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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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What you need to know about volcano tourism in Iceland

As seen in recent eruptions, seismic activity in the country is hotting up. From travel advice to ‘volcano tourism’, here’s what you need to know about visiting Iceland.

Volcanic activity in Iceland has been rumbling on for months, centred around the Reykjanes Peninsula near Reykjavík, in the southwest of the country. After multiple earthquakes, the most recent series of eruptions kicked off at the end of 2023, when an explosion along a 2.5-mile fissure sent lava into the air a couple of miles northeast of the fishing village of Grindavík; another followed shortly afterwards.

Now, a new fissure near Sýlingarfell, northeast of Grindavík, has begun spewing lava and smoke.

What’s the background?

In 2021, after 6,000 years lying dormant, the Fagradalsfjall volcanic system on the Reykjanes Peninsula sprang back into life with the appearance of a 600ft-long fissure. Until that moment, the region hadn’t seen an eruption for over 800 years. Three small blasts followed (in 2021, 2022 and the summer of 2023), each producing fountains of fire.

A nine-mile dike (an underground pathway that allows magma to travel towards the surface) on the Reykjanes Peninsula was discovered to be the underlying cause, and since then there have been further eruptions that have reached the town of Grindavík. If additional volcanic activity occurs, it’s likely to take place in this region.

What does it mean for travellers?

So far, the greatest disruption has been to the residents of Grindavík, who were evacuated prior to the December eruption. Following recent blasts, some homes here have been destroyed by lava. The nearby Blue Lagoon, the country’s most popular attraction, has briefly closed, on and off, as a precautionary response to the eruptions, but has not been otherwise impacted. Reykjavík and the international airport, meanwhile, were unaffected.  

Some passengers on flights that have flown over eruption sites have been treated to spectacular scenes from their window seats.  

‘Volcano tourists’ have since converged on the area, hoping for a glimpse of the lava. However, Icelandic police warned people to “think four times” before attempting to get close to the sites, after an exhausted hiker had to be rescued by helicopter.

What happens next?

As volcanoes can be unpredictable, it’s hard to say with 100% certainty. “Most volcanologists seem to agree that this period of volcanic activity is going to go on for many years, if not decades,” says Dr Robin Andrews, a volcanologist. But, “it’s difficult to study the systems where there’s no central volcano.”  

Is there likely to be a repeat of the 2010 ash cloud?

Experts in the fields of volcanology and aviation agree that a repeat of the events that followed the Eyjafjallajökull eruption likely won’t happen again. Back then, a six-day shutdown of European airspace, due to the presence of ash in quantities sufficient to cause engine failure in planes, caused the cancellation of some 100,000 flights.  

The fact that the volcanoes involved in the most recent eruptions don't open onto a large ice sheet, as Eyjafjallajökull does, minimises the amount of ash likely to be ejected — when ice melts into a volcano, the magma cools rapidly and forms fine ash particles. Additionally, the world of aviation has seen advancements in technology since 2010, and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency has confirmed it’s better prepared for a volcanic ash event.

Is it safe to go to Iceland?

Volcanic activity is currently largely isolated to the Reykjanes Peninsula. Beyond this region, Iceland is safe and its main tourist sites remain open.  

Dr Andrews recommends that anyone planning to travel to the country monitors the advice of the Icelandic Meteorological Office , which shares comprehensive data on the latest activity. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office travel pages are also updated as conditions change. While in Iceland, monitor local news and heed local authority guidance.  

“There’s a lot of uncertainty,” says Snorri Valsson, of the Icelandic Tourist Board. “It’s a localised seismic event limited to the area around Grindavík — in the rest of the island, it’s business as usual. But it’s understandable that some people might be disturbed by the news.”

What about insurance?

Always make sure you take out comprehensive insurance when booking a trip to ensure you’re covered before departure. At least £2,500 is a good level of protection for short-haul trips. Ensure the policy covers repatriation in the event you need to head home early.

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Tours to the eruption site

Some of our partners have adjusted their services and are now offering tours to the eruption site, for example, helicopter tours, guidance to the site, or renting out bikes. No public transportation currently available to the eruption site.

Take a look at their offers and tours available. 

Iceland Volcano Eruption FAQ: What Travelers Need to Know

Dawit Habtemariam , Skift

December 19th, 2023 at 1:26 PM EST

Iceland is safe and the volcano's impact has been minimal.

Dawit Habtemariam

A volcano erupted in southwest Iceland on Monday. Despite the eruption, only the Blue Lagoon spa, Grindavik and areas close the volcano are off limits to the public.

“The volcano right now, at least in its current state, is posing no danger,” said Kristijan Svajnzger, operations manager for Eastern Europe at Intrepid Travel .

