This article is brought to you in partnership with the Lava Show
Let’s face it – there’s no shortage of incredible experiences in Iceland, but few are quite as unforgettable, immersive, or thrilling as the Lava Show in Reykjavik.
This unique, award-winning live demonstration of molten lava is the first of its kind in the world. It’s a cultural treat that can’t be found anywhere else; an Icelandic alternative to the museums, galleries, and heritage shows found in other parts of the world
Inspired by a towering ‘lavafall’ witnessed during the historic Fimmvörðuháls eruption, the show’s founders have since gone to extraordinary efforts to showcase Iceland’s incredible power for a captive indoor audience.
After years of development, there are now two Lava Shows in operation; one in the capital, and the other in Vík, on the South Coast.
The novelty of the Lava Show experience allows it to contend with Iceland’s greatest attractions.
Fortunately, it is open during both winter and summer, and with shows at around 45 minutes to an hour long, the experience can easily be nestled into your itinerary.
Read more: Visit Iceland’s Hottest Attraction – Lava Show in Reykjavik
If the Lava Show is a must-see during your Iceland trip (…and it most certainly should be) there’s one clear way to make it even better: go Premium!
Be you a geology enthusiast, a parent seeking family entertainment, or a young couple craving something hot and exciting, the Lava Show’s Premium Experience offers not only better value than your typical entry ticket, but also greater access.
Here are 7 reasons why upgrading is absolutely worth it.
1. You Get the Best Seats in the House
In the Premium Experience, you’re not just another face in the crowd.
In fact, you’re provided seating on the balcony, high enough above the lava channel to gain the best view… and truly feel the warmth emanating from below. (Remember, heat rises! You’ll want to leave your clothing layers outside.)
Being able to watch unhindered as molten lava flows into the room, radiant and bubbling, feels like a true privilege.
Completely safe, you’re free to remain seated behind the protective glass, but you can always stand up for an even better look.
From the balcony, you’ll have a great perspective of the lava as it cools, cracks, and fractures. Your entertaining and informative host – typically a geologist – will explain what’s happening in such a way to make the experience feel part theatre, part science.
For anyone wanting a dramatic memory, the balcony is where you’ll want to be seated, and this is especially true for photographers hunting the best angles.
2. Skip the Line, Beat the Crowds
With Premium access, your entry into Reykjavik’s Lava Show is streamlined and effortless.
That means no waiting in line, early access to the seating area, and more time to settle in and soak up the atmosphere.
In busy travel seasons, such as in the summer months, this can make a huge difference. Not just in comfort, but in peace of mind.
3. A Welcome Drink and Icelandic Treats
Nothing says “premium” like being greeted with a glass of something special.
The Lava Show Premium Experience includes a welcome drink—refreshing sodas, wines, or local beer—and, sometimes, a selection of delicious Icelandic treats.
The lounge upstairs has plenty of seats and tables, ensuring comfort even among larger groups. Visitors will find the walls lined with large, vivid imagery of past volcanic eruptions, and shelves filled with unique lava rocks and display cards.
There is even a live-feed to the Reykjanes Peninsula, which has become famous over the years for its tendency to play host to violent eruptions.
All in all, the Premium Experience provides a warm welcome to the Lava Show, setting the tone for the experience ahead.
4. Deeper Insight into Iceland’s Volcanism
The standard Lava Show already does a great job of educating visitors about eruptions, different kinds of lava flows, and Iceland’s fiery geology.
You’ll learn about prior events such as the Laki eruptions, and delve deeper into subjects like; the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the Icelandic Plume, and more.
But with the Premium Experience, you get deeper, curated insight. This includes additional commentary before and after the show, as well as behind-the-scenes insights.
If you’re hoping to truly understand what makes Iceland’s volcanoes and their unpredictable behaviour so fascinating, the Premium experience provides that opportunity. It’s ideal for those who want more than just entertainment.
5. A Unique Photo Opportunity—With the Lava Itself
So, you’ve travelled all the way to Iceland, and by now, your phone’s albums are becoming inundated with stunning photographs of the landscape and city.
But do you want to take home a photo you literally can’t get anywhere else?
As a Premium guest, you’ll get a private photo opportunity near the lava channel, where a team member can snap your picture with the glowing lava as your backdrop (safely, of course).
Cast in glowing orange light, it’ll be a portrait of yourself you’ll be glad to have captured.
6. Behind-the-Scenes Access to the Furnace Room
This is one the most exciting Premium perks—an exclusive peek inside the furnace room!
This incredible piece of machinery is the hidden heart of the operation, melting and re-melting lava, hour upon hour.
Dedicated lava handlers work around the clock, scooping volcanic rocks into the smelter while adorned in protective gear reminiscent of radiation suits.
There is no other way to see how the lava is heated, nor to learn how the process truly works, without experiencing the behind-the-scenes setup that few visitors ever witness.
7. A Gift Bag with Exclusive Souvenirs
Every Premium Experience guest leaves with a custom Lava Show gift bag, inside of which is a small lava rock from the show.
This unique piece of volcanic glass was formed when the molten lava rapidly cooled into a glossy, obsidian-like texture.
This naturally occurring material is not only visually striking but also a rare geological souvenir that reflects the dramatic transformation seen during the show.
These rocks are fascinating to stare at, smooth to the touch, and provide a feeling of connection to our planet’s more primordial forces.
Frankly, volcanic glass is a conversation starter, a meaningful keepsake, and a tangible way to remember your Lava Show experience.
Besides that, it also makes for a great gift for the budding geologist in your life.
Ready for the Premium experience?
In a country packed with unforgettable experiences, The Lava Show’s Premium Experience stands out as one of the most unique and well-curated.
It’s educational, exhilarating, intimate, and lets you engage with Iceland’s geology in a way that’s safe and unforgettable.
So, whether you’re planning your first trip to Iceland or returning for another round of exploration, this fiery spectacle in the capital is a must-see.
You can review package options on the Lava Show’s official website, as well as find opening hours and directions.
