How to visit an active volcano in Iceland?
An eruption site is never a safe area! Visit the volcano at your own risk!
Iceland was shaking again this summer and recently it gave us another natural show to watch: another active volcano spreading lava high in the air.
Since 2021, on the Reykjanes peninsula, the same volcanic system at Fagradalsfjall erupted for the third time, giving us another natural show to marvel at.
Is very understandable that seeing a volcano erupt is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but this is also very dangerous and if you still want to go you have to take into consideration many rules.
The eruption area is never a safe place!
But how to visit an active volcano in Iceland in these conditions? Let’s find out!
General rules for visiting the volcano
First things first, we have to understand that eruptions are a natural phenomenon and can not be controlled by humans. Also, Iceland is a volcanic island and the population is trained and educated when it comes to handling the effects of volcanic eruptions.
If happens that you are in Iceland and a volcano is erupting, do not panic.
Even if it is a small eruption or a big eruption like the one that happened in 2011, panic will not help the situation. Simply follow the recommendations of the authorities.
The second important thing is to not rush to visit the volcano as soon as it starts erupting. The area needs to be researched first and then if it is safe, the access of the tourists will be permitted. That’s why you have to wait for everything to be safe.
Follow the news and the scientific reports before planning anything volcano-related. It is recommended that you always access the safetravel.is – a website for updates and news about the eruption, weather, roads and more.
You have to understand that some days the eruption site might be closed due to the danger caused by new cracks, gas pollution or earthquakes. Follow the recommendations and do not go there when the site is closed!
The third important thing is that once there is a trail to the volcano and public access is permitted, you have to follow the trail. There is no need to be special and create your trail as this thing might cost you your life.
The trails are marked with poles and they were researched first to be safe for the travellers to hike to the volcano. The ground in the area around the volcano is never safe as there is a possibility that a new crack can open within seconds and swallow you into the lava.
Another thing about the hiking trails to the volcano is that they are not for everybody. Sometimes they are shorter, sometimes longer but you always have to prepare and consider your physical condition before going hiking.
The terrain in Iceland is usually not as easy to hike as in other countries due to all the pebbles and rocks that might represent a difficulty for some people.
The last and most important thing is that once you get near the volcano you have to keep a safe distance from the erupting area. Do not risk your life by stepping on lava even if it looks cooled and do not climb the crater.
This might sound so normal for the majority of people but I saw people climbing the crater and stepping on the lava at the recent eruption and this is very irresponsible and dangerous.
Also, do not plan a visit to Iceland only to visit the volcano, Iceland has many other beautiful things to offer for visitors and the volcano might stop erupting until you come to Iceland so do not make the volcano the main reason to visit Iceland.
How to prepare for the hike?
You should have waterproof clothes and at least two layers of clothes, depending on the season. Sturdy hiking boots are very recommended. There are strong winds and sometimes may rain so you have to be well dressed.
Take water and food with you. The hiking trail may be long and you will need to hydrate and regain energy to continue the hike. There are no shops that await you there so be prepared.
Take hiking poles with you, they might be very helpful. And of course, do not forget your camera or your phone.
While planning the trip to the volcano, search first how long will take you to hike there and how much time you need to plan for this. Eruptions are everytime different and the hiking trails may be longer or shorter.
How to get to the volcano?
There is no public transportation if you want to visit an active volcano you will need to have a car. When you arrive at the starting point of the hiking trail do not stop or park your can on the road or the side.
This is a general rule in Iceland and is even more important near the eruption site because the road needs to be empty for emergencies, rescue teams, scientists and everyone who needs to pass on that road.
Search for the parking space to park your car. The Icelandic authorities are always preparing a parking area. Keep in mind that the parking area might require you to pay a fee as the land is private.
Alternatives for seeing the volcano
Now if you want to visit an active volcano there will be always guided tours and helicopter tours you can book and visit the volcano responsibly and safely. You can check our website page and book a helicopter or plane tour of the volcano.
Be responsible and have fun when you go to visit an active volcano!