What’s the status of the volcano’s eruption? 

The eruption began on Monday, December 18 at 10:17 p.m. ET, on the Reykjanes peninsula northeast of the town of Grindavik.  

This is the fourth eruption since 2021 in the area, and the largest so far with an initial fissure opening of 4km, according to Iceland’s government .

The size of the eruption has been diminishing since Monday evening and the lava flow is estimated to be about one-quarter of what it was when the eruption started, according to t he Icelandic Meteorological Office .

Is Iceland safe for travel? Is the volcano a risk for travelers in Iceland?

Flights are operating through Keflavik International Airport on schedule.

Major carriers have not cancelled their flights into Keflavik. “At this time, the eruption does not affect our operations or Keflavík airport. Our flight schedule remains unchanged,” said a note on Icelandair’s website .

The eruption does not pose an immediate threat to visitors. Only Grindavik has been evacuated. No additional evacuations have been made, according to Visit Reykjanes .

The eruption is not expected to impact additional populated areas, according to Iceland’s government. Reykjavik and other cities remain unaffected.

The U.S. State Department has not changed its travel advisory for Iceland. It’s a Level 1 advisory, the safest level for a country.

Tour operators Jacada Travel, G Adventures , Intrepid Travel and Road Scholar have not canceled upcoming or ongoing trips to Iceland.

“We are still booking and operating trips to Iceland,” said Jacada Travel Founder Alex Malcom. “Airports remain open and the country as a whole is extremely experienced at dealing with volcanoes in a safe way.”

Which tourist attractions in Iceland are closed?

Only Blue Lagoon is closed. The geothermal spa will be closed through December 27 . The Golden Circle, the South Coast and the Northern Lights are open to tourists.

Intrepid Travel, Jacada Travel and Road Scholar have replaced Blue Lagoon in their itineraries with other spas like Sky Lagoon Iceland . 

‘We have already updated the itineraries and moved from Blue Lagoon to Sky Lagoon,” said Meghan Flynn, association vice president of program strategy for Road Scholar.

G Adventures has offered refunds to clients who included Blue Lagoon in their itineraries, said Yves Marceau, vice president of product.

Can travelers see the eruption?

No. All roads to Grindavik are closed. The entire area around Blue Lagoon has been closed. Authorities have blocked access to the eruption area.

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What Travelers Should Know About Iceland's Latest Volcanic Eruption

By Jessica Puckett

This is a developing story and will be updated with more information.

Over the weekend, Iceland experienced its second volcanic eruption in just under a month. Both eruptions took place near Grindavik, a fishing town of about 4,000 people located on the southwestern tip of Iceland, approximately 26 miles from the capital of Reykjavik .

On January 14, lava began spewing from a fissure located on the Reykjanes Peninsula just before 8 a.m. local time, according to Iceland’s public broadcaster RUV . A few hours later, a second fissure opened, intensifying the eruption. As of Tuesday morning, there were no signs of further lava flow, according to the Icelandic Meteorological Office.

Due to the direction of the lava flow, Sunday's eruption has caused more physical damage than December's. At least three homes in Grindavik were burned to the ground, RUV reports. Other damages like snapped water pipes and broken heating systems were still being assessed by officials on Tuesday. Roads in the area buckled, and piles of cooled and hardened magma could be seen in front yards and other residential areas, according to photos from local reporters on the scene. Fortunately, the town successfully evacuated the night before, meaning no lives were in danger at the time of the eruption, Iceland’s president said Sunday in a statement .

Because Grindavik is not a popular tourist destination, the second eruption has had little impact on travel plans to Iceland. Additionally, flights into or out of Iceland have not been affected. The country, nicknamed the "land of fire and ice," is well versed in dealing with frequent volcanic activity —this is the fifth eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula in the past three years. That said, it can still be question-raising for visitors with upcoming trips. Here's what travelers to Iceland should know about the latest eruption, and how it could impact a visit.

Travel advisories

Iceland's January eruption does not pose an immediate threat to people living on or visiting the island, according to the Icelandic Prime Minister's Office . But the government is still warning people not to approach the area, which is still under a state of emergency and closed to all civilians and residents. Iceland’s government has been helping to arrange temporary housing for displaced Grindavik residents. “Authorities request people stay away from the area and do not attempt to walk to the eruption site,” the Icelandic Tourism Board says. "All roads to the area are closed."

The US Embassy in Iceland suggests Americans with plans to travel to Iceland to “monitor local news and government websites for detailed information and to follow Civil Protection instructions,” per a January 14 statement . Embassy officials also advise Americans to avoid the area of the eruption and follow the instructions of Icelandic authorities and Icelandic Civil Defense. Updates are available on RUV’s website and on the government of Iceland’s official website . Travelers can also download the SafeTravel app for updates on the nation’s road conditions and other news for tourists from the Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue.

