Iceland Volcano Marathon

A Unique Race Experience

2021 Iceland Volcano Marathon

23rd July 2022 (exact dates tbc)

Duration: 5 nights/ 6 days Distance: Marathon, Half Marathon, Quarter Marathon

Set near Lake Mývatn, at the divergent boundaries of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, the Iceland Volcano Marathon route will take you on an adventure through a hotbed of geothermal activity with geysers, hot springs, and lava rock. Guaranteed race entry as part of a 6 day race tour is available. The tour includes 1 night accommodation in Reykjavik and 4 nights accommodation in Mývatn, Húsavík, or Laugar. Also available is a variety of optional excursions and the opportunity to extend your holiday with exciting and unforgettable trips.

Please sign upto our 2022 waitlist.

DETAILS
Set near Lake Mývatn, at the divergent boundaries of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, the Iceland Volcano Marathon route will be run directly in the North Volcanic Zone of Iceland. The volcanic zone is still very much active here, with with geysers, hot springs, and lava rock, it is a hive of geothermal activity.

The route traverses single-track trail, plains of lava lock, and several minor volcano craters.The massive Hverfjall crater is a wonderful focus point on the route. As they run the rim of the crater, runners will pass through soft, black volcanic sand, as well they will run through the ethereal lava fields known as Dimmuborgir, or “Dark Fortress,” and under a wild natural arch (pictured below).

For the Iceland Volcano Marathon we are pleased to offer a 6 day package which includes one night in Reykjavík and four nights accommodation in Mývatn, Húsavík, or Laugar. Our range of packages give you plenty of opportunity to explore this otherworldly landscape. Traveling to Mývatn is a bit like traveling back billions of years to the origins of Earth… Visit Europe’s largest waterfall, hike through the castle-like lava formations of Dimmuborgir, and relax in an underground heated lagoon. See you there, 23 July 2022!

*Note – bookings are on a request basis and will be confirmed within 48-72 working hours. Do not book any flights/travel arrangement until we contact you to advise that your booking is confirmed.

** We can only sell packages to residents of the UK, Ireland and France

Prices Starting from £tbc and included in your Package is:
- 1 night accommodation in Reykjavik
- 4 nights accommodation in Mývatn, Húsavík or Laugar
- Transportation ReykjavikMývatn/Húsavík/Laugar and return
- Meals as stated in the online itinerary
- Transportation to/from the start and finish area
- Celebration dinner including transportation
- Exclusive Iceland Volcano Marathon re-usable water bottle
Available as Optional Extras Are:
- Guaranteed entry into the Iceland Volcano Marathon, Half Marathon, or Quarter Marathon
- 5 different optional excursions for you to choose from in Iceland
- A 2 days pre-tour including the Golden Circle Experience, and two extension packages are also available.
- Travel Insurance – for more information, see our Insurance Page
- Sports Travel Essentials – Find Out More
Included with Your Race Entry Will Be:
- English speaking race officials
- Medical Team
- Time taking and results
- Medal
- Exclusive Iceland Volcano Marathon T-shirt
- Manned water and supply stations along the route
- Collapsible cup for hydration
The Iceland Volcano Marathon features three distance options:
- Full marathon – £250 – 42.195km/26.2mi
- Half marathon – £250 – 21.1km/13.1mi
- Quarter marathon- £135 – 10.55/6.56mi
The Iceland Volcano Marathon & half-marathon are both scheduled to start at 07:30. The quarter-marathon is scheduled to start shortly after. The official finish time for all races is 14:30.

For marathon runners, a 5 hour cut-off point lies at the 32.5 km mark.

Runners still on the route after the time is up, or haven’t passed the cut-off point in time, will be picked up by a race official or medical car and driven back to the finish area.

It is possible to change the distance you want to run up to 2 days before the race starts. All you need to do is contact us with your request or go to the race officials at the race briefing Thursday. Change of distance is not available on race day.

Race Bibs

You will receive your start/bib number in the race goodie bag.

