The power and beauty of volcanoes have drawn people to Iceland in droves. Iceland’s volcanic landscapes are a significant draw for tourists, from the recent eruption of Fagradalsfjall to Eyjafjallajokull’s explosive 2010 eruption.
Learn about Iceland’s volcanic history at the Volcano House in Reykjavik. Then, head outside to explore volcanoes in all their glory.
Heimaey
Heimaey (Hey-mi-ey) is the biggest and only inhabited island of the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago. It’s also known as the “Pompeii of the North,” thanks to a 1973 eruption that completely transformed the landscape.
On January 23, 1973, a previously unknown fissure suddenly opened beneath Heimaey. Within a day, lava fountains were shooting up less than a mile from the town. A stroke of eerie luck ensured that not a single life was lost in the explosion.
The Eldheimar Museum chronicles the event and its aftermath, including several buildings buried by the lava flow. You can also visit the lava field that resulted from the eruption, Eldfellshraun. It’s full of walking trails offering stunning views and is home to the world’s largest puffin colony.
Heimaey is a great place to explore Iceland’s varied landscapes. It’s got steep and craggy mountain ridges, rocky coastlines with dramatic sea cliffs, hidden beaches, and a couple of volcanoes in Iceland. You can even hike to the top of Eldfell, which is relatively easy and offers a wealth of scenery.
Eldfell
The lava fields and volcanic cones of Eldfell offer an insight into volcanic processes that can occur in Iceland at a moment’s notice. They also provide an opportunity to see the aftermath of a volcanic eruption. While visiting the site of a volcanic eruption, be sure to stay within a safe distance set by local authorities.
The eruption of Eldfell in January 1973 took residents by surprise, destroying homes and covering the town with thick ash. The eruption ended after six months. The elongated ridge of pyroclastics formed after the event was named Eldfell, meaning “Hill of Fire” in Icelandic.
Hiking to Eldfell is one of the most popular activities in Heimaey, and the volcano is a stunning sight on a clear day. The hike requires some physical preparation and adequate hiking equipment, but it is well worth the effort.
While self-driving tours are a common way to experience Iceland’s volcanic landscape, guided trips are recommended for visitors who want to understand the forces that shape this fascinating natural wonderland. In addition to learning about the geological forces at play, guided tours offer the convenience and safety of professional guides.
Hverfell
Hverfjall is an enormous tephra crater formed in a short yet massive eruption 2,500 years ago. The crater has a kilometer-wide diameter and 140 meters deep. Its captivating form has captured the interest of visitors and photographers alike. It is considered one of the most beautiful volcanic craters in Europe. It was initially symmetrical, but the landslide during the eruption spoilt its beauty slightly.
The volcanic crater is easy to reach, and some paths lead up to its rim. From there, you can enjoy the spectacular view of the surrounding landscape.
Another place to visit is the Geothermal area of Namafjall, where gurgling mud pools and steaming fumaroles are dotted amongst the scorched ground covered in hardy, multi-colored lichen. It is a surreal sight, and the pungent odor from the fumes can be overwhelming. However, the lava formations and other volcanic sites make the trip worthwhile. It is also the perfect location to admire the striking vistas of the Myvatn volcanoes. The best part is that it is safe and accessible for all ages.
Krafla
If you plan a trip to the Myvatn region, include the Dimmuborgir lava park in your itinerary. The eerie rock formations and lava patterns offer a cornucopia of different photo motifs. Driving or walking around and exploring the park is well worth your time. The lava park is a short drive from Lake Myvatn and Mt. Hverfjall and is the gateway to a surreal world.
The Krafla volcano is an impressive 10 km in diameter caldera that sits along a 90 km long fissure zone in northern Iceland. It has 29 eruption phases in its history and has been very active over the last century.
This volcanic caldera is home to an explosion crater, and the geothermal forces have altered its surroundings to create a surreal landscape with bubbling mud pools, fumaroles, and lava fields. It is a must-see for volcano enthusiasts. It is also possible to see the Leirhnjukur lava field and Viti Crater, which are not far from the Krafla caldera.
Litli-Hrutur
Awe-inspiring lava fountains, ash plumes, and molten rivers are drawing attention from travelers worldwide to Grindavik’s Litli-Hrutur (Little Ram) eruption site. The eruption began on July 10 and has captivated people with its fiery beauty, creating a surreal landscape.
Despite the volcano’s excitement, it is still important to remember that it is an active volcanic site, and visitors should take extra care when hiking near the erupting area. The area contains dangerous gases, and a marked danger zone is around the site to prevent unauthorized access.
If you want to see the eruption, several tours will bring you close to the lava flows. The most popular tour is this one that includes a pick-up in Reykjavik and a private guide who will walk you to the site and explain the geological forces at work. The tour is a HARD-level hike and requires comfortable shoes and warm clothing. For the best experience, book this tour as soon as possible! It often sells out.
