Reykjavik Whale Watching and Lava Show
Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik Whale Watching and Lava Show

Outty Ranking 62 4.4 · 8 traveler reviews4.5 hoursFrom $73
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Outty Ranking

62/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.4/5

Based on 8 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Reykjavik Whale Watching and Lava Show worth booking?

Reykjavik Whale Watching and Lava Show is a 4.5-hour experience in Reykjavik, Iceland, from $73 per person. It scores 62 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.4/5 rating across 8 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
62 / 100
Rating
4.4/5 (8)
Duration
4.5 hours
From
$73 per person

Whale Watching departure at 09:00 & Lava Show at 14:00 Whale Watching departure at 13:00 & Lava Show at 18:00 Join a Whale watching sea adventure! Something fun and different. Get in touch with the diverse sea life and witness the Reykjavík skyline from a whole new angle. The only live LAVA SHOW in the world! In order to recreate a miniature volcano eruption, they superheat real lava from the 1918 Katla eruption and once molten, pour it into a showroom full of people. It is an incredible, unforgettable experience. In an instant, the showroom heats up to a toasty temperature. And as the audience sits safe in their seats yet only a few feet away from the flowing lava, it is mesmerizing to see, hear, smell and feel the incredible heat that radiates from it.

What you get

    About this experience

    Whale Watching departure at 09:00 & Lava Show at 14:00 Whale Watching departure at 13:00 & Lava Show at 18:00 Join a Whale watching sea adventure! Something fun and different. Get in touch with the diverse sea life and witness the Reykjavík skyline from a whole new angle. The only live LAVA SHOW in the world! In order to recreate a miniature volcano eruption, they superheat real lava from the 1918 Katla eruption and once molten, pour it into a showroom full of people. It is an incredible, unforgettable experience. In an instant, the showroom heats up to a toasty temperature. And as the audience sits safe in their seats yet only a few feet away from the flowing lava, it is mesmerizing to see, hear, smell and feel the incredible heat that radiates from it.

    What's included

    Included

    • ~50 minutes Lava Show
    • Free ticket to join again in case of no sightings
    • Experience the only live Lava Show in the world
    • Experienced and professional guides
    • See, smell, hear and feel the intense heat
    • Warm flotation overalls

    Not included

    • Snacks and beverages sold on board
    • Backstage Tour: 990 ISK (additional ~10 minutes after the show)

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Reykjavik

    Meet us at Geirsgata 11, Special Tours ticket office, for your upcoming tour. Please arrive 30 minutes early at the meeting point.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    Meet us at Geirsgata 11, Special Tours ticket office, for your upcoming tour. Please arrive 30 minutes early at the meeting point.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 30 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Reykjavik Sailors

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • NOTE: You should schedule to be at our departure point at least 30 minutes before scheduled departure.
    • Please, check our DAILY DIARY before you come for the tour, all the important daily information of all our tours will be notified on our website.
    • If you have a boat tour booked, please check your email before the tour as all important daily information will be notified via email.
    • We recommend wearing good footwear and warm clothing. Don´t forget to bring your camera to take amazing photos!
    • Kindly notify us if you require wheelchair access, as not all of our boats are equipped for accessibility.
    • Whale Watching departure at 09:00 & Lava Show at 14:00
    • Whale Watching departure at 13:00 & Lava Show at 18:00

    Photos

    From molten lava to mighty whales — Iceland is pure power and beauty! Explore nature’s extremes and feel the island’s heartbeat., Reykjavik Whale...Feel the heat, hear the splash, and see the magic! Experience Iceland’s fiery lava, majestic whales, and unforgettable adventures — all in one...Where fire meets ice and ocean giants roam. Discover Iceland’s raw energy — from glowing lava to breathtaking whale breaches!, Reykjavik Whale...Experience Iceland’s wild contrasts! Watch real lava flow, sail with whales, and witness nature’s raw energy up close., Reykjavik Whale Watching...Reykjavik Whale Watching and Lava Show, photo 6Reykjavik Whale Watching and Lava Show, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 8 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    5 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    The guide

    4 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Traveler reviews

    8 verified traveler reviews for Reykjavik Whale Watching and Lava Show. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    6
    4 star
    1
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    1 star
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    Kayla_S · September 2026

    This is two separate...

    This is two separate tours. The first one we went to Whale watching. It’s a very large boat. We were able to see whales, and I loved that! Highly recommend going to the top of the deck and at the front of the ship, get early to get a good spot. Almost all of the time, the whales were spotted in the front of the ship. It definitely seemed like when the people in the back spotted something they would turn around so the front could see. As someone stuck in the back, your view then becomes limited. We were still able to see and get good photos just running around a lot. That’s also just how it works sometime with nature. Dress warm and bring gloves. There is a gap in time from the whales to the lava show and they are not close to each other. The lava show is cool. Be careful booking it same day as you land. The dim lights, the warmth of the lava… you’ll get real tired. They do a good job at explaining and showing different scenarios. Again, It just feels realllly nice and warm after a long sleepless flight. 😅 It was a great experience overall!

    via Viator

    Shannon_M · June 2026

    Whale watching tour was...

