how to visit active volcano iceland

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Witness An Eruption: How To See The Volcano In Iceland

In March 2021, something special happened in Iceland. A volcano started erupting and it created a brand new – and spectacular! – attraction for people to visit. It is one of those rare chances to see a volcano erupting right in front of you! At the time of writing, the eruption at Fagradalsfjall is still going – so read on for information on how you can see the volcano erupting with your own eyes.

I’ve always been fascinated by volcanoes, ever since learning about them at school. I’ve visited volcanoes in New Zealand, Greece and the Canary Islands, and I’ve dreamed of seeing one erupt – but I knew it was a long shot, as the opportunities to do that safely are rare. Therefore, when news broke of the erupting volcano in Iceland, I was super keen to go there as soon as it was safe and possible for me to do so. I visited it twice in early August 2021 after driving the Ring Road , so in this post, I’ll share my experience of both visits.

The eruption is changing all the time… The info I’m sharing is correct at the time of publishing (August 2021). However, in case things change, I’ll share some links on where you can get the most recent information on the eruption.

Table of Contents

History of the eruption at Fagradalsfjall

Fagradalsfjall is a system of volcanoes in the Reykjanes peninsular, near the capital of Iceland, Reykjavik. It formed more than 11,000 years ago, but it had been dormant for an estimated 6,000 years until 2021. In fact, there hadn’t been an eruption in the whole of the Reykjanes peninsula for 800 years. 

Fagradalsfjall sits at the divergent boundary between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, meaning it is one of the points where these two plates of the earth’s crust are pulling apart. And when tectonic plates pull apart, hot magma bursts out!

As with most volcanic eruptions, the Fagradalsfjall eruption was preceded by a series of earthquakes, which let scientists (and nearby residents!) know that something was moving below the surface. These earthquakes went on for more than a year, and then, on 19 March 2021, a fissure opened in the Geldingadalir valley and the eruption began.

Almost immediately, people hiked out to see the eruption and the lava flows – and I followed their pictures and stories keenly via social media. It has attracted huge numbers of people ever since.

The eruption has evolved over time: fissures turned into craters (at one time, there were seven craters spurting lava; when I saw it, there was one main crater, and shortly after that, it had evolved again into twin craters), and lava started to fill the Nátthagi valley. After a firey start, activity slowed and the volcano went through a period of stopping and starting in June & July 2021. And then it came back in full force in late August 2021.  The lava flow has overrun several barriers built to contain it, and there are fears it will cross the main road on the south side of the peninsula soon.

Is it safe to visit the erupting volcano in Iceland?

Aren’t volcanoes, like, dangerous?  Well, yes…  

It is possible to visit the Fagradalsfjall eruption because it is less dangerous than many other kinds of eruptions. It isn’t the explosive kind of volcano that produces explosive volcanic bombs, huge ash clouds nor pyroclastic flows (like the kind that wiped out Pompeii in Italy).  That’s why people have been able to get right up close to the lava flows. In fact, in the early days, people were cooking pizza and sausages on the hot rocks! 

But there are dangers, of course: there’s a danger from gases emitted from the volcano and as such, there is continual monitoring of the site. You can check volcanoweather.is to see what the gas pollution is like before you visit.

There’s also a danger from walking on the lava. Even black, solid-looking lava could be a thin crust over 1,000°C molten lava below, so it’s a terrible idea to walk on the lava (although I did see some idiots doing that when I visited).

How to see the volcano erupting in Iceland

If you want to get up close and personal with a real live erupting volcano in Iceland, you have two options: 1) hike there by foot or 2) fly over it.

I tried both options, and I can say that the first option is definitely cheaper!  But the second option gave better views.  I’ll give you an overview of both options.

Seeing the eruption by foot

Unsurprisingly, most people choose the option to hike to the volcano in Iceland. It is way, way cheaper than taking a plane or a helicopter! And if you like hiking, then there’s an added bonus.

For official information on the safety of visiting the eruption on foot, check out these websites:

• VisitReykjanes.is gives an overview of visiting the site
• Volcanoweather.is where you can see weather and gas pollution forecasts
• Safetravel.is , for current safety information and where you can log your journey if you wish.

Where does the hike to the volcano start?

The hiking route is fairly close to the volcano along route 427, approx 10 min drive east of Grindavík.

There are three car parks, which you can find using the map on VisitReykjanes.is (unfortunately GoogleMaps isn’t updated with the volcano and car parks at the time of writing). It is free to do the hike to the volcano, but the car parks aren’t free. They cost 1000ISK for the day, which you can pay online by entering your car registration number and payment card details (there’s a sign with the info in the car park). 

What is the hiking route like?

There are several hiking walks that have been established since the volcano started erupting. One of them (route A) stopped being viable when the lava flowed right across it (!), so when I visited, most people used route C instead.

A map of the routes is available on Safetravel.is .

Route C takes you first to the lava pool that has formed in the Nátthagi valley, and then you have the option to continue up a hillside to the right-hand side of it, to get a better view over the crater itself (which is not visible from the lava pool).

The stretch of route C to the Nátthagi valley was fairly easy – a few ups and downs, but mainly flat. 

The path up the hillside to see the crater, however, was more challenging. The first incline is fairly steep and the ground is gravelly, so it is quite slippery.  There’s also not a properly marked path, and people have clearly tried to take a number of routes up the hillside, turning it into a wide, gravelly slide.

Going up was hard work, and coming down was a bit treacherous, to be honest. I saw a few people fall over – and I was one of them (embarrassing, but I wasn’t hurt)!  I also saw a man with a small child going down on his bottom, I guess to avoid the risk of falling over. And as I was leaving, I saw the search & rescue people on their way to help someone who was in difficulty on that slope.  So it is not for the faint-hearted!

What views are possible from the ground?

In Nátthagi valley, the main sight to see is the pool of lava that has gathered there, and the flows of lava down the hillside from the area where the crater is.  When I visited, these were all black, with no sign of red hot liquid lava – though the lava was still emitting smoke and gas, so I knew it was hot.

If you go up the hillside route, you will be able to see the main crater itself – and if you’re lucky, you will see it erupting red hot lava into the air! 

On my visit by foot, however, it was quiet – some smoke, but no visible eruption. I waited around a while, in case it started erupting again, but I didn’t get lucky on that day.

Based on other people’s photographs after I visited, there has been a lot to see at the eruption recently: lava spurting from the craters and many flows of red hot lava along the ground, which people seem to be able to get quite close to. I would have loved to have been able to see these lava flows and to get some close up photographs of them, but it just didn’t work out that way for me.

But don’t feel too bad for me because I did get to see the volcano erupting the day after my hike!

Seeing the erupting volcano in Iceland from the air

What options are there to see the eruption by air.

The more expensive, but more spectacular, option for seeing the erupting volcano in Iceland is from the air.  Both small plane and helicopter tours are available, departing from Reykjavik domestic airport. Based on my research, most last 40 – 50 minutes and cost up to 57,000ISK (approx £330).

I was very interested in a helicopter tour. However, in the end, I flew over the eruption on a privately organised photography flight over Iceland .

My flight with Volcano Pilot

If you’re a regular reader of this blog or follow me on Instagram, you’ll know I’m not a stranger to aerial sight-seeing.  I’ve flown over spectacular landscapes in the USA, Peru and Namibia .  So, when I planned a trip to Iceland for the second time, I was keen to see Iceland from the air .  And with the eruption still going, I was even more determined to get that aerial view!

I arranged a photography flight with an Icelandic pilot and photographer, best known on Instagram, as Volcano Pilot . I arranged a bespoke route to cover all the things I was interested in seeing – including the eruption, of course.

The day we had planned to fly over Iceland was actually overcast with poor visibility, so we postponed it to the next day. 10 minutes after we took off from Reykjavik airport, we saw the smoke from the eruption. And ten minutes after that, we were circling the crater as it erupted!

It was really stunning – overwhelming, really…  I couldn’t quite believe what my eyes were seeing.  I’d been fascinated by volcanoes since I was a child at school, and here I was seeing one erupt right in front of me. It took my breath away.

As it was a photography flight, I was able to open the window to take photos – and I’ve never experienced anything as visceral and intense as leaning out of an open window at 70-80 knots (130-150 kph), pointing my camera down towards a huge crater spurting red hot lava!

As well as the phenomenal eruption, I also saw lots of other stunning things on this flight. I will write more on this topic asap, but in the meantime, check out my Instagram, where I’ve started sharing pictures: Instagram.com/marthaknight .

The risks with booking an aerial sight-seeing tour

Regardless of the flying option you choose, there are a couple of risks to consider when booking a flight.

One risk is that the weather will prevent you from taking off, as it did for me the day I had originally planned to fly. This is a big risk in Iceland, which can be cloudy, rainy or stormy, even in summer. I believe that most aerial tour providers will not charge you if the flight is cancelled due to bad weather, but I’d suggest you check the terms & conditions before you book.

Another risk, specific to visiting the eruption, is that it might not be erupting at all on the day you fly over it!  Like the day I hiked to the eruption, some days there is no visible activity.  Now, I would say it is still very cool to see the black lava, even if there is no molten lava flowing – but it is not quite the same as seeing an actual eruption.  So, you should be aware this is a risk when you book.

How to keep track of activity at the volcano in Iceland

Whether you’re planning to hike to the eruption or to fly over it, you will probably be hoping and/or praying that it is actually erupting when you go there.

There’s no way to accurately predict what the volcano will be doing when you visit ahead of time, but there is a way you can keep an eye on what it is doing in real-time.  There’s a volcano webcam continually filming the eruption, so you can see what is going on at any time of day or night.

In addition, you could check the pattern of tremors , which show a pattern of activity, followed by rest – I’m not sure how easy it is to use this to predict what will be happening when you visit, but you could try!

REMINDER: The eruption is continually changing

As I’ve already said, the eruption is changing every day, so do use the links I’ve included above to find the most up to date information.  In particular, check Safetravel.is , which is updated every day or two.

If you go to Iceland, I really hope you manage to see the eruption.  It was truly one of the most exciting travel experiences I’ve had!

And if you do go, make sure you check out my guides to travelling to Iceland during Covid , exploring Iceland on a budget and also the best things to see in South Iceland .

If you like this article, I'd be delighted if you shared it!

About The Author

Martha Knight

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8 Volcanic Experiences to Have in Iceland

Iceland is perhaps best known for its “Land of Fire and Ice” nickname, earned from its long history of eruptions at volcanoes with tongue-twisting names. Eyjafjallajökull, anyone?

But keep in mind that, like the northern lights, volcanic activity doesn't happen on demand. That said, eruptions do happen! You'll be able to safely visit volcanic places on your trip to Iceland , including both ancient and active sites.

Let's take a look at 8 impressive volcanic attractions you could check out in Iceland.

• Learn about the latest volcanic activity on our eruption news page
• Explore exciting volcano tours in Iceland

Good to know: At Nordic Visitor, we stay up-to-date with volcanic activity in Iceland. We also make sure our clients are informed about any potential disruptions to travel plans and take care of any itinerary changes.

1. Eruption on the Reykjanes peninsula 

Located in the southwest of Iceland , this region has plenty to offer on your adventure. Here, you’ll find the Keflavík International Airport, the Blue Lagoon and the Fagradalsfjall volcano .

Before 2021, this volcano lay dormant for around 800 years. But now, the Reykjanes peninsula is active, with several eruptions in the area in recent years. This has meant the area, once seen as a sleeping giant, is now a hub of intense geological activity.

This is all thanks to its location on the Mid-Atlantic Rift, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates drift apart. That’s why you’ll see active volcanoes, moss-coated lava fields and cone-shaped mountains.

To stay up-to-date with the latest information about volcanic events in Iceland, check out the following sites:

• Safe Travel Iceland – for safety alerts
• Icelandic Met Office – for information on seismic activity and the weather
• Visit Reykjanes – for information on the hiking trails and where to park

2. The Volcano House in Reykjavík

Before venturing into the Icelandic countryside to see actual volcanic sites, why not take some time to learn about volcanoes in the capital city?

Located right by the old harbour in the Reykjavík city centre, the small Volcano House museum features exhibitions on Iceland’s geological history as well as a collection of volcanic rocks (that you can touch!).

It also screens two documentaries about famous eruptions. The first one is about the sudden eruption in the Westman Islands (which you can read about below). The other covers the famous 2010 volcanic eruptions at Eyjafjallajökull and Fimmvörðulháls.

• Discover volcanoes as part of a self-drive tour in Iceland

3. The Eldheimar Volcano Museum in Heimaey

Vestmannaeyjar, or the Westman Islands , is a stunning archipelago off Iceland’s south coast. Sometimes called “Pompeii of the North,” all of the archipelago’s islands have evolved from underwater eruptions.

Heimaey, the only inhabited island, was the site of an eruption in 1973. It buried 400 buildings under thick lava, some of which have been partially uncovered and preserved.

The Eldheimar Volcano Museum in town focuses on this event, which is today considered one of Iceland’s largest natural disasters. The exhibit looks at the lives of the residents before the eruption that saw them evacuating their homes in the night and never being able to return. 

4. The Lava Centre in Hvolsvöllur

If you came to Iceland to experience the Land of Fire and Ice, the Lava Centre museum in  South Iceland  is worth a visit. This innovative museum opened in 2017 not far from Mount Hekla, an active volcano that was considered to be the gateway to hell in the Middle Ages.

Inside, the interactive, state-of-the-art exhibit depicts millions of years of Icelandic volcanic activity. It covers earthquakes, eruptions, glacial floods, rift systems and the formation of Iceland's landmass.

If all that tectonic rumbling makes your stomach rumble, you can grab a bite at the onsite Katla Restaurant, aptly named for one of Iceland's largest volcanoes.

• See the country with a local expert on one of these privately guided Iceland tours

5. Snæfellsjökull National Park in West Iceland

Located at the tip of the Snæfellsnes peninsula in West Iceland, the terrain of Snæfellsjökull National Park looks as though it was ripped from prehistoric times.

