This article is brought to you in partnership with the LAVA SHOW
Experience the heat at the Lava Show in Reykjavík – one of the only places on earth where you can see molten lava poured out right in front of you! Read on for the latest information.
It is a common question among visitors to Iceland nowadays… “Where can I see lava?”
(Having worked as a guide at the Lava Tunnel, Raufarhólshellir – not to be confused with the Lava Show – I perhaps heard the question more than most.)
Given recent closures around erupting areas in Iceland – an important safety measure, as was demonstrated recently with the Grindavík evacuations – my answer was always the same… If you want to see lava in action, visit the Lava Show in Grandi.
While this recommendation did little to settle those determined to see a real erupting volcano, many others found themselves curious about this innovative concept.
After all, the Lava Show is the only safe place in the country – no less, the world – where you are 100% guaranteed to see lava in its molten form.
Where is the Lava Show in Reykjavík?
Grandi is a neighbourhood in Reykjavík’s western district, a former industrial zone that is now a popular area for foreign visitors. This is thanks not only to Old Harbour, with its gently bobbing fishing boats, but also the cultural attractions found there. Whales of Iceland, FlyOver Iceland, and the Reykjavík Maritime Museum are all popular haunts in the area.
The Lava Show is one of the newer additions, and as such, its facilities are second to none. It is a quick and easy drive from downtown Reykjavik, making it a great activity to slip into your otherwise busy schedule.
As mentioned, there is plenty to do closeby before or after the Lava Show.
For instance, you could take a pleasant stroll to the grassy mound, Þúfa, which looks out over the sapphire waters of Faxafloi Bay, or perhaps pop your head into the Living Art Museum.
After all, you might need to find a little tranquility after your time at the Lava Show is done. Things are about to get spicy…
Before the Show
Before the show, you are invited to wait in their adjoining bar, sampling any one of the tipples they have on offer.
While sipping back on your chosen beverage, check out the cool photographs and interesting geological samples that compose the waiting area’s décor.
You’ll also find other guests eager to see real lava, so feel free to pick up conversation and share in the excitement.
When the green light is given, you and the other guests will move into a small, modern auditorium. Just like a cinema, the seats ascend upwards, ensuring everyone has a clear view of what’s about to happen.
All seats are built around what appears to be a small stage with a metal slide fixed atop it. The stage itself is designed as a dramatic fixture built of basalt stacks, much like you would find on the shady black beaches of Vík í Mýrdal.
While it may appear empty and silent at the beginning of the show, rest easy knowing that this gently sloping column will be permeating a Hadean orange glow soon enough.
That’s because of the reason for your visit – you’re about to see a volcanic eruption recreated in the most intense and up-close way!
The Cinematic Experience
A staff member and presenter will quickly introduce themselves to you before pointing your attention to the plastic safety goggles resting on your seat.
When they tell you to put them on… you best be ready. But first, it’s important to educate guests about volcanic forces. After all, most guests aren’t used to living with multiple active volcanoes on their doorstep.
Before any lava is released, an introductory video describes in epic fashion how volcanoes have come to shape Iceland, and how they will assuredly continue to do so in the future.
I admit that as a Reykjavík resident I was slightly nervous when the video informed me in no uncertain terms that I would, in all likelihood, be swallowed by an eruption somewhere in the next ten to 10,000 years.
I swallowed this apprehension, accepting the film for the well-produced piece of media it was, and replaced it with excitement and trepidation for what was to come.
The Lava Show Itself!
As the video concludes, the presenter prepares you for the main event. Remember those goggles you found on your seat? Well, now is the time to put them on…
The room darkens. Suddenly, the thin drainage pipe erupts with molten lava. It flows from the behind wall, glowing with an otherworldly orange hue as it pours itself in a great pool at the base of the stage.
You will feel the heat almost instantly. Wincing against it, you’ll still find yourself in awe of this spectacle.
It is nothing short of mesmerising; a sight that will leave you deep insights into this island’s raw, subterranean power.
The presenter guides you through the process, explaining the science behind the lava flow and the volcanic activity that fuels such eruptions. Using large metal pincers, they will move the lava around, and even pick it up for a closer look once it’s hardened solid.
You’ll learn about the different types of lava, their unique properties, and the geological forces at play. It’s an educational aspect of the show that enriches the whole experience, making it not only thrilling but also deeply informative.
How is the lava made?
You might be wondering how the lava itself is created for the show…
It actually comes down to recycling! Behind the stage, enormous industrial ovens melt volcanic rock back into its molten form.
These great furnaces are overseen by a technically-minded and physically-capable Lava Melter.
Adorned head to toe in heavy protective gear, they collect black sand formed in prior eruptions, then reheat it at a staggering 1100°C (2000°F).
At one point in the show, this armour-clad Lava Melter will wave hello to the audience, showing everyone just how much effort goes into creating this hot and fiery spectacle.
Post-Show Experience
After the show, you are welcome to get a closer look at the lava and ask the presenter any outstanding questions you might have afterwards.
This is also the best opportunity to photograph the now hardened lava.
When you’re finished at the stage, head back to the bar to reflect on the incredible display you’ve just witnessed. Maybe even strike up a conversation with the staff, catching up on the latest that’s happening in the land of ice and fire.
They are always eager to share more insights and answer any lingering questions you might have about Iceland’s volcanic nature.
Should I visit the Lava Show in Reykjavík or the Lava Show in Vik?
This is entirely up to you! (Or – dare we say – make time to visit both lava shows; there are noticeable differences between them that are fun to pick up on.)
Depending on where in the country you find yourself, the choice may simply come down to the ease of logistics.
It should be mentioned that Vík’s version of the Lava Show is the first of its kind. It began as a family-run business started by those whose ancestors were affected by the region’s historic eruptions.
You can read more about in our feature article: Witness Molten Lava on Iceland’s South Coast.
The embers fade away…
As we’ve learned, the Lava Show is one of the country’s most unique cultural attractions.
Whether you choose to visit in Reykjavík or Vik, you are guaranteed an unforgettable experience that brings you closer to the fiery heart of this isolated, Nordic island.
Book Lava show tickets directly with Iceland Review
Lava Show in Reykjavík
Lava Show in Vík
