11 Volcanoes in Iceland You Can Visit: A Self-Drive Guide

Important: Volcanic conditions, hiking access and road closures can change at short notice. Before visiting any volcanic area, always check SafeTravel, current road conditions and updates from the Icelandic Meteorological Office.

Iceland Volcanoes at a Glance

How Many Volcanoes Are There in Iceland?

Iceland has dozens of active volcanic systems. The official Catalogue of Icelandic Volcanoes currently identifies 33 active volcanic systems across the country.

Not all of them look like the classic cone-shaped volcano you might imagine. Icelandic volcanic systems can include fissures, crater rows, calderas, lava fields and volcanoes hidden beneath glaciers.

Fortunately, you don’t need to be a volcanologist to enjoy them. Several volcanic areas are located close to Iceland’s main roads and can easily be included in a road trip.

Why Does Iceland Have So Many Volcanoes?

Iceland sits across the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates slowly move apart.

At the same time, Iceland lies above an area of significant volcanic activity deep beneath the Earth. Together, these geological forces are responsible for the frequent eruptions, earthquakes, geothermal areas and extensive lava fields found around the country.

You can see evidence of this geology almost everywhere during an Iceland road trip, particularly on the Reykjanes Peninsula, around Lake Mývatn and in Þingvellir National Park on the Golden Circle.

How Often Do Volcanoes Erupt in Iceland?

There is no simple schedule for volcanic eruptions in Iceland.

Some volcanic systems may remain quiet for centuries, while others can enter periods of repeated activity. The recent eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula are a good example, with several eruptions taking place since 2021.

Rather than relying on an average eruption frequency, it is better to check current volcanic activity when planning your trip.

Below, we take a closer look at the recent Reykjanes eruptions and what they mean for visitors.

Recent Eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula

If you’ve followed news from Iceland in recent years, you may have heard several different names connected with volcanic eruptions: Fagradalsfjall, Geldingadalir, Meradalir, Litli-Hrútur, Svartsengi and Sundhnúkur.

They do not all refer to the same eruption site.

Fagradalsfjall Area: 2021–2023

The first phase of the recent Reykjanes activity took place around Fagradalsfjall:

• 2021: The eruption began on 19 March near Geldingadalir.
• 2022: A new eruption began in the Meradalir area in August.
• 2023: The Litli-Hrútur eruption began in July.

These were three separate eruptions within the wider Fagradalsfjall volcanic area.

Sundhnúkur and Svartsengi: 2023–2025

Later in 2023, the centre of activity shifted west towards Svartsengi and the Sundhnúkur crater row near Grindavík.

A new eruption sequence began on 18 December 2023, followed by further eruptions in January, February, March, May, August and November 2024, and in April and July 2025.

This brought the total to nine eruptions along the Sundhnúkur crater row between December 2023 and July 2025.

As of the Icelandic Meteorological Office’s latest update in July 2026, there is no ongoing eruption. However, ground uplift and magma accumulation continue beneath Svartsengi, meaning further volcanic activity remains possible.

Because conditions can change quickly, always check current official information when planning your visit.

Can You Visit an Active Volcano in Iceland?

Sometimes, but never assume that an active eruption is open to visitors.

Access depends on the location of the eruption, volcanic gases, lava movement, weather, earthquakes and restrictions introduced by Icelandic authorities.

Even when there is no active eruption, you can still visit some of the remarkably young lava fields created during the recent Reykjanes eruptions.

Check the latest information from SafeTravel and the Icelandic Meteorological Office before setting out.

Fagradalsfjall Volcano and the Reykjanes Peninsula

Region: Reykjanes Peninsula
Best for: Recent lava fields and modern volcanic landscapes
4x4 required: No for normal road access
Visit independently: Possible when trails and areas are open

Fagradalsfjall became one of Iceland’s most famous volcanic areas after the eruption that began in March 2021.

Another eruption followed in the wider Fagradalsfjall area in August 2022, followed by the Litli-Hrútur eruption in July 2023.

Together, these eruptions created enormous new lava fields, giving travellers a rare opportunity to see landscapes formed only a few years ago.

However, there is one important distinction: the later eruptions near Grindavík did not take place at Fagradalsfjall.

From December 2023 onwards, the focus of activity shifted towards the Sundhnúkur crater row within the Svartsengi volcanic system. Nine eruptions occurred there through July 2025.

