber before an eruption, and afterward, the chamber solidifies.
However, Þríhnúkagígur is an unusual exception. Scientists believe the magma here retreated deep into the Earth's crust rather than cooling and solidifying. For adventurers and scientists alike, this geological marvel offers a rare glimpse into Earth's interior, capturing the power and mystery of volcanic activity in a way no other site can.
This rare event offers a special opportunity to study volcanoes from the inside. Researchers from the University of Iceland and National Geographic have studied Thrihnukagigur to learn more about volcanic processes and how magma behaves underground. Their work helps improve our understanding of volcanic activity both in Iceland and around the world.
What makes Thrihnukagigur truly special is the rare opportunity to explore a magma chamber that has stayed intact since its last eruption over 4,000 years ago. This is the only place in the world where you can descend into the heart of a volcano, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience for anyone looking to get up close to volcanic geology and feel the immense scale of an ancient magma chamber.
History and Discovery of Thrihnukagigur
The story of exploring the inside of this volcano in Iceland began in 1974 when cave explorer Árni B. Stefánsson became the first person to enter Þríhnúkagígur. On a bright winter day, Árni's friends carefully lowered him into the vast, untouched cavern, marking the start of a new chapter in Icelandic exploration.
By 1991, Árni was joined by his brother, Einar, and friend Björn Ólafsson, who together made multiple daring expeditions to map the immense volcanic chamber. Equipped with ropes, harnesses, and headlamps, they navigated the dark depths of this dormant volcano. The idea of making Thrihnukagigur accessible to the public emerged in 2004 when Árni proposed constructing a tunnel.
Then, in 2010, a National Geographic expedition inspired a new access solution. The team developed a modified window cleaning lift, making it possible to safely lower visitors into the volcano. Since 2012, this lift has allowed people to descend and experience Thrihnukagigur's captivating geological beauty firsthand.
What to Expect Inside the Magma Chamber
When you enter this magnificent magma chamber in Iceland, you're stepping into a natural wonder of breathtaking scale. This experience begins at a small cinder cone, rising about 35 meters (100 feet) above the surrounding landscape.
At its summit, a modest 4x4 meter (12x12 foot) funnel-shaped opening gives way to a massive, bottle-shaped cavern that descends 120 meters (400 feet) deep. As you reach the chamber floor, you'll stand within an area that spans approximately 50x70 meters (160x220 feet), almost the size of three basketball courts placed side by side.
This incredible space continues to amaze us with its vast dimensions. Imagine a full-sized Statue of Liberty fitting comfortably within its height. Volcanic passages extend downwards, reaching an impressive depth of 200 meters (700 feet) to the southwest.
Many visitors describe Thrihnukagigur as a "once-in-a-lifetime experience," and its TripAdvisor rating backs this up with an impressive 4.9 out of 5. As Bruce shares: "An amazing once-in-a-lifetime experience! Photos can’t do it justice. I’ve hiked lava tubes in California and done Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico, but this is in a class by itself!" His review reflects the sense of awe that visitors feel when exploring this unique volcanic wonder.
The Descent into the Chamber
The descent into Þríhnúkagígur volcano is a thrilling experience like no other. To access the magma chamber, you'll board a custom-built lift designed with technology similar to window cleaning systems used on skyscrapers.
This innovative lift, resembling a large basket, comfortably holds 7-8 people, allowing small groups to descend together. Suspended by sturdy cable wires, the lift is securely attached to a crane positioned over the crater's opening, ensuring a smooth and safe journey.
As you begin the descent, you'll travel 120 meters (390 feet) from the crater's edge to the chamber floor below. The ride takes around five minutes, providing ample time to absorb the unique atmosphere. The steady drop into this immense, bottle-shaped cavern offers a true sense of the volcano's scale and a gradual reveal of the vivid mineral-streaked walls below.