The park is named for the prominent, glacier-topped Snæfellsjökull volcano, which Jules Verne famously used as the setting for his classic novel Journey to the Center of the Earth . 

This park boasts many other unusual volcanic landforms to explore, such as Djúpalónssandur beach with its smooth black pebbles and "lifting stones", and the beautifully secluded Dritvík cove. You could also discover the jutting cliffs at Lóndrangar and the extensive lava fields surrounding the volcano.

For a closer look at the area's volcanic history, you can even join a guided tour of the Vatnshellir or Víðgelmir cave.

6. "Inside the Volcano" tour near Reykjavík

Not only can you walk into a glacier in the Land of Fire and Ice, but you can also go deep inside a dormant volcano.

The Inside the Volcano day tour is a real-life journey to the centre of the earth. You descend 120 metres (394 feet) via a cable lift into the ancient magma chamber of the Thrihnukagigur volcano. From the bottom of the cave, you’ll be able to marvel at the colourful lava-rock walls.

For a similarly adventurous experience not far from this volcano, we recommend a guided "Lava Tunnel" tour inside the Raufarhólshellir lava cave.

• Experience the Land of Fire and Ice on a guided small group tour of Iceland

7. Hverfell volcanic crater in North Iceland

The Lake Mývatn area of North Iceland is a hotbed of unusual volcanic terrain and geothermal activity .

At 1 kilometre (0.6 miles) in diameter, Hverfjall is probably the biggest tephra crater in Europe, making it well worth a visit. Located nearby the popular Dimmuborgir lava formations , this enormous crater was formed in an explosive eruption some 2,500 years ago.

8. Krafla caldera in North Iceland

Another major Lake Mývatn area volcanic attraction is Krafla , a massive caldera with a diameter of 10 kilometres (6.2 miles) and depth of 2 kilometres (1.2 miles).

Situated along a 90-kilometre (56-mile) long fissure zone, it erupted a staggering nine times between 1974 and 1984, with 29 total eruptions in recorded history. Among these events is the “Krafla Fires,” a long-lasting eruption from 1977 to 1984.

On the northwest side of the Krafla caldera is Víti, an explosion crater 300 metres (984 feet) in diameter with a greenish-blue lake inside of it. The name Víti, meaning “Hell” in Icelandic, comes from the old local belief that the underworld was located under the volcanoes in this area.

From the Krafla parking area you can walk to the edge of the rim on a marked path, guiding you through sulphur vents and rocks that are still warm to the touch from the Krafla Fires.

Want more volcanic adventures?

You could witness breathtaking natural wonders in Iceland. Imagine exploring the active Fagradalsfjall volcano on the Reykjanes peninsula, or learning fascinating stories at the Eldheimar Volcano Museum.

Each place tells a unique part of Iceland's geological history. Book an Iceland volcano tour with Nordic Visitor, and you’ll discover the incredible landscapes shaped by nature's forces.

Note: Never attempt to hike in the highlands or on glaciers without a professional, licensed guiding service.

Learn more about the Land of Fire and Ice: contact us to book a trip .

When not writing about Northern European tourist attractions, Jessica Bowe is busy daydreaming about her next trip or scouring Instagram for travel inspiration. Originally from Wisconsin (USA), she's lived in Iceland since 2008 and has since become fully immersed in Eurovision mania and Scandinavian coffee culture.

Find Jessica on LinkedIn .

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

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What It’s Like to Hike to See Iceland’s Erupting Volcano

One way to break out of that pandemic funk: watching lava flow in iceland right now..

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On May 24, 2021, hikers could watch the Geldingadalsgos eruption in Iceland from just hundreds of feet away.

Photo by Laura Dannen Redman

• Geldingadalsgos Volcano Site Hike, Reykjanes Peninsula, Iceland
• Distance : 4 miles round-trip (give or take)
• Difficulty : Moderate

Despite this being an otherworldly experience, it begins, like many adventures, in a car park. Ever since the Gerlingadalur eruption began on March 19, 2021, Icelanders and travelers have made pilgrimages to see the lava spew, bubble, and flow across this stretch of the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwestern-most Iceland. What’s astonishing is that this once-in-800-years display of nature’s force is only a 45-minute drive south of Reykjavík. It’s even closer to Keflavík Airport, the largest airport in the country—a mere 20 minutes by car. Imagine that: an active volcano one would deem “accessible.” You could land in Iceland in the morning from the United States (there are flights from Boston, JFK-NYC, and Washington, D.C., as of May), await your negative COVID test results at a nearby hotel, and once cleared, see the volcano erupt in the same day.

“It’s the best tourist eruption in the world. You can walk to it,” says Ryan Connolly, our Hidden Iceland guide, a native Scot who moved to Iceland five years ago to become a glacier guide. (File that one under #lifegoals.) With boots tied tightly and nerves running high, we drive toward the Fagradalsfjall volcano near the fishing village of Grindavík, and park in a new lot that’s been created in the last month to keep up with visitor demand.

Iceland Tourism says a record 6,032 tourists were at the eruption on March 28, though many trekkers are locals who come back week after week to track the volcano’s progress. The numbers have gone down since that initial surge in interest, dropping into the hundreds in June (you can track foot traffic to the hour on this site ). Given that this is an effusive eruption—which means the lava flows slowly and steadily, and the volcano could continue to erupt for weeks, months, even years—volcano seekers can safely get within feet of the a’a lava (the slower, rockier stuff), if they so choose. From noon until midnight, Icelandic Coast Guard personnel keep daredevils in check and warn hikers if the conditions become unsafe.

After Connolly uses a device to confirm that gas readings are low enough to proceed (a shift in the wind could end your journey), we begin the hike on a newly widened gravel path that’s now the two-lane highway equivalent of what was once a rocky scramble over uneven terrain. A steady saunter leads to a relatively steep incline, up and over a crest; about an hour and 15 minutes later, as we pass boulders covered in moss while navigating loose volcanic rock, the main crater comes into view. It may seem asleep; it may simmer and bubble like a pot about to boil over; or you may catch it during one of its truly awesome displays.

Hiking back from seeing the Gerlingadalur eruption as the sun starts to set—at 11 p.m. in May.

Words don’t do justice to the sensory overload: Lava rockets out of the crater’s maw, like an overzealous science experiment by the gods. Even from hundreds of feet away, you can feel the heat, as strong as a shield. Up close, the air seems to shimmer. The change in pressure, the warmth, the disbelief that you’re that close to lava—it’s almost too much to process. Listen closely and you’ll hear the lava’s progress: it sounds like a fireplace crackling, or glass breaking. Is the lava moving toward you? Ever so slightly, imperceptibly. Look closely and you’ll swear the lava is exhaling.

People have called it hell on earth, but also heaven; with its fields of charcoal-colored lava and fire-y crackle in the distance, it’s easy to compare this to Tolkien’s Mordor. The site of Geldingadalsgos (the Gerlingadalur eruption) is growing rapidly and changing constantly, so your visit will always be entirely unique. Could it get more epic than that?

Follow the eruption 24/7 with this live cam.

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Adventure Travel · August 23, 2021

2022 Fagradalsfjall Hiking Trail – How To Visit The Active Volcano in Grindavik Iceland

The floor is lava!!! That’s pretty much what went through my mind while starting our hike towards Fagradalsfjall. Besides that some other things also flashed through the back of my mind.

First of all… Why was I feeling so damn excited about walking towards something so dangerous and deadly? I also regretted not bringing any marsh-mellows and somehow I got stuck with the tune of “Dumb ways to die”.

But, in contrary of what I just said, the hiking trail towards Fagradalsfjall is actually very safe and at all times you’ll be at a distance of approximately 3km from the actual lava spewing crater.

In this guide I will tell you exactly how to reach the best viewpoint over the active volcano near Grindavik and how to prepare your hike. The volcano isn’t always visible and at times it’s also not spewing lava. But with this guide you’ll never end up disappointed at the end of your hike . Instead you’ll leave with an incredible and once in a lifetime experience!

A day hike to the Fagradalsfjall Volcano should definitely be on your itinerary if you’re doing a Summer road trip in Iceland !

Needless to say, this is one of the most impressive and best one day hikes in entire Iceland at the moment!

The Fagradalsfjall Volcano in Reykjanes is currently erupting again, after 8 months of being dormant.

Keep on reading for all the latest info on how to reach the new eruption site from August 3rd.

🎫 WITH A TOUR

Fagradalsfjall hiking trail – how to visit the active volcano in grindavik iceland.

Let’s be honest, it’s not every day that you get to see an actual lava spewing volcano right? One would think that in most cases actually you would run as fast away as possible from it. But that’s not the case with the Fagradalsfjall volcano. Ever since its eruption in March 2021 it has been attracting adventurous and curious locals and tourists. And now it’s actually one of the top attractions and top things to do in Iceland!

And it’s not the first time either that an active volcano puts Iceland even more on the tourist map. Iceland used to be a rather unknown country, one that wasn’t frequently visited and often ignored when planning a holiday. All until 2010 when the absolutely unpronounceable Eyjafjallajökull erupted. The eruption of Eyjafjallajökull, also referred to as the E15, caused absolute mayhem for air travel across Northern and Western Europe. But it also put Iceland on the tourist map all over the world.

Over time more and more movies and tv-shows were recorded in the otherworldly landscapes of Iceland , one of the last ones being Game of Thrones. And so over time Iceland became a bucket list destination for people all around the world .

And honestly, I can’t even blame them. I’ve visited Iceland now 3 times and I would still go back in a heartbeat. Every time that I leave I already start dreaming about my next journey through the land of ice and fire.

But enough of that, let’s start with giving you all of the information you’ll need to visit the Fagradalsfjall volcano.

Planning your trip to Iceland

🏨 Find the best accommodations on Booking.com 💰 Get reliable travel insurance from  World Nomads 👩 Find a reliable tour guide, such as this 5 hour guided tour to Fagradalsfjall from Reykjavik

🚘 Rent a car to travel around Iceland with SunnyCars.com 🎒 Pack a power bank , hiking shoes and trekking poles . 📚 Read How Iceland changed the world , Lonely Planet’s Iceland and Nordic Islands by Stefan Forster

🗓 When to visit the Fagradalsfjall volcano in Geldingadalur

The Fagradalsfjall volcano has been active ever since its eruption in March 2021 until September of that same year. But on August 3rd 2022 a new volcanic eruption could be seen in the Reykjanes peninsula.

For the first time since September 2021, when lava stopped running from Fagradalsfjall,  the tension has given a way for the magma to burst through.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind and to look at before you start your hike.

First of all, Iceland is a very temperamental country when it comes to its weather. One day it can be sunny and the next day it be entirely covered in clouds. So it might be possible that when you reach the end of the hiking trail that there is zero visibility . Since the hiking trail towards Fagradalsfjall isn’t the easiest it’s better to avoid such disappointment.

Preparation is definitely key when it comes to visiting this volcano!

Another website to check is volcanoweather.is . This one will give you a more general idea of the current weather circumstances.

🚘 How to reach the Fagradalsfjall Hiking Trail

The start of the Fagradalsfjall hike is close to Grindavik on the Reykjanes Peninsula . This is the same peninsula where the international airport is located so it’s most convenient to combine your visit to the volcano with your arrival or departure to Iceland.

There are actually 3 different trails that lead to the volcano but only one of them has a good view over the active crater. While at the start of the eruption in March 2021 you had to follow hiking trail B, now you have to follow hiking trail C which will lead you to two different viewpoints .

One of them is viewpoint N which offers a view over the massive lava field in the valley, the other one is viewpoint L which is higher up the mountain and will grant you a spectacular view over the crater.

🚗 BY CAR/ CAMPER VAN

If you’re coming from the airport you’ll first drive through the centre of Grindavik after which you make a left onto the 427. Keep on following this road for a couple of minutes and after a while you’ll see a first parking lot but that’s not the one you want. Instead keep on driving down the road until you see another large parking lot on your left! This is the one where hiking trail C starts.

There’s a small parking fee of 1000IKR since to parking is located on private property.

There’s a bus that leaves from the centre of Grindavik to the eruption site. It operates daily and the first bus leaves at 8am and the last one returns at 10pm.

There are several tours that will take you to the Fagradalsfjall eruption site and I’ve listed my favorite ones below:

• A 5 hour guided tour to Fagradalsfjall from Reykjavik
• A guided hike to the active volcano from Reykjavik
• Hike to the active volcano and a tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula from Reykjavik
• From Reykjavik: Active volcano hike and Blue Lagoon

🥾 Fagradalsfjall Hike Details

Hike Distance – The total hike distance to the viewpoint of the crater and back to the parking lot is 9km (or 5.6 miles).

Hike Duration – In total you’ll probably spend 2 to 3 hours , depending on how many time you’ll stop to take photos. As a reference for me it definitely was 3 hours.

Hike Difficulty – The start of the hike is easy and flat but after passing the lava field it becomes more and more strenuous. You’ll have to climb several hills and at times the incline will be very steep. The trail consists of loose gravel, rocks and small boulders. If you have trekking poles with you they will for sure come in handy and make sure to wear proper hiking shoes , preferably with ankle support.

Hike Incline – The total incline of the hike to the Fagradalsfjall viewpoint is 300 meters .

🌋 How to reach the new Meradalir volcano eruption site

So the most recent eruption that started on August 3rd 2022 actually occurred in a lava field created by last year’s eruption in the neighboring valley.

But compared to the Fagradalsfjall eruption site, the Meradalir eruption site is a lot harder to get to . Whatever you do, DO NOT TAKE A SHORTCUT ACROSS THE OLD LAVA FIELD ! Although the sides of it may seem completely hard, it sometimes happens that it transforms again in a sea of molten lava and this phenomenon can happen in just a few seconds.

The hike to the new eruption site is 7km one way and has an elevation of a 300 meters . The route is on very hard terrain and up very steep hills close to the crater. The hike itself can take around 4-5 hours at least.

