If you seek an extraordinary adventure that delves deep into the heart of the Earth, Thrihnukagigur volcano in Iceland offers an unparalleled experience. Located near Reykjavik, this dormant volcano allows you to journey 700 feet into its magma chamber, a surreal and awe-inspiring destination that stands out on Time Out’s list of the world’s coolest and weirdest underground attractions. Alongside places like the salt cathedral in Colombia and a theme park in Romania, Thrihnukagigur is a must-visit for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Thrihnukagigur is part of the Blue Mountain range, a volcanic hotspot known for its dramatic landscapes and frequent geothermal activity. Remarkably, Thrihnukagigur has been dormant for over 4,500 years. Unlike most volcanoes, where magma chambers are typically inaccessible and often collapse after the magma drains away, Thrihnukagigur’s chamber remains intact and stable. This unique characteristic offers a rare glimpse into the depths of a volcanic structure.
Opened to the public in 2012, Thrihnukagigur provides a one-of-a-kind adventure where visitors can descend into the cavernous magma chamber using a specially designed lift. The chamber itself is a vast 3,000 square meters—large enough to house the Statue of Liberty with its arms fully extended. As you descend 700 feet into this monumental space, the walls reveal vivid hues of red, yellow, green, and blue, created by mineral deposits over millennia. The descent is both exhilarating and humbling. As you enter the chamber, you are surrounded by the rich geological history of the volcano, evident in the striking color palette and immense scale of the cavern.
This underground journey offers an educational and visually stunning experience that is truly unique. The remarkable discovery of Thrihnukagigur’s magma chamber is credited to cave explorer Ákni B. Stefánsson. In 1974, Stefánsson was lowered into the chamber by friends, marking the first human exploration of this subterranean marvel. His brother Einar and friend Bjorn Ólafsson joined him in 1994, embarking on multiple expeditions to map the cavern and fully understand its vast interior. These pioneering explorations have paved the way for the current tours, allowing visitors to safely experience the grandeur of Thrihnukagigur’s interior.
Thrihnukagigur tours are available during the summer months, providing an accessible yet adventurous way to explore the volcano. Reaching the volcano requires a short hike through the scenic Blue Mountain range, which is manageable for individuals with a reasonable level of fitness. The hike itself is a prelude to the main attraction, offering stunning views of Iceland’s rugged landscapes. Upon arrival, visitors are equipped with safety gear and briefed on the descent process. The specially designed lift then takes you down into the magma chamber, where you can spend time marveling at the geological wonders that surround you. Guides provide insights into the volcano’s history, the geological processes that shaped it, and the scientific significance of its preserved magma chamber.
Iceland is renowned for its volcanic activity, being one of the most active volcanic regions in the world. On average, the country experiences eruptions every three years. This frequent activity is due to Iceland’s location atop the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet and diverge. Volcanic features are integral to Iceland’s landscape and culture, drawing scientists, adventurers, and tourists from around the globe. Thrihnukagigur stands out as a particularly fascinating destination because it offers an accessible and safe way to explore a volcano’s interior, an experience rarely available elsewhere.