All runners will receive one bib number that must be worn during the race. It must be attached to the front of your body and readable – both for safety and for photography purposes! The bib numbers are color-coded according to the distance you are running:
- Full marathon bibs – black
- Half-marathon – red
- Quarter-marathon – green
Read More

About the Race

The Route

The Iceland Volcano Marathon and half marathon both start at the foot of the mighty Hverfjall volcano crater. The route leads runners west, across a road composed of volcanic sand and gravel, and onto the main road that encircles Lake Mývatn.

The next 2.5km are run on asphalt and lead to the unique lava field of Dimmuborgir, which means “Black Fortress.” An eruption roughly 2300 years ago created this vast expanse of black lava stacks and caves. Folklore surrounding the region often associates it with the gates of hell. In Dimmuborgir, the route follows narrow trails in a counterclockwise circle and then runs under the Gatklettur Arch (pictured above).

From there, the trail narrows to a single track for the following 1.1 km. The flora here is extremely fragile and it is very, very important that all runners exercise extra caution and stay on the trail. Do not pass each other if it means stepping off the trail and make every attempt to make room for each other!

As the trail widens up again, you will be able to see the mighty Hverfjall crater front and center. Running clockwise around it, you’ll pass the start line just before heading up the crater itself. Rising more than 100 meters, the view from the top offers a 360-degree view of the North Volcanic Zone. The route follows the rim of the crater all the way around – a 3 km circuit – and back down the same trail we came up.

Continuing north, the route comes very close to the Jardbödin Nature Baths and, although the baths can’t be seen from the route, the volcanic activity below the surface can be seen in the steam rising from the ground.
Marathon

The marathon runners will now split away from the half-marathon runners as they turn right and run along the east side of the Hverfjall crater. The surface changes to pitch black volcanic sand and lava rock in a landscape that looks more like the moon than the earth.

Shortly after passing the halfway mark, the marathon route changes back to a gray-green landscape consisting of lava rock and shrubbery and leads runners to the bottom of the Ludent crater. At the 25km mark, runners start an out-and-back stretch of approximately 2.5 km, running along a line of smaller craters that popped up more than 2000 years ago as the volcanic activities moved south.

There is a 5-hour cut-off point at 31.5 km, meaning that runners who did not reach 31.5 km within 5 hours of the start will be removed from the race and driven back to the finish line. After the cut-off point, runners will find themselves on another tough, shorter hill leading back onto the black volcanic sand, and then following the same path back towards the Jardbödin Nature Baths and merging again with the half marathon runners.
Marathon & Half Marathon

The final 4 km begin with about 1.5 km on asphalt, taking us past the Grjótagá cave, which was made famous in Game of Thrones (although the cave cannot be seen from the route).

The last 2.5 km stretch is run on a gravel road will lead runners to the finish line at the Vogar Ferdathjonusta.

Kilometre signs will be set up along the entire route – except for the rim of the Hverfjall crater. Owing to the conditions, however, the signs may be placed a few metres from the precise kilometer mark, so use signs for orientation only and don’t calculate your speed based on the signs. At critical intersections, route marshalls will direct runners the right way.

Manned water stations will be set up along the course serving clean Icelandic tap water. All runners will be given a collapsable silicone cup that must be carried all the way from station to station. The water is kept in 10 liter tap containers from which each runner fill their cup. Selected stations will also serve TRIBE electrolyte drinks – a 100% vegan product.

One station will be serving energy gels for the marathon runners while all runners will have a Personal Supply deposit possible at station C.

As the race is yet to be run for the first time, the exact placement of the water stations is not 100% confirmed, but expect them to be close to below table:

Station A: 4.5km
Station B: 8.5km
Station C: 10.5km and 14.5km (4.5km for quarter marathon runners)
Station D: 17km (7km for quarter marathon runners) and 38.5km
Station E: 21km and 33.5km
Station F: 25km and 30km
Station G: Finish line

Remember that we run in wild and unspoiled nature and cups, empty bottles and other trash should be put in the litter bags at the water stations – please do not litter in nature!
ITINERARY
How to get there

AIRPORT

Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is located about 50 kilometers southwest of the capital. It is a 45-minute drive from Reykjavík.