The hike to the sightseeing platform where the crater is visible is about 5 km (3 miles) one way, it is best to park your car at parking lot #1 and hike route A and continue over the terrain, towards the new eruption site.

Follow instructions from the local authorities and the ICE-SAR members on site . The area could be closed with short notice.

🙋🏼‍♀️My Experience on the “Fagradalsfjall Hiking Trail”

After weeks of stalking the live cam on Youtube the day had finally arrived! We landed in Iceland around 3pm and after picking up our 4×4 camper van from Happy Campers we set off on our first adventure in Iceland.

I quickly checked the live cam and the seismograph one last time and everything looked good to make it an unforgettable evening! We parked our van, jumped out of the car, forgot our water bottle out of pure excitement and started walking along the trail.

Out of the corner of my right eye I had already spotted a small food truck and I could already taste my first Icelandic hot dog of this trip. But first things first: hiking up to see the active volcano with my very own eyes.

The trail started on a dirt road made of gravel and yellow sand but we couldn’t see anything yet in the distance. The only thing we saw were the stars in the eyes of the people returning from their visit of the crater. They looked like they had the time of their life and I started to accelerate my pace.

After 15 to 20 minutes walking my mouth fell to the floor for the very first time. We had arrived at viewpoint N and the floor was actually lava ! To reach the valley of cold lava we would have to make a small detour so I decided not to risk it and visit it after witnessing the crater. According to the seismograph the volcano would remain active for a while longer but nevertheless I wasn’t going to take any chances!

After admiring the lava field from afar we started hiking up the first hill. The gravel was slippery at times and the incline steep. At one side there was a rope where people were holding onto when shuffling back down. Needless to say that you’ll need proper hiking shoes when starting this hike ! Besides our water bottle I had also left my trekking poles in the car. Something I would later on come to regret a lot, especially when hiking back down.

But after reaching the first top we could already see the crater in the distance. Bright orange lava was being sprayed into to dark grey air leaving a hazy glow behind. I immediately took out my camera and started taking photos.

I felt the adrenaline rushing through my veins and didn’t even care about my throat that now started to feel like dried up parchment. We had a couple more hills to climb but every single one brought us closer to this fiery wonder. After every incline the crater came closer and the lava glow became intenser. Until we finally reached viewpoint L and our mouths literally fell open.

There it was, in all of its glory. I had been staring at it through a screen for the past weeks but nothing and I really mean nothing could have prepared me for this very moment. I felt so small and insignificant but at the same time also very grateful that I was lucky enough to see it with my very own eyes.

You can imagine that what happened next was a very elaborate photoshoot!

After spending at least an hour admiring the crater from all possible angles we decided to hike back down. I didn’t fly my drone at the time because the wind gusts felt too strong and after crashing my previous one I didn’t want to risk it ending up in the lava on its very first international flight.

In hindsight I truly regret it but oh well, so be it!

We started hiking back down and decided to now take that short detour to the lava field. It was only when we came closer to it that we realized its magnitude. This wasn’t just a layer of dried up and cold lava. This was a massive thick layer of nearly 2 meters and it looked like something that didn’t even belong on planet earth.

Realizing all of this magma came streaming down only a couple of months ago completely blew my mind and the textures it left behind were incredible.

After our adventure it was time to head back to our camper van and to my surprise the food truck was still very much open! Time for that first Icelandic hot dog, followed by chugging down a gallon of water and heading towards our campsite nearby in Grindavik.

In the far distance I could still see the orange glow in the sky and with a heart filled with utter joy I fell sound a sleep after only 5 minutes.

🏨 Where to stay when visiting the active volcano in Iceland

If you’re traveling by camper van the closest campsite is the one in Grindavik . The facilities are clean and it’s only 15 minutes driving from the eruption site.

Another option is to already drive towards the capital Reykjavik . The campsite here is a little more expensive but does have more facilities. The only downside is that if you arrive after opening hours you have to have your tickets booked in advance or you can’t enter anymore.

If you prefer staying at a hotel these are my personal favorites:

• Northern Light Inn – This cute cottage style hotel is located in Grindavik and only 15 minutes away from both the eruption site as the Blue Lagoon.
• Eyja Guldsmeden Hote l – This stunning and originally decorated hotel is located right in the heart of Reykjavik and right next to its main shopping street.
• Hotel Borg by Keahotels – This hotel screams lavish luxury but is also understated with it’s black, white and grey design. It’s the perfect place to stay if you want a more luxurious start or end of your trip.

DON’T WANT TO DO THIS HIKE ON YOUR OWN?

You can join a tour to see the Fagradallsfjall volcano and admire its beauty without having to plan anything yourself. Embark on a magical afternoon or evening tour through Geldingaladur Valley and see the eruption site in Meradalir Valley next to Fagradalsfjall Volcano alongside a licensed guide.

🧳 Iceland Hiking Packing List

A lot of people come to Iceland unprepared for the cold, especially during the Summer months. While it can get warm on a sunny day you also need to be prepared for the cold and typical Icelandic wind. For instance, when we were hiking up this mountain I was sweating a lot but the wind was so cold and so harsh that I had to wear a bonnet to keep my ears warm and pain free.

Below are some items that you definitely want to bring with you if you’re planning an adventurous trip to Iceland .

Hiking shoes  – You will definitely need a pair of these. Even that some attractions are located right next to a parking lot you’ll pretty much always have to hike over a rocky terrain. I love my  Meindl Mountain Trail Boots  for longer hikes and my  Danner Mountain Light Boots  for daily wear and shorter distances.

Trekking poles  – These will especially come in handy cause a lot of the hikes in these guide can be rather strenuous on the joints. I used the  Leki Adventure Light  trekking poles for all of my hikes in Iceland!

Back Pack  – You’ll want to bring a back pack with you to carry your camera, some snacks and your refillable water bottle. I love the  Kanken No. 2 back pack from Fjallraven  and pretty much take it with me everywhere I go.

Refillable Water Bottle  – The water in Iceland is some of the freshet in the entire world so there’s no need at all to buy plastic bottles. Simply find the nearest stream to fill up your bottle and you’re good to go.

Another option is to use a back pack which has a water reservoir built inside of it. For instance this  3L Hydration Bladder   is leak proof and can be stored inside a back pack.

Trail Leggings  – I love hiking in leggings and have lately been loving the  Abisko Trail Tights  from Fjallraven.

Fast Drying Shirt  – When hiking you tend to sweat, especially when climbing a mountain. One of the best things to wear is a shirt that quickly dries so you don’t get cold high up the mountain.

Insulating Jacket  – Depending on the temperature you’ll either want a thicker or lighter jacket. If it’s pretty cold outside I always go for my  Fjallraven Vidda Jacket . Otherwise I go for their  High Coast Light Jacket  which is super light weight.

Woolen cap  – The perfect accessory to protect your ears from the cold and to cover your hair after a few days without a shower.

Protein Bars  – Make sure you have a couple of these stowed a way in your back pack to boost up your energy level during the hike.

Sunscreen – Make sure to re apply to your face regularly cause pretty much all of the hikes that we did in Iceland were exposed most of the time. I love this one by  Neutrogena  which feels like a face mist but also provides SPF 50 protection!

Merino Wool Socks  – My go to brand has always been  Falke  and I love how fast they drive after a long day of hiking. Plus since they’re made of merino wool they don’t smell and can be worn for a couple of days.

❗️Essential tips for hiking in Iceland

• Wear sturdy hiking shoes , preferably mountain trail shoes. A lot of the trails can be rocky and uneven and you don’t want to loose your balance. For longer hikes I always wear my Meindl Borneo Lady Boots and for shorter ones I switch to the Danner Mountain Light .
• Pack for 4 seasons : even in the Summer months it can be very cold if you start hiking in the early morning. Make sure you’re wearing layers so you can easily take something off or put on an extra layer if you’re taking a break.

📖 CLICK HERE FOR MY COMPLETE CAMPER PACKING LIST

• Make sure to  arrive early at the most popular hiking trails  to ensure you have the best experience.
• Bring  a small first aid kit  with you. You can always hurt yourself during a hike and it’s important that you’re able to disinfect wounds as fast as possible.
• Almost all of the hiking trails are well marked but make sure to  plan your route on maps.me as well .

💸Iceland Travel Insurance

I highly recommend you to get a travel insurance before your trip cause the risks are never worth the costs. If you’re going on a more adventurous trip you can always get yourself injured! So far I have sprained my ankle in Jordan, got food poisoning in India, turned snow blind in the Dolomites and have fallen multiple times during many hikes. It’s always best to be safe than sorry in such cases and with a good travel insurance you don’t have to worry about medical bills piling up.

I personally love  World Nomads , their prices are affordable, their coverage is great, and they also offer 24/7 on-call customer service! When I got super sick in India they even covered an extra night for me at the hotel that I was staying it and rearranged my flight home at no extra cost!

📸 My Iceland Camera Gear

• Canon EOS 6D Mark II  – My go to camera body for the past 3 years
• Main Lens –  Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II
• Zoom Lens –  Tamron AF 70-300mm f/4.0-5.6
• Wide Angle Lens –  Canon EF 16–35mm f/2.8L III
• Tripod –  Manfrotto Tripod
• Drone –  DJI Mavic Mini 2 Fly More Combo

You can find my complete list of photography gear here

📚 More Iceland Blog Posts

I have visited the land of ice and fire 3 times in 3 years and I loved adventuring and driving around the country. On my blog you can find a ton of free resources to help you plan the perfect trip to this beautiful c ountry.

Below are some of my favorite articles and there’s a lot more to come so keep an eye on this space!

• The Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Iceland – A list of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland that I visited myself, divided by region.
• The perfect winter road trip in Iceland – A day by day guide and retelling of my first time visiting this beautiful country.
• Hidden Gems in Iceland – Of the beaten path places that haven’t been discovered by mass tourism.
• Fagradalsfjall Hiking Trail  – How To Visit The Active Volcano in Grindavik Iceland
• 1 Day in Landmannalaugar  – The Mount Blahnukur Trail
• Discover Thakgil  – A hidden gem in southern Iceland
• Mulagljufur Canyon  – Discover a true hidden gem in South Iceland
• 7 Best Places To See in The Highlands in Iceland
• Kerlingarfjöll Hiking Trail – How To See The Hveradalir Geothermal Area in a couple of hours.

Charlotte Lint is the founder of Charlies Wanderings. Charlotte has traveled all over the world and is based in Belgium where she also owns her very own dental practice. She is an expert on writing efficient travel guides and finding unique places to stay. Every month she helps over 134.000 people discover the most beautiful places in the world through her detailed travel guides.

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How to Hike to Iceland’s Active Volcano: Geldingadalur

News Flash! Did you hear that we have an active volcano currently erupting in Southern Iceland? But that’s not all… Days later, Iceland announced opening up to all vaccinated visitors from all countries! So much excitement, truly!! In fact, today we would love to share with you a step by step guide to hiking to Iceland’s active volcano, Geldingadalur (also referred to as Fagradalsfjall á Reykjanesi).

NOTE: This post has been updated on April 17th 2021. The activity continues to grow and paths can continue to be re-routed because of lava flow or gas.

History of Volcano Eruptions in Iceland

For millions of years, our tiny island in the North Atlantic is built by volcanic eruptions. Although, Iceland is an infant in regards to geology!  For example, the first eruption dates back to only 16 million years ago, well before Iceland was a settled country. Then as a settled land, between 870 to the 20th century the top 5 most famous eruptions happen…

• Katla Subglacial Volcano (20 eruptions during historical times with 100 eruptions being known in modern times).
• Hekla Volcano (one of the most industrious of Iceland’s active volcano eruptions).
• Skaftáreldar Volcano (one of the most devastating with global consequences).
• Eldfell Volcano (on the island of Vestmannaeyjar in 1973 was one of most shocking eruptions in Iceland).
• Kröflueldar is most notable due to the duration.

Moving into the current 21st century, the list of Iceland’s active volcano list consists of 5 notable eruptions.  Firstly, it begins with Grímsvötn in 2004 (erupts again in 2011). Secondly, Eyjafjallajökull in 2010 (Fimmvörðuháls first then weeks later a subglacial eruption followed). Thirdly, Holuhraun emerges in 2014-2015 and was in a extremely remote area in the highlands. Furthermore, the most recent eruption (as of when this Vik Expeditions blog post was written) is named Geldingadalur (also referred to as Fagradalsfjall á Reykjanesi).

Endless Earthquakes!

Over the last 30 days (from end of February 2021), Iceland braced for 1,000’s of earthquakes. Did you know, earthquakes are often a precursor for volcanic eruptions? Meanwhile, to put numbers to it for perspective check out the below rundown (as of today):

• Earthquakes 5.0+ magnitude = 7
• Quakes between 4.0 – 5.0 magnitude = 53
• Activity between 3.0 – 4.0 magnitude = 530
• Between 2.0 – 3.0 magnitude = 2,820
• Earthquakes below 2.0 = 24,612

Next, late on Friday, March 19th, people within the Reykjanes Peninsula, were beginning to see a glow in the sky! Very exciting news reports followed about Iceland’s active volcano eruption! Now come along with us as we share details on how to hike to it…

How to Get to Geldingadalur (Fagradalsfjall) Volcano

Barely 30 minutes from the KEF Airport , is the starting point to the hike to Geldingadalur Volcano Valley area.  And from the heart of downtown Reykjavik, you can expect less than a 1 hour drive. Further, people are calling the area two different names:

• Geldingadalur which directly translates to “neutered horse valley.”
• Fagradalsfjall which means beautiful valley mountain.  This area is previously known for a plane crash that happened during World War II. As a matter of fact, it was an American bomber (B-24D Liberator) named “Hot Stuff.”

Honestly, at this point with the volcano being so new, a formal name has not been chosen yet (as of April 24th 2021).  Therefore, people are referring to it as Geldingadalur because that is the valley it is in. But also Fagradalsfjall because that is the nearest mountain.