So, when you see news about a recent eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula, don’t automatically assume it happened at Fagradalsfjall.

Can You Visit Fagradalsfjall?

Yes. The Fagradalsfjall area remains one of the best places in Iceland to see lava fields created by the recent eruptions.

However, visiting the area requires hiking. You cannot simply drive up to the craters or lava fields.

You drive to an approved parking area and continue on foot along one of the marked trails.

The landscape is exposed and the terrain includes gravel, steep sections, loose rocks and uneven volcanic ground. Wear proper hiking boots, carry water and dress for changing Icelandic weather.

How Do You Get to Fagradalsfjall?

Fagradalsfjall is on the Reykjanes Peninsula, making it convenient to include near the beginning or end of an Iceland road trip.

It is relatively close to both Keflavík Airport and Reykjavík.

A standard rental car is normally sufficient for reaching the established parking areas when roads are open and conditions are suitable. You then continue to the volcanic area on foot.

Because access arrangements can change, check current parking, road and trail information before travelling.

Hiking at Fagradalsfjall

There are several hiking routes in the Fagradalsfjall area, so the best trail depends on how far you want to walk and which eruption sites you want to see.

Path A – Fagradalsfjall and the 2021–2023 Eruption Sites

Path A is one of the main routes into the Fagradalsfjall volcanic area.

The route towards the eruption landscapes is approximately 12–16 kilometres return, depending partly on where you begin. For many hikers, this means around two to two and a half hours of walking each way.

The route follows the western side of the eruption landscapes and provides access towards viewpoints over lava produced during the recent Fagradalsfjall eruptions.

It is a substantial hike rather than a quick sightseeing stop, so allow enough time and daylight.

Path C – A Shorter Fagradalsfjall Hike

If you would prefer a shorter hike, Path C leads towards the Langihryggur area.

The route to the viewpoint is approximately 8 kilometres return. From here, you can see cooled lava from the earlier Fagradalsfjall activity.

There is also a shorter trail towards Nátthagi, approximately 4 kilometres return, which brings visitors towards the edge of the lava field.

These shorter routes can be useful if you want to experience the volcanic landscape but don't have time for one of the longer hikes.

Which Fagradalsfjall Trail Should You Choose?

Choose your route according to your fitness level, available daylight, weather conditions and what you want to see.

If seeing more of the eruption landscapes is your priority and you are comfortable with a longer walk, Path A may be the better choice.

If you prefer a shorter hike with views over the lava fields, Path C can be more practical.

Trail conditions and access can change, so always confirm the available routes shortly before your visit.

Before Hiking at Fagradalsfjall

Before setting off:

• Check SafeTravel and current local access information.
• Check the weather forecast.
• Check air quality and volcanic gas information when relevant.
• Wear sturdy hiking shoes.
• Bring water and snacks.
• Wear layers and carry waterproof clothing.
• Make sure you have enough daylight.
• Stay on marked trails.
• Respect all closures.
• Never walk onto new lava.

New volcanic terrain can be extremely dangerous even when it appears solid. The Icelandic Meteorological Office warns that the crust over recently formed lava can collapse and may conceal glowing lava underneath.

What About the Newer Sundhnúkur Eruption Sites?

The Sundhnúkur crater row and recent lava fields near Grindavík are separate from Fagradalsfjall.

Do not attempt to enter restricted areas or cross recent lava fields to reach the eruption sites.

Even after an eruption has ended, recent lava can remain unstable and dangerously hot, while volcanic gases may still create local hazards.

Always follow road closures, police instructions and official safety information.

Good to Know

Fagradalsfjall works particularly well as part of a wider Reykjanes Peninsula road trip.

Even when there is no active eruption, the region offers recent lava fields, older volcanic landscapes, geothermal areas, dramatic coastline and clear evidence of Iceland’s ongoing geological activity.

Eyjafjallajokull Volcano

Region: South Iceland
Best for: Famous volcanic history and South Coast scenery
4x4 required: No to see it from the main road
Visit independently: Yes; glacier activities require a guide

Even if you don’t usually follow volcano news, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of Eyjafjallajökull.

Its 2010 eruption produced an ash cloud that caused major disruption to European air travel and turned this difficult-to-pronounce Icelandic volcano into an international celebrity.

Today, Eyjafjallajökull is one of the easiest famous Icelandic volcanoes to include during a South Coast road trip. 

How Do You Visit Eyjafjallajökull?

