22/06/2017
Iceland's iconic Blue Lagoon, with its ethereal blue geothermal waters and stunning volcanic landscape, beckons travellers from across the globe. It's a must-visit for relaxation and an unforgettable experience. However, once you've landed at Keflavík (KEF) Airport or settled into your accommodation in Reykjavik, the question often arises: how do you get there? While getting from Reykjavik to the Blue Lagoon is considered straightforward, understanding the myriad of transfer options available is key to a smooth and enjoyable journey. This comprehensive guide will delve into every transport possibility, ensuring you choose the best fit for your budget, timeline, and travel style.
Whether you're prioritising speed and convenience with a taxi, seeking affordability with a shuttle bus, or preferring the freedom of a self-drive adventure, we’ve got you covered. We'll explore the pros and cons of each, highlight reputable companies, and provide essential details to help you plan your trip to this extraordinary Icelandic spa.
Getting to the Blue Lagoon: Your Options Unpacked
The journey to the Blue Lagoon is part of the adventure. Located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, it's conveniently situated between Keflavík International Airport (KEF) and the capital city, Reykjavik. This unique positioning means you can easily visit the lagoon upon arrival, before departure, or as a day trip from Reykjavik. The best way to travel truly depends on your individual needs, such as your budget, the amount of time you have, and even the season you are visiting in. Let's break down the most popular methods for getting to this world-renowned destination.
Taxi: Convenience at a Cost
For those seeking the utmost convenience and direct service, a taxi is an excellent option, particularly if you're travelling with luggage or in a group. Taxis in Iceland, much like other services, can be expensive, but they offer a direct, door-to-door service that can be invaluable after a long flight or for a stress-free transfer.
From KEF Airport to Blue Lagoon
Yes, you can absolutely catch a taxi directly from Keflavík Airport to the Blue Lagoon. This is a popular choice for travellers who wish to visit the lagoon shortly after landing or just before their flight departs. The journey is relatively short, usually taking around 20 minutes, making it a quick and efficient transfer. Reputable companies that run services between KEF Airport and the Blue Lagoon include Taxi Keflavík Airport and Taxi BSR. These services are readily available at the airport, and you can often find them waiting outside the terminal.
From Reykjavik to Blue Lagoon
If you're starting your journey from Reykjavik, taxis are also available. One of the main taxi companies in Reykjavik is Hreyfill. You can book their services in advance, or for immediate needs, download their app to book. Hreyfill offers not just standard taxi services but also pre-set tours and routes between popular locations, including the Blue Lagoon. A taxi ride to the Blue Lagoon from Reykjavik, including a return trip, for 1 to 4 people, typically costs around 225 USD (or approximately 32,000 ISK). However, prices can vary, so it's always wise to check their website or app for the most current rates before booking.
Aside from Hreyfill, there are other private hire companies that you might consider. Private Hire Iceland is well-regarded for its quality and service and offers transfers to the Blue Lagoon from Reykjavik. These private transfers offer a comfortable and often more spacious alternative, especially if you're part of a larger group or prefer a dedicated vehicle.
Self-Drive: Freedom on the Road
Renting a car in Iceland provides unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to explore at your own pace and make scenic stops along the Reykjanes Peninsula. The car rental industry in Iceland is well-developed, with numerous options available directly at Keflavík Airport or in Reykjavik city centre.
Driving Directions and Parking
To get to the Blue Lagoon driving from Reykjavik, you simply head west along Highway 41. This is the main and most direct highway connecting Keflavík Airport with Reykjavik. You'll then turn onto Highway 43, heading due south towards the Blue Lagoon. The key is to follow the signs – and perhaps even the steam from the geothermal area! After driving south for a short while, turn right onto 426 Bláa lónið. This road leads directly to the car park and the main entrance of the Blue Lagoon, not towards the geothermal power plant. Upon arrival, you'll find a large car park, and parking is free, which is always a welcome bonus. From the car park, a small path winds through a very cool lava field, leading you to the actual Blue Lagoon entrance. Before entering, you can walk along a few other paths to snap photos of the stunning water and landscape.
