Educational Tourism in Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark
The Reykjanes Peninsula is an ideal location for outdoor active learning, with its diverse geological features, fissures, mud pools, hot springs, and rugged coastlines providing a natural classroom. The area is frequently used for field-based learning, making it a perfect setting for applying geological concepts in real-time, enhancing your understanding through direct interaction with the environment.
Experience the raw power of Earth's geological forces with an educational journey through the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark, providing an immersive learning experience in one of the most geologically active regions on the planet.
On this tour, we will be talk about plate tectonics at the unique rift valley in Reykjanes at where you will step between the North-American and Eurasion tectonic plates. Here you will be able to observe how the slow but continuous movement of these plates shapes the Earth’s surface over time. The tour also provides an in-depth exploration of volcanic processes. You will visit areas affected by recent volcanic activity, where you can examine fresh lava fields and gain insight into how volcanic eruptions occur, their environmental impact, and their crucial role in creating new landmasses.
Reykjanes is a hotspot for geothermal activity, and during the tour, you will explore active geothermal sites, learning about the science behind geothermal energy and how it is harnessed in Iceland for sustainable electricity and heating. This practical exploration will deepen your understanding of how geothermal energy works and its significance in the global energy landscape.
As part of the experience, the tour emphasizes field-based learning, allowing you to directly interact with the environment and apply geological concepts in a real-world setting. This hands-on approach enhances your comprehension of complex geological phenomena, bridging the gap between theory and reality.
Join us for a transformative learning experience in the Reykjanes Geopark, where the Earth’s dynamic processes are vividly at play, offering an unparalleled opportunity for outdoor education in geology and Earth sciences.
Date: Friday October 4th
Max persons: 60
Time: Departure at 10:00
Return: Approximately 16:00
Prepare for the tour: Given the unpredictable October weather in Iceland, it is important to come prepared with warm clothing, including a hat, scarf, gloves, and waterproof hiking shoes. The day will involve exploration across varied terrains, from volcanic craters to geothermal fields, offering both educational enrichment and an unforgettable adventure.
The 100 crater trail - hike
A hike around
Date: 4. October
Max persons: 30
Time: Departure at 9:00
Return: 16.00
Prepare for the tour: Outdoor clothing suitable for Icelandic winter, waterproof outer layers, waterproof shoes (preferably with good ankle support). Layers that can be added and taken off. Hat and gloves.
The hike with stops takes about 5 hours. The distance is 13.7 km, and the terrain is often sandy, with volcanic ash and lava fields. We provide lunch, which participants should be prepared to carry with them.
The tour
One of our expert guides will take you for a volcano hike to the older eruption areas. The Hundred Crater Trail, a signposted trail, lies partly through the Stampar lava field. The trail starts at Valahnúkur in Reykjanes. The trail also passes through the Reykjanes geothermal zone, past slag and scoria cones, the tuff mountain Sýrfell and on to the Stampar craters. From there, the path lies over rough pahoehoe lava and sand dunes, running from the west side of the crater closest to the road, along the row of craters, on to the seaward side of the Reykjanes Power Plant. The craters along the trail are numerous and fragile.
This requires us to walk on defined paths albeit quite steep in sections. No technical ability is needed but a general fitness and full mobility is expected.
Included in the tour are stops along the way including the Bridge between Continents, Gunnuhver Geothermal area, Brimketill and Reykjanes lighthouse. The Reykjanes peninsula is packed with unique geological formations that will leave you in awe of this often-overlooked part of the country.
Leading the hike will be our local expert and geologist Ari Trausti Guðmundsson.
The tours agenda will be updated closer to departure day.
Renewable Energy and Geothermal Resources in Reykjanes Geopark
Date: Friday, October 4th
Time: Departure at 9:00 | Return by 16:00
Maximum Participants: 40
Meeting Point: Hljómahöll (Conference Location)
Discover the cutting-edge intersection of natural energy and innovation in the Reykjanes Geopark, where the Earth's geothermal forces are harnessed to create a sustainable future. This tour offers a deep dive into the geosites that define the peninsula's geological uniqueness, while also exploring Iceland's leading role in renewable energy. The Reykjanes Peninsula is a geological wonderland, sitting at the boundary of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, where volcanic and geothermal activity has created a diverse landscape of lava fields, geothermal springs, and rugged coastlines.