The Colors and Rock Formations of the Chamber
The magma chamber of Thríhnúkagígur volcano showcases a breathtaking display of natural artistry, with walls awash in vivid colors that narrate its volcanic history. These colors, ranging from bright yellows to deep blues, are the result of mineral deposits left by ancient eruptions.
The yellow stains reveal traces of sulfurous gases that interacted with the rock, while blue patches mark areas where rocks have detached over time. Unique drip-stone formations resembling delicate lava curtains add to the chamber's visual appeal.
Together, these textures and colors offer a rare glimpse into the dynamic geological processes that have shaped Thríhnúkagígur over millennia.
Practical Information for Visiting Thrihnukagigur
Planning a visit to Thrihnukagigur requires some essential details to make the most of this unique experience. From getting there to choosing the right tour, it's helpful to know what to expect and what's included. Here's everything you need to prepare for an unforgettable journey inside Iceland's remarkable volcano.
How to Get There
If you're driving yourself to Thrihnukagigur volcano rather than taking a transfer from Reykjavik, start by searching for 'Inside the Volcano – Meeting Point' on Google Maps. This step is crucial, as it's not possible to drive directly to the volcano. The meeting point coordinates are N 63.982815, W -21.652749, and the drive from Reykjavík takes about 40 minutes.
To get there, head east on the Ring Road (Route 1) toward the south coast, then continue straight for around 15 minutes. Turn right onto road nr. 417 (Bláfjallavegur) and follow it without any additional turns. Avoid taking route 42 via Hafnarfjörður, as it leads to a permanently closed section.
When road nr. 417 splits, continue straight, and do not turn onto the gravel track. From the meeting point, you'll begin the hike to the volcano, immersing yourself in the rugged Icelandic landscape on your way to this unforgettable experience.
Note: The transfer does come at an extra cost.
Inside the Volcano - Thrihnukagigur Tour
The Thrihnukagigur volcano tour offers a truly one-of-a-kind adventure that begins at Breiðabliksskáli, Bláfjallavegur in Reykjavík. The tour price starts at $300. While it may not be the cheapest option, we assure you it’s worth every single cent for the unparalleled experience of descending into an intact magma chamber! During the low season, you might even be lucky enough to find some discounted prices, so keep an eye out for deals.
After a short transfer to the meeting point, you'll embark on an invigorating one-hour hike across rugged lava fields. This 3.5-kilometer (2-mile) trail each way features an elevation gain of 50 meters (150 feet) in the final 10 minutes, making it essential for participants to have a moderate fitness level.
On the tour, you'll receive all necessary safety gear, including helmets and harnesses, for a secure descent into the volcano's magma chamber. Small group sizes and multiple guides ensure a personalized experience, where you'll also enjoy traditional Icelandic lamb soup with vegetarian options, along with coffee and tea. Rain jackets are provided if needed, so you're prepared for Iceland's changing weather.
Tours run from May 5 to October 30, with several departures daily starting at 8:00 AM. Each tour lasts approximately 5–6 hours, including transfers and around 40 minutes inside the crater, where temperatures remain at a chilly 3°C (37°F). Children aged eight and above are welcome, provided they're ready for the hike.
Important Note: Refunds are not available if children cannot complete the hike. We also recommend arriving 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time to check in and receive safety instructions.
Alternative Tour Options to Þríhnúkagígur
For those looking to skip the hike, there are thrilling helicopter tours to Þríhnúkagígur available. These tours depart from Reykjavík Domestic Airport, conveniently located near the city center.
You can choose a morning departure at 8:30 AM or an afternoon slot, with exact times depending on the season. The entire tour takes around two hours, including 40 minutes exploring the crater itself.
The helicopter ride offers stunning aerial views and lasts between 12-20 minutes each way. This option provides a quicker and equally unforgettable way to experience the breathtaking beauty of Þríhnúkagígur from above and within.
Facilities Available at The Volcano
At the base of the volcano, you will find the Base Camp, which serves as a cozy and essential hub for visitors preparing to descend into Þríhnúkagígur. Located within the capital's water reservation area, access to Base Camp by car is restricted.