Geldingadalur / Fagradalsfjall Information:

• Google Map to Parking Area: https://goo.gl/maps/7whyFEjn1pbrQFD99
• Routes / Hiking Maps: https://safetravel.is/eruption-in-reykjanes
• Elevation Gain: 656 feet
• Terrain: Dirt/mud path, loose rocks, lava, uneven ground, and gravel.
• Trekking Time: 60 minutes to 2 hours, depending on pace and route 1 way (currently the shortest hiking route).
• Gear Needed: Outdoor rain clothing, layers, trekking poles, backpack (with water, snacks, lunch, etc), and possibly crampons depending on weather conditions.

Wow-wee the excitement will surely build as you drive to the starting point… Seriously, especially if this will be the first eruption you witness. Many folks are already saying experiencing Iceland’s active volcano is life changing and even a spiritual moment. After all you are bearing witness to the BIRTH OF NEW LANDSCAPE! That simple fact alone can be a once in a lifetime inspiring moment.

Hiking to Iceland’s active volcano in Geldingadalur, will take you (as of today) between 45 minutes – 1.5 hours one way depending on your fitness level, pace, and weather.  Please make sure you visit the Safe Travel website before you embark too to ensure no danger levels (gases, weather, landslides, or falling rocks, etc).

Step 1: Through the Lava Fields

Once you arrive to parking area (link above), it will be very clear where you begin (clear path from parking lots). Likely you will see a SAR (Search & Rescue) team trailer. Next, you will encounter the following trail markers and signs:

Step 2: Elevation

As you hike further in, you’ll getting closer and closer to the elevation gain. Specifically, this is the area that it can be beneficial to have trekking poles with you to use as the loose rocks are significant and it’s easy to lose your balance. When you get closer to the bottom of the hill, you’ll notice a mounted rope at the steepest part.  Use it and once at the top, savor the view and the fact you’re half way through!

NOTE: This area has changed and may continue in the future to be re-routed due to lava flow.

Step 3: The Volcano Comes into View

As you head down the backside of the mountain, Iceland’s active volcano comes into view. Honestly, you do not even realize it until you’re at the point of our photos below… It’s NUTS!

Be aware: This area has changed due to lava filling up the valley (as of April 24th 2021).  Follow the signs for Route A or B now.

Step 4: Pick Your Route

Next, when you reach the point (as of today) where the lava begins to fill the valley there are two trails ( left side and right side ). Be aware they do not currently connect and sometimes one or both can be closed due to gas emissions.  As of April 24th, the valley is filling up because additional fissures have opened.  It went from having 2 to 7 total within a few weeks!  Nature is AMAZING!

Step 5: View from the Left Side Trail

From the above base point, the hike to the left side of Iceland’s active volcano trail is only 5-10 minutes depending on how close or high up you go. When my wife and I hiked the trail, this side seemed to have less people. So many less that we celebrated the unforgettable moment with champagne and a selfie… I mean you have to indulge sometimes right?  Sunrise here was EPIC!  Below are also updated images from the left side trail from the ground and our drone.

Step 6: View from the Right Side Trail

Finding your way from the base point to the right side and then to the back side (which is accessed from the right side) can be an additional 10-20 minutes. The trail can get a bit congested so remain patient and take care in passing people. Here, you’ll marvel over the various points and shapes of the volcano, lava, and magma rivers. Please be aware, the valley is filling up quick so views change often. You can also take a look at the live view as you hike up!

Iceland Active Volcano Tips:

• Be aware this area is ALIVE and changes every single day.
• Do not walk onto the new lava or get to close, it’s unstable.
• Listen to ay SAR team members that may approach you with directions (IE, to clear the area, etc).
• Check the weather conditions before you head out and plan how long you’ll stay around that.
• Being prepared before you ahead out is important (IE, proper clothing, backpack, food, water, etc).
• Leave No Trace… Cannot stress this one enough! Also, if you see trash someone else left on purpose or on accident, pick it up.
• Be in the Moment! Put the phone and camera down… Listen, marvel, enjoy, and realize this experience may be once in a lifetime, savor it!

Want More Adventure? Expeditions in Iceland

Wondering if there is an easier way to see Geldingadalur Volcano area? Good news! There is… You can experience it via a helicopter and likely in several weeks or months via super jeep. The latter route is not a option as of when this Iceland travel blog was written. But we hope it will soon as there is a badass super jeep road nearby which would then only be a 10-15 minute hike (one way). Fingers crossed it opens again!

Lastly, are you invigorated to plan your adventure to Iceland after this adrenaline rush? Vik Expeditions would love to craft a custom day that will “wow” you!  Feel free to contact us for more information on beginning that unforgettable journey…

© 2021 Vik Expeditions, All Rights Reserved.

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6 thoughts on “ how to hike to iceland’s active volcano: geldingadalur ”.

Thank you so much for this descriptive hiking manual! It was so helpful! <3

Thank you for your kind comments We hope you had an amazing day out there!

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Hello! We have an almost 3 year old. If he hike with him on our back, do you think that would be a good idea? Thanks!

Hi Lyle, this guide is not updated with the most recent information.

At the moment the crater is not erupting and with winter conditions being in the area I would not recommend heading in there because there is not much to see at the moment outside of faint glows that can be seen from the air.

If you can hike for 1-2 hours with your three year old on your back it is well doable Be prepared for the path to be icy and be prepared with microspikes or turning around before it gets tricky Take a good look at the weather forecast on vedur.is or belgingur.is and look for the most recent updates on safetravel.is on conditions.

Fantastic advice! I greatly appreciate your knowledge. Cheers!

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Visit a Volcano in Iceland

The Geldingadalur volcano is a rare opportunity to experience Iceland’s powerful natural forces yourself.  Here are some ways you can work a hike to the volcano into your self-drive holiday/road trip.

Difficulty level:

Route A (currently closed to recent lava flow):   Moderate. You should be in reasonable physical condition and have some hiking experience.

Route B:   Moderate to Difficult. You should be in good physical shape and have some hiking experience. This is longer, uneven terrain and more difficult to walk than Route A.  There is one very steep slope where there is a rope to hold on to. Hiking shoes and hiking poles are essential.

Hiking Distance :

Route A:   8 km (5  miles)

Route B:   More than 8 km (5 miles) through steep terrain

Elevation: 300 m (985 feet)

Option 1: Enjoy a guided tour and extra day in Reykjavík

Add an extra day after your tour in Reykjavík and take the Guided Geldingadalur Volcano Hike – Enjoy a convenient coach transfer to the Geldingadalur Volcano Trail Head. Join your expert guide for an informative, interesting hike through scenic lava landscapes to the volcano. You’ll learn about the volcano and the fascinating Reykjanes Peninsula. The tour is offered on Mon, Wed, Sat, Sun.

Option 2: Make it a self-guided hiking tour

Are you experienced with hiking?  With a little preparation you can visit the volcano yourself.  Drive to the trail head and follow the easily marked hiking trail to the volcano viewing site.

• Pace your day.  Route A:   Expect to spend about 2 – 3 hours of walking round-trip and about 1 – 2 hours viewing the volcano.   Route B:  Expect to take 3 – 4 hours round-trip hiking
• You are always responsible for your own safety when you hike unaccompanied in Iceland.
• Expect the unexpected: the weather in Iceland changes quickly.
• Treat the landscape – and the volcano – with respect.  Please don’t litter the area; pack your trash with you.
• Make sure you are dressed for hiking. Essential: hiking boots, suitable wind and waterproof clothing for hiking in cold weather. Bring raincoat and pants.
• Bring a packed lunch, snacks and bottled water.

Arrival Day:  Visit the Volcano from the airport  –   Is your flight arriving in the morning or early afternoon?  Do you like to start right off with action as soon as your flight arrives?  The hiking trail head is about 30 minutes’ drive from the airport.

• Check the latest volcano trail conditions at safetravel.is before you start hiking.
• Make sure you are dressed for hiking when you arrive in Iceland.
• Bring a packed lunch, snacks and bottled water. You can for example purchase supplies at the airport’s Mathús self-service kiosk or at grocery stores/ shops in Grindavík town.

Arrival Day: Afternoon or Evening volcano hike  –   During the summer months daylight hours are long.  Grab some rest at your accommodation and then head to the trail for a volcano hike. Staying in Hveragerði? – It’s about a 50-minute drive on Road 427 to the volcano trail head.  Staying in Reykjavík? – It’s about an hour’s drive on Roads 41 and 43 to the volcano trail head. 

Check the latest volcano trail conditions at safetravel.is before you start.

Note- Arrival day suggestions are subject to current COVID travel and testing policies .  Please check covid.is website for the latest information.

Departure day 

If your flight is leaving in the late afternoon or early evening you might have the opportunity for hike to the volcano earlier in the day. Make sure you leave enough time to drop off your car and check-in for your flight no later than 2.5 hours before your flight.

• It is your responsibility to make sure you give yourself enough time to make flight check-in.

  Useful Information

Packing list prepared by a landowner near the volcano (Volcano in Iceland)

Icelandic Weather

Who Should (or Shouldn’t) Hike to the Volcano

Daily Geldingadalur Trail Conditions

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Best Way To Visit The Erupting Volcano In Fagradalsfjall, Iceland

Iceland is an incredible country to explore, with many incredible places to see and visit . With gorgeous towns , waterfalls, beautiful Icelandic hikes and of course, erupting volcanoes; it’s a country you don’t want to miss. Now, you might be wondering how to get to Fagradalsfjall? It’s one of the newest and most accessible volcanic sites in Iceland to visit and you’ll get to see it, up-close by following our advice. Honestly, to visit the erupting volcano in Fagradalsfjall, is just wild to see and one spot you can’t miss when visiting Iceland. 

So, to visit the erupting volcano in Fagradalsfjall and make it that bit easier, we wanted to share all our tips on how to get to Fagradalsfjall… and, most importantly, how to see it safely and from the best viewpoints.

We’ve completed quite a few of the hikes to see the erupting volcano in the Fagradalsfjall area and totally loved it. 

Take a look, below, at all our advice on how to get to Fagradalsfjall and the very best way to visit the erupting volcano in Fagradalsfjall. It really is worth visiting! 

How to get to the Fagradalsfjall eruption site?

Visiting Fagradalsfjall is relatively easy if you have a car. It’s about a 55-minute drive from the capital of Iceland, Reykjavik. Plus, it’s only around 45 minutes from the main international airport, Keflavik.

Alternatively, you’re close by if you’re visiting from the Blue Lagoon (about a 15-minute drive), or from the nearby town of Grindavik (about a 10-minute drive). 

All in all, it’s easy to drive to the erupting site of Fagradalsfjall and then hike from the designated parking spots. 

Where are the designated parking places for Fagradalsfjall?

We parked at the designated ‘ Parking 1 ‘ site, which, is the best spot to park for ‘Path A’ to visit the Fagradalsfjall volcanic eruption.

That being said, it does fill up fast and you might need to park in some of the other parking bays across the road. You can see these on the embedded Google Map that we have embedded further down this article. 

Now, you do need to pay for parking, and there is a QR code to scan to pay online. That being said, we tried to pay and the website wouldn’t accept any of our payment methods. Just an FYI. 

Book an expert guide to the Fagradalsfjall eruption

Alternatively, if you don’t feel like driving, you can book this epic guided hiking tour of Fagradalsfjall to see the eruption. It can make things easier if you don’t drive and want an expert on hand whilst you hike. 

Just be sure to book your guided hiking tour of Fagradalsfjall well before arriving in Iceland. Hikes can sell out fast, especially as everyone wants to visit the erupting volcano in Fagradalsfjall – while it’s still active. 

Though, if you’re an experienced hiker (and you have a car), it’s not always necessary to book. You can potentially complete the hike alone.

Read more: Best tours to book from Reykjavik

How to get to Fagradalsfjall – the Hiking routes

So, there are several different hiking routes to visit the erupting volcano in Fagradalsfjall. Some are much harder, some are further away.

Choosing how to get to Fagradalsfjall and your route does come down to the conditions on the day and how you feel about hiking. 

How to get to Fagradalsfjall with the closest view: Path A

In our personal opinion, ‘Path A’ is the best hiking route to visit the erupting volcano in Fagradalsfjall. You’ll get to one of the closest vantage points to the new eruption and it’s just so incredible to witness.

It’s easily the best hiking route to see the volcanic eruption. 

Now, the hike itself is rocky, uneven and slippery at points and will take around 15 km (about 10 miles) to get there and back (to parking area 1).

Also, its elevation also rises quite rapidly near the start of the hike, around 300-400 metres and it’s well worth taking this portion a little slower. 

After that initial incline, the trail does get really rocky and you need a good pair of hiking boots to get across these. The day before we hiked, a fellow hiker broke their ankle here; and it’s so easy to see why.

Watch your step! 

Though, the good thing is, that the trail stays relatively flat from this point.

Well, until you get to the volcanic eruption! it does have a big decline as you get closer to the Fagradalsfjall eruption site at the end of the hike. 

Remember, as you head along the path, you must always stick to the wooden markers (wooden poles) to stay on the trail.

This route is still new and it can be easy to veer off course if you’re not paying attention.

Oh, and trust me, these markers are essential if you’re hiking at night. It’s pitch black and the only thing that helped us get back to the car (especially with all the fog).

In all, give yourself around 6-8 hours to complete this hike in a leisurely fashion (and to spend lots of time at the volcanic eruption site itself.

After all, you don’t want to rush this amazing experience. 

How to get to Fagradalsfjall: Path C

To get here, we parked at ‘Parking 2’ (a little further east from Parking 1). From here, we joined ‘Path C’ which trails over the mountain ridges to see the front of the crater. You will be further away from the viewpoints than ‘Path A’ but it’s still spectacular to visit. 

The trail (from parking 2′ starts with a relatively steep incline up the ridge of the mountain. From here, you’ll walk parallel to the lava fields and see them smoking. It’s so special. After around 4km, you will reach the viewing area for the active volcanic eruption at Fagradalsfjall.