BUS

There is a low cost bus that services the airport to city center with a 5 minute walk away from the arrivals exit (the price is 10€).

TRAIN

Iceland has no train system so your only options are via car, coach or bus.

`
5 nights / 6 day Package

Itinerary – Provisional

*Note – bookings are on a request basis and will be confirmed within 48-72 working hours. Do not book any flights/travel arrangement until we contact you to advise that your booking is confirmed.

20 July 2022

Arrival at Keflavik International Airport (KEF) in Reykjavík. There is no set arrival time, so you can book the flight that is most suitable for you.

Note that transfer from Keflavík to Reykjavík is not included in the package. Once you’ve reached the arrivals hall, please make your way to the airport shuttle desk or take a taxi to reach your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

With almost 24 hours of daylight during the summer months, Reykjavík is often described as the city that never sleeps… so take this opportunity to discover the world’s northernmost capital city at your own speed!

21 July 2022

After an early breakfast, we will board our bus and begin a scenic drive up along the west coast of Iceland. Along the way, our guide will tell us about Iceland.

In the afternoon, we reach Akureyri, known as “The Capital of the North,” which lies just 100 km (62 miles) away from the Arctic Circle. Here, race officials will provide a race briefing and distribute your goodie bags while we enjoy a snack meal. After the briefing, our journey will continue to Mývatn/Húsavík/Laugar, where you will get settled into your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch box, and a stand up snack meal included

22 July 2022

You have the entire day to adapt to the north Icelandic climate and get ready for tomorrow’s race.

Consider joining one of the excursions to see more of the Mývatn area, or board a whale safari in Húsavík. To see all your options, see the read more section on the details tab.

You can also spend the day at your leisure – rent a bike or shake off your travels with a jog. In the evening, a pasta dinner will be served at your hotel. Rest up tonight – tomorrow is race day!

Meals: Breakfast and pasta dinner. Lunch included in optional excursions.

23 July 2022

Today is the day you have been training and waiting for – the Iceland Volcano Marathon Day is finally here!

At the finish line, a BBQ lunch will be served to participants. Shuttle busses will then take all participants back to their hotels.

Meals: Breakfast and BBQ lunch included

24 July 2022

Spend the day on an excursion (see read more on details tab for more information), or take in the stunning nature surrounding Mývatn/Húsavík at your own pace.

In the late afternoon, we will depart for the small village of Laugar to celebrate yesterday’s achievements with a festive dinner.

25 July 2022

After an early breakfast, we will board shuttle busses that will drive us through Reykjavík to Keflavik International Airport (KEF). Expected arrival at Keflavik Airport is 14:30. Knowing this, it is not advisable to book your flight out of Iceland earlier than 16:30* on this day.

Optional Excursions

Optional Excursions

Wild Waterfalls

In a canyon known as Jökulsárgljúfur, visitors can witness many of these magnificent waterfalls – including one of the most powerful waterfalls in Europe: Dettifoss. This waterfall is 45 meters high and an incredible 100 meters wide, and is the largest waterfall in Iceland in terms of water volume. Although you will have plenty of time to take photographs of Dettifoss, your first glimpse of this beastly wonder will be the best memory.

Within walking distance (around 1km) lies another breathtaking scene: the Selfoss waterfall, which cascades 11 meters down. Although Selfoss is not as tall, it is very wide and thus poses an awe-inspiring sight. The scenery around both these waterfalls is picture-perfect – they have, in fact, been featured in various Hollywood productions.

Whale Safari

Summertime is whale-watching season in the northern waters – seize your chance to spot these sublime creatures.

Húsavík is often called the capital of whale watching in Iceland, and a day spent looking for these magnificent animals is an unforgettable experience. There are 12 species that can be considered common visitors, including, among others, the minke whale, humpback whale, orca, and even harbour porpoises! Hopefully, we’ll also spot some Icelandic puffins flocking around.

The original Húsavík Whale Watching Tour is run in a traditional Icelandic oak boat and is operated by one of the pioneers of whale watching in Iceland. The professional crews on the whale watching boats are specifically trained in responsible conduct with the whales, and will guide and inform you the whole way. They even offer you hot cocoa and cinnamon buns!

