Venturing Inside-A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience at Thrihnukagigur Volcano
Thrihnukagigur volcano Iceland
Thrihnukagigur (also known as Þríhnúkagígur) is a dormant volcano located in the Brennisteinsfjöll volcanic system, which is part of the Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland. Thrihnukagigur Volcano is about 20 kilometers southeast of Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland. What makes this volcano particularly fascinating is its massive magma chamber, which is one of the few accessible ones on Earth. It has become a popular tourist attraction for those seeking a unique and adventurous experience.
Thrihnukagigur or Þríhnúkagígur volcano is a 213-meter deep, 3,270 square meters wide crater. The volcano last erupted over 4,000 years ago and was discovered in 1974 by cave explorer Árni B. Stefánsson. It is the only volcano in the world where visitors can take an elevator and safely descend into the magma chamber.
The name Thrihnukagigur means “Three Peaks Crater” in Icelandic. The volcano is made up of three interconnected craters, each of which is about 70 meters deep. The craters are surrounded by a 100-meter high rim. The volcano is a popular tourist destination, and tours are available from Reykjavík. The tours take about 4 hours and involve a 45-minute hike to the volcano, a 120-meter descent into the crater, and a visit to the magma chamber.
The volcano is considered dormant, meaning it hasn’t erupted for a significant amount of time, and there are currently no signs of imminent volcanic activity. What sets Þríhnúkagígur apart from other volcanoes is the opportunity to explore its massive magma chamber. Unlike most volcanoes, where magma solidifies or drains after an eruption, Thrihnukagigur’s magma chamber remains accessible, allowing people to descend into it.
Thrihnukagigur volcano geology
Thrihnukagigur volcano is part of the Bláfjöll (Blue Mountains) volcanic system in southwestern Iceland. It was formed through volcanic activity associated with the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, a divergent tectonic plate boundary where the North American and Eurasian plates are pulling apart.
Thrihnukagigur Volcano is a basaltic volcano, meaning it predominantly erupts basalt lava. Basalt is a dark, fine-grained volcanic rock that forms when magma from the mantle reaches the surface and cools quickly. Instead of erupting from a central vent and emptying the magma chamber, the lava found an alternative path to the surface, leaving the magma chamber intact.
Studying the geology of the Thrihnukagigur volcano provides scientists with valuable information about the behavior of volcanoes and the processes that occur during volcanic eruptions. The accessible magma chamber allows researchers to gain insights into the dynamics of magma movement and the cooling process of lava within the Earth’s crust. Additionally, understanding the geology of this volcano contributes to the broader knowledge of geology and volcanic activity in Iceland, which is known for its active and dynamic volcanic landscape.
Also, read- How To Reach Ice Cave Skaftafell Iceland Better Than Anyone Else
Thrihnukagigur volcano tour
The Thrihnukagigur volcano tour was a popular and unique tourist attraction in Iceland. However, please note that circumstances may have changed since then, and it’s essential to check with local tour operators or authorities for the latest information on the availability, accessibility, and safety guidelines for visiting Thrihnukagigur.
The tour to Þríhnúkagígur volcano is usually organized by authorized tour operators in Iceland. These operators have the necessary permits and safety measures in place to ensure a memorable and secure experience for visitors. Due to its popularity and the need to manage the number of visitors, it’s advisable to make reservations for the tour in advance. Tour slots might fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.
The tour typically involves a hike from the base camp to the volcano’s crater. The hike can take anywhere from 45 minutes to a couple of hours, depending on the route and the individual’s fitness level. Before descending into the magma chamber, participants are provided with safety gear and given instructions on how to use the equipment properly. Safety helmets, harnesses, and other necessary gear are typically provided.
Descending into the Magma Chamber- The descent into the magma chamber is done using an open cable lift system, similar to an elevator. The journey down usually takes around 6 to 7 minutes, allowing visitors to observe the stunning rock formations within the volcano.
Exploration Time-Once inside the magma chamber, visitors are given some time to explore and marvel at the unique geological features. Tour guides provide information about the volcano’s geology, history, and volcanic processes.
Duration- The entire tour, including the hike and exploration, can last several hours.
It’s essential to remember that while the tour provides an incredible opportunity to see the inside of a dormant volcano, it involves physical activity and some degree of adventure. Visitors should be in reasonably good health and follow all safety guidelines provided by the tour operators.
How to Reach Thrihnukagigur Volcano
Thrihnukagigur volcano involves traveling to Iceland and taking a guided tour organized by authorized tour operators. The first step is to book a flight to Iceland. Most international flights land at Keflavik International Airport, which is located near Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland.