Flight disruptions

There have been no disruptions to flights to and from Iceland as a result of the eruption, according to the Government of Iceland . Roads to Keflavík International Airport are unaffected, and all international flight corridors remain open.

Unlike Iceland's 2010 eruption that grounded thousands of flights, eruptions in the Grindavik area, such as these, are not expected produced large clouds of volcanic ash (which pose the greatest risk to air travel) due to the geographic location of the fissures, Snorri Valsson, Project Manager at the Icelandic Tourist Board, told RUV in November.

Overall, officials don't expect the latest eruption to have an effect on air travel. “The impact of volcanic eruptions tends to be limited to specific, localized areas near the eruption site,” the tourism board said after the first eruption in December. “Notably, previous eruptions in the area did not impact air travel to and from the country.”

Site closures

Following the January eruption, one of Iceland's iconic tourist attractions has shut down once again. The Blue Lagoon thermal spring, which is located on the Reykjanes peninsula less than three miles from Grindavik, is closed to visitors. The popular geothermal spa will remain fully shuttered until Thursday January 18, according to its website . The lagoon has been closed on and off since the threat of an eruption was first detected in November. All guests with upcoming bookings will be contacted, the statement said. (The Blue Lagoon first halted operations on November 9, when a major uptick in seismic activity was detected.)

How to help residents

The Red Cross is raising money for the affected residents. Donations will be allocated directly to residents in Grindavik to help rebuild homes and meet other immediate needs. The organization has assembled a special allocation committee—made up of representatives from the Red Cross, the town of Grindavik, and the local priest in Grindavik—to ensure the funds reach people in need, RUV reports.

A developing situation

While there were no signs of further lava flow as of Tuesday morning, and “seismic activity continues to decrease” as per the IMO , about 200 small earthquakes were detected on Monday night, which means magma is still moving. “At this point, it is premature to declare that the eruption is over,” the IMO said. “Considerable hazards persist in the area.”

Experts first began detecting a surge in seismic activity in the area in late October, with a series of thousands of small earthquakes recorded along an underground magma corridor, leading officials to declare a state of emergency in Grindavik on November 10. Since then, it’s been a waiting game to see when exactly an eruption would occur, giving authorities plenty of time to prepare to handle the fissures belching lava.

On average, Iceland experiences a volcanic event every five years. "Iceland has been formed by a series of volcanic eruptions across millions of years and its culture has been shaped and even improved by it," Chris Gordon, a travel specialist with Icepedition, tells Traveler. "Some upsides of volcanism include clean geothermal energy for power plants, as well as hot springs, hot rivers and even hot waterfalls to enjoy."

This story has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

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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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Fagradalsfjall volcano in Iceland started erupting on March 19, 2021 and erupted for six months. Although the eruption is finished, it's still stunning to see the new lava fields and craters created by the eruption up close.

Fagradalsfjall in Iceland erupted in 2021 - revealing its deep roots

The restrained Icelandic volcano Fagradalsfjall on the Reykjanes peninsula stepped into the spotlight on the evening of March 19, 2021, when an eruptive fissure opened in the Geldingadalir valleys.

It had been quiet for over six thousand years and is the first active volcano in the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark area for 800 years.

Some frequently asked questions are: Did it come as a surprise, or did scientists see any precursors? When did the eruption start and how long did it last? Why was it called a tourist eruption? Is it possible to come and see the eruption site? What are the latest developments of the Fagradalsfjall volcano?

Here we try to answer those questions and discuss the geological history and characteristics of the Faradalsfjall eruption and the likelihood of continuation of events in the near future.

Three weeks of shaking

The Icelandic musician Eliza Newman who lives close to the Fagradalsfjall volcano wrote a song about the eruption.

Three weeks prior to the volcanic outbreak, an intense earthquake episode began on the Reykjanes peninsula near Fagradalsfjall mountain. It started with an M5,7 earthquake that stirred people in large parts of Iceland. 

In the following three weeks, we had more than 40.000 earthquakes. However, most of them were small and unnoticed, but several were large enough to leave people in the neighboring town Grindavík and the Reykjavík capital area sleepless. One of them was the musician Eliza Newman , and as expected, she wrote a song about it Fagradalsfjall (you're so pretty) , just as she did when the notorious volcano Eyjafjallajökull erupted in 2010.

Waiting with anticipation

Our most experienced geoscientists from the University of Iceland and the Icelandic Met Office interpreted geophysical data from seismometers, GPS stations, and satellites. They concluded that a rapid crustal uplift produced the earthquakes. 

