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In the grand orchestra of nature, Iceland’s volcanoes play a symphony of creation and destruction in a relentless rhythm. It’s on this land of extreme contrast, where fire meets ice, that a complex network of volcanoes stands, some sleeping peacefully, others murmuring softly, signalling a raw power ready to unleash at any moment. But which are the most monitored? From Grímsvötn to Eyjafjallajökull, here are Iceland’s most active volcanoes – which, nonetheless, can be visited, as it would be a pity not to.
❓ Italian threat. A common question for travellers heading to Naples, Italy: can Mount Vesuvius erupt? Here’s our answer.
Why are there so many volcanoes in Iceland?
The answer lies in its unique position on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, a tectonic boundary where the Eurasian and North American plates are continually drifting apart. This ongoing separation, at a rate of about 2.5 centimetres per year, allows magma to emerge from the depths of the Earth, fuelling the magmatic chambers of Icelandic volcanoes and creating new land formations.
The effects of this phenomenon are not limited to spectacular eruptions and the creation of new terrain. It also shapes a rich geothermal landscape with hot springs, geysers, and fumaroles, highlighting the underground volcanic activity taking place just beneath our feet.
The seven most threatening volcanoes in Iceland
Grímsvötn volcano
🌋 Last eruption: 2021
📍 Location: southeast Iceland (map)
Description: Grímsvötn, nestled under the Vatnajökull glacier, is Iceland’s most active volcano, with about 65 known eruptions over the last 800 years. It’s characterized by frequent, but relatively small eruptions. The heat of the volcano causes constant melting of the glacier, creating a subglacial lake that can lead to glacial floods called “jökulhlaups” when it overflows. Grímsvötn’s eruptions tend to be explosive due to the interaction of hot lava with glacier water.
🗺️ How to visit Grímsvötn Volcano? Generally, Grímsvötn itself is not a common destination for average tourists due to its limited accessibility and potentially dangerous conditions associated with volcanic activity and glacial conditions. However, you can access Vatnajökull, the largest ice cap in Iceland and the second-largest glacier in Europe
The Bárðarbunga volcano
🌋 Last eruption: 2014-2015
📍 Location: southeast Iceland (map)
Description : Bárðarbunga is another giant located under the Vatnajökull glacier. Its last eruption, between 2014 and 2015, produced the largest lava flow in Iceland in over 200 years. This complex volcanic system includes a large caldera and a network of fissures extending over several kilometres. It is continuously monitored due to its potential for significant and potentially dangerous eruptions.
🗺️ How to visit the Bárðarbunga volcano ? Like Grímsvötn, visiting Bárðarbunga is a serious undertaking due to the harsh conditions and risks associated with volcanic activity. Typically, excursions to Bárðarbunga are carried out by scientific research teams, not tourists. However, specialized companies do offer guided tours to the volcano, especially when there are no signs of imminent activity. The easiest way to admire it is by opting for a helicopter tour.
The Hekla volcano
🌋 Last eruption: 2000
📍 Location: southern south Iceland (map)
Description : Hekla is one of Iceland’s most famous and active volcanoes. With a history of violent eruptions, some of which have thrown ashes as far as continental Europe, it’s nicknamed “The Gateway to Hell” by locals. Hekla is known for its unpredictable eruptions, with very short warning signs, making monitoring and preparation essential for the safety of surrounding communities.
🗺️ How to visit the Helka volcano? Unlike some other volcanoes in Iceland on this list, Hekla is more accessible, and there are several options for visiting this impressive site. The best way to explore it is to join a day tour from Reykjavík, with experienced guides to ensure a safe and enriching visit. The hike, taking about eight hours in total, is best undertaken in summer.
The Katla volcano
🌋 Last significant eruption: 1918
📍 Location: southern south Iceland (map)
Description : Located under the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, Katla is one of Iceland’s most powerful volcanoes. Despite a period of relative inactivity since its last major eruption in 1918, the volcano has experienced a number of minor eruptions, the latest in 2011. It is constantly monitored, as a major eruption could potentially cause significant glacial floods and disperse volcanic ashes over vast areas.
🗺️ How to visit the Katla volcano? Again, this is a bit complex as it’s located under an ice cap. However, a trail allows you to walk on the glacier, always a memorable experience. Moreover, the area is traversed by ice caves that you can explore – not all of them, depending on conditions. For instance, Troll Expeditions offers tours in this truly magical place.
The Eyjafjallajökull volcano
🌋 Last eruption: 2010
📍 Location: southern south Iceland (map)
Description : The 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajökull brought this volcano into the global spotlight, severely disrupting European air traffic for several weeks. Located west of Katla, it is often closely monitored, as historical activity suggests that eruptions of Eyjafjallajökull can sometimes precede more dangerous eruptions of Katla.
🗺️ How to visit the Eyjafjallajökull volcano? If you still have the impressive images of the 2010 eruption in mind, rest assured: it can be easily visited by taking the south side. Tours generally start from the nearby town of Hvolsvöllur. But again, it’s best to be accompanied by professionals for a jeep or snowmobile outing.
The Öræfajökull volcano
🌋 Last eruption: 1728
📍 Location: southeast Iceland (map)
Description : Part of the Vatnajökull glacier system, which we’ve already discussed, Öræfajökull is Iceland’s largest active volcano and also hosts the country’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnjúkur. Its last eruption in 1728 was followed by a long period of inactivity. However, signs of increasing activity since 2017, including the expansion of a caldera and increased seismic activity, have led to heightened monitoring.
🗺️ How to visit the Öræfajökull volcano? The Vatnajökull glacier, which covers it, offers visitors unforgettable walks, organized by local agencies. You’ll find scenic trails and glacial lagoons, like the famous Jökulsárlón.
Fagradalsfjall volcano
🌋 Last eruption: 2021
📍 Location: southwest Iceland (map)
Description: Located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, Fagradalsfjall captivated the world’s attention with its 2021 eruption, showcasing spectacular lava fountains. While the eruption posed no significant threat to nearby populated areas, it provided a visual reminder of Iceland’s dynamic geological activity.
🗺️ How to visit Fagradalsfjall volcano? Although it has shown recent activity, you can approach the volcano from its south side. There are several trails (A, B, and C), but they are modified depending on the lava flows of the giant. Taking a guide is, once again, a good idea. The reward? An incredible landscape of rocks and furrows shaped by fire.
Travelling to Iceland: how to find out about volcanoes at risk?
Worried about a volcanic eruption in Iceland during your stay? First, don’t panic; most of these eruptions do not impact the lives of residents or tourists. Nonetheless, it’s important to stay well-informed.
Firstly, you can visit the Icelandic Meteorological Office’s website, where you’ll find regularly updated information on seismic and volcanic activity. Additionally, for those interested in more in-depth analyses and articles on Icelandic geology, the Iceland Geology website is an invaluable resource.
In case of activity, don’t forget to check the road conditions and driving situation on the website of The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration. This will allow you to plan your route realistically and safely, considering current and forecasted conditions, especially in areas near active volcanoes.
Finally, for comprehensive coverage of safety measures and evacuation procedures, the Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management is the ideal place to stay informed. It’s recommended to follow their updates and advice to ensure a trouble-free trip.
We hope this overview of active volcanoes in Iceland helps you better plan your stay or answers some of your questions. Enjoy your Icelandic journey!