How to Visit the Volcano Eruption Site in Iceland

Svanhildur Sif Halldórsdóttir

Svanhildur Sif Halldórsdóttir

Can you visit Fagradalsfjall volcano in Iceland? What do you need to see the new lava field? Do you need to book a volcano tour, or can you go on your own? Find all about the most recent eruption in Iceland here!

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Red lava flowing from an erupting volcano in Iceland
Photo: Arnar Tómasson

Where is the Erupting Volcano in Iceland?

Since 2021, four eruptions have occurred in a relatively small area on Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula. The first two took place at Geldingadalur Valley near the mountain of Fagradalsfjall. The third one was close by in an area called Litli-Hrútur.

The latest eruptions in December of 2023 and the beginning of 2024 were between the mountains Sýlingarfell and Hagafell, just North of Grindavík Town (which was evacuated for safety reasons weeks before the first eruption).

Is the Volcano in Iceland Still Erupting?

Yes. The latest eruption began on March 16th at around 8:20 PM.

How to Visit the Volcano in Iceland

Smoke and lava coming from a crater of Fagradalsfjall Volcano, Iceland.
An aerial view of lava pouring out of an erupting volcano in Iceland

The only way to visit the eruption is with a helicopter tour.  

The Reykjanes Peninsula has seen several eruptions in the last few years, and for the first few eruptions, hiking to the eruption site was possible. However, the latest eruptions were much bigger and more powerful, making the surrounding area unsafe for visitors. We will continue to monitor the situation and keep you updated.

However, when the eruption is happening, you can often see the red glow from several places in and around Reykjavík. These include:

  • Perlan Observation Deck
  • Walking bridge near BSÍ bus terminal
  • Kópavogskirkja Church in Kópavogur Town
  • Hafnarfjörður Town

Summary

The volcano on the Reykjanes Peninsula is currently erupting, and you can visit the eruption site on a helicopter tour.

Hiking to the volcano is strictly forbidden right now.

Keep your safety at the forefront of your mind when visiting Iceland, and listen to the Icelandic Search and Rescue Team. 

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