Experience Iceland’s Erupting Volcano Right Now

Just over a year ago, I embarked on a journey to Iceland that ranks among the most breathtaking adventures of my life. Witnessing a volcano erupt up close is a rare experience—and I walked away unscathed. Plus, I climbed a glacier and marveled at icebergs on a sparkling beach just days later. My four-day tour with Hidden Iceland guide Ryan Connolly left me (very) humbled by the forces of nature and deepened my appreciation for Iceland—its varied landscapes, vibrant culture, and the rapid transformations of the Earth that occur right before our eyes.

When another volcano began erupting in Iceland last week, Ryan updated us with the latest information. In brief: Yes, you can visit and observe the lava, but be prepared for a steep hike, and conditions may change next week.