Furthermore, it was clear to them that a magma dike intrusion was the cause. During the three weeks of shaking, the dike was steadily propagating at both ends, and the magma intruded further up in the crust. 

The question everyone was asking was: Will it erupt? 

As the dike grew, anticipation increased, but it was impossible to predict whether the 8 km long dike would manage to touch the surface and end in an outbreak or by freezing in the crust as most basalt magma intrusions do.  

It’s Oh So Quiet - And so peaceful until

Helicopter hovering over the flowing lava from Fagradalsfjall eruption in 2021

The earthquakes finally stopped, and everything was quiet for three days. But on a Friday evening, at 20:45 on March 19, 2021, people in Grindavík town and elsewhere on the Reykjanes peninsula reported a glowing light in the sky. No eruption tremor was detected, so the only way to confirm if an eruption had started was to have a look. 

Later in the evening, scientists onboard a Coast guard helicopter confirmed that an eruptive fissure had opened in Geldingadalir valleys. However, they described it as a tiny eruption, far from populated areas, and not expected to threaten people or properties. 

A typical "tourist" eruption

The eruption has been described as a "tourist eruption," a term commonly used by Icelanders for minor eruptions that can easily be accessed. Of course, the usual thing to do when a volcano erupts is to get as far away as possible. But in Iceland, the "usual" response is the opposite.  So Icelanders started flocking to the eruption site to look at the spectacular show nature was offering. 

The eruption site turned out to be pretty safe with the proper precautions of avoiding the hot lava and gas. The Icelandic voluntary search and rescue teams also immediately showed up to ensure safety at the site, and their valuable work continues while the eruption is ongoing. 

So how big is the "tiny" eruption?

The fissure that first opened was estimated to be 180 m (600 ft) long. The lava flow was soon concentrated in two craters that erupted continuously. There was no explosive activity producing ash plumes, as happened in the Eyjafjallajökull 2010 eruption, causing a shutdown in air traffic over Europe. In this case, the eruption turned out to be an effusive fissure eruption, producing a steady outflow of basaltic lava of about 6 m3 and releasing volcanic gases. 

After a few weeks, new fissures formed and new vents started to open while others became inactive. At one point, six craters were erupting simultaneously. 

The three faces of Fagradalsfjall

A geologist sampling magma for geochemical analysis

The eruption changed phases regularly for most of the time it has was ongoing. The activity was characterized by periods of (1) pulsating activity with fire fountains, (2) steady outflow of lava, and (3)  quiet periods where no activity was seen on the surface or the tremor graphs.

The timespan of each phase varied from hours to days. It is unclear what was happening in the quiet periods; if the eruption was paused or continued below the surface in lava tunnels, but the former is thought to be more likely. Now there has been a pause since September 18, 2021 and the eruption has been officially declared finished by authorities.

Updated figures and maps

The Institute of Earth Sciences at the University of Iceland regularly updated data from the monitoring of the Fagradalsfjall eruption . On September 18, after six months of eruptive activity, the volcanic activity was concentrated in one large crater with a periodic outflow of lava of about 10-12 m3/s. But the day after it paused and has been in a quiet phase since but continues some emission of volcanic gasses.

The eruption built up a small lava shield that covers 4,85 km2 and the volume is estimated to be about 0,15 km3. *

The Icelandic Institute of Natural History has created a 3D map of the Fagradalsfjall area . 

* Numbers from October 1, 2021

Latest developments - Will an eruption break out again?

The eruption paused on its six-month anniversary on September 18, 2021, but 9 days later, on September 27, a new earthquake episode began at the northern end of the magma dike that formed in February-March, about 5 km north of Fagradalsfjall. 

Most scientists believed that the magma was trying to find a new way out since the former feeding vent collapsed. Geophysical data indicated that a new magma dyke formed beside the old one, but this time didn't manage to reach the surface and the episode ended after three weeks.

The area is still thought to be active and magma may be accumulating at depths without being detected, so it will be exciting to see if and when the next dyke starts to form and if we will witness another outbreak in the area in the near future.

Visiting the volcano

Icelanders started flocking to the eruption site to witness the spectacular show nature was offering. 

If you are interested in coming to Iceland to visit the volcano, you might want to stay for a few days to improve your chances of good weather and visibility. 

Even though the volcano is quiet, the magnificent crater and the freshly made lava formations are a spectacular sight on their own and a popular destination. Below you can find links to articles on preparation and how to get there.

And even though you miss this one, one of Iceland's other active volcanoes and volcanic systems that show signs of unrest, is likely to erupt within the following couple of years.

Get inspired

You might also be interested in:

Safety at Fagradalsfjall eruption site

2022 Fagradalsfjall Volcano guide for hikers

Volcanoes of Iceland

The 2011 and 2004 Grímsvötn eruptions

The 2014 holuhraun eruption.