Lofthellir Ice Cave

The Lofthellir Ice Cave is a lava tunnel filled with permafrost ice. The cave boasts incredible ice formations, some of which are hundreds of years old, that have been formed by dripping water over the course of time. The tour will start from the Lake Mývatn area, and we will drive past some incredible geology, including the volcano Mt. Hverfjall, and along the Lúdentarborgir crater row. Once we reach the base of Mt. Hvannfell, there will be a 30-minute guided hike across lava fields to the entrance of the Lofthellir cave. There you will be provided with equipment to safely navigate the cave.

Please note: This tour is not for people with claustrophobia, young children, or people that are not in reasonable physical condition. To reach the cave, we will hike for 30 min across a relatively smooth lava field. The short entry (approximately 1.5 meters) into the cave is narrow, and guests need to crawl on all fours to enter. Temperature in the cave ranges from 0 to -2 degrees C, so please make sure you have good gloves and preferably waterproof pants.

Lake Mývatn Highlights

On this excursion, we’ll visit some of the spots that will be included on the marathon route and explore the surrounding area at a slower pace.

In terms of geological history, Iceland is relatively young. The island pulses with volcanic activity, which can be clearly seen in the massive number of geysirs, hot springs, and lava fields. The Iceland Volcano Marathon does not offer an official route inspection, and thus this tour will be your best chance to get a preview of what awaits you on race day.

Geothermal Nature Baths

Is a trip to Iceland really complete without visiting one of their renowned natural geothermal baths?

After your race (or a tiring day spent cheering), give your muscles a treat and take a soak in the restorative natural waters. The mineral-rich waters will soothe your skin while the warmth relaxes you. At this time of year, the sun still sets quite late, so you can savor a slow sunset as you bask in the water and enjoy the views.

Optional Tour Extensions - Pre or Post Main Package
Pre-Tour:

The Golden Circle

See a geyser explode, feel the spray of Gullfoss waterfall, and explore the charming town of Reykjavík.

Day 1 : Arrival Day

Meals: Not included.

Day 2 : Golden Circle Tour

Meals: Breakfast and lunch

Day 3 : Reykjavík City Tour

Meals: Breakfast

Inclusions

Privately guided Golden Circle bus tour with lunch

Privately guided Reykjavík city sightseeing tour

2 nights accommodation in hotel of choice

Admission to Perlan observation deck

Transportation according to the itinerary

Meals according to the itinerary

Post -Tour:

East Iceland Highlights

Visit the Vök Baths, see the famous glacier lagoon, drive along the black sand beaches, and explore Skaftafell National Park. Along the way, hike to as many waterfalls as your heart desires!

Day 1: Vök Baths & Hengifoss Waterfall

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 2: Glacier Lagoon & Skaftafell National Park

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 3: Vík, Skógafoss, & Seljalandsfoss

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Day 4: The Golden Circle

Meals: Breakfast and lunch

Day 5: Departure Day

Meals: Breakfast

Inclusions

Private bus with driver as per itinerary

Local English-speaking guide as per itinerary

4 nights accommodation

All breakfasts

3 lunches

3 dinners

Admission fee to Vök Baths, including 1 herbal drink, 1 drink at the pool bar, and towel rental.

Amphibian boat tour on Jökulsárlón

Admission fee to Lava Centre (exhibition + short film)

Volcanoes and Waterfalls

Iceland’s seismic history is vast and intriguing. This extension will show you every facet of it, from hot springs to lava fields to dormant volcanoes to the inner workings of an actual magma chamber!