Car Rental Companies and Costs
At Keflavík International Airport, you'll find four well-known car rental companies conveniently located inside the terminal: Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Europcar. Many other companies offer self-service key pick-ups or complimentary shuttles to nearby rental offices. Car rental prices can vary significantly. While you might see rates advertised as low as $40 USD/day, a more realistic starting price is around $90 USD/day, which typically includes basic insurance and unlimited mileage. Prices can climb higher, especially during peak travel seasons or if you opt for larger SUVs or 4x4 vehicles, which are often recommended for exploring Iceland’s rugged backroads or driving the ring road in winter.
When renting, consider optional insurance packages like gravel protection or sand and ash insurance. Iceland's unpredictable environment, with its windy conditions and volcanic terrain, can cause damage even to the most careful drivers, making these seemingly extra expenses a worthwhile investment. Also, factor in fuel costs, which are around $2 USD per litre (approximately $9 per gallon).
Pros and Cons of Rental Car
- Pros: Full control over your schedule, opportunity for scenic stops on the Reykjanes Peninsula.
- Cons: Finding parking (though free at Blue Lagoon, it can be an issue elsewhere like Reykjavik), challenging winter driving conditions, and the hassle of getting from the drop-off point to your hotel in Reykjavik.
Parking at Blue Lagoon After Eruption
As of December 2024, there is new parking available at the Blue Lagoon, located within the protective barriers. This new car park was constructed after the old one was destroyed by flowing lava during the November 2024 eruption, ensuring continued access for visitors.
Shuttle Bus: The Popular and Practical Choice
A very popular and often much cheaper way to get to the Blue Lagoon from Reykjavik is by shuttle bus. Many companies offer reliable services, making it a convenient option for budget-conscious travellers. Eric, a previous visitor, found this method worked great for his trip.
Key Considerations for Shuttle Buses
- Some bus transfers are solely for transport, meaning you'll need to purchase your Blue Lagoon admission ticket separately (which is strongly recommended to be booked in advance).
- Most companies offer shuttle services directly from downtown Reykjavik, often with pick-up from your accommodation. However, some might charge an extra fee for this pick-up, while others include it in the overall transfer price.
- Many shuttle companies also offer services connecting Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon, and Keflavík Airport (KEF). This flexibility is excellent if you plan to visit the Blue Lagoon on your way to or from the airport.
Popular Shuttle Bus Providers
Reykjavik Excursions: This company provides a reliable service with a very full timetable of departure and return times. They operate from the BSÍ Bus Terminal (Vatnsmyrarvegur 10, Reykjavik), which is a short walk south of the Hallgrímskirkja church. If you prefer to be picked up from your accommodation or the closest bus stop, they offer an extra mini-shuttle service to bring you to the BSÍ Terminal, though this often incurs an additional charge.
Destination Blue Lagoon: As the official transport partner of the Blue Lagoon, Destination Blue Lagoon is another excellent choice. They operate from a different terminal (Skógarhlíð 10, 105 Reykjavik), close to the BSÍ Bus Terminal. A significant advantage of this company is that the mini-transfer from your accommodation to their terminal is included in the price. It's important to note that this transfer typically does not include the Blue Lagoon admission cost, which needs to be purchased separately. However, they do offer combo tickets that include both the round-trip transfer from Reykjavik (including accommodation pick-up) and the entrance ticket to the Blue Lagoon, which can be convenient for evening visits.
Beyond traditional taxis and buses, there are a couple of other options to consider for getting to the Blue Lagoon.
Rideshare
While popular rideshare services like Uber or Lyft do not operate in Iceland, there is a local website called Samferda. This platform allows you to post about a ride and coordinate directly with others, potentially offering a more eco-friendly and cost-effective way to travel if you can find a suitable match.