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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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A volcano has erupted in Iceland. What do I need to know ahead of my trip?

Dec 19, 2023 • 6 min read

The volcanic eruption is at Grindavík, which isn't a tourist site © Abstract Aerial Art / Getty Images

​In this series, Lonely Planet's team of writers and editors answers your travel problems and provides tips and hacks to help you plan a hassle-free trip. This week, Icelandic travel writer Eygló Svala Arnarsdóttir from Reykjavík brings us up-to-date on the volcanic activity in Grindavík and how it could impact travelers.

Question: I am due to travel to Iceland next month. We had to reschedule our trip following the earthquake in November and now with the volcano this week. Is there anything I need to be aware of?

Eygló Svala Arnarsdóttir:  Quite a bit has happened since the earthquakes in November. Following weeks of tremors, a magma channel had formed beneath Grindavík, prompting the Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management to evacuate the fishing town and the surrounding area, including the popular Blue Lagoon geothermal pool.

On Monday, December 18, a volcano erupted at Hagafell, minutes outside of Grindavík, catching the authorities off-guard. The Blue Lagoon had just reopened and Grindavík residents had started to return to their homes. Now the National Police Commissioner of Iceland has upgraded the preparedness level for Civil Protection from “Alert” to “Emergency” and told the public not to approach the area. The authorities have also closed all nearby roads. Here's everything you need to know.

Which volcano has erupted in Iceland?

The Icelandic volcanic eruption is a fissure eruption, a linear vent from which lava spews out. It's part of the Fagradalsfjall volcanic system on the Reykjanes peninsula and this is the fourth such eruption in the area since 2021.

Before that, there hadn't been an eruption in the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark area, a major plate boundary along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, for more than 800 years. Experts now believe that the peninsula has entered a prolonged phase of seismic and volcanic activity. They think regular eruptions could continue for decades, even centuries.

How big is the eruption in Iceland?

The Icelandic Met Office has said that the volcano has a 4km (2.5-mile) crack in it. They believe that the lava flow rate is 100–200 cu meters per second (roughly 26,415–52,835 US gallons). That's more than a swimming pool full of lava being spat out every second. However, the Met Office has since said that the intensity of the volcanic eruption has started to decrease.

“The fact that the activity is decreasing already is not an indication of how long the eruption will last, but rather that the eruption is reaching a state of equilibrium,” they have said.

Is the volcano in Iceland still erupting?

Yes. At the time of writing, the volcano in Iceland is still erupting. The website livefromiceland.is has a dedicated Iceland volcano live cam where people can watch Fagradalsfjall erupt.

The Icelandic Road Administration has closed the following roads: Grindavíkurveg (43), Suðurstrandaveg (427) west of Krýsuvíkurveg and Nesveg (425) near Brimketil.

How close is the erupting volcano to Reykjavík?

The Fagradalsfjall volcanic system is around 40km (25 miles) from Reykjavík, Iceland. It usually takes around 50 minutes to drive here from Iceland's capital. The nearest town to the erupting volcano is Grindavík. The Met Office has said that the southern end of the eruption is almost 3km (1.85 miles) from the fishing town.

Is Grindavík a tourist spot?

Grindavík is not a tourist spot in itself but it is close to the popular Blue Lagoon. The authorities had closed the geothermal pool and spa at the time of the earthquakes but it had reopened on December 17 and started to welcome visitors again. However, as of Monday night (December 18), the Blue Lagoon had reclosed. 

“We have temporarily closed our facilities in Svartsengi,” a message read on their website. “All guests with confirmed bookings in the upcoming days will be contacted. We will continue to monitor the progress and maintain close communication with the authorities,” they added.

The recent seismic activity had already caused severe damage to houses and infrastructure in Grindavík. The area is still closed off to the public over concerns that the lava could reach the town. If you are planning to visit, consider another town on the Reykjanes Peninsula  like Keflavík, which is still accessible by car. Speak with your tour operator if you have a Blue Lagoon trip planned, or with the spa directly.

Can I fly to Iceland at the moment? Or Is the volcano affecting flights?

Flights to and from Keflavík Airport and Reykjavík Airport are operating as normal. Isavia, Iceland's national air navigation service provider, has said it is monitoring developments closely. They advise passengers to monitor the flight schedules on either the Keflavík Airport  or the  Reykjavík Airport websites.

Back in 2010, when the Eyjafjallajökull volcano erupted in Iceland, it caused enormous disruption to flights across Europe as ash bellowed into the air. However, experts do not believe that the Fagradalsfjall eruption will have the same impact.