In all, to take things slow and really enjoy this spot, give yourself between 6-8 hours to complete, relax and really enjoy the views.

That being said, out of both hikes, we would always choose ‘Path A’.  For us, it’s the best way to visit the erupting volcano in Fagradalsfjall. It was just so special to see the eruption and lava fields so close.

Map To Visit The Erupting Volcano In Fagradalsfjall

For a visual of the route, check out the Google Map below, with the trail listed and the designated parking spots. 

How to check safety for visiting Fagradalsfjall?

For safety, always check out the Safe Travel Iceland website for potential changes, closures or risks. No one likes a reckless hiker. 

And remember, always listen to the advice given by experts ‘on the ground’ and on these official websites. Volcanic sites like Fagradalsfjall can be dangerous and deserve a hefty amount of respect. 

Finally, local government experts and members of the ICE-SAR do stay around the Fagradalsfjall eruption site. They’re quite easy to spot, so if you’re ever unsure about any aspects of the hike, just ask them.

They’re super friendly and really helpful. 

What to take to visit the erupting volcano in Fagradalsfjall?

Make sure to wear plenty of layers, with one being waterproof. Throughout the hike, you will feel cold, hot and pretty wet if the cloud cover comes over the area. 

It’s much better to remove and apply these layers, rather than just having one thick covering that can’t be changed whilst hiking. 

Also, make sure to pack some extra socks and base layers (just in case you get wet). Trust me, you don’t want to risk getting hyperthermia from being wet on a 3-hour hike back to your car. Plus, if the weather gets really cold, wear hats, snoods, scarves and gloves. 

Of course, bring enough water for an 8-hour hike and lots of energy bars and food that will be essential. 

Finally, pack a headlight (or use your phone torch) for your hike in the dark. If you’re using the latter, make sure to take an extra battery pack with you, you’ll end up taking lots of pictures on your phone and you shouldn’t risk losing battery.

Oh, and make sure to download an offline Google Map of the area (or take a paper copy). This way, you’ll always have information to hand if you did get lost.

Read more: Best hikes in Iceland

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TOP 6 VOLCANO TOURS IN ICELAND

Top 6 Volcano Tours in Iceland

Eyjafjallajökull Super Jeep Tour

• Hekla, the Queen of Iceland
• Tour Inside A Volcano
• Mystical Underworld
• Ice & Fire Combo
• Active volcano hike

Related Tours

Related blogs.

Iceland is known as the land of fire and ice, with the country's many spectacular volcanoes give it the 'fire'! Here are 6 of the best volcano tours that you can take!

The country’s numerous stunning glaciers are where the ice part is derived from, but the fire, quite literally, comes from the many spectacular volcanoes which are dotted around the country.

Visitors flock from across the globe to see these mighty and ancient naturally occurring structures. While people generally think about hot boiling lava spewing from a gigantic mountain when they think of the word ‘volcano’, not all of Iceland’s volcanoes are active (meaning they aren’t going to erupt any time soon – fortunately for us!). In fact, there are many different kinds of volcanoes to see in Iceland, each of which offers its own unique experience.

Arctic Adventures’  selection of volcano tours are as varied as the volcanoes themselves. With so much to choose from, it can be difficult to decide on which tours to go on. We’re here to help though, with five of the best volcano day tours that Iceland has to offer, as chosen by our team of professional Arctic Adventurers!

6. The Mount Eyjafjallajökull Super Jeep Tour

Super Jeep Tour

Sometimes known as “the volcano that caused all the trouble”,  Mount Eyjafjallajokull  became famous (or is that infamous?) in 2010 when a series of powerful eruptions caused absolute chaos, both in the local area and much further afield.

Intense heat generated by the volcanic activity caused the glacier at the top of  Eyjafjallajökull to melt. This, in turn, created meltwater which powered through nearby rivers and led to the evacuation of 800 local people. Eyjafjallajökull also managed to spew enough volcanic ash into the air to have a huge area of important European airspace to be closed for over a week. This meant that many inter-European and trans-Atlantic flights were shut down and 5 million travelers were stranded!

Eyjafjallajokull Eruption

Thankfully, Mount  Eyjafjallajökull hasn’t caused any trouble in the best part of a decade and is unlikely to do so again for a very long time (the last eruptions before 2010 happened in the 1920s), so now would be a good time to go visit this mischievous mountain. Jeep tours are a great way to explore rugged landscapes like this.

The  Eyjafjallajökull Super Jeep Tour  is our favorite way to visit Mount Eyjafjallajökull as it allows you to check out other awesome natural Icelandic landmarks including gushing waterfalls and Gigjokull Glacier, one of the many striking  Icelandic landscapes featured in  Game of Thrones .

5. Visit Mount Hekla, the Queen of Iceland

Mountain Hekla

Hekla  is referred to as “the Queen of Iceland” due to the fact that this huge volcano, located in the South of Iceland, absolutely dominates the landscape around her. Not only does Hekla strike an imposing figure, standing an impressive 1,488 meters tall at her summit, but she has also transformed the area around her.

As one of the world’s most productive volcanoes, Hekla has produced  8 km 3  of lava in the last millennium. So much so in fact, that the surrounding landscape, which was once heavily forested, is now largely covered in ash and bare rock. Life is resilient, however, and plants have started making a comeback since Hekla’s last eruption in the year 2000, with hardy mosses and grasses appearing in the shadow of the mountain. And where there are plants, animals are never far behind – life finds a way.

While many call Hekla Iceland’s Queen, in medieval times, they had a very different name for this mountain; “The Gates of Hell”. It earned this fearsome nickname after a massive eruption took place in 1341. Onlookers saw the silhouettes of countless birds fleeing from the eruption and mistook them for the souls of the damned escaping from the depths of hell!

Landmannalaugar

Mount Hekla cannot be fully appreciated unless the surrounding area is taken into account as well. The best way to do this is on  the Landmannalaugar hiking tour , which allows visitors to take in the extraordinary sights of the region, including lava fields, hot springs and clear blue lakes, at their own pace.

4. Take A Tour Inside A Volcano!

Inside the Volcano

Now that we’ve discussed a couple of different ways to see a volcano from the outside, how would you feel about climbing inside one? That’s exactly what you can do on Arctic Adventures’  Inside the Volcano Tour , a real-life  Journey to the Centre of the Earth ! (Fun fact: 2008’s version of  Journey to the Centre of the Earth , starring Brendan Fraser, was one of  the many movies filmed in Iceland )

On this epic tour, you get to visit Thrihnukagigur Crater, the “Three Peaks Crater”, a dormant volcano not far from  Iceland’s capital city of Reykjavik . This is a truly unique experience, as Thrihnukagigur is the only volcano in the world where visitors can take an elevator all the way down to the magma chamber. While that might sound scary, it is totally safe as the magma drained away long ago – the last eruption having taken place in the 2 nd  Century.

This small group tour allows you to descend 180 meters down into a 4,000-year-old volcano – there is literally nowhere else on Earth where you can do this!

3. Explore Iceland’s Mystic Underworld

Lava Caving Tour

If you thought getting inside a volcano was a strange and wonderful experience, then what would you say about exploring what lies beneath one? On our  ‘Underworld’ Lava Caving Tour , an expert Arctic Adventures guide will take you to a strange world quite unlike anything you’ve ever seen before!

This is the ultimate adventure tour for all of you budding speleologists (scientists who specialize in the study of caves and their associated rock formations). Armed with your helmet and torch (provided on arrival), you can witness the impressive stalagmites, amazing stalactites and all manner of other impressive geological features.

Exploring the Lava Cave

With a visitor to guide ratio of only 8 to 1, there is great opportunity to learn everything you’ve ever wanted to know about Iceland’s strange and mysterious underground. As if that wasn’t enough, there is also a private version of this tour available as part of  our premium Action Weekend .

2. The Ultimate Ice & Fire Combo Deal

Katla Ice Cave

Those of us who want to experience the ultimate Icelandic ‘fire and ice’ experience should look no further than the  Katla Volcano Ice Cave Tour , which combines the best of both worlds; a mighty volcano and a stunning glacier!

Departing from the scenic coastal village of  Vík , Iceland’s southernmost populated area, this tour takes visitors a bit off the beaten track and out into a wonderful world which typifies everything people love about Iceland.

Katla Volcano Eruption in Iceland

Starting out in one of Arctic Adventures’ action-seeking super jeeps, the tour brings you to  Myrdalsjokull Glacier , where all sorts of frozen wonders await, including an awe-inspiring ice cave. Here, an expert guide will show you around and regale your crew with all sorts of fascinating facts about this unusual and majestic natural wonder.

Of course, in Iceland, fire is never too far from the ice. In this case, the fire is provided by Katla Volcano, one of Iceland’s biggest. Since Katla is considered to be an active volcano, there will be no climbing around inside this one, unfortunately! There is little to fear, however, as the volcano has not erupted properly in over 100 years.

Katla Volcano

While Katla is unlikely to be at its explosive worst when you come to visit, it remains a magnificent sight, standing nearly 5,000 feet tall. It does rumble from time to time though, which makes for a very intimidating experience indeed!

1. ACTIVE VOLCANO HIKE ON THE REYKJANES PENINSULA

Man Watching Active Volcano

The Reykjanes Peninsula has experienced three eruptions in the Fagradalsfjall volcano region over the past three years, with no prior disruptions to lives, infrastructure, or flights. Find out more about the newest volcano eruption in Iceland and stay updated on the latest news!

Volcano Eruption

The volcano is waiting. Whether you get there by helicopter , a minibus, with a bigger group of like-minded travelers, or on a private tour , we have the right guided tour for you.

Ready to see the volcano in real life? Make your dream a reality with our volcano tours .

Still unsure as to which Icelandic volcano tour is for you? Be sure to contact us  and we’ll help you choose.

If you are ready to see the volcanoes in real life, check out our volcano tours .

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Best Active Volcano Tours in Iceland – 2024 Eruption UPDATE March

The volcano in Iceland on the Reykjanes peninsula near Grindavik has been active again in 2024. We compiled the selection of the best volcano tours   that are actively operating right now – in 2024 .

Grindavik volcano is currently experiencing periods of “flowing lava” and periods of “pauses,” switching irregularly in between each other. This is expected to continue for a longer time. However, when the eruption with bursting lava is on, volcano helicopter tours are quickly selling out. This is the safest (and often the only) option to see the volcano.

As of March 2024, it’s forbidden to visit the eruption site on your own! The only way to see the active volcano is to take a HELICOPTER ERUPTION TOUR.

You can find the most up-to-date local eruption news stream on the RUV.is website.

Still, watch out for Safety Instructions when visiting the eruption site.

Watch the live stream of the 2024 eruption here:

Volcano Eruption Map

Types of the volcano tours, price of the volcano tours, what is included in the volcano tours, 1. helicopter tour by glacierheli, 2. helicopter tour by atlantsflug, 3. helicopter tours by nordurflug, 4. airplane volcano tour by myflug, 5. cheap volcano hiking tour by david the guide, 6. big group volcano hiking tour by troll expeditions, 7. private volcano hiking tour, 8. volcano transfer from reykjavik, eruption safety tips and current info, what is the hiking time to the eruption site, when is the best time to see the volcano, should i book in advance, is the eruption safe to visit, how long will the eruption last, are the volcano tours worth the money.

We will do our best to update the list and broaden this article, and apologize for any discrepancies which may occur because everything changes really quickly these days.

When in Iceland, be sure also to check out our hand-picked list of the best guided tours in Iceland .

First of all, Sundhnúksgígar is NOT a tourist eruption! It’s big and may be dangerous. The only safe way to see the active volcano right now is to observe it from a safe distance from the bird’s eye viewpoint of a helicopter tour.

The town of Grindavik, the geothermal power plant in Svartsengi, and Blue lagoon are all in real threat because of the fissures and magma under the surface.

Unfortunately, many Grindavik residents have lost and will lose their homes because of this eruption. Please support them as much as you can and be thoughtful when it comes to discussing seeing the volcano. It may be a sensitive matter to many of them.

December 2023 volcano eruption map, source: https://en.vedur.is/

Active Volcano Tours – What to Expect

As of 2024 ONLY HELICOPTER tours are operating at Sundhnúksgígar. All hikes/roads/buses are strictly forbidden and not running!

The volcano and lava flow change every day , so it’s essential to adhere to all rules set by Icelandic Civil Protection office and follow all the advice on Icelandic SafeTravel website .

The same applies to toxic gases! If you don’t want to keep track of all the safety guidelines and yet you want to see this spectacular natural wonder, it’s best to take the guided tour.

The summer 2023 Reykjanes volcano eruption in Iceland

There are two types of tours based on the number of participants :

• Group tours – typically 6 to 20 participants
• Private tours – only you and your group

You can visit the volcano eruption on three different kinds of tours :

• Hiking tours – best for budget travelers and the physically fit [NOT OPERATING NOW]
• Helicopter tours – best and closest aerial view, the most expensive
• Airplane tours – less expensive than helicopter, less flexible

This is how a view from a helicopter or an airplane volcano tour looked like

The cheapest hiking group tours are priced at around 80 USD to 150 USD per person. [NOT OPERATING NOW]

The private hiking tours typically cost about 1000 USD to 1500 USD per group. [NOT OPERATING NOW]

The helicopter tours  range between 450 USD to 1200 USD per person based on the length of the tour.

2023 eruption sight

A typical volcano hiking tour includes the following:

• Reykjavik pickup with a driver (not for a Helicopter tour!)
• An experienced guide
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip

A typical volcano tour does NOT include the following:

• Shoes, clothes, or any gear (no special is required, though)
• Food, water, snacks

There are exceptions, though, and almost always, there is an option to buy or hire anything you need, so don’t be afraid 🙂

Best Volcano Tours in 2024

Without further ado, below are the highest quality and best price-to-value guided volcano tours with top reviews only:

Best Volcano Helicopter tours in Iceland. You can use a 5% discount code: EPICICELAND

We think the best currently available 2024 volcano helicopter tour is a 45-minute-long tour by GlacierHeli . Why?