Day 1: Akureyri, Kolugljúfur Canyon, & Grábók Crater

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Day 2 : Lava Cave Exploration & Golden Circle

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Day 3 : Landmannalaugar

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 4: Inside the Volcano Tour

Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 : Departure Day

Meals: Breakfast

Inclusions

Private bus with driver as per itinerary

Local English-speaking guide as per itinerary

4 nights accommodation

All breakfasts

1 packed lunch (Day 3)

3 dinners

Inside the Volcano Tour (includes guided hike, all safety gear such as harnesses, helmets, etc., and traditional Icelandic meat soup with coffee/tea)

Admission fee to Lava Center (exhibition and short film)

Viðgelmir Guided Lava Cave Tour

HOTELS & PRICING

Arctic Comfort Hotel

3 star hotel

This excellent value 3 * hotel in Reykjavik offers light and spacious accommodation, a convenient distance from some of the city’s major highlights, such as Laugardalsho...

Cabin Hotel Reykjavik

3 star hotel

Hotel Cabin is in the Reykjavik East district. The hotel enjoys a popular position in the city; the Sculpture and Shore Walk promenade is just 450 yards, while Reykjavík city...

Fosshotel Reykjavik

4 star hotel

This 16 floor, modern and stylish hotel offers superb views both over the city and of the sea. Right in the heart of the city centre, it is only 200 yards from Laugavegur sho...

Fosshotel Lind

3 star hotel

With many rooms featuring views of Hallgrimskyrkja Church, the Fosshotel Lind is an excellent choice for anyone wishing to discover the very best of Iceland. The airport shutt...

Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Natura

4 star hotel

This stylish and eco-friendly hotel is situated next to Öskjuhlíd Hill’s quiet woods; a tranquil location for your Reykjavik break. The hotel is 0.6 miles from Nauthóls...

Fosshotel Myvatn

4 star hotel

Located right next to Lake Myvatn, Fosshotel Myvatn boasts modern, bright and comfortable accommodation right on the gateway to some of Iceland’s most iconic and breath-...

Elda Guesthouse

3 star hotel

At the Elda Guesthouse, you can enjoy comfortable guest house accommodation and personal service at reasonable prices. The property is centrally located,in the village of Reyk...

Fosshotel Husavik

3 star hotel

Set in Husavik town, known as the whale watching capital of the world, Fosshotel Husavik offers free parking and guest rooms with satellite TV. The boats depart from Husavik H...

Sel – Hótel Mývatn

3 star hotel

Sel – Hótel Mývatn is the ideal base for experiencing the wonders of Mývatn and its surroundings. The hotel has 54 rooms. All the rooms are beautifully furnished in w...

Hotel Laugar

3 star hotel

Hotel Laugar is set in wonderful peaceful rural surroundings, in the Reykjadalur valley at the crossroads of North East Iceland. Laugar is the gateway to some of the country&#...

Fosshotel Raudara

3 star hotel

Just a short walk away from the famous shopping street of Laugavegur and Hlemmur Food Hall, Fosshotel Raudara is the perfect setting to discover all the delights of the Icela...

Icelandair Hotel Mývatn

3 star hotel

The Icelandair Hotel Mývatn is a new and modern 59 room hotel, rebuilt from the solid foundation of the former Hotel Reynihlid. Here you can relax in a simple environment.�...

Prices (correct as of 2021, 2022 prices tbc)

You have the choice of the below combinations of hotels with 1 night accommodation in Reykjavik and 4 nights accommodation in Mývatn, Húsavík or Laugar. Below prices are listed as price per person if sharing a room for two and the supplement for single occupancy of a room.

Package A – Arctic Comfort in Reykjavik and Eldá Guesthouse in Myvatn – £1815/ £525

Packages B- H Available on request

Package	Hotels	Price per person (twin/double room)	Single Supplement
A	Arctic Comfort & Eldá Guesthouse	£1815	£525
B	Cabin Hotel & Hotel Laugar	£1995	£620
C	Cabin Hotel & SEL hotel	£2085	£620
D	Fosshotel Lind & Fosshotel Húsavík	£2085	£720
E	Fosshotel Reykjavik & Fosshotel Mývatn	SOLD OUT	SOLD OUT
F	Fosshotel Mývatn – Lake View Room	£2315	£910
G	Fosshotel Raudara and Fosshotel Húsavík – Deluxe Room	£2265	£910
H	Icelandair Hotel Natura and Icelandair Hotel Mývatn	£2355	£860

Entries

Marathon or Half Marathon Entry – £250 per person
Quarter Marathon Entry – £135 per person

