Lava Show 2024 in Reykjavik

As the country with one of the highest rates of volcanic activity, Iceland is the prime destination for those wanting to learn about volcanic eruptions and lava fields. Besides volcano eruption hikes, where you can witness the aftermath of this spectacular phenomenon, the Lava Show in Reykjavik offers a unique opportunity to observe fiery lava in action. The exhibit aims to recreate a volcanic eruption, with lava streaming down into a display area, where the visitors can watch it bubbling up close.

Lava Show Program & Attractions

At the Reykjavik Lava Show, visitors have a chance to witness a recreation of a volcanic eruption up close, a sight most have never seen before. Experienced professionals heat real lava, taken from the 1918 eruption of the Katla volcano, in the furnace room up to 2000°F (1100°C). The lava is then directed into the main room via a slide, where the guide showcases the properties of the bubbling lava. The lava then slowly descends on the ice blocks, transforming into volcanic glass. To ensure everyone's safety, protective glasses are provided at the venue. Besides the main show, attendees can also browse the display at the gift shop, which offers souvenirs and unique crafts created from the same lava used in the show.

Schedule & Hours

The shows generally take place with an interval of two hours. The first show begins at 10 am, followed by shows at 12 pm, 2 pm, and 4 pm, and closes in with two final spectacles at 6 pm and 8 pm. While the display generally lasts 45 minutes and up to an hour, it's recommended to arrive 20 minutes before the scheduled time.

Tickets

Lava Show offers two ticket options: Classic and Premium Experience. Classic Experience is a chance to witness the lava show in all its glory, with tickets costing 5,900 Icelandic króna for adults and 3,500 Icelandic króna for children 12 years old and under. The entire experience lasts approximately 45-55 minutes. Premium Experience provides additional benefits, such as a complimentary beverage, a tour of the furnace room, and an unforgettable souvenir–a fragment of lava.

With the Premium Experience ticket, visitors also receive VIP access to an exclusive area and an option to view the show from the balcony. Note that the room feels quite hot on the balcony, so consider this when choosing your spot. Premium Experience tickets cost 9,900 Icelandic króna and are available only for adults and children over 13 years old. The experience lasts approximately an hour.

Location

Situated in the Grandi district, known as the industrial area of Reykjavik and home to Saga and Whales of Iceland museums, Lava Show is easily accessible from the city centre. The venue can be found in the western part of the city and can house 118 people at once, with a Premium Lounge having an additional capacity of 32 people. Parking is completely free at the venue. If you're traveling by public transportation, consider taking a bus.

Lava Show in Vík

The Reykjavik Lava Show is actually one of two displays of its kind that you can visit. The event was first started by the same organizers in Vik village, approximately 117 miles (188 km) from Reykjavik. This picturesque village on the seashore has been hosting the Lava Show since 2018 and serves as an ideal getaway to explore Icelandic nature.

History of the Lava Show

The idea of showcasing lavafall as an exhibit first came to Júlíus Ingi Jónsson and Ragnhildur Ágústdóttir, a couple from Iceland, when they witnessed the lava at the Fimmvörðuháls eruption. The first efforts began back in 2016, with the Lava Show in Vik kicking off in 2018, shortly followed by the Reykjavik edition in 2022. Since then, the show has won awards and continues to both educate and entertain many people from all around the globe.