Speaking to the BBC, volcanologist Dr Evgenia Ilyinskaya said there would not be the same level of disruption as in 2010. She said that the volcanoes in southwest Iceland were “physically not able to generate the same ash clouds.”

Is it safe to travel to Iceland right now?

Yes. The Icelandic government has put out a statement to confirm that it is safe to travel to Iceland right now.

“The eruption does not present a threat to life,” they said in a statement. “There are no disruptions to flights to and from Iceland and international flight corridors remain open.”

Do I need to cancel my trip to Iceland or change my plans?

No. As it stands, the volcanic eruption is only taking place in the southwest of the country. The rest of Iceland remains open.

If you had planned to visit Grindavík, the Blue Lagoon or the nearby area, you should consider altering your trip.  Iceland has plenty of great places to visit in winter. For example, Akureyri , on the opposite side of the island, is particularly wonderful this time of year. Popular among skiers; the local ski resort opens on December 22.

As flights are open and disruption is limited to southwest Iceland, insurance companies are very unlikely to pay out should you want to cancel your trip.

Iceland is a volcanic hotspot. Minor and major eruptions have occurred every few years since the island was formed. Earthquakes and eruptions are part of the daily reality here but locals take solace in the fact that scientists monitor volcanoes around the clock. The authorities also do whatever they can to keep people safe.

Iceland is an exciting country to visit as long as you’re aware of the risks and take any necessary precautions. The best source of information is  safetravel.is , which has updates on the Grindavík situation and lots of other safety issues, including road conditions.

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A volcano in Iceland is erupting for the 4th time in 3 months

A  volcano in Iceland  erupted Saturday evening for the fourth time in three months, sending orange jets of lava into the night sky.

Iceland’s Meteorological Office said the eruption opened a fissure in the earth almost 2 miles long between Stóra-Skógfell and Hagafell mountains on the Reykjanes Peninsula.

The Met Office had warned for weeks that magma — semi-molten rock — was accumulating under the ground, making an eruption likely.

Hundreds of people were evacuated from the Blue Lagoon thermal spa, one of Iceland’s top tourist attractions, when the eruption began, national broadcaster RUV said.

No flight disruptions were reported at nearby Keflavik, Iceland’s main airport.

The eruption site is a few miles northeast of Grindavik , a coastal town of 3,800 people about 30 miles southwest of Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik, that was evacuated before the initial eruption in December. A few residents who had returned to their homes were evacuated again Saturday.

Grindavik was evacuated in November when the Svartsengi volcanic system awakened after almost 800 years with a series of earthquakes that opened large cracks in the ground north of the town.

The volcano eventually erupted on Dec. 18 , sending lava flowing away from Grindavik. A  second eruption that began on Jan. 14 sent lava toward the town. Defensive walls that had been bolstered after the first eruption stopped some of the flow, but several buildings were consumed by the lava.

Both eruptions lasted only a matter of days. A  third eruption  began Feb. 8. It petered out within hours, but not before a river of lava engulfed a pipeline, cutting off heat and hot water to thousands of people.

RUV quoted geophysicist Magnús Tumi Guðmundsson as saying that the latest eruption is the most powerful so far. The Met Office said some of the lava was flowing towards the defensive barriers around Grindavik.

Iceland, which sits above a volcanic hot spot in the North Atlantic, sees regular eruptions and is highly experienced at dealing with them. The most disruptive in recent times was the 2010 eruption of the Eyjafjallajokull volcano, which spewed huge clouds of ash into the atmosphere and led to widespread airspace closures over Europe.

No confirmed deaths have been reported from any of the recent eruptions, but a workman was declared missing after falling into a fissure opened by the volcano.

The Associated Press

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This eruption already more extensive than previous six eruptions

Inflation continues and magma is accumulating under Svartsengi. Photo/Hörður Kristleifsson

Although the volcanic force has decreased, there are no signs of a decrease in total magma flow from the depths. It is difficult to predict when this eruption will end, it could continue for a longer period with stable flow or stop shortly.

This is stated in a new report from the Icelandic Met Office.

Article on Iceland Monitor

The wall of the crater has collapsed, the lava field has grown to be more than six square kilometres.

Experts from the Icelandic Institute of Natural History and Land Survey took a measurement flight over the eruption site yesterday.

According to data collected in the flight, it was possible to estimate the size of the lava field and lava flow in the eruption. The results show that the force of the eruption has decreased steadily.

A map showing the area and the thickness of the lava that has come from the ongoing eruption. Map/Icelandic Met Office

The area of the lava field measured 6,14 square kilometers. The volcanic eruption has therefore become more extensive than the previous six eruptions on the Reykjanes peninsula.

The largest eruption was at Mt Fagradalsfjall in March 2021. The area measured nearly 5 square kilometers.

