When it was erupting, Fagradalsfjall volcano was one of Iceland's hottest attractions. After almost a year of laying low since its first eruption in 2021, the volcano started erupting again on 3 August 2022. Although molten lava isn't flowing at the moment, this is still one of the country’s must-see destinations.
Don’t worry if you missed out on the March 2021 eruption, you still have the chance to witness a volcanic site first-hand. Follow the latest advice to access the site easily and safely.
Plus, unlike the well-known 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption, the Fagradalsfjall volcano did not cause any disruption to air travel. In fact, you may even catch a glimpse of the recently formed lava fields from your plane as you descend into Keflavík Airport!
- Check out this Iceland volcano eruption page for updates
Where is the Fagradalsfjall volcano located?
The eruption site at Fagradalsfjall is located in an uninhabited area of the Reykjanes peninsula. The nearest town is Grindavík on the southwest coast. It’s approximately 32 kilometres (20 miles) from the capital, Reykjavík.
You’ll see most of the freshest lava fields in the Meradalir valley (or “Valley of the Mares”). But the eruption that started in 2021 was at a slightly different site, the Geldingadalir valley.
When did the last volcano start erupting in Iceland?
Volcanic activity at Fagradalsfjall began back in March 2021, after some intense seismic activity. Finally, lava breached the surface of the Earth and started to fill Geldingadalir valley.
The 2021 eruption lasted for around 6 months. If you visited then you might have seen lava flowing from the volcano’s gaping caldera.
As before, the 2022 eruption started after a series of earthquakes shook the region’s tectonic plates. At first, scientists weren’t sure if the lava would break free. But then glowing molten rock started spewing out of the ground on 3 August for around 3 weeks.
Is it worth going to see the eruption at Fagradalsfjall?
Definitely! Although the volcano has stopped erupting for now, the site offers you a unique opportunity to see freshly formed lava fields up close.
- Explore these Iceland volcano tour packages
How do you hike to the Fagradalsfjall volcano?
There’s a marked trail leading from the main car park to the newly formed lava fields in Meradalir valley. Following the markers for Route A will take you alongside solidified lava from the 2021 eruption.
You’ll hike for about 7 kilometres (4.5 miles) one way on rolling, and at times steep terrain, to arrive at the edge of the most recent eruption site. The round trip takes around 4-5 hours, depending on your level of fitness. And this doesn’t include the time you’ll spend there once you arrive at the volcano.
There’s also a trail that’ll take you up Langihryggur ridge, from another car park, near the main one.
From Langihryggur you can get a birds-eye view of the 2021 eruption site. This includes lava fields in Nátthagi valley and the caldera (the hole in the volcano peak where molten lava erupted from). That said, this hilly trail is only recommended for those with a good fitness level.
- Fancy doing even more than the Fagradalsfjall volcano hike? Take a look at these active tours in Iceland
Can you walk on the lava in Iceland?
Touching or walking on even solidified lava is extremely dangerous so you should not attempt to do so. Make sure you enjoy this sight from a safe and comfortable distance.
Is it safe to walk to the Reykjanes volcano site?
Once the authorities gave the go ahead, many locals and visitors hiked to the site over the 3 weeks that the volcano was erupting. Now that there's no molten lava or gas coming from the volcano, it's even safer to do so as long as the weather allows.
The weather in Iceland can change quickly, so make sure to plan ahead before heading out on a hike. You can check the forecast on the Iceland Meteorological Office website.
During your visit, you'll find that the local authorities have put infrastructure in place. This includes car parks and hiking trails, which allow you to access the site as safely as possible.
That said, nature is unpredictable and the volcano may become active again. In this case, the local authorities may close the site for civil protection when they think it’s best for people to keep away. So it’s worth checking to see whether or not the trail is open before setting out to see the eruption. You can stay up-to-date on the Iceland Safe Travel website.
Having said that, it’s considered safe to visit the eruption site when it’s open. Just stick to the hiking trails and enjoy this natural wonder from a respectful distance.
Please note that if the eruption begins again and you have a condition that affects your breathing – such as asthma – you may not wish to visit the site. And children under 12 are not allowed to go. This is due to the potentially irritating sulphur gases given off when the volcano is active.
When is the best time to visit the Icelandic volcano?
Now that the eruption is over, the best time to visit Fagradalsfjall is when it suits you. Whenever you choose to come, you'll be able to see the newly formed lava fields.
But it's worth bearing in mind, that like the northern lights, a volcano is a natural phenomenon. So although there's no molten lava spewing from the volcano now, the eruption could begin again. This means that when planning your volcano visit, it helps to be open-minded and flexible.
Whenever you decide to visit, we recommend keeping a close eye on both the weather forecast and updates from the Icelandic Civil Protection Agency.
How do you get to the volcanic eruption site in Iceland?
The car parks for Fagradalsfjall are around a 1-hour drive from Reykjavík and 25 minutes from Keflavík Airport. It’s also not far from the famous Blue Lagoon.
We recommend travelling by car, as this will give you the most flexibility. Driving will also allow you enough time to hike the whole trail if you wish and enjoy visiting at your own pace.
The most convenient way to see the fresh lava fields is on a self-drive tour of Iceland. You could drive to Fagradalsfjall on the way to the south coast from Reykjavík.
Or head there on the last day of your trip, en route to the airport. After your volcano hike, you'd drop off your rental car at Keflavík Airport, before flying home. This would be a full day of around 9 hours in total, so it works best if you have an afternoon or evening flight out of Reykjavík.
Parking near the Meradalir valley eruption site
There are parking lots near the start of the trail, which is accessible by the 427 road. This route traces the south side of the Reykjanes peninsula.
It’s worth noting that the car parks may fill up quickly if the eruption begins again. And after rain the car park can be quite muddy, so take care when choosing a space.
You can get directions to the car parks for both Meradalir and the older eruption site on the Visit Reykjanes hiking and parking page.
What should I pack when I visit the Iceland volcano?
Good hiking boots are of course recommended. As on any hike in Iceland, weather conditions can change quickly, so bring a waterproof jacket. It’s best to dress in layers for warmth, but also so you can cool down if you work up a sweat on the way.
As the hike can take several hours, it’s a good idea to bring a water bottle along with snacks or a small picnic.
Lastly, you’ll want to bring a decent camera. Whilst any lava flow can be captured by smartphone camera, an SLR with a zoom lens will offer you the best quality shots. This is because the viewpoint is some distance from the fissure.
So to recap, your Reykjanes volcano trip packing list should include:
- Sturdy hiking shoes
- Walking poles, if you feel you need them
- Waterproof jacket and light layers
- Water bottle
- Snack or small picnic
- SLR camera
Can you help me plan my visit to the Fagradalsfjall eruption?
Of course! Learn more about Fagradallsfjall on this Iceland volcano eruption page, where you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions and the latest updates.
Ready to start planning your Iceland volcano trip? Nordic Visitor will put together the perfect itinerary so you can experience the Fagradallsfjall volcano and many more of Iceland’s natural wonders.
Your Reykjavík-based travel consultant will take care of everything for you. They can customise your tour and will reserve all your accommodation, local transport and activities. All you need to do is book your flight and enjoy your trip!
And at every step of the way, you can contact us with any question, no matter how small. You even get access to our 24/7 helpline once you arrive in Iceland.
For up-to-date travel advice from our local consultants and expert help planning your perfect Iceland itinerary, get in touch.
