Iceland, the “Land of Fire and Ice,” is a volcanic hotspot with some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on the planet. But don’t worry – all Icelandic Roamers tours are far from the current volcanic activity, so you can explore safely. With the recent eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula, it’s the perfect time to dive into Iceland’s volcanic wonders. Let’s take a virtual tour of the island’s most famous volcanoes and learn some cool facts along the way!
Eyjafjallajökull: The Showstopper
Remember when Eyjafjallajökull erupted in 2010 and everyone struggled to pronounce its name? This glacier-covered volcano sent ash plumes high into the sky, disrupting air travel across Europe. It’s a reminder of nature’s power – and the importance of checking flight updates!
Key Facts:
- Last Eruption: 2010
- Elevation: 1,651 meters
- Notable Impact: The 2010 eruption caused the largest air travel disruption since World War II.
Katla: The Hidden Giant
Katla lurks beneath the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, and when it erupts, it can cause massive glacial floods called jökulhlaups (literally translating into “glacial run”). The last big one was in 1918, but Katla’s restlessness keeps scientists on their toes. If you’re into dramatic landscapes, Katla is your go-to.
Key Facts:
- Last Major Eruption: 1918
- Elevation: 1,512 meters
- Notable Impact: Potential to produce catastrophic floods affecting nearby settlements.
Hekla: The Gateway to Hell
Hekla is one of Iceland’s most active volcanoes, nicknamed the “Gateway to Hell” in medieval times. With over 20 eruptions since the 9th century, Hekla has shaped much of Iceland’s landscape. Its eruptions are as varied as they are frequent, making it a fascinating subject for geologists and adventure seekers alike.
Key Facts:
- Last Eruption: 2000
- Elevation: 1,488 meters
- Notable Impact: Its historical eruptions have significantly shaped Iceland’s landscape.
Grímsvötn: The Ice King
Nestled under the Vatnajökull glacier, Grímsvötn is Iceland’s most active volcano. Its eruptions are often accompanied by spectacular glacial floods. The 2011 eruption shot ash clouds into the sky, disrupting air travel just like Eyjafjallajökull.
Key Facts:
- Last Eruption: 2011
- Elevation: 1,725 meters
- Notable Impact: Known for producing large jökulhlaups, a type of outburst flood.
Bárðarbunga: The Mighty Caldera
Part of a massive volcanic system under Vatnajökull, Bárðarbunga’s 2014–2015 eruption created the largest lava flow in Iceland since 1783. The Holuhraun lava field is a testament to its power, making Bárðarbunga a must-see for lava lovers.
Fagradalsfjall: The New Star
Fagradalsfjall erupted in 2021 after a long 800-year nap. Located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, this volcano has become a hot spot for tourists and scientists alike, offering an up-close look at volcanic activity.
Recent Eruptions and Their Impact
Starting in December 2023 and continuing through 2024, the Reykjanes Peninsula has been buzzing with activity. The latest eruption, just a few days ago, opened a 3-kilometer-long fissure, spewing lava and gas near the town of Grindavík. While it’s a thrilling sight, it’s also a reminder of the raw power beneath Iceland’s surface. Importantly, these eruptions are far from our tour areas, so your adventure with Icelandic Roamers remains perfectly safe and unaffected.
Visiting Iceland’s Volcanoes: Safety Tips
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on updates from the Icelandic Met Office.
- Join Guided Tours: Safety first! Our guided tours ensure you get the best experience without the risks.
- Respect the Warnings: Heed local advice and avoid restricted zones.
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Icelandic Roamers Volcano Tours
At Icelandic Roamers, you’ll find a variety of fantastic tours from Reykjavik, and some of them will bring you close to Iceland’s volcanic wonders. Not sure which one to choose? Here’s your quick guide:
South Coast Tours
Have an unforgettable drive along the infamous Eyjafjallajökul, catch a glimpse of the neighboring Katla and witness the dramatic landscapes formed by their eruptions.
Thórsmörk – Valley of Thór
Discover the breathtaking Thórsmörk valley, shaped by volcanic and glacial activity, and witness the traces of the notorious Eyjafjallajökull’s 2010 eruption.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Experience the “glacier touch”, driving along the legendary Snæfellsjökull volcano, which inspired Jules Verne’s “Journey to the Center of the Earth.”
Have a ride through Snæfellsnes >
Our tours are led by experienced guides who provide fascinating insights into Iceland’s geological history. Book with us to safely and thoroughly explore these incredible volcanic sites.
Conclusion
Iceland’s volcanoes are a magnificent display of nature’s power and beauty. From the infamous Eyjafjallajökull to the recent eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula, these natural wonders are both a draw for tourists and a field of study for scientists. Ready to turn up the heat? Join Icelandic Roamers for an unforgettable adventure through the land of fire and ice!