Best Volcano Tours in Iceland
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Volcano Tours in Iceland
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Volcano Tours in Iceland
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. The most recent were in the Litli-Hrutur and Fagradalsjall volcanoes in the Reykjanes Peninsula. While these eruptions have stopped, you can still visit the site to see the fresh landscapes through this 12-hour hiking tour to Litli-Hrutur volcano from Reykjavik.
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
What are the best volcano tours in Iceland?
Another high-rated volcano tour in Iceland combines a Golden Circle sightseeing tour with Kerid volcanic crater. It is rated 4.8 out of 5 by roughly 240 travelers.
If you prefer to see volcanic fields from a unique perspective, your best option is this helicopter tour of Reykjanes volcano area from Reykjavik. More than 70 travelers rated it 4.6 out of 5.
What are the cheapest volcano tours in Iceland?
Another affordable volcano tour in Iceland is this lava tunnel tour of Raufarholshellir volcanic tubes in Southwest Iceland. You can join the experience for over 60 USD.
Are volcano tours in Iceland truly worth the experience?
How do I get to Litli Hrutur volcano in Iceland?
If you want to see the sites of the previous two eruptions, you will take path A or B and hike toward Meradalir valley. The roundtrip distance is about 10 miles (15 kilometers).
Suppose you don't have a car of your own or would prefer a professional guide. In that case, we recommend this volcano tour to Litli-Hrutur, which takes you on a minibus from Reykjavik to Grindavik, and a guide will lead you on the trail toward the volcano.
If you want to see the aftermath of the Litli-Hrutur eruption from above, we recommend this Litli-Hrutur volcano helicopter tour that departs from Reykjavik airport.
Is it safe to go to Litli-Hrutur volcano in Iceland?
Make sure to check the SafeTravel website for updates about safety conditions and guidelines.
Only go if experts and authorities declare the area open for visitors, and pay attention to wind direction as toxic fumes blow off the new lava field.
Keep the wind to your back so you don't breathe the fumes, as they can cause dangerous health effects. You can find information about the wind direction at the Icelandic Weather Office and air quality at the Environmental Agency of Iceland.
Also, do not go close to the new lava field, as it can still be hot underneath the fragile upper crust. Make sure to keep a safe distance; you can enjoy the experience without taking life-threatening risks.
You can hike to the eruption site on your own, but we recommend joining a guided tour for optimal safety Be aware that the hike toward the volcano can be challenging, so it's important to wear good hiking shoes and warm layered clothes.
If hiking to the Fagradalsfjall eruption sites, do not walk on the lava field, even if it's black and appears to be solidified. It can still be hot underneath the surface as it can take years for the lava to fully cool down.
Where is the volcano in Iceland that erupted in 2023?
The volcano is close to the town of Grindavik and is located about 20 miles (35 kilometers) from the capital, Reykjavik.
It's next to the Fagradalsfjall volcano that erupted for three weeks in 2022, starting on August 3rd. The very same volcano erupted in March of 2021, and that eruption lasted for six months. You can start your hiking journey from one of the parking lots on Sudurstrandarvegur road.
What should I wear for going to the Litli-Hrutur volcano in Iceland?
It is necessary to wear good hiking shoes with ankle support. Since the Icelandic weather is unpredictable and there is a lack of wind cover in the area, make sure to wear warm clothes and gloves. Wear layers so you can easily remove them as needed. Also, remember to bring water and snacks.
If you want to see the aftermath of the previous two eruptions of 2022 and 2021, you can hike on a rocky trail from the parking lot near Meradalir valley to reach Fagradalsfjall volcano. The hike can be quite challenging, and the roundtrip distance is about 10 miles (15 kilometers); therefore, it is wise to bring water to drink along the way.
Are there any active volcanoes in Iceland?
Do Iceland's volcanoes pose a risk?
If you plan to hike there, make sure to check the SafeTravel website for safety information. Volcano tours are canceled or amended if they can not be done safely.
Similarly, the 2022 volcanic eruption of Fagradalsfjall in the same area did not endanger any nearby settlements.
How can I reach a volcano in Iceland?
If you wish to see the dramatic aftermath of Iceland's most recent eruption at Litli-Hrutur, then we recommend this exciting 12-hour Litli-Hrutur hiking tour with Reykjanes sightseeing.
Where can I see recently formed lava fields?
In the area around Fagradalsfjall volcano, you can see the beautiful new lava fields from 2022, and 2021 eruptions, just a short hike from the parking lot.
In the same area, you can also see Iceland's newest lava field from the 2023 Litli-Hrutur eruption, though the hike is more challenging.
Can I go inside a volcano in Iceland?
Can I enter Thrihnukagigur's magma chamber during winter time in Iceland?
Can I see flowing lava inside Thrihnukagigur volcano in Iceland?
Where is the Icelandic volcano that erupted in 2010?
Why is Iceland home to so many active volcanoes?
What types of volcanoes are there in Iceland?
What is Iceland's most active volcano?
What is Iceland’s most powerful volcano?
Which part of Iceland is most volcanically active?
Why aren’t there any volcanoes in the Westfjords?
Can I camp in a lava field in Iceland?
Is it safe to walk on the lava fields in Iceland?
However, the same does not apply to the new lava fields of the Fagradalsfjall and Litli-Hrutur eruptions. Though the eruptions have stopped and the surface may appear hardened, the lava can still be very hot underneath the surface. It can take years for the lava to fully cool down and be safe to walk on.