Supplies, including the elevator, are transported by helicopter each spring and autumn. Here, guests can gear up, relax with a warm drink such as coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, and enjoy the famous all-you-can-eat Icelandic lamb or vegetable soup, perfect for chilly days.
Base Camp is equipped with amenities such as restrooms and wireless internet, making it a comfortable social spot that attracts adventurers from around the world.
Visitors can purchase Inside the Volcano products and souvenirs like sweaters featuring the tour logo, along with practical items such as gloves and hats. New souvenir cups featuring fun phrases like 'Are you a volcano? Because I lava you,' are also popular, adding a lighthearted touch to the experience.
What to Bring & Requirements
When visiting Thrihnukagigur, it's essential to be well-prepared for the experience and to bring the right gear. Here's what you'll need:
- Clothing: Dress in warm, waterproof layers suitable for mountain conditions, as the weather can change rapidly.
- Shoes: Sturdy hiking boots are a must for navigating the rocky terrain.
- Camera: Don't forget your camera to capture stunning photos of Thrihnukagigur and the unforgettable views and unique volcanic landscapes.
- Fitness Level: A moderate level of fitness is recommended (Difficulty level: 2/5), and no prior hiking experience is necessary.
- Age Limit: The minimum age is 8 years, and children must be capable of completing the hike, even in varied weather conditions.
- Weather Conditions: Tours operate rain or shine, so be prepared for any weather Iceland may bring.
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Best Time to Visit Thrihnukagigur
The best time to visit Thrihnukagigur is during the Icelandic summer months, from the beginning of May to the end of October, when tours operate due to favorable weather conditions. During this period, visitors can enjoy clearer skies and milder temperatures, enhancing the overall experience of exploring this unique volcano.
The summer months also provide better hiking conditions, making the one-hour trek across the lava field more accessible and enjoyable. The vibrant colors of the surrounding landscape are at their peak, offering stunning views that add to the adventure.
Additionally, this time frame allows for longer daylight hours, giving visitors ample opportunity to soak in the breathtaking scenery before and after their descent into the magma chamber in Iceland.
Nearby Attractions and Day Trips
The area surrounding Thrihnukagigur volcano offers a variety of attractions and activities, perfect for enhancing your Icelandic adventure. Here are some nearby highlights to consider:
- Bláfjöll (Blue Mountains): Known for their stunning winter ski slopes, the Blue Mountains also feature beautiful hiking trails in the summer. The scenic landscapes make this a great spot for nature enthusiasts looking to explore Iceland's rugged beauty.
- Reykjadalur Hot Springs: Just a short drive from Thrihnukagigur, this popular destination offers a relaxing soak in naturally heated hot springs. Follow the scenic trail through Reykjadalur Valley to reach the warm river, where you can unwind and be surrounded by breathtaking views.
- Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel: Experience Iceland's volcanic past firsthand by exploring one of the country's longest lava tunnels. Guided tours take you through this natural wonder, showcasing colorful mineral deposits and fascinating rock formations.
- Golden Circle Tour: Combine your volcano visit with Iceland's iconic Golden Circle. This route includes the breathtaking Gullfoss waterfall, the geothermal area of Geysir, and the historic Thingvellir National Park, offering a diverse experience in a single day.
Thinking of Visiting Thrihnukagigur?
If you're planning a visit to Thrihnukagigur, you're in for a treat. This incredible volcano invites you to descend into a vibrant magma chamber, offering a rare glimpse into Iceland's volcanic beauty. By renting a car in Iceland, you'll have the flexibility to explore nearby sites like the Bláfjöll mountains and the soothing Reykjadalur hot springs.
Why limit yourself to a transfer when you can journey deeper into Iceland's stunning landscapes at the nearby attractions? With Thrihnukagigur, the possibilities are endless. So pack your camera and sense of adventure, and get ready to explore one of Iceland's most unique natural wonders!