Pre-Tours and extension tours

The Golden Circle Pre-Tour
- Hotel Cabin – 19 – 21 July – £595 per person sharing/ £150 supplement for single
- Hotel Natura – 19 – 21 July – £695 per person sharing/ £220 supplement for single
East Iceland Highlights Extension – 26 – 30 July – £1995 per person sharing and £525 supplement for single
Volcanoes and Waterfalls Extension – 26 – 30 July – £2595 per person sharing and £425 supplement for single

Excursions

Running Reykjavík – Pound the pavements of Reykjavik and see some of the city’s most impressive sights – 21 Jul | 1.5 hours | £40
Wild Waterfalls – Explore 3 of Iceland’s renowned waterfalls in Jökulsár canyon! – 23 Jul, 25 Jul | 5 hours | £80
Whale Safari – Meet the friendly giants of the sea in the breathtaking surroundings of Skálfjandlói Bay – 23 Jul, 25 Jul | 7 hours | £170
Lofthellir Ice Cave – Witness ancient ice formations inside of a spectacular lava tunnel. 23 Jul, 25 Jul | 5 – 6.5 hours | £260
Lake Mývatn Highlights – See some of the striking sights that result from Iceland’s continued geological activity. 23 Jul, 25 Jul | 6 – 7.5 hours | £140
Geothermal Nature Baths – Soak – literally – in the magic of Iceland’s geothermal activity. 24 Jul | 3-4 hours | £70

*Note – bookings are on a request basis and will be confirmed within 48-72 working hours. Do not book any flights/travel arrangement until we contact you to advise that your booking is confirmed.

IMPORTANT INFO

*Note – bookings are on a request basis and will be confirmed within 48-72 working hours. Do not book any flights/travel arrangement until we contact you to advise that your booking is confirmed.

** We can only sell packages to residents of the UK, Ireland and France

Disclaimer

Albatros Adventure Marathons reserve the right to change the itinerary and/or running course without further notice in the event of extreme weather. By signing up for this event you agree to the Terms & Conditions.

Suitable Clothing

Even though it is summer, it will not be “warm” by most people’s definitions. In general, it is a good idea to pack to sets of running cloths; one for warmer/decent weather conditions and one for cold weather conditions. Your “cold” set should consists of long sleeved shirt and long tights/running pants, as well as a wind-protective jacket.
Your “warm” set could be shorts and T-shirt, but the running jacket may come in handy too as the weather can change rapidly.
An extra jacket can be placed and dropped at the personal supply station at the foot of Hverfjall crater.

In terms of footwear, the Iceland Volcano Marathon can be run in a pair of normal running shoes, but trail running shoes are recommended if running for a top placement.

AGE RESTRICTIONS

Full marathon runners must be at least 18 years old on race day.

Half marathon runners must be at least 16 years old.

Quarter marathon runners must be at least 6 years old on race day. Runners under the age of 12, however, must be accompanied by an adult.

General, visa, passport and health information

General Travel and health Information for your destination is available on the FCO website. Please note that this information relates to UK passport holders only and that other nationalities should refer to their own authorities for this information.

How to book

Click on the book now tab at the top of the page.

At time of booking we require a non-refundable deposit , plus the full Race Entry Fee, which is non-returnable once booked. The balance of your travel package must be paid, at the latest, 12 weeks before departure to avoid the cancellation of your trip.

Travel Insurance

For details of specialist sports travel insurance for our travel packages, please visit our insurance page. You must ensure that your travel insurance policy covers you to participate in running events. There is additional information about our other Concierge Services on our special web page.
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How to get there

AIRPORT

Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is located about 50 kilometers southwest of the capital. It is a 45-minute drive from Reykjavík.

BUS

There is a low cost bus that services the airport to city center with a 5 minute walk away from the arrivals exit (the price is 10€).

TRAIN

Iceland has no train system so your only options are via car, coach or bus.

5 nights / 6 day Package

Itinerary – Provisional

*Note – bookings are on a request basis and will be confirmed within 48-72 working hours. Do not book any flights/travel arrangement until we contact you to advise that your booking is confirmed.