Live footage: Magma running down from the overflowing crater

Recently, lava has flowed mostly to the south from the crater, but temporarily it flowed to the north when the crater’s wall broke.

The lava has thickened most near the crater and a short distance south of it where the lava field has the most activity. There are no clear signs of lava flowing along the defensive walls north of Grindavík, Suðurstrandarvegur road, or Melhólsnáma mine.

Increased inflation in the past week

Inflation in Svartsengi continues and has increased in speed in the past week, while the volcanic force has decreased. This indicates that the majority of magma flowing under the Svartsengi volcano is accumulating there, causing increased pressure and inflation.

The open connection between the magma collection area in Svartsengi and Sundhnúksgígar crater row is still open and some of the magma flows to the surface.

Seismic activity in the defensive walls at Grindavík has continued to be very low.

More magma coming into the magma chamber, than is coming out

Hazard assessment unchanged.

The Met Office has updated its hazard assessment and it is valid until April 16. There are no changes to the hazard assessment and the risk of gas pollution is still estimated to be high in all areas except the Sundhnúksgígar crater row (area 3) where it is estimated to be very high.

The hazards in zone 4 (Grindavík) and zone 6 are still estimated to be high due to the collapse of the earth into the fissure, fissure movement, lava flow, and gas pollution.

No changes are in the hazard assessment. Map/Icelandic Met Office

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Complete Guide to the 2023 Eruption of Litli-Hrutur Volcano

Where Was the Litli-Hrutur Volcanic Eruption?

Information about litli-hrutur and the reykjanes peninsula, other volcanoes in iceland, will litli-hrutur erupt again.

On July 10th, a volcanic eruption began by the mountain Litli-Hrutur on the Reykjanes Peninsula just before 5 pm. The people of Iceland had been expecting this, as they had experienced many earthquakes in the days leading up to the eruption. 

With a fissure reaching half a mile (900 meters) long, the new eruption was more powerful than the eruption in Fagradalsfjall Volcano in 2021 as well as the second eruption in 2022 . Fortunately, residents and infrastructure in the area were not in any danger.

The eruption in Litli-Hrutur was not the end of the volcanic activity in the area, as four more eruptions took place by the Sundhnukagigar crater row and the mountain Hagafell in the following months. Unfortunately, these eruptions proved damaging to the livelihoods of people in Grindavik , who were forced to evacuate their homes.

The Litli-Hrutur eruption is over - at least for now. It lasted for just under a month before being declared finished by authorities on August 5th. According to experts, there is a chance that the volcano might erupt again. If and when that happens, make sure to take a look at some of the  fantastic volcano tours  available to find what suits you best.

The recent eruptions in the area garnered Iceland international attention as people flocked to the country to see them. The location and scope of the eruptions were very tourist friendly, as they were close to Keflavik International Airport and the capital of Reykjavik , and were made widely accessible thanks to new hiking trails.

But how did the eruption at Litli-Hrutur compare to the previous two? Let's find out!

• Learn more about volcanoes with the  Ultimate Guide to Volcanoes in Iceland

Although the eruption by Litli-Hrutur is over, the eruption site is still an interesting place to visit. Litli-Hrutur is located roughly two and a half miles (4 kilometers) northeast of Fagradalsfjall Volcano. The round-trip trek to Litli-Hrutur is a bit longer than to Fagradalsfjall Volcano, or around 12 miles in total (20 kilometers). Visiting the site with a local expert is recommended, such as on an afternoon or evening hike of the Litli-Hrutur Eruption Site .

Since no roads lead directly to the eruption site by Litli-Hrutur, the first step is to get to one of the parking lots where a hiking route to the volcano begins. If you decide to rent a car and go by yourself, the parking areas are marked "P1" or "P2" by nearby road signs and are accessible from Route 427. The parking areas are about a 1-hour drive from Reykjavik. Keep in mind that parking by the roadside is not permitted and that off-road driving in Iceland is illegal.

See the following map for more details.

The trek to Litli-Hrutur is long, so make sure you have sturdy hiking boots with ankle support when you start the hike. The trail is rocky and slippery, with a decent incline. It's important to bring warm layers and a waterproof jacket so you're prepared for anything.

Most of the route will be on a gravelly road with a slight incline. When you are roughly three-fourths of the way there, the gravel road ends, and you will have to walk over mossy rocks. 

It is also important to bring plenty of water to drink, as well as high-energy snacks, because there are no amenities available at the eruption site. This also means there are no facilities such as toilets or trash cans, so plan accordingly.

The Reykjanes peninsula is located on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge , the area where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. The region is very volcanically active and full of geothermal heat, as can be seen at sites such as the  Krysuvik Geothermal Area . 