• This is one of the cheapest tours! A seat with our discount code costs as low as 400eur!
• GlacierHeli is the only company with great reviews that still has free slots available! Most of the other tours are fully booked.
• They have flights running every 30 minutes from 8:30 until 19:00
• You can easily book online and use our 5% discount code : EPICICELAND

This is an eruption-only tour, so you will just fly over the, or near the volcano and back.

You will be flying as close to an eruption as possible and see it from various angles. The tour departs from Reykjavik. There’s a maximum of 5 passengers on each tour.

View from a 2023 Volcano Helicopter tour

Another great helicopter volcano tour in Iceland from Reykjavik is a tour by Atlantsflug .

The tour takes 40 minutes to complete and is again just the dedicated volcano helicopter tour , taking up to 5 travelers on board.

Best Helicopter tours in general in Iceland are run by Nordurflug . 5% discount code on all tours: EPICICELAND

Hands down, the best helicopter tour company in Iceland is Nordurflug . They are running various volcano helicopter tours!

Our readers can use an exclusive 5% discount code on all tours by Nordurflug: EPICICELAND

There’s no special tour dedicated to the volcano only as of 14th January 2024 on Nordurflug’s website, but be sure that almost all tours by Nordurflug will also fly by the eruption site!

Best airplane volcano tour in 2023

Looking for the cheapest flight tour to see the eruption? You might want to check out the volcano airplane tour by Myflug .

The airplane tour is roughly 30% cheaper than helicopter flights, but it can’t fly as close as helicopters .

Nevertheless, this is the best currently available airplane tour and departs four times a day. The flight duration is about 1 hour.

Sundhnúksgígar Volcano Hiking tour 2023

[NOT OPERATING YET! Wait once the eruption calms down and officials assess the situation!]

This was one of the first tours that will take you directly to the eruption site of Litli-Hrútur, “The Little Ram”!

This is a HARD level hike . It is a 20km round-trip, i.e., about 8-10 hours of hiking . It is suitable for ages 14 and older and those comfortable hiking long distances with difficult terrain.

The tour provides blankets and hot chocolate/tea. Ponchos and Hiking Boots are available for rental if asked for in advance. All participants are REQUIRED to have good, sturdy hiking shoes, plenty of water, and food for this tour.

Pickup in Reykjavik area can be added to the tour.

A Difficult Hiking Volcano tour to the Sundhnúksgígar eruption site

This hike up to Litli Hrutur Active Volcano was quite hard. You need to be able to walk up to 9km each way , but you will enjoy unbelievable views of lava fields and an ongoing eruption.

Once you’re at the site of the volcano, you will witness how those lava fields were formed, as you can see new lava spewing and flowing.

While you will get to spend some time by this natural wonder, the tour guide will also find a good and safe spot to enjoy the Icelandic chocolate , hraun – which stands for “lava”. Please make sure to bring enough snacks and water.

Private Hiking tour to an active Sundhnúksgígar volcano

This was an exclusive private tour to the eruption site led by an expert guide.

You will be guaranteed to have the guide all for yourself, and the pace of the tour will be entirely adjusted to your needs .

The guide will take you as close to the mesmerizing lava flows as possible . You will experience the thrill of seeing a newborn volcano in action. You will learn about the geological forces at play and gain a deeper understanding of Iceland’s volcanic history.

The tour includes a pickup in Reykjavik area.

Roundtrip transfers between Reykjavik and Volcano Eruption site

Do you just need a transfer from Reykjavik to the Litli-Hrútur Volcano eruption site and back? Then your best option would be to book a transfer only .

This is the cheapest way to experience a volcano in Iceland in 2023.

A round-trip eruption transfer costs just about 50 USD and is running 3 times a day!

This is how the 2023 eruption in Iceland began.

• The best Icelandic source for up-to-date safety instructions about the volcanic eruption is the SafeTravel website
• Always watch out also for the Icelandic weather forecast . Don’t go near the volcano in heavy rain or heavy winds.
• Under no circumstances get close to lava! Be it black lava or red lava. It can easily kill you or injure you!
• Lava is not the only danger. So are the poisonous volcanic gases! Please follow closely any warnings regarding these gases!
• Here’s a great article on the eruption by the official Icelandic Tourism Agency

A picture from an amazing volcano helicopter tour

Here we will be adding the most common questions and answers on the 2024 Reykjanes volcano eruption.

No hiking is allowed yet!

Daylight time, as well as nighttime, are both fascinating for experiencing the volcanic eruption. If you have the opportunity, go see the volcano during the day and also during the night!

Book the tours as soon as possible! They can quickly sell out for an entire summer. Iceland does not have as many tour operators and guides as tourists! You may always reschedule or cancel within the cancellation policy of a particular tour company.

Potentially poisonous and dangerous volcanic gases have been detected at the eruption site. Moreover, new and new fissures can open anywhere around the volcano. Everyone hiking around the area has to do it entirely at his own risk! The safest way to experience the active volcano as of now is by helicopter tours .

Nobody can tell for sure how long the eruption will last. The eruption in August 2023 lasted less than three weeks, in 2022 also for about three weeks, and the eruption in 2021 for about 6 months.

Most of the travelers we’ve met say that helicopter and airplane tours of the volcano they took were totally worth the money . Seeing the erupting volcano and flowing lava is a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Posted by Igor

Where /how can I book a guided tour from Reykjavik?

Here is tour 1 – small group Here is tour 2 – big group Here is tour 3 – private hike

May I please use a photo of the erupting Fagradalsfjall volcano on my X page?

It’s at https://twitter.com/WorldPopCulture .

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A fissure eruption started on the Reykjanes Peninsula by Hagafell and Stóra-Skógfell at 8:23 PM on March 16. Photo: Snorri Thor, from previous eruption

Volcanic eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula

A fissure began started on the Reykjanes Peninsula by Hagafell and Stóra-Skógfell on March 16. This marks the fourth eruption in the area since December of 2023.

Key Takeaways:

• Air traffic to and from Iceland operates normally, and Iceland remains a safe destination.
• The eruption's effects are localized to the eruption site with road closures and do not threaten people.  
• All services in Iceland are operating as usual.
• The power of the eruption has decreased significantly from the beginning days.

Monitoring and Preparedness

A global team of geoscientists meticulously monitors the area, backed by Iceland's advanced volcanic preparedness and real-time surveillance systems. Our priority is safety, ensuring that life and tourism in Iceland proceed smoothly. For a detailed look into the recent volcanic activities and their safety implications, Dr. Matthew Roberts from the Icelandic Meteorological Office offers insights through an informative video.

Volcanic activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula

Since October last year, The Icelandic Meteorological Office has observed increased geophysical activity in the area. This activity has led to repeated volcanic eruptions close to the town of Grindavík. The town has been evacuated with brief intermissions since November 10th to guarantee the safety of residents. The eruption does not pose an immediate threat to people, and no further evacuations are necessary at this time. 

All Icelandic airports are open, and all flights to Iceland are operating on schedule. The impact of these types of fissure volcanic eruptions impact is limited to specific, localized areas near the eruption site. Notably, the previous eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula have not disrupted air travel to and from the country in any way. 

• Iceland Ministry for Foreign Affairs : FAQ regarding flights and other info 

The Icelandic Meteorological Office, the Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management, and a team of scientists from the University of Iceland diligently monitor the situation and analyze developments.  

• The Icelandic MET office : Latest information on the seismic activity and development of events. 

Iceland is well-acquainted with volcanic activity, having experienced three previous eruptions nearby on the Reykjanes Peninsula in 2021, 2022, and 2023. Icelandic authorities and the public are thoroughly prepared for such events, and the country boasts some of the world's most sophisticated volcanic preparedness protocols. Iceland's geoscientists are extensively experienced in managing volcanic activity. 

More information:

• The Icelandic Road Administration : Information on road conditions and closures in the Reykjanes region 
• Safetravel : Updates on safety 
• The Icelandic National Broadcasting Service : News coverage 
• Visit Reykjanes : Updates from the region

For press inquiries, please contact [email protected] .

Top 5 Iceland Volcanos:  Where are they? How to visit them by rental car?

One of Iceland’s most notable features is its volcanoes, with around 130 of them in total. That’s why it’s called the land of fire and ice! The most recent eruption was the eruption of Fagradalsfjall on March 19, 2021, which lasted for 6 months and put a spotlight on Iceland’s volcano scene. Now, many tourists are coming to Iceland specifically to see the volcanoes.

If you’re visiting Iceland, you don’t want to miss some of the amazing volcanoes on the island. In this article, we will round up the top 5 articles in Iceland, tell you where they are located and how to visit them with a rental car. Read on to find out everything you need to know about Iceland’s best volcanoes!

Related links: Rent a car in Iceland ; Our KEF airport arrival hall office

Table of content

Facts about volcanoes in iceland.

• Volcanoes in Iceland Map

What car should you rent if you want to visit volcanoes in Iceland?

• Our top 5 Iceland volcano pick 1: Thríhnúkagígur Volcano (Þríhnúkagígur)
• Our top 5 Iceland volcano pick 2: Eyjafjallajökull
• Our top 5 Iceland volcano pick 3: Katla
• Our top 5 Iceland volcano pick 4: Krafla
• Our top 5 Iceland volcano pick 5: Snaefellsjokull Volcano

Safe travel tips when visiting Iceland volcanoes

Iceland has 130 volcanoes in total

• There are 32 volcanoes currently considered active in Iceland
• In the last 500 years, the volcanoes in Iceland have produced 1/3 of global lava output
• 18 volcanoes have erupted in Iceland since the island was settled in 871 CE
• Any volcano that hasn’t erupted in 10000 years is considered extinct
• Iceland is a volcanic hotspot because of its location on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, which is a tectonic plate boundary

Some of the most famous modern volcano eruptions in Iceland include:

• 1963-1967, Surtsey
• 2014-2015, Holuhraun
• 2010, Eyjafjallajökull & Fimmvörðuháls
• 2011, Grímsvötn
• 2021, Geldingadalir

In case you are curious: 2021 erupted Iceland volcano — Geldingadalir volcano is NOT erupting anymore. However, you will still be able to hike to the volcanic site and see the newly formed lava field.

Volcanoes in Iceland Map: Our top 5 picks and other famous volcanoes in Iceland

The map below features all the fantastic volcanoes that we recommend in this article along with some of the other famous volcanoes in Iceland.

When you’re renting a car to visit the volcanoes around Iceland there are a few main things you’ll need to consider. These include:

• The weather during the season you’re visiting
• The number of people you’re traveling with
• How much luggage you’ll be bringing
• The volcanoes you’re visiting, which areas of the country they’re located in, and what roads you’ll need to take to get there

If you’re visiting in the summer months then you can visit most of the volcanoes with an economy or compact car , if you have a small group. Intermediate and full-size cars are better for groups of 3 or more, and you’ll definitely want a 4WD vehicle if you’re visiting in the winter. For more tips on renting cars in Iceland check out some of our resources on car rental tips . You can find tons of articles here about how to rent cars in Iceland and what types of cars to rent.

Our top 5 Iceland volcano picks

1. the only volcano in the world where you can visit its magma chamber: thríhnúkagígur volcano (þríhnúkagígur).

Thríhnúkagígur Volcano is a dormant volcano that erupted around 4000 years ago. Its name in Icelandic translates to Three Peaks Crater, for obvious reasons as you’ll be able to see all three craters and even descend into one. One of the craters, characterized by a small cinder cone, is a whopping 700ft deep! With most volcanoes, the magma chambers (where the lava comes up out of the earth), are sealed off after eruption by solid lava. But this isn’t the case with Thríhnúkagígur.

It’s actually the only volcano in the world where you can visit the magma chamber, as the solid lava that is normally in the chamber is not there. While experts don’t know for sure why this is, they expect the magma was just sucked back down into the earth, or that it solidified and cooled in the walls of the crater.

Where is Thríhnúkagígur?

Thríhnúkagígur Volcano is located just under 34km (21 miles) southeast of Reykjavik. It only takes about 40 minutes to reach the volcano by rental car and the drive is very straightforward.

When to visit?

Though you can see the volcano from the outside year-round, if you want to get the most out of your time at Thríhnúkagígur Volcano then you should plan to visit in the summer. Summer is the only season where you can go inside the volcano and you’ll have to enter with a professional guide.

What car should you rent for this trip?

Both a 2WD and 4WD rental car will be acceptable for your trip to Thríhnúkagígur Volcano as you will only need to drive yourself to the meeting point to join the tour.

2. The notorious one, causing havoc to air travel in 2010: Eyjafjallajökull

Eyjafjallajökull is a subglacial volcano in southern Iceland. It actually sits underneath the Eyjafjalla Glacier with it’s longest eruption recorded in 1821, lasting for 14 months straight. But that’s not what the volcano is known for. It’s most recent eruption in 2010 was sparked by a series of small earthquakes which caused new fissures to surface undeath the glacier. The lava melted the glacier quickly which caused ice, water and mud to enter nearby rivers, causing flooding which damaged roads and farmland. In addition, the steam and ash caused by the volcano put a stop to all commercial air travel and 800 people had to evacuate the area.

Now, you can stop at one of the tourist viewpoints just off of Route 1 to get a glimpse of the volcano on the horizon.

Where is it?

You can see Eyjafjallajökull volcano by driving about 1 hour and 40 minutes south out of Reykjavik on Route 1. Once you get to the town of Hvolsvöllur you’ll exit onto road 261 and drive until the road comes to an end, where you will be able to see the volcano. Depending on the season and conditions you could potentially cross the river for a better look, as long as you have a 4X4 SUV .

You can see Eyjafjallajökull volcano from a distance all year long since it’s viewable from the Ring Road. If you want a closer look via the route above then you’ll want to go in the summer.