Iceland is one of the world leaders in renewable energy, with over 90% of the country's energy generated from hydroelectric and geothermal sources. The Reykjanes Peninsula is a hotspot of this innovation, where geothermal energy is not only powering homes but also contributing to scientific research and tourism. The Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark provides a unique opportunity to witness the raw power of geothermal energy at work, in one of the most geologically active regions on the planet.
This tour will take you to the Reykjanes Resource Park, where businesses and industries collaborate to make efficient use of geothermal resources in a circular economy model, creating a sustainable industrial ecosystem. You’ll explore how geothermal energy is extracted and used in an environmentally responsible way, contributing to both the local economy and global renewable energy efforts.
Next, visit the Reykjanes Geothermal Power Plant, where you will get an insider's view of how geothermal energy is transformed into electricity. Learn about the intricate systems used to harness the Earth's heat and convert it into one of Iceland's key power sources. This experience is a must for anyone interested in sustainable energy solutions and the future of energy production.
At the Gunnuhver Geothermal Area, you will witness the largest mud pool in Iceland, surrounded by steaming vents and bubbling hot springs, a vivid demonstration of the geothermal forces that shape the Reykjanes Peninsula. The geothermal activity here is intense, and the site has both scientific significance and ties to local folklore, with the story of the ghost "Gunna" who is said to haunt the area.
Finally, visit the Blue Lagoon Science Center, where geothermal energy is used not only for tourism but for medical and scientific research as well. Learn about the innovations behind this famous geothermal spa and how the Blue Lagoon has become a symbol of the successful integration of nature, science, and tourism.
This tour provides a unique opportunity to explore how the Reykjanes Peninsula’s powerful geothermal activity is not only a natural wonder but also a key resource in Iceland’s drive for sustainability. It’s an eye-opening journey into the future of renewable energy, set amidst the breathtaking landscapes of one of the world’s most geologically active regions.
Outdoor learning and STEM education in Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark
Date: Friday, October 4th
Time: Departure at 8:30 | Return by 16:00
Maximum Participants: 40
Meeting Point: Hljómahöll (Conference Location), Reykjanes Geopark
Join us for an inspiring day in the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark, where education meets nature in innovative ways. This tour is designed for educators, researchers, and STEM enthusiasts interested in exploring how local schools in Reykjanes are integrating outdoor learning and hands-on STEM activities into their curricula, fostering a deeper connection between students and their natural surroundings.
Our day begins with a visit to the Reykjanes Geopark partner institute, the Sudurnes Science & Learning Centre.
Here, we will explore the various ways SSLC supports schools and communities in their learning initiatives in the field of natural sciences, including the new interactive app, “Curious George” (Fróðleiks Fúsi), which is designed to engage young learners in environmental awareness. We will then get to know the various regional, domestic and international research and development in the fields of various natural sciences. SSLC collaboration with scientists and educators will provide insights into how these partnerships enhance STEM education in the region.
Next, we will visit Gerðaskóli, a primary school known for its implementation of the Genius Hour, a program that empowers students to explore their passions through self-directed projects. You’ll observe how this approach fosters creativity and critical thinking, preparing students to solve real-world problems.
Our tour continues at Gimli Kindergarten, where we’ll visit the Yoga Path, a peaceful outdoor space created by teachers but embraced by the entire community. This unique initiative illustrates the importance of integrating wellness and mindfulness into early childhood education, while also highlighting the benefits of utilizing natural spaces for community engagement.
In the town of Njarðvík, we will explore Stapaskóli Primary School, where you’ll be introduced to the school's annual Science Fair, known as Stapavaka. This tradition not only encourages scientific inquiry among students but also showcases how schools can create a culture of curiosity and innovation through hands-on learning experiences.
Finally, we’ll visit Stóru-Vogaskóli Primary School, where the day will culminate in a beachside educational experience. Depending on the weather, participants will engage in hands-on activities that highlight the practical application of STEM concepts in understanding the local environment. This immersive experience will demonstrate how outdoor learning can be effectively integrated into the school curriculum.
