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?
The most popular volcano tour in Iceland is the Inside the Volcano tour at Thrihnukagigur magma chamber. Over 300 nature lovers rated the experience 4.8 out of 5.
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.
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?
The cheapest volcano tour in Iceland is the lava caving tour of Vatnshellir cave in Snaefellsnes. It is open for booking year-round for only 33 USD.
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.
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?
Yes. Volcano tours in Iceland are a remarkable and rewarding experience. They offer a chance to connect with nature's extraordinary geological processes, from exploring volcanic craters to traversing lava fields. If you yearn for an educational and awe-inspiring journey deep into the Earth, then a volcano tour in Iceland is worth every moment.
How do I get to Litli Hrutur volcano in Iceland?
There are a few ways for you to see the aftermath of the Litli-Hrutur 2023 eruption, near Fagradalsfjall volcano. It is about a 55-minute drive from Reykjavik to get to the parking area near the volcano. From there, you will take hiking path D, also known as Merardalaleid. The roundtrip distance is around 12 miles (20 kilometers).
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.
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?
Hiking to the volcano at Litli-Hrutur can be done safely as long as you follow all safety guidelines. Even though the eruption has stopped, it's important to remember that there are still many dangers in the area.
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.
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?
A volcanic eruption started on July 10th, 2023 at Litli-Hrutur, a mountain on the Reykjanes peninsula. It's the third eruption in three consecutive years in the area and it lasted for around a month, coming to a stop on August 5th, 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.
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?
The round-trip hike to Litli-Hrutur covers around 12 miles (20 kilometers), with can take around 7 or 8 hours to complete. You'll also have to account for time spent marveling at the eruption.
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.
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?
Iceland has many active volcanoes, though there is no active eruption at the moment. The most recent eruption was at Litli-Hrutur on the Reykjanes peninsula. It started on July 10th, 2023, and lasted for about a month. Before that, the most recent eruption was at Fagradalsfjall volcano in August of 2022.
Do Iceland's volcanoes pose a risk?
Day to day, Iceland's volcanoes do not pose a risk. The most recent eruption at Litli-Hrutur did not pose a risk to infrastructure or any settlements, but gas blowing off the new lava field can be harmful to those hiking in the area.
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.
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?
It depends on which volcano you have in mind. Some of the volcanoes are virtually unreachable unless a specialized crew takes you there. If you wish to experience the stunning view of some of Iceland's most beautiful and well-known volcanoes, we recommend this eight-hour hour super jeep tour of Lakagigar craters & Fjadrargljufur canyon or this 12-hour tour of Askja caldera and Holuhraun lava field.
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.
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?
You can always opt for one of our self-drive tours that take you to the Lake Myvatn area, and you can also join a day tour to Askja caldera. If you have ample time, you would be well advised to take a ferry to the Westman Islands archipelago, which is highly volcanically active.
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.
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?
It is possible to descend into the magma chamber of the Thrihnukagigur volcano in Iceland, like with this Inside the Volcano tour, which has transfer from Reykjavik.
Can I enter Thrihnukagigur's magma chamber during winter time in Iceland?
The Inside the Volcano tour, which takes you into Thrihnukagigur, is operational from mid-May and throughout October, but you can visit most other lava caves and lava tunnels in Iceland year-round.
Can I see flowing lava inside Thrihnukagigur volcano in Iceland?
No, Thrihnukagigur's magma chamber is empty and thus safe to enter.
Where is the Icelandic volcano that erupted in 2010?
Why is Iceland home to so many active volcanoes?
Iceland is divided by the Mid-Atlantic Rift. As the North American and Eurasian plates pull apart, they form a weakness in the crust that results in Iceland’s volcanism.
What types of volcanoes are there in Iceland?
There are Stratovolcanoes (such as Eyjafjallajokull), Central Volcanoes (such as Katla), and fissure swarms (such as along the Reykjanes Peninsula).
What is Iceland's most active volcano?
What is Iceland’s most powerful volcano?
Katla is the most powerful volcano in Iceland, which sits beneath Myrdalsjokull glacier. It last erupted in the year 1918.
Which part of Iceland is most volcanically active?
Along the Mid-Atlantic rift, you can find the most active areas, including the South Coast around Katla volcano, the Highlands beneath Vatnajokull glacier, the Reykjanes peninsula, and the Lake Myvatn area. The Westman Islands are also very active and a volcano there last erupted in 1973.
Why aren’t there any volcanoes in the Westfjords?
The Westfjords are the oldest part of Iceland, with some mountains dating back 16 million years. Over this time, the landmass has been pushed away from the Mid-Atlantic Rift, and out of the volcanic hot-spot zone.
Can I camp in a lava field in Iceland?
You should only camp in designated camping areas. Lava fields are often covered by delicate moss that can take decades to regenerate if damaged.
Is it safe to walk on the lava fields in Iceland?
Yes, if you follow designated paths and roads. Remember that lava fields cover countless cracks, caves, and tunnels that you can fall into.
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.
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.