The ideal car for this trip depends on the season. For a small group in the summer a 2WD will suffice. For a bigger group in the summer an SUV or 4X4 SUV is best. In the winter we always recommend a 4X4 SUV .

3. One of the largest and most active volcanoes in Iceland: Katla

Katla is another subglacial volcano in Iceland’s southern region and lies under the Myrdalsjökull icecap. Of all the volcanoes in Iceland, Katla is the most active, experiencing an eruption once every 50 to 100 years. The last major eruption was in 1918, so statistically, it is due for another one any time now, but its volcanic activity is being closely monitored to ensure it’s safe for visitors to go and see. That said, because of its location you can’t get very close to the volcano itself and will have to view it from a distance unless you book a helicopter tour or super jeep tour.

You can catch a glimpse of Katla volcano right on the Ring Road. As you drive out of Reykjavik towards Vik you’ll be able to see Katla on the north side of the highway as soon as you pass the bridge by Seljalandsfoss waterfall, which is about 1 hour and 45 drive from Reykjavik.

You can see Katla from the Ring Road all year long. You can also join a Katla ice cave tour to visit both the volcano and the ice cave. Or, join a glacier hiking tour on its glacier tongue, Solheimajokull glacier. Both of these tours operate all year round.

For a small group in the summer a 2WD will suffice. For a bigger group in the summer an SUV or 4X4 SUV is best. In the winter we always recommend a 4X4 SUV .

4. The one in the north: Krafla

Krafla is located north of Lake Mývatn in northern Iceland. The volcano’s crater is around 10 km (7 miles) wide but there is over 90km (56 miles) of fissure zone surrounding it. Since Iceland was settled Krafla has experienced 29 eruptions, with one of those lasting for five years! What was iconic about this eruption was that the lava spray was so high it was visible from the South Coast. There are plans to harness the power of this volcano to support Iceland’s green energy initiatives.

Krafla’s proximity to other beautiful natural sites in Iceland makes it a great place to visit. Although it’s far from the capital, if you make your way to the north you can also enjoy Lake Mývatn, Dettifoss waterfall and Ásbyrgi canyon.

Krafla is located just off the Route 1 Ring Road in North Iceland. It’s around 485km (301 miles) from Reykjavik, which takes 6+ hours to drive so we’d recommend visiting Krafla as part of a multi-day or week-long self-drive tour around the Ring Road. Akureyri is a popular place to stop and stay overnight on your way to Krafla. You’ll exit Route 1 just past Lake Mývatn.

The best time to visit Krafla volcano is the summer. It is always most accessible between June and August. During the winter the road to Krafla is always covered with heavy snow and almost always closed due to bad weather.

You should always rent a 4X4 SUV if you’re planning on visiting Krafla.

5.The door to the center of the earth: Snaefellsjokull Volcano

You’ll find the Snaefellsjokull volcano in west Iceland on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It’s right in the middle of the national park and it’s about 1446 meters tall making it visible from Reykjavik on a clear day. This volcano is also subglacial, covered by snow and ice and was the subject of Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth. The volcano features lots of different rock formations both on and around it, which became a huge part of Icelandic folklore. It was said they were trolls that became immobilized by the sun. The last time that Snaefellsjokull Volcano erupted was in approximately 200 CE, but it’s still considered active since it’s been under 10000 years since the last eruption.

Snaefellsjokull Volcano is located on the western tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, approximately a 3-hour drive and 197km (122 miles) from Reykjavik.

You can see Snaefellsjokull Volcano from a distance all year round from the Route 1 Ring Road by looking across the bay. During the summer you can drive into the national park and see it from there.

The weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, and you could find yourself stuck in remote areas if a storm hits. While it’s unlikely that a volcano will erupt during your trip it’s still important to take all the necessary safety precautions when visiting volcanoes in Iceland with a rental car. Here are some of our top tips:

• Check the daily weather forecast on vedur.is
• Check the daily road conditions on road.is
• Don’t underestimate the variability of road conditions in Iceland. If you’re not a super confident driver then you may want to consider joining a local tour to the volcanoes and using your rental car for the other days of your trip
• Jot down Iceland’s emergency number – 112
• Stick to marked paths when exploring geothermal areas, especially mud pools. The water in the pools can reach up to 100°C.

Visiting volcanoes in Iceland

When you’re visiting Iceland, touring the volcanoes is a non-negotiable. The top five we’ve featured on this list are super accessible with a rental car, but if you have more time you can explore other attractions and volcanoes around the island. Always remember to book your rental car online and in advance, especially during the high season. And if you’re having difficulty choosing the perfect car for your Iceland trip or need some advice don’t hesitate to content [email protected] for support. Book your rental car with Hertz Iceland today and get ready to explore some of the islands volcanoes.

Recommended Iceland rental cars

Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid or similar | Automatic | 4×4

Ifai | group: n3 (ifai).

• Airconditioning

This vehicle is NOT allowed in the highlands F-roads. NOTE: Allowed on roads no.35 and 550. You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features

• 3 Large Luggage
• 4 Wheel Drive
• 46 C0 2  g/km
• Adjustable Steering
• Cruise Control
• Electronic Stability Control
• Power Steering
• Power Windows
• Remote Locking

Land Rover Defender Plug-in Hybrid or similar | Automatic | 4×4

Pfai | group: l6 (pfai).

Suitable for highlands, Please read the Terms & Conditions. You must be 25 years of age to drive this vehicle.

• 77 C0 2  g/km

Suzuki Swift or similar | Manual | 4×4

Esmn | group: a2 (esmn).

This vehicle is NOT allowed in the highlands F-roads. You must be 20 years of age to drive this vehicle.

• 2 Large Luggage
• Petrol or Diesel
• 128 C0 2  g/km

VW Golf or similar | Automatic | 2WD

Cdan | group: b2 (cdan).

• 138 C0 2  g/km

Dacia Duster or similar| Manual | 4×4

Cfmn | group: e2 (cfmn).

Suitable for the highlands. Please read Terms & Conditions. You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

• 139 C0 2  g/km

KIA Sorento or similar | Automatic | 4×4

Sfan | group: o2 (sfan).

• 4 Large Luggage
• 164 C0 2  g/km

5 seats Toyota Land Cruiser or similar| Automatic | 4×4

Ffar | group: i (ffar).

• 5 Large Luggage
• 251 C0 2  g/km

KIA Sportage or similar | Automatic | 4×4

Ifar | group: o (ifar).

Suitable for the highlands. Please read Terms & Conditions. You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

• 156 C0 2  g/km

Suzuki Jimny or similar | Manual | 4×4

Efmn | group: e1 (efmn).

Allowed in the highlands. Please read Terms & Conditions.

• 154 C0 2  g/km

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Iceland volcano spews more smoke and lava

STORY: It said the lava did not spread much and that there was still an active lava flow to the south, a delta-like lava sequence on top of the lava field formed in the first few days of the eruption on March 16.

Man-made barriers have been successful in steering the lava away from infrastructure including the Svartsengi geothermal power plant and Grindavik, a fishing town of some 4,000 residents.

According to the Icelandic met office, it was difficult to predict when the eruption would end, saying it could continue for a longer time with a constant flow of lava, or stop in the near future.

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Antarctica is covered in volcanoes, could they erupt?

Antarctica's western ice sheet alone contains 138 volcanos.

Antarctica is perhaps best known for its endless expanse of ice and snow. But what many people don't realize is that hiding beneath its frosty facade are dozens of volcanoes .

In fact, under the continent's massive western ice sheet sits what is considered the largest volcanic region on Earth, with as many as 138 volcanoes. Of those volcanoes, 91 were first discovered as part of a 2017 study published in the journal Geological Society .

So, could any of Antarctica’s volcanoes erupt on the southernmost continent? For geologists, this question is both easy and hard, depending on the volcano.

While these volcanoes, which are surface expressions of heated material leaving Earth's interior, are considered young as far as volcanoes go, scientists were unable to "distinguish whether or not [they] are volcanically active," the study authors wrote.

Currently, there are only two volcanoes on the ice-covered continent that are classified as active: Deception Island, a horseshoe-shaped land mass north of mainland that's part of the South Shetland Islands; and Mount Erebus, the highest peak on the continent with a summit topping out at 12,448 feet (3,794 meters). It's considered the world's southernmost active volcano.

"Erebus, which looms over the McMurdo research base on Scott Island, has been continuously erupting since at least 1972," Conor Bacon , a postdoctoral research scientist at the Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory at Columbia University in New York, told Live Science in an email.

Related: Where are most of the Earth's volcanoes?

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Since then, Mount Erebus has been known to "emit plumes of gas and steam" and even occasionally spew out rock "bombs," which collectively are known as strombolian eruptions, according to NASA Earth Observatory .

"One of its most interesting features is the persistent lava lake that occupies one of [its] summit craters, where molten material is present at the surface," Bacon said. "These are actually quite rare, as it requires some very specific conditions to be met to ensure the surface never freezes over."

Deception Island, on the other hand, is the caldera of an active volcano, which last erupted in 1970, according to the Deception Island Antarctic Specially Managed Area , which monitors the island for volcanic activity. (The island is currently classified as "green," with no eruption anticipated.) 

Despite there being only two active volcanoes on the continent, Antarctica is speckled with fumaroles, volcanic vents that release gases and vapors into the air. If conditions are right, accumulation from these vents can create deposits known as fumarolic ice towers that reach heights of 10 feet (3 m).

Although scientists are constantly monitoring Antarctica's volcanoes with instruments, it can prove challenging to predict when exactly one might erupt next. In other words, besides the two active volcanoes and the various fumaroles, it's hard to say if any of the continent’s other volcanoes might erupt. 

— Is the Yellowstone supervolcano really 'due' for an eruption?

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Mount Erebus and Deception Island alone only "have a small number of permanent monitoring instruments," Bacon said. "These networks primarily consist of seismometers to detect seismic activity associated with volcanic unrest. From time to time, researchers will deploy more extensive networks of instruments to conduct specific studies, but this naturally comes with a huge number of logistical challenges when compared to the many, far more accessible, volcanoes elsewhere in the world."

Another challenge awaits scientists, he added. "In addition to logistical challenges, the permanent installations need to be rugged enough to survive the harsh conditions and long polar nights," Bacon said.

Jennifer Nalewicki is a Salt Lake City-based journalist whose work has been featured in The New York Times, Smithsonian Magazine, Scientific American, Popular Mechanics and more. She covers several science topics from planet Earth to paleontology and archaeology to health and culture. Prior to freelancing, Jennifer held an Editor role at Time Inc. Jennifer has a bachelor's degree in Journalism from The University of Texas at Austin.

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Best Volcano Tours in Iceland

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Volcano Tours in Iceland

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Helicopter Tour over the Volcano Area on the Reykjanes peninsula from Reykjavik

Guided Afternoon or Evening Hike Tour to the Reykjanes Volcano Area

Inside the Volcano Thrihnukagigur Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Hiking Tour to the Reykjanes Volcano Area with a Blue Lagoon Admission

Scenic 1 Hour Helicopter Tour over the Craters of Reykjanes with Transfer from Reykjavik

Small Group Sightseeing Tour of the Golden Circle & Kerid Volcanic Crater

Hiking Tour to the Volcano Area of Fagradalsfjall and Litli-Hrutur & Reykjanes Sightseeing

Landmannalaugar Super Jeep Tour With Pickup from Reykjavik

Classic 8 Hour Tour of the Golden Circle & Kerid Crater with Transfer from Reykjavik

30-Minute Volcano and Reykjanes Eruption Area Sightseeing Helicopter Tour

Excellent 2.5 Hour Horse Riding Tour of the Volcanic Raudholar Countryside & Transfer from Reykjavik

Classic 1 Hour Lava Tunnel Caving Tour of the Raufarholshellir Lava Tubes

Incredible 1 Hour Lava Tunnel Tour at Raufarholshellir Cave with Transfer from Reykjavik

Lake Myvatn Sightseeing & Hot Springs Tour from Akureyri

Golden Circle Minibus Tour With Visit to Fridheimar & Kerid Crater Lake

Epic 7-Day Summer Vacation Package with the Inside the Volcano Tour & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Epic 8 Hour Super Jeep Tour of Lakagigar Craters & Fjadrargljufur Canyon from Kirkjubaejarklaustur

Fun-Filled 3-Day Northern Lights Winter Stopover in Reykjavik with the Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon

Super Jeep Tour to Askja Caldera & Holuhraun Lava Field with Transfer from Myvatn

Entry to the Thrilling Icelandic Lava Show with Real Molten Lava Pouring in Vik

Excellent Super Jeep Glacier Tour to Eyjafjallajokull

Best 7-Day Northern Lights Self Drive Tour Through South Iceland to Jokulsarlon Ice Cave

Extreme 3 Hour Lava Tunnel Caving Tour of the Raufarholshellir Lava Tubes

3 in 1 Bundled Discount Tours of the Golden Circle, Snaefellsnes & the Inside the Volcano Experience

Explore an unequalled wealth of tours and packages

Vacation Packages in Iceland

Self drive tours in iceland, tour calendar, nature tours in iceland, adventure tours in iceland, cheap bus tours in iceland, top tour destinations in iceland, verified customer reviews.

Read first-hand reviews by customers from across the world

This is an eye-opening tour for me, with lots of knowledge of vocalno cave to absorb and an unforgettable experience in the total darkness for a couple of minutes. The tour guide lady was very friendly and professional.

Angela J Lentz

Overall trip was great - plans well laid out, they quickly made adjustments to our itinerary so we could stay 3 extra days in Reykjavik. All hotels were beautiful, clean, amazing European style breakfasts included. This was my 2nd time visiting Iceland. Highlights - we booked 2 horseback riding tours - one through Guide to Iceland and one on our own. Eldhester through tour was not the best for experienced riders - we walked the pasture lands around but there were around 15 riders and only 4 experienced riders. Super cold, no interesting scenery. We booked our own at Laxnes and it was amazing! Really rode through different terrains, experienced riders and we were able to do all gaits! Highly recommend. Mycar rental agency - great service, we had a Toyota Rav4 and it was in great condition. I highly recommend buying highest level of insurance. I have traveled all over the world and never had a problem but while parked in Reykjavik we came out in the morning to find our car side swiped and pushed into another car. My out of pocket is 350,000 isk (~2600 usd). Sky Lagoon Sky ritual is a must - amazing views and experience!

