VOLCANO TOURS

There are two important things to bear in mind when dressing for an Iceland volcano tour.

Firstly, Iceland has notoriously volatile weather and on a volcano tour you’re going to be spending your time outside. That means that a waterproof jacket and warm layers are a must.

Then, if you’re walking on volcanoes in Iceland, you’ll need to have sensible shoes. That means shoes that are durable, sturdy, and that will protect your feet on rugged terrain.

Fagradalsfjall is by far the most popular active volcano to visit in Iceland. Thanks to its recent eruptions in 2021 and 2022, it has left fascinating lava fields to explore. And what’s more, it’s conveniently located from Reykjavík, making it the perfect day out from the city.

But it’s not the only active volcano you can visit in Iceland. Along the south coast of Iceland, you’ll see many active volcanoes, including the famous Katla and Hekla. You can also see Eyjafjallajökull, whose eruption in 2010 caused disruption to international air travel.

With breathtaking views and opportunities to glimpse the sheer power of the earth, an Iceland volcano tour could be one of the best things you do on your trip.

At Icelandia, we’ll help make your tour extra special. You’ll witness these jaw-dropping fiery mountains led by an expert guide, who’ll be able to answer all your questions.

There are over 130 volcanoes in Iceland, including a mix of active and inactive volcanoes. Active volcanoes are those that have erupted recently or are likely to erupt again soon, and there are about 30 of these scattered across Iceland.

One of the most popular volcanoes to visit in Iceland is Fagradalsfjall. Erupting frequently between 2021 and 2022, the volcano is still technically active, but you may not see it erupt. That said, you can still visit to see the incredible fresh lava fields that the volcano has created.

The active volcano is located in the Reykjanes peninsula, recognised as a UNESCO Geopark thanks to its geothermal activity.

There is no obligation to use a tour guide to visit Fagradalsfjall. But a local guide can really bring your tour experience alive. They’ll share stories and information about the volcano that you won’t read in the guidebooks and answer any questions you may have.

Volcanoes in Iceland erupt very often. Studies of volcanic activity over the last millennium show that Iceland sees an eruption every four to five years on average. So, if you don’t see one on your trip to Iceland this time, there’s likely to be another one to visit pretty soon!

The most recent eruption has been at Fagradalsfjall volcano, in 2021 and then again in August 2022. Since then, there has been no sign of further eruptions.

Iceland is one of the most volcanically active countries on the planet. Thanks to its position on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge—the tectonic plate boundary between Europe and North America—it’s a place where you can find volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, and many other exciting geothermal features.

In fact, there are thought to be more than 30 active volcanic systems in Iceland, with another 100 or more that are now inactive.

You can visit the Fagradalsfjall volcano without a tour. From the carpark, the walk up the most recent eruption site is about 7 kilometres (4.5 miles) with an ascent of 300 metres (990 feet). If you have a car and are a confident walker, there’s nothing holding you back.

That said, a tour is by far the easiest way to reach Fagradalsfjall from Reykjavík and along the south coast. What’s more, you’ll also have the benefit of learning about the volcano and Iceland in general from a local expert.

The walk to the Fagradalsfjall volcano is about 7 kilometres (4.5 miles) from the carpark. Over that distance you’ll climb about 300 metres (990 feet) too. It’s important to be aware that the walk takes you across a rugged, rocky landscape. As such, the terrain is a little tricky in places.