Author: Adina Lazar

If you’re intrigued by the Iceland volcano eruptions of 2021 and 2022, you’re in the right place. Come and learn everything you need to know about Fagradalsfjall, a hot new attraction on the island.

These eruptions showed perfectly why Iceland is nicknamed the Land of Fire and Ice. The fiery lava fountains, which could be seen as far away as Reykjavík, demonstrated the true power of nature.

Whether you’re looking for a volcano update or want to visit one of Iceland’s natural wonders, continue reading. You’ll find more about Fagradalsfjall and how to experience it and other top volcanic attractions in Iceland.

• Browse our Iceland vacation packages to start planning your volcanic adventure.

About the Fagradalsfjall volcano eruption

In early 2021, Iceland was rocked by an extremely high number of earthquakes. This heightened volcanic activity predicted a potential eruption on the island, and it finally happened on 19 March 2021.

Late in the night, the sky lit up near the capital after Fagradalsfjall erupted, creating Iceland’s newest volcano.

Luckily, the eruption was contained in a remote area, away from any towns or villages. And once the Icelandic authorities declared it safe to visit, it became a must-see attraction for Icelanders and visitors from around the world. 

Slow-flowing lava surrounded the volcano until September 2021, when the eruption finally came to an end. Less than a year later, on 3 August 2022, the volcano erupted again just 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) away from the previous site. 

Today, there’s no activity at the eruption site. That said, Fagradalsfjall is definitely worth a visit if you want to witness its freshly made lava fields up-close.

Where is Fagradalsfjall?

You’ll find Fagradalsfjall located in the Geldingadalur valley on Iceland’s Reykjanes peninsula. This region lies just south of the capital, Reykjavík, and is home to Keflavik International Airport and the famous Blue Lagoon.

You can reach it by driving around 50 minutes from Iceland’s capital or 30 minutes from the airport. Its location means it is more accessible than other volcanic sites. For locals and visitors alike, this has become a must-see attraction.

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How was Fagradalsfjall formed?

Before Fagradalsfjall, the last famous eruption in Iceland was Eyjafjallajökull in 2010. That volcano caused disruption all over Europe, but luckily the most recent eruptions were of a different nature.

Fagradalsfjall was a fissure eruption. Instead of rock and ash clouds, it started as a crack in the Earth’s crust. This provided a way for magma to slowly seep out from the deep pockets located under Iceland (also known as the Iceland plume or hotspot).

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These fissures and its spurting lava created one larger crater, which the lava flowed from in molten rivers. In turn this created a new lava field that now surrounds the volcano.

Why did the eruption happen here?

Iceland is located along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge tectonic plate boundary, where the North American and Eurasian plates meet. Fissures and volcanic activity are caused by the slow pulling apart of the two tectonic plates.  

This eruption gives an insight into the active geology and volcanoes of Iceland. They are not only responsible for one of the latest attractions in the country, but for spouting geysers, warming hot springs, and all the geothermal energy Icelanders use.

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• Blog: When to visit Iceland: Your guide to the best times to go.

How long did the eruption last?

The 2021 eruption period lasted 6 months, while the smaller eruption the following year only lasted around 3 weeks before going quiet. 

Some scientists have said that this is a reawakening of the region, where there have been no eruptions in 800 to 900 years. We might be seeing the beginning of a new period of eruptions dotted across the country.

Visiting Fagradalsfjall

Because of its location and activity, Fagradalsfjall is very visitor friendly. Just look on Instagram for all the photos of Icelanders in front of the volcano. It’s a must-see site for your Icelandic bucket list!

When you arrive at the Geldingadalur valley, you can leave your car at the car park near the volcano and hike the rest of the way. It’s located about 10 minutes from the town of Grindavík. Turn right off the 427 road to reach Geldingardalur Volcano Parking, which you can find on Google Maps.

The hike to Fagradalsfjall is around 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) each way. This should take you around 3 hours for the return trip if you have a good level of fitness. The rugged terrain may be a challenge, but you’ll be rewarded with a magnificent feat of nature.

Something else to keep in mind is the famous Icelandic weather. Stay up to date with the daily weather forecast before embarking on this adventure. And make sure to wear appropriate clothing and footwear.

• Check out these active tours of Iceland.

Is it safe to visit?

The volcano and its stark lava field have been compared to Mordor and otherworldly landscapes. But fear not, the area isn’t home to any evil! In fact, it is constantly monitored by scientists, and visitors are allowed.

You can, and should, keep up to date with local advice before heading to the site. For example, the Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management could close the site if it’s windy and there’s an increased threat of toxic gas emissions.

For this reason, it’s advised that if you have a respiratory condition, you shouldn’t visit.