Anastasia Cherkashyna

That was amazing! Matt and super Mario made our excursion unbelievable ❤️

Shital Kelshikar

Tour was perfect way to see sights of Golden Circle. Colin was a great tourguide who shared wonderful knowledge and history about Iceland and the various stops we visited. We had ample time at each place to visit and had a great day visiting the area.

Embarking on a volcano tour in Iceland takes you on an exciting journey into the heart of this land of fire and ice, where dramatic geological forces have sculpted the landscape for millennia. These tours offer the perfect blend of adventure, education, and natural beauty, giving travelers a unique opportunity to witness the raw power of volcanic activity.

As you set out on a volcano tour, you'll venture into Iceland's volcanic realms, rich in history and geological significance. These tours often feature expert guides who share their extensive knowledge, shedding light on the volcanic processes that have shaped Iceland's topography.

One of the remarkable aspects of volcano tours is the chance to witness volcanic features up close. Travelers may explore volcanic craters, lava fields, and even enter magma chambers of dormant or extinct volcanoes such as the Thrihnukagigur volcano in West Iceland .

On rare occasions, you can even witness an active eruption of volcanoes in Iceland from a close yet safe distance. Some of the most recent visitor-friendly ones occurred in the Litli-Hrutur and Fagradalsfjall  volcanoes on the Reykjanes peninsula , with eruptions taking place in 2021, 2022, and 2023.

Beyond the natural wonders, volcano tours also emphasize safety and environmental conservation. Tour operators prioritize responsible exploration, ensuring these fragile and unique environments are preserved for future generations.

Frequently asked questions

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Volcano puffs out stunning 'vortex rings' above crater: See the best pictures of Italy's Mt. Etna

Posted: April 10, 2024 | Last updated: April 10, 2024

A new vent on Italy's Mt. Etna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's most active volcanoes, has been puffing what look like white and pink smoke rings into the sky above Sicily since early April.

The round, cloud-like rings -- known as volcanic vortex rings -- are in fact a mix of water vapor, sulfur dioxide and carbon dioxide, volcanologist Boris Behnke recently told The Washington Post .

Their appearance above Etna was first reported in 1792, but this month's spate of rings "has broken all previous records" in terms of frequency, said Behnke, a scientist at the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology of Catania in Italy, who cited a 2023 study published in the journal Scientific Reports that revealed new information on how and why the rings occur.

Basically, a vent opens in the volcano, as Etna recently experienced on its southeast crater. From there, the pressure inside the crater starts to build, causing the magma to force condensed gases out of the vent. The water-vapor combo, along with the round shape of the vent, seemingly creates the round clouds and sends them wafting up above the volcano.

"It is bellissimo," said Simona Scollo, who co-published the 2023 study on the rings, in a recent interview with The New York Times about Etna's stunning white and pink rings.

"Bellissimo" means "beautiful" in Italian.

Keep reading to see more incredible photos of the rare volcanic phenomenon...

MORE:  Follow Wonderwall on MSN for more fun celebrity & entertainment photo galleries and content

The southeast crater of Mt. Etna, an iconic stratovolcano in Catania, Italy, is seen at sunset as it emits gas and steam rings called volcanic vortex rings on April 6, 2024.

When Mt. Etna became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2013, it was deemed "the highest Mediterranean island mountain and the most active stratovolcano in the world."

MORE: See the best photos of the latest volcanic eruption in Iceland

In this photo, volcanic vortex rings are generated by the southeast crater of Mt. Etna, a volcano in Catania, Italy, on April 6, 2024.

The formation of steam rings is a very rare phenomenon that only occurs under special conditions, when there is a constant venting of vapor and gas from Etna's volcano. The gaseous mass rises with speed in the central part of the conduit, favoring the formation of the rings by the winding of the gas around itself in a vortex motion.

Two steam rings called volcanic vortex rings are seen above Mt. Etna, a volcano in Catania, Italy, on April 6, 2024.

"The eruptive history of the volcano can be traced back 500,000 years and at least 2,700 years of this activity has been documented," according to UNESCO's World Heritage listing for Etna.

The southeast crater of Mt. Etna in Catania, Italy, is seen at sunset while emitting gases on April 6, 2024.

In this bird's eye view of Mt. Etna, volcanic activity is seen during a training session of the SAGF, the mountain rescue team of the Italian Guardia di Finanza, which operates on the highest active volcano on the Eurasian plate in Catania, Italy, on Aug. 9, 2023.

In the background, a detail of the Bocca Nuova crater is visible.

A steam ring called a volcanic vortex ring is generated by the southeast crater of Mt. Etna in Catania, Italy, on April 6, 2024.

A photo taken from Riposto, Italy, shows an eruption at Mt. Etna in Catania, Italy, on July 7, 2021. The Southeast crater erupted a little more than 48 hours after the last volcanic event there, with the highest jets of the lava fountain reaching 1,000 meters.

The eruptive column was carried by the wind to the south, and the heavy rain of ash fell on the city of Catania. It was the 46th eruptive episode in 2021, marking the largest series of eruptions in a short period of time in 20 years.

Mt. Etna in Catania, Italy, is seen erupting on May 21, 2021. After a month and a half of apparent rest, volcanic activity resumed strongly on the volcano, with a spectacular lava fountain at the southeast crater 48 hours after the last eruption.

Mt. Etna's volcanic activity is seen during a training session of the SAGF, the mountain rescue team of the Italian Guardia di Finanza, which operates on the highest active volcano on the Eurasian plate in Catania, Italy, on Aug. 9, 2023.

Mt. Etna's Bocca Nuova crater is seen from 3,300 metres above sea level in Catania, Italy, on Aug. 9, 2023.

Mt. Etna's southeast crater emits gas in Catania, Italy, on Aug. 9, 2023.

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New Jersey earthquake calls attention to ancient, potentially unmapped fault lines

The fault that ruptured beneath New Jersey on Friday morning was likely an ancient, sleeping seam in the Earth, awakened by geologic forces in a region where earthquakes are rare and seismic risks are not fully understood. 

The magnitude-4.8 earthquake was the strongest in New Jersey in over 200 years. 

The United States Geological Survey said in a news conference that more earthquakes are possible, with statistical modelers estimating a 3% chance of an earthquake of magnitude 5 or higher in the coming weeks. 

A 4.0-magnitude aftershock struck New Jersey on Friday evening. The USGS website has reported at least 11 aftershocks in the area thus far. Statistical models based on past earthquakes suggested there could be up to 27 aftershocks of magnitude 2 or greater over the next week, the USGS said. 

As the shaking calmed on Friday, scientists began working to pinpoint where exactly the rupture occurred. 

“This is a region with many older faults that may be reactivated at any time. At this time, the fault that caused the earthquake isn’t yet known,” said Jessica Jobe, a USGS research geologist.

Scientists suspect that the earthquake likely originated in the area of the Ramapo fault zone in the Newark basin. The fault system contains a branching network of faults. Some are mapped but others are probably unknown, so it’s possible that the fault where the Friday quake occurred is unmapped.

“It likely occurred on an unnamed fault, but we really don’t know. It’s hard to figure that out in a place that has such a jumble,” said Dara Goldberg, a USGS geophysicist. “It could be on a branch of a Ramapo fault. It could be something adjacent, we’re not exactly sure.” 

Scientists said the fault zone is old and complex. Determining precisely what happened will help researchers understand what to expect from the zone in the future and get a better handle on seismic risk in the Northeast. 

Unlike the West Coast, where tectonic plates meet at a boundary and create a seismic hazard that runs down the spine of the coast, the Northeast’s tectonic risk is rooted in ancient history: Faults have persisted from tectonic processes that are no longer in action, leaving a scattering of cracks and weaknesses. 

Stress accumulates slowly on this network of faults and sometimes causes a slip, producing an earthquake, said Frederik J. Simons, a professor of geosciences at Princeton University. 

“The stress keeps growing at very slow rates,” Simons said. “It’s like an old house creaking and groaning.”

Compared to the West Coast, earthquakes on the East Coast can be felt at a great distance and can cause more pronounced shaking relative to their magnitude because rocks in the region are often older, harder and more dense.  

“These are competent rocks that transmit energy well,” Simons said.

Friday’s earthquake was felt widely, from Washington, D.C. to Boston. It was also quite shallow — the USGS said it likely ruptured less than 3 miles beneath the Earth’s surface. 

“The shallower or the closer it is, the more we feel it as humans,” Simons said. 

However, the strength of earthquakes in the region is limited by the length of the faults.

“The magnitude of an earthquake is directly proportional to the length of the fault that moved,” Goldberg said. “In the Northeast, the faults just aren’t very long.” 

Felix Waldhauser, a seismologist and research professor at the Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, said the earthquake highlighted a need to better understand the region’s earthquake risk. 

“We don’t understand the faults here very well. If we don’t understand the faults, it’s difficult to assess the hazard,” Waldhauser said. 

He lamented the fact that the USGS in 2019 cut funding for the Lamont-Doherty Cooperative Seismographic Network , which he said once had 45 stations collecting seismic data across the Northeast but is now down to about 20.

“In an ideal world, we would have our network running and recording data and analyzing the data, figuring out where exactly the event was,” he said. 

Waldhauser said on Friday afternoon that he was trying to round up colleagues to deploy seismometers around the epicenter of the earthquake, near Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, to record aftershocks, which could help identify the main fault line.

“We’re trying to get people together. I’m not sure if it’s going to happen,” he said. 

However, Goldberg said that a dense local network of equipment is most beneficial for monitoring smaller earthquakes and conducting detailed science, but isn’t a requirement to understand larger quakes like the one on Friday. 

“Anything in the magnitude 4 range, we can determine in a global set of stations,” she said. “For the size of earthquakes relevant to society and people’s daily lives, we can do a fine job without that density.” 

Simons, who grabbed his coat and hurried out of his Princeton office when the earthquake hit, said the 35 seconds of “violent, strong and long” shaking made for an exciting morning and offered a reminder to the country’s less seismically active coast: “This is like being a little out of shape and having a little warning — a mini-stroke, a heart attack,” he said. 

“The Earth is giving us energy we can’t control. Let’s continue to build good buildings and enforce building codes and do disaster prep, so we can respond when the next one hits,” Simons said.

Evan Bush is a science reporter for NBC News. He can be reached at [email protected].

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Mount Etna Puffs Perfect Smoke Rings Into Sicilian Sky

The volcano, one of Europe’s most active, has been spewing volcanic vortex rings at a rapid pace. But that doesn’t mean a big explosion is on the way, one expert says.

By Elisabetta Povoledo

Reported from Rome

For just over a week, Mount Etna, one of Europe’s most active volcanoes, has been spewing circular, mostly white smoke rings into the skies over Sicily.

It’s not the first time Mount Etna has enchanted onlookers with its puffing (it’s been dubbed the Gandalf of volcanoes , after the pipe-puffing wizard in “Lord of the Rings.”) But experts there say this month Etna “has broken all previous records” with the frequency of the rings, according to Boris Behncke, a volcanologist at the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology of Catania, who posted about the phenomenon on Facebook .

The rings, known as volcanic vortex rings, appeared earlier this month after a small vent opened on the northwest border of the Southeast crater. The phenomenon occurs when enough pressure builds up so that magma inside the crater propels condensed gases, predominantly water vapor, through the vent.

In this case, the vent is perfectly circular, making for particularly perfect rings. “It is bellissimo,” said Simona Scollo, another volcanologist at the INGV Etna Observatory in Catania, using the Italian word for beautiful. Ms. Scollo copublished a study on the dynamics of volcanic vortex rings last year in the journal Scientific Reports .

But, she said, the activity does not mean that Mount Etna is going to erupt in a particularly spectacular way. “No, no, no,” she said.

During a telephone interview Tuesday, she said that the mechanism for the smoke rings was similar to how dolphins blow bubble rings . “They compress the water in their mouths, and using their tongue they push it out of their mouths and create such a pressure that it forms a ring,” she said.

Depending on weather conditions, the rings hang in the air anywhere from one to 10 minutes, according to the study. “If there is turbulence they fall apart more quickly,” she said.

Interviewed in The New York Times last year, Ms. Scollo said the study hoped to better understand how volcanoes functioned, “not only when they create a disaster for people or when they are very dangerous,” but in calmer times, too.

The new vent in the volcano has been spewing hundreds of rings, but another opening on the volcano has also been spewing rings, albeit more spaced out, since last year.

The phenomenon was first recorded on Etna in 1724, followed by periodic sightings, most recently last year , and quite spectacularly in 2000.

According to the description for its 2013 inscription as a UNESCO World Heritage site , Mount Etna is “the highest Mediterranean island mountain and the most active stratovolcano in the world.”

“No volcano on earth produces as many volcanic vortex rings as Etna, we knew this for some time,” noted Mr. Behncke.

Mount Etna isn’t the only volcano where the phenomenon has been registered. Volcanic vortex rings have been puffed by a number of volcanoes worldwide, from Momotombo in Nicaragua to ash-spewing plane stopper Eyjafjallajökul in Iceland, to Mount Redoubt in Alaska to another active Italian volcano, Stromboli .

Ms. Scollo said that the activity from the new vent was slowing down. And it could end altogether.

“It can stop because the properties of the conduit that allowed for the formation of these volcanic vortex rings can change, maybe with obstructions,” she said. Or the amount of gas within the conduit could decrease, she added.

Elisabetta Povoledo is a reporter based in Rome, covering Italy, the Vatican and the culture of the region. She has been a journalist for 35 years. More about Elisabetta Povoledo