You can see Eyjafjallajökull while travelling east from Reykjavík along Route 1.

The volcano sits beneath an ice cap, so visiting it is different from hiking towards an exposed crater such as Eldfell. Most travellers experience Eyjafjallajökull by viewing the mountain and glacier from the surrounding South Coast.

If you want to venture onto glacial terrain, join an organised excursion with an experienced glacier guide.

Good to Know

Eyjafjallajökull fits naturally into a South Coast itinerary alongside Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Vík and the surrounding glacier landscapes.

You do not need a 4x4 simply to see the volcano while travelling along Route 1.

Þríhnúkagígur Volcano

Region: Near Reykjavík
Best for: Going inside a volcano
4x4 required: No
Visit independently: Entering the volcano requires an organised tour

Þríhnúkagígur offers a completely different volcanic experience.

Instead of looking across a lava field or towards a crater, visitors can descend into the enormous magma chamber of this dormant volcano.

The experience involves hiking to the site before descending into the chamber using a specialised open lift. It is one of Iceland’s most unusual geological attractions and a great choice for travellers looking for an immersive volcanic experience close to Reykjavík.

How Do You Visit Þríhnúkagígur?

The volcano is located in the Bláfjöll area outside Reykjavík.

An organised tour is required to enter the magma chamber. Tours normally include the walk to the site and the equipment necessary for the descent.

Do You Need a 4x4 to Visit Þríhnúkagígur?

No. You don't normally need to rent a 4x4 specifically for a Þríhnúkagígur excursion.

Grímsvötn Volcanoes

Region: Vatnajökull
Best for: Understanding Iceland’s subglacial volcanic activity
Visit independently: No

Grímsvötn is one of Iceland’s major volcanic systems and lies largely beneath Vatnajökull glacier.

Unlike Fagradalsfjall or Eldfell, this isn't a volcano where most travellers can simply park nearby and hike towards a crater.

Its remote location beneath the glacier makes the area difficult and potentially hazardous to access.

Its most recent eruption took place in 2011.

Can You Visit Grímsvötn?

For most visitors, Grímsvötn is better thought of as part of Iceland's extraordinary volcanic landscape than as a conventional sightseeing stop.

Do not attempt to drive independently across unmarked Highland or glacial terrain to reach it.

If seeing this remote area is particularly important to you, look for specialised guided experiences operated by professionals equipped for glacier and Highland conditions.

An Easier Alternative

You can still experience the landscapes around Vatnajökull during a South Coast road trip.

Skaftafell, glacier viewpoints and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon offer much easier ways to explore this part of Iceland.

_{Photo by Icelandic volcanoes}

Hekla Volcano

Region: South Iceland
Best for: Classic Icelandic volcano scenery
4x4 required: Depends on your route
Visit independently: Easy to view; approaching the mountain requires more planning

Hekla is one of Iceland's best-known volcanoes and has played a prominent role in Icelandic history and European folklore.

During the Middle Ages, stories spread describing Hekla as an entrance to hell: a dramatic reputation encouraged by its frequent historic eruptions.

Its most recent eruption occurred in 2000.

How Do You Visit Hekla?

Hekla can be seen from several roads and viewpoints in South Iceland.

If you simply want to see and photograph the volcano, you do not necessarily need to drive into difficult Highland terrain.

However, routes taking you closer to Hekla may involve Highland roads or F-roads. If your chosen route uses an F-road, you will need a rental vehicle that is permitted on F-roads.

Always check the exact route included in your itinerary rather than assuming every road around Hekla has the same vehicle requirements.

Katla Volcano

Region: South Iceland
Best for: Glacier scenery and ice cave excursions
4x4 required: No to reach Vík and most tour meeting points
Visit independently: View the region independently; glacier access requires a guide

Katla is a large volcanic system beneath Mýrdalsjökull glacier near Vík.

Its last major eruption occurred in 1918.

For travellers, Katla is particularly interesting because glacial and volcanic landscapes meet here. One of the most popular ways to experience the area is through a guided ice cave or glacier excursion.

How Do You Visit Katla?

Drive east from Reykjavík along Route 1 towards Vík.

Many excursions into the Katla and Mýrdalsjökull area depart from Vík or nearby meeting points.

You can reach Vík in a normal rental car when road and weather conditions are suitable, but never attempt to drive onto a glacier yourself.