During your hike try to keep the wind at your back and stay on higher grounds. If the site becomes active again, stay a safe distance from the fissure when you visit. 

Take your precautions and enjoy the fiery side of Iceland!

Other highlights of the Reykjanes peninsula

Whether you’ve just landed or wish to visit the volcano from Reykjavík, you could make a day of it on the Reykjanes peninsula. Dive into the culture and landscape of Iceland’s southwestern tip.

You could go visit the small fishing town of Grindavík and the 100-year-old Reykjanes Lighthouse. Crossing the Bridge Between Continents is another way to see the Mid-Atlantic Ridge up close.

Or treat yourself to a relaxing spa experience after your hike up to Fagradalsfjall. Enjoy the soothing geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon and its world-famous facilities.

• Check out our summer tours to Iceland for more inspiration.
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Other volcanic attractions in Iceland

It’s needless to say that the Land of Fire and Ice has a variety of volcanic highlights to enjoy.

You could come admire the high peaks and volcanoes dotted around the island, forming a truly incredible landscape. But where should you go exactly? We’ve compiled a list of the top volcanic areas and locations you could visit:

1. Þingvellir National Park

We’ve talked a lot about the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Another way to witness this tear in the Earth’s crust is at Þingvellir National Park. This is a cultural and geological wonder of Iceland and the world.

Here you can see the effects of the tectonic plate movements on the Icelandic landscape. It was also inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its cultural significance. This is where the first parliament of Iceland, the Alþingi, was founded in the 10th century.

• Browse these Golden Circle tours in Iceland.

2. Vík í Mýrdal

Travel along the south coast and you’ll admire the infamous Eyjafjallajökull as well as the ice caps of the region. It’s a sight to behold!

Then you’ll want to stop by the quaint village of Vík í Mýrdal and go for a walk on the nearby Reynisfjara black sand beach.

Black sand beaches are distinct because of their volcanic origins. Ashes and other volcanic residue are deposited into the sea around the island. They then get eroded into the black sand that creates the stark and defining landscape of much of Iceland’s coast.

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3. Laki fissure

Along Iceland’s south coast, we recommend exploring Laki, or Lakagígar. It is a volcanic fissure of 27 kilometers (16 miles) created in 1783. At the same time, you can visit the breathtaking surroundings as it is part of the Vatnajökull National Park.

4. Volcanic craters in North Iceland

Touring the Ring Road? You’ll want to go admire the large craters and calderas of the otherworldly Lake Mývatn area. This region is renowned for its unusual terrain and geothermal activity.

The first one of note is the Krafla caldera. It has a diameter of 10 kilometers (6 miles) so it is vast! You could also visit the Hverfell volcanic crater located nearby. With a diameter of 1 kilometer (0.6 miles), it is one of the biggest tephra craters in Europe.

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5. Westman Islands

Journey to Heimaey, a volcanic island that’s part of the Westman Islands archipelago. It is located just off the south coast and has a rich cultural and seismic history. Come witness the lava fields that engulfed some of the houses on the island during the eruption of 1973.

Hike to the top of Mount Eldfell, discover the stunning elephant rock formation, and sail around the islands. You might even catch sight of whales, seals, and puffins.

6. Þríhnúkagígur volcano

The ultimate excursion has to be going deep inside a volcano, right? Well, it’s possible at the dormant Þríhnúkagígur.

After a moderate hike to reach the crater, you’ll descend 120 meters (400 feet) to the bottom via a cable lift. This way you can truly enjoy an insider look of what lies beneath the surface.

Walking up Þríhnúkagígur is a big part of the experience as you’ll be rewarded by stunning scenery all around.

• See the activities you could add to your itinerary with Iceland Tours.

Bonus: Perlan

This is one of Reykjavík’s top attractions. Perlan allows you to experience the natural wonders of Iceland from the safety and warmth of a museum, volcanoes included.

Here you could walk through the city’s first and only ice cave, a detailed replica of the inside of a glacier. Learn about and take in the dangers and beauty of volcanoes. And witness the famous Northern Lights at Iceland’s only planetarium.

• Visit between October and April on an Iceland winter tour or Northern Lights travel package.
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Planning your Iceland volcano vacation

There are many ways to explore Iceland and its volcanic attractions. You could opt for a road trip, a city break, a camping adventure, or a private tour.

Why not let a local organize the adventure for you? Book with Iceland Tours and you’ll benefit from itineraries made with our travel consultants’ insider knowledge. You can expect tried-and-tested routes and accommodations, trusted suppliers, and plenty of advice.

They’ll suggest volcanic excursions to add to your tour while you explore Iceland at your own pace. You’ll also have access to our 24/7 helpline while you’re here.

When you’re ready to plan your volcanic adventure, check out our Iceland vacation packages.