20 July 2022

Arrival at Keflavik International Airport (KEF) in Reykjavík. There is no set arrival time, so you can book the flight that is most suitable for you.

Note that transfer from Keflavík to Reykjavík is not included in the package. Once you’ve reached the arrivals hall, please make your way to the airport shuttle desk or take a taxi to reach your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

With almost 24 hours of daylight during the summer months, Reykjavík is often described as the city that never sleeps… so take this opportunity to discover the world’s northernmost capital city at your own speed!

21 July 2022

After an early breakfast, we will board our bus and begin a scenic drive up along the west coast of Iceland. Along the way, our guide will tell us about Iceland.

In the afternoon, we reach Akureyri, known as “The Capital of the North,” which lies just 100 km (62 miles) away from the Arctic Circle. Here, race officials will provide a race briefing and distribute your goodie bags while we enjoy a snack meal. After the briefing, our journey will continue to Mývatn/Húsavík/Laugar, where you will get settled into your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch box, and a stand up snack meal included

22 July 2022

You have the entire day to adapt to the north Icelandic climate and get ready for tomorrow’s race.

Consider joining one of the excursions to see more of the Mývatn area, or board a whale safari in Húsavík. To see all your options, see the read more section on the details tab.

You can also spend the day at your leisure – rent a bike or shake off your travels with a jog. In the evening, a pasta dinner will be served at your hotel. Rest up tonight – tomorrow is race day!

Meals: Breakfast and pasta dinner. Lunch included in optional excursions.

23 July 2022

Today is the day you have been training and waiting for – the Iceland Volcano Marathon Day is finally here!

At the finish line, a BBQ lunch will be served to participants. Shuttle busses will then take all participants back to their hotels.

Meals: Breakfast and BBQ lunch included

24 July 2022

Spend the day on an excursion (see read more on details tab for more information), or take in the stunning nature surrounding Mývatn/Húsavík at your own pace.

In the late afternoon, we will depart for the small village of Laugar to celebrate yesterday’s achievements with a festive dinner.

25 July 2022

After an early breakfast, we will board shuttle busses that will drive us through Reykjavík to Keflavik International Airport (KEF). Expected arrival at Keflavik Airport is 14:30. Knowing this, it is not advisable to book your flight out of Iceland earlier than 16:30* on this day.

Optional Excursions

Wild Waterfalls

In a canyon known as Jökulsárgljúfur, visitors can witness many of these magnificent waterfalls – including one of the most powerful waterfalls in Europe: Dettifoss. This waterfall is 45 meters high and an incredible 100 meters wide, and is the largest waterfall in Iceland in terms of water volume. Although you will have plenty of time to take photographs of Dettifoss, your first glimpse of this beastly wonder will be the best memory.

Within walking distance (around 1km) lies another breathtaking scene: the Selfoss waterfall, which cascades 11 meters down. Although Selfoss is not as tall, it is very wide and thus poses an awe-inspiring sight. The scenery around both these waterfalls is picture-perfect – they have, in fact, been featured in various Hollywood productions.

Whale Safari

Summertime is whale-watching season in the northern waters – seize your chance to spot these sublime creatures.

Húsavík is often called the capital of whale watching in Iceland, and a day spent looking for these magnificent animals is an unforgettable experience. There are 12 species that can be considered common visitors, including, among others, the minke whale, humpback whale, orca, and even harbour porpoises! Hopefully, we’ll also spot some Icelandic puffins flocking around.

The original Húsavík Whale Watching Tour is run in a traditional Icelandic oak boat and is operated by one of the pioneers of whale watching in Iceland. The professional crews on the whale watching boats are specifically trained in responsible conduct with the whales, and will guide and inform you the whole way. They even offer you hot cocoa and cinnamon buns!