Throughout the tour, we will ensure there are opportunities to enjoy local food and refreshments, with moments to pause, reflect, and discuss the educational practices observed. These breaks will also feature special surprises that highlight the rich cultural heritage of the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Please prepare for the unpredictable Icelandic weather by bringing warm clothing, including a hat, scarf, gloves, and waterproof hiking shoes. The tour will involve a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, with an emphasis on experiencing the environment firsthand whenever possible.
This tour offers a unique opportunity to witness innovative educational practices in action, providing inspiration for incorporating outdoor learning and STEM education into your own teaching and research. Join us for a day of exploration, learning, and connection with the vibrant educational community of Reykjanes.
Cultural Exploration in Reykjanes Geopark
Date: Friday, October 4th
Time: Departure at 9:00 | Return by 16:30
Maximum Participants:54
Meeting Point: Hljómahöll (Conference Location)
Embark on a captivating journey through the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark, a land shaped by volcanic and geothermal forces that offers not only geological marvels but also a rich cultural heritage. This tour will immerse you in the unique intersection of natural beauty, history, and folklore, where the ancient and modern meet in dramatic landscapes of lava fields, rugged coastlines, and geothermal activity.
The Reykjanes Peninsula is known for its otherworldly terrain, where the Earth’s inner forces have sculpted striking geosites such as expansive lava flows, geothermal areas, and coastal rock formations. The geothermal energy beneath your feet creates visible signs of the Earth’s power, from boiling mud pools to steam vents, which dot the landscape and shape the local culture and history. This tour takes you through key cultural landmarks that highlight how this extraordinary environment has influenced human life over centuries.
The journey begins at Kálfatjörn Church, set against the backdrop of the peninsula's volcanic landscapes. From there, you'll explore Viking World, where Iceland’s Viking past is showcased alongside stunning views of lava fields. The tour continues to Garðskagi Lighthouse, standing sentinel over the North Atlantic, offering a glimpse into the country’s maritime history.
At Hvalsnes Church, you'll hear stories of the poet Hallgrímur Pétursson while taking in views of the windswept coast. The Bridge Between Continents provides a physical reminder of the active tectonic forces shaping the region, as you stand between the Eurasian and North American plates. The iconic Reykjanesviti Lighthouse and nearby Gunnuhver Hot Springs offer a combination of natural wonder and folklore, with tales of the ghostly "Gunna" amidst a backdrop of geothermal activity. The day ends with a stop at Brimketill, a stunning lava rock pool where the waves of the Atlantic crash dramatically against the volcanic coastline.
Throughout this cultural exploration, you will experience the dramatic forces of nature that have shaped the Reykjanes Peninsula, both geologically and culturally, over millennia. It’s an immersive experience into the volcanic heart of Iceland, offering a deeper understanding of the powerful forces that define this unique part of the world.
Volcano hike Fagradalsfjall
Take a hike to the edge of the cooled lava fields and to viewpoints overlooking the volcano crater
Date: Friday, October 4th
Max persons: 120
Time: Departure at 9:00
Return: 16.00
Prepare for the tour: Outdoor clothing suitable for Icelandic winter, waterproof outer layers, waterproof shoes (preferably with good ankle support). Layers that can be added and taken off. Hat and gloves.
The hike takes 4-5 hour, lunch included.
The tour
One of our expert guides will take you for a volcano hike to the recently erupted Geldingadalur volcano. The crater of the volcano can often be viewed from adjacent hilltops.
The Fagradalsfjall volcanos have stopped erupting, but on the hike with your guide you will still explore the cooled lava fields and delight in explaining the geology and history of the eruptions from 2021-2023. Even without hot glowing lava, seeing the 'newest land' on the planet is a once in a lifetime experience.
This requires us to walk on defined paths albeit quite steep in sections. No technical ability is needed but a general fitness and full mobility is expected.
Included in the tour are stops along the way including Seltún geothermal area, lake Kleifarvatn and more. The Reykjanes peninsula is jam packed with unique geological formations that will leave you in awe of this often overlooked part of the country.
The tours agenda will be updated closer to departure day.