Glaciers contain crevasses, unstable ice and constantly changing terrain. Always use an experienced guide for glacier travel.

_{Photo by Lava Show}

Snaefellsjokull Volcano

Region: Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Best for: Scenic road trips and dramatic landscapes
4x4 required: No for the standard peninsula route
Visit independently: Yes for viewpoints; glacier travel requires a guide

Snæfellsjökull is one of Iceland's most recognisable volcanoes.

Covered by a glacier and rising above the western end of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, the volcano dominates much of the surrounding landscape.

It also has a famous literary connection: Snæfellsjökull serves as the entrance to the underground world in Jules Verne’s Journey to the Centre of the Earth.

How Do You Visit Snæfellsjökull?

The easiest way is simply to explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula by car.

Driving around the peninsula provides numerous views of the volcano as well as lava fields, beaches, fishing villages, sea cliffs and other natural attractions.

A 4x4 is not normally necessary for the standard road trip around Snæfellsnes.

Can You Climb Snæfellsjökull?

Reaching the summit involves glacier travel, so you should join an organised excursion with appropriate equipment and an experienced guide.

You certainly don't have to climb it to appreciate it. For most travellers, the views from around the peninsula are reason enough to visit.

Askja Volcano

Region: Icelandic Highlands
Best for: Remote Highland adventure
4x4 required: Yes
Visit independently: Suitable for experienced Highland drivers when roads and conditions permit

Askja is one of Iceland's great Highland destinations.

The volcanic system sits deep within Iceland's interior, surrounded by lava fields and stark volcanic landscapes. Its large caldera contains Öskjuvatn lake and the Víti explosion crater.

Reaching Askja is an adventure in itself, as the journey takes travellers deep into Iceland's remote Highlands using the F-road network.

How Do You Get to Askja?

Askja is reached via Highland roads that only open once snow, water levels and road conditions allow.

There is no guaranteed annual opening date.

A suitable 4x4 is required for F-road travel, and depending on the route and current conditions, drivers may encounter river crossings.

Always check current road conditions shortly before setting off.

Should You Drive to Askja Yourself?

Askja is better suited to confident drivers who are comfortable with rough Highland roads, remote travel and potentially challenging conditions.

If you are uncomfortable with river crossings or isolated driving, an organised 4x4 or super jeep excursion is an excellent alternative.

Krafla Volcano

Region: North Iceland, near Lake Mývatn
Best for: Accessible volcanic and geothermal landscapes
4x4 required: No for the main attractions
Visit independently: Yes

If you want impressive volcanic scenery without a long hike or remote Highland expedition, Krafla is one of the best choices in Iceland.

Located near Lake Mývatn, the volcanic system includes craters, lava formations and geothermal landscapes.

Unlike Askja, the main Krafla attractions can be reached without driving on F-roads.

How Do You Visit Krafla?

Krafla is easy to include on a North Iceland or Ring Road itinerary.

From Route 1 near Lake Mývatn, follow the road towards the Krafla area.

A normal rental car is generally sufficient for the main access road when conditions are suitable.

What Else Can You See Nearby?

You can easily combine Krafla with:

• Lake Mývatn
• Hverir geothermal area
• Dimmuborgir lava formations
• Earth Lagoon
• Dettifoss, depending on your itinerary and current road conditions

Krafla is therefore one of the easiest volcanic areas to add to a Ring Road trip.

Bárðarbunga Volcano

Region: Vatnajökull and the central Highlands
Best for: Remote volcanic landscapes and Icelandic geology
Visit independently: Not recommended as a direct destination

Bárðarbunga is one of Iceland's major volcanic systems and lies largely beneath Vatnajökull.

The Bárðarbunga volcanic system was responsible for the Holuhraun eruption of 2014–2015, which created a vast new lava field north of Vatnajökull.

Can You Drive to Bárðarbunga?

Not in the same way that you can drive towards Krafla or Snæfellsjökull.

The surrounding region includes rough Highland terrain and extremely remote volcanic landscapes.

Never leave established roads or tracks in an attempt to get closer to a volcanic area. Off-road driving is illegal in Iceland and can permanently damage the fragile landscape.

If you want to experience this part of the Highlands, choose an established route or a specialised guided excursion rather than trying to reach Bárðarbunga itself.

Eldfell Volcano

Region: Westman Islands
Best for: Hiking and modern volcanic history
4x4 required: No
Visit independently: Yes

For one of Iceland's most rewarding and accessible volcano experiences, head to Eldfell on Heimaey in the Westman Islands.