Lofthellir Ice Cave

The Lofthellir Ice Cave is a lava tunnel filled with permafrost ice. The cave boasts incredible ice formations, some of which are hundreds of years old, that have been formed by dripping water over the course of time. The tour will start from the Lake Mývatn area, and we will drive past some incredible geology, including the volcano Mt. Hverfjall, and along the Lúdentarborgir crater row. Once we reach the base of Mt. Hvannfell, there will be a 30-minute guided hike across lava fields to the entrance of the Lofthellir cave. There you will be provided with equipment to safely navigate the cave.

Please note: This tour is not for people with claustrophobia, young children, or people that are not in reasonable physical condition. To reach the cave, we will hike for 30 min across a relatively smooth lava field. The short entry (approximately 1.5 meters) into the cave is narrow, and guests need to crawl on all fours to enter. Temperature in the cave ranges from 0 to -2 degrees C, so please make sure you have good gloves and preferably waterproof pants.

Lake Mývatn Highlights

On this excursion, we’ll visit some of the spots that will be included on the marathon route and explore the surrounding area at a slower pace.

In terms of geological history, Iceland is relatively young. The island pulses with volcanic activity, which can be clearly seen in the massive number of geysirs, hot springs, and lava fields. The Iceland Volcano Marathon does not offer an official route inspection, and thus this tour will be your best chance to get a preview of what awaits you on race day.

Geothermal Nature Baths

Is a trip to Iceland really complete without visiting one of their renowned natural geothermal baths?

After your race (or a tiring day spent cheering), give your muscles a treat and take a soak in the restorative natural waters. The mineral-rich waters will soothe your skin while the warmth relaxes you. At this time of year, the sun still sets quite late, so you can savor a slow sunset as you bask in the water and enjoy the views.

Optional Tour Extensions - Pre or Post Main Package

Pre-Tour:

The Golden Circle

See a geyser explode, feel the spray of Gullfoss waterfall, and explore the charming town of Reykjavík.

Day 1 : Arrival Day

Meals: Not included.

Day 2 : Golden Circle Tour

Meals: Breakfast and lunch

Day 3 : Reykjavík City Tour

Meals: Breakfast

Inclusions

Privately guided Golden Circle bus tour with lunch
Privately guided Reykjavík city sightseeing tour
2 nights accommodation in hotel of choice
Admission to Perlan observation deck
Transportation according to the itinerary
Meals according to the itinerary

Post -Tour:

East Iceland Highlights

Visit the Vök Baths, see the famous glacier lagoon, drive along the black sand beaches, and explore Skaftafell National Park. Along the way, hike to as many waterfalls as your heart desires!

Day 1: Vök Baths & Hengifoss Waterfall

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 2: Glacier Lagoon & Skaftafell National Park

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 3: Vík, Skógafoss, & Seljalandsfoss

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Day 4: The Golden Circle

Meals: Breakfast and lunch

Day 5: Departure Day

Meals: Breakfast

Inclusions

Private bus with driver as per itinerary
Local English-speaking guide as per itinerary
4 nights accommodation
All breakfasts
3 lunches
3 dinners
Admission fee to Vök Baths, including 1 herbal drink, 1 drink at the pool bar, and towel rental.
Amphibian boat tour on Jökulsárlón
Admission fee to Lava Centre (exhibition + short film)

Volcanoes and Waterfalls

Iceland’s seismic history is vast and intriguing. This extension will show you every facet of it, from hot springs to lava fields to dormant volcanoes to the inner workings of an actual magma chamber!

Day 1: Akureyri, Kolugljúfur Canyon, & Grábók Crater

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Day 2 : Lava Cave Exploration & Golden Circle

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Day 3 : Landmannalaugar

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 4: Inside the Volcano Tour

Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 : Departure Day

Meals: Breakfast

Inclusions

Private bus with driver as per itinerary
Local English-speaking guide as per itinerary
4 nights accommodation
All breakfasts
1 packed lunch (Day 3)
3 dinners
Inside the Volcano Tour (includes guided hike, all safety gear such as harnesses, helmets, etc., and traditional Icelandic meat soup with coffee/tea)
Admission fee to Lava Center (exhibition and short film)
Viðgelmir Guided Lava Cave Tour

Iceland Volcano Marathon

2021 Iceland Volcano Marathon

Iceland Volcano Marathon Waiting List