The Reykjanes region is relatively young, geologically speaking, having been formed by magma rising from the core of the earth over the past seven million years. The Westfjords in the northwest of Iceland are, in comparison, 16 million years old.

The most popular thing to do in Reykjanes is to visit the Blue Lagoon , a geothermal spa that remains Iceland's most visited attraction. If you're planning on soaking in the Blue Lagoon as well as visiting the eruption site during your stay in Iceland, a Litli-Hrutur volcano hike and Blue Lagoon day tour is an excellent way of doing both.

If you wish to explore the region, you can learn about its wonders on a number of great Reykjanes tours available.

• See also: 22 Things to Do in Reykjanes Peninsula

One of the most infamous Icelandic volcanoes is Eyjafjallajokull . Known worldwide for disrupting air travel across Europe when it erupted in 2010, Eyjafjallajokull made a name for itself not only as a disruptor of travel but as being notoriously hard to pronounce. 

Katla is one of Iceland's largest and most active volcanoes, hidden beneath the Myrdalsjokull ice cap. The volcano has had over 20 documented big eruptions in the last millennium, and the next eruption will most likely be a large one.

Another iconic volcano, Hekla , has erupted over 20 times since the country's settlement in 874 AD, earning the moniker "Gateway to Hell" during the Middle Ages. Geologists keep a close watch on Hekla due to its history of unpredictable eruptions.

Fagradalsfjall was Iceland's newest volcano before Litli-Hrutur stole the spotlight. Hundreds of thousands of people visited the volcano, which was very tourist-friendly and brought attention to the spectacular forces of nature present in Iceland. 

As of right now, there is no definite answer to the question of whether or not Litli-Hrutur will erupt again. With a total of seven eruptions between 2021 and 2024, it is safe to say that there is a lot of volcanic activity in the Reykjanes area. If and when another eruption begins in the area, it is impossible to say if it will be by Litli-Hrutur or somewhere else.

This article will be updated as the volcanic activity of the Reykjanes peninsula continues to unfold. Do you have any more questions about the eruption at Litli-Hrutur? Let us know in the comments below, and we'll do our best to answer them!

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Drone video shows lava bubbling from Iceland volcano crater

The volcano in iceland started erupting in march for the fourth time since december. a drone video recorded on sunday near the active crater shows lava spewing down the land mass..

Drone footage shows bubbling lava flow during Iceland volcanic eruption

Drone footage recorded on Sunday, April 7 shows lava spewing from a volcanic crater on Iceland's Reykjanes peninsula. The volcano eruption is ongoing north of Grindavik.

GRINDAVIK, Iceland - The eruption of an Icelandic volcano continues to show increasing activity, with more lava seen in aerial video overflowing from the Sundhnúkur crater.

The Sundhnjukagigar volcano began erupting on March 16 with little warning, marking the fourth eruption in the area since December. The Icelandic Met Office (IMO) said this eruption is likely the largest since 2021.

The IMO said two craters are still active , and most of the lava flow appears to come from the larger Sundhnúkur crater. A drone video recorded on Sunday, April 7 , near the active crater shows lava spewing down the land mass.

"Insane lava fall," the photographer Hordur Kristleifsson wrote. "Today the activity suddenly increased, causing the main crater to overflow."

The satellite image below shows the volcano's large lava flow.

Natural satellite image shows the lava flow from a volcanic eruption near Grindavík, Iceland. Earth walls were built to protect the town and Svartsengi geothermal power plant from the eruption. Imaged 1 April 2024. (Photo by Gallo Images/Orbital Horizon/Copernicus Sentinel Data 2024)

(Getty Images)

Meteorologists said there are no signs the lava flow is progressing alongside the lava barriers built to protect the town of Grindavik. 

DRONE VIDEO SHOWS CHARRED LANDSCAPE AFTER VOLCANIC ERUPTION IN ICELAND

However, southeast winds at the eruption site have spread volcanic gas throughout Iceland. Officials continue to provide gas forecasts and air quality updates.

Another risk is the dry weather contributing to vegetation fires around the lava field, according to the IMO. 

Some information in this story was translated via Google Translate.

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Volcanic vortex: Mount Etna blows rings into the Sicilian sky – video

Mount Etna has blown volcanic vortex rings into the Sicilian skyline after the recent formation of a near-perfectly circled mouth. Although the rare natural phenomenon looks like smoke rings, they are actually made up of steam and gases. According to volcanologist Boris Behncke, Mount Etna produces more rings than any other volcano on earth. Locals have nicknamed Etna the 'Lady of the Rings'

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Tue 9 Apr 2024 05.33 BST Last modified on Tue 9 Apr 2024 05.42 BST

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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

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. 

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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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