Private Transfer Companies
As mentioned earlier, in addition to standard taxi companies like Hreyfill, you can also hire private transfer companies for a more tailored experience. Private Hire Iceland is one such reputable company known for quality services, offering transfers to the Blue Lagoon from Reykjavik. These services are ideal if you want to eliminate the fuss of navigating public transport or if you are part of a larger group seeking a dedicated vehicle.
Comparative Table: Transport Options at a Glance
| Transport Method | Cost (Approx. from Reykjavik) | Convenience | Flexibility | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi (return) | £180 / $225 USD | Very High (door-to-door) | High (on-demand) | Direct, fastest. Companies: Hreyfill, Taxi Keflavík Airport, Taxi BSR. |
| Rental Car | £70+ / $90+ USD per day + fuel | High (self-paced) | Very High (explore Reykjanes Peninsula) | Requires driving, parking at Blue Lagoon is free. Consider insurance. |
| Shuttle Bus | £40-60 / $50-75 USD (return) | High (scheduled pick-ups) | Medium (fixed timetables) | Most popular, cost-effective. Companies: Reykjavik Excursions, Destination Blue Lagoon. |
| Rideshare (Samferda) | Varies (potentially low) | Medium (requires coordination) | Medium (depends on availability) | Eco-friendly, no Uber/Lyft in Iceland. |
| Private Hire Company | Similar to Taxi | Very High (tailored service) | High (pre-booked specific times) | Ideal for groups, specific needs. Company: Private Hire Iceland. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive from KEF Airport to Blue Lagoon?
Yes, absolutely. Driving from KEF Airport to the Blue Lagoon is a straightforward 20-minute journey. You'll head along Highway 41, then turn onto Highway 43 South, and finally follow the signs to 426 Bláa lónið, which leads directly to the Blue Lagoon car park. Parking at the Blue Lagoon is free, and the facilities were updated in December 2024 to include new parking within protective barriers following recent volcanic activity.
Where can I stay near Blue Lagoon?
The information provided focuses primarily on transport options to the Blue Lagoon and accommodation in Reykjavik. While the Blue Lagoon does have its own luxury hotels (The Retreat and Silica Hotel), specific details on other accommodation options directly near the Blue Lagoon are not covered in this guide. However, if you are looking for places to stay in Reykjavik, various areas and accommodations are available to suit different budgets and preferences, serving as a convenient base for a day trip to the Blue Lagoon.
What companies run services between KEF Airport and Blue Lagoon?
For taxi services, you can catch a taxi from KEF Airport to the Blue Lagoon with companies like Taxi Keflavík Airport or Taxi BSR. For shuttle bus services, companies like Reykjavik Excursions and Destination Blue Lagoon offer transfers between KEF Airport, Reykjavik, and the Blue Lagoon, providing flexible options for travellers.
How much is a taxi from Reykjavik to Blue Lagoon?
A taxi ride from Reykjavik to the Blue Lagoon (including a return journey) for 1 to 4 people will cost approximately 225 USD (around 32,000 ISK). Prices can vary, so it is always recommended to check with the taxi company, such as Hreyfill, for the most up-to-date fares before booking your trip.
How do I get to the Blue Lagoon?
You can get to the Blue Lagoon via several transport methods: by self-drive (renting a car), by taxi or private transfer, or by shuttle bus. Each option offers different levels of convenience, cost, and flexibility. Self-driving gives you full control, taxis offer direct service, and shuttle buses are a popular and cost-effective choice with scheduled departures from Reykjavik and KEF Airport. Ridesharing via the local Samferda website is also an option, though less common for tourists.
Ultimately, getting to the Blue Lagoon is not difficult, but choosing the right mode of transport will significantly enhance your experience. Whether you opt for the speed of a taxi, the independence of a rental car, or the affordability of a shuttle bus, planning ahead ensures a smooth journey to one of Iceland's most captivating natural wonders. Enjoy your visit to the Blue Lagoon!
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