    Whale watching tour was excellent. Our guide was knowledgeable and informative. The crew were able to locate dolphins and whales getting us close for optimal viewing.

    Response from the operator: Hello, Thank you very much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that you had an excellent whale watching experience with us. It’s great to know that our guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm helped make the tour both informative and enjoyable, and that our crew was able to locate dolphins and whales to give you those close-up, unforgettable views. Your kind words truly mean a lot to the whole team, and we’re so glad we could be a part of your time in Iceland. We hope to welcome you onboard again in the future! Best regards, Reykjavik Sailors

    via Viator

    M3465QEscotta · December 2025

    Great time! Fire and ice

    Such a great time for both. Saw 3 different whales on the cruise with a super knowledgeable guide, and the lava show was the icing on the cake. Very unexpected and fun filled day.

    Response from the operator: Hello, Thank you for sharing your experience with us. We’re delighted to hear you enjoyed both the whale watching tour and the lava show, and that the combination made for such a fun and memorable day. It’s great to know the sightings and guiding helped make it extra special. Best regards, Reykjavik Sailors Team

    via Tripadvisor

    Silk44w · November 2025

    Great tour of whales and lava! Not together of course! 🤪

    Absolutely fantastic tour! The host was amazing! Cracking jokes and being very kind in general! Saw sperm and minke whales! Also the man made lava with super heated lava rock and not iron as I had assumed! Excellent tour!

    Response from the operator: Hi there, We deeply appreciate your kind words and wonderful feedback. We're absolutely delighted to hear that you enjoyed both the whale watching tour and the Lava Show in Reykjavik!  If you ever find yourself back in Iceland and wish to embark on another exciting journey at sea, please do not hesitate to contact us. We would be more than happy to arrange another tour for you. Warm regards, Reykjavik Sailors Team

    via Tripadvisor

    19beverlyz · August 2025

    Great Excursions with a walk between the two

    The whale watching was quite a success. We were able to see puffins, dolphins, and a couple different types of whales. Our guide also shared a bunch of information about whales. It was very informative. I highly suggest this excursion. The reason I knocked this to four stars instead of five was because the lava show was a mile walk away. We were not informed of that. Also, we did not know what time to be at the lava show. We walked all the way over there only to find out that we had about two hours to grab lunch. We had to walk a half mile to find a lunch spot which is fine, but if we knew we had more time, we would’ve eaten somewhere else. With that said, the lava show is also very good. It was a fun way to learn more about volcanoes in an up close manner.

    Response from the operator: Hello, Thank you for your kind review! We’re glad you enjoyed the tour and got to see such a great variety of wildlife. It's wonderful to hear the guide made the experience even more informative. Best regards, Reykjavik Sailors

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    4.5 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $73 to $145
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    3
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Reykjavik Sailors, who run 6 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 61.4.

    See everything Reykjavik Sailors runs

    Why this scores 62

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)76
    Review evidence (18% weight)28
    Booking momentum (14% weight)20
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)37
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Reykjavik Whale Watching and Lava Show: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Reykjavik.

    How much does Reykjavik Whale Watching and Lava Show cost?

    +

    Prices start at $73 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Reykjavik usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Reykjavik Whale Watching and Lava Show take?

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    Plan for about 4.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Reykjavik is not rushed.

    Is Reykjavik Whale Watching and Lava Show worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 62 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.4/5 across 8 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Reykjavik, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Reykjavik Whale Watching and Lava Show?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Reykjavik Whale Watching and Lava Show suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 4.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Reykjavik Whale Watching and Lava Show?

    +

    Around 3 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Reykjavik can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Reykjavik and add a light layer if any part of the 4.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Reykjavik Whale Watching and Lava Show start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Reykjavik within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Reykjavik?

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    On Outty we rank every Reykjavik experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Reykjavik Food Walk - Local Foodie Adventure in Iceland, Silfra Snorkeling Between Continents Photos Included- Self Drive, Small-Group Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon with Ticket & Kerid Crater. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Reykjavik?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Reykjavik?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Reykjavik Whale Watching and Lava Show?

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    Included: ~50 minutes Lava Show; Free ticket to join again in case of no sightings; Experience the only live Lava Show in the world; Experienced and professional guides; and See, smell, hear and feel the intense heat. Not included: Snacks and beverages sold on board; and Backstage Tour: 990 ISK (additional ~10 minutes after the show). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Reykjavik Whale Watching and Lava Show?

    +

    Meet us at Geirsgata 11, Special Tours ticket office, for your upcoming tour. Please arrive 30 minutes early at the meeting point. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Reykjavik Whale Watching and Lava Show offered in?

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    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Reykjavik Whale Watching and Lava Show?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Reykjavik Whale Watching and Lava Show wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Kindly notify us if you require wheelchair access, as not all of our boats are equipped fo. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Reykjavik Whale Watching and Lava Show if the weather is bad?

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    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Reykjavik Whale Watching and Lava Show?

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    Across 8 reviews averaging 4.4 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

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