Eldfell formed during the dramatic 1973 eruption. Most inhabitants of Heimaey were evacuated as lava advanced towards the town and harbour.

Today, visitors can hike Eldfell and look across Heimaey, the surrounding lava fields and the Atlantic Ocean.

How Do You Get to Eldfell?

Take the ferry from the Icelandic mainland to Heimaey.

Depending on your travel plans, you can take a vehicle on the ferry or leave it on the mainland.

Once you're on Heimaey, Eldfell is close to town and considerably easier to reach than remote volcanic destinations such as Askja or Bárðarbunga.

Don't Miss Eldheimar Museum

Combine your hike with a visit to Eldheimar Museum.

The museum tells the story of the 1973 eruption, the evacuation and the impact of the eruption on the island’s residents, making Eldfell much more than simply another scenic volcano.

Which Iceland Volcano Is Best to Visit?

There isn't one volcano that's best for everyone. It depends on your route and the type of experience you're looking for.

For an easy road-trip stop:
Choose Krafla, Snæfellsjökull or Eyjafjallajökull.

For recent volcanic landscapes:
Explore Fagradalsfjall and the Reykjanes Peninsula when current access conditions allow.

For a proper volcano hike:
Fagradalsfjall and Eldfell are two excellent options.

For a unique guided experience:
Go inside Þríhnúkagígur or take a guided Katla glacier or ice cave excursion.

For a remote Highland adventure:
Consider Askja with a suitable 4x4 and favourable conditions.

Do You Need a 4x4 to Visit Iceland's Volcanoes?

Not always.

Several volcanic destinations in this guide can be reached using a normal 2WD rental car, including Eyjafjallajökull, Snæfellsjökull, Krafla and the established road access around Fagradalsfjall.

A 4x4 becomes necessary when your route includes Iceland's F-roads or more challenging Highland destinations such as Askja.

Remember that having a 4x4 does not mean you can drive anywhere. Stay on recognised roads and tracks and check that your rental vehicle is permitted on the roads included in your itinerary.

The easiest way to choose the right rental car is to plan your route first and base your vehicle choice on the most demanding roads you intend to drive.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Iceland's Volcanoes?

It depends on the destination.

Volcanic areas close to Iceland's main roads can often be explored throughout the year when weather and road conditions permit.

Highland destinations such as Askja are primarily summer attractions because the roads into Iceland's interior remain closed until authorities determine that conditions are suitable.

Winter brings different challenges, including snow, ice, strong winds and limited daylight. Even established hiking trails can become difficult or temporarily inaccessible.

Rather than relying on fixed dates, always check conditions shortly before travelling.

Volcano Safety in Iceland

Iceland's volcanoes are incredible places to explore, but volcanic areas are dynamic environments.

Keep these basic rules in mind:

• Check SafeTravel before travelling into volcanic or remote areas.
• Check the Icelandic Meteorological Office for current volcanic activity.
• Check current road conditions before driving.
• Follow all closures and instructions from local authorities.
• Never walk on new or recently formed lava.
• Stay on marked hiking trails where available.
• Never drive off-road.
• Don't enter glaciers without an experienced guide.
• Bring suitable outdoor clothing, water and hiking equipment.
• Allow enough daylight for longer hikes.
• Be prepared to change your plans.

This is particularly important on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Even after the July 2025 eruption ended, authorities continued to warn that recently formed lava could remain unstable and extremely hot beneath its surface.

A flexible itinerary is always the safest approach.

Explore Iceland's Volcanoes on a Self-Drive Trip

One of the best things about exploring Iceland by car is the freedom to experience its volcanic landscapes at your own pace.

You could hike across the young lava landscapes around Fagradalsfjall, look towards the glacier covering Eyjafjallajökull on the South Coast, walk up Eldfell in the Westman Islands and explore the geothermal landscapes around Krafla later in your journey.

Just remember that not every volcano requires the same vehicle or level of preparation.

For a Ring Road or South Coast trip, a 2WD vehicle may be all you need. If your itinerary takes you onto F-roads and into the Highlands, choose a suitable 4x4 and always check road conditions before setting off.

Planning your Iceland volcano road trip? Explore Lava Car Rental's range of economy cars, 4x4s and campervans and choose the vehicle that best suits your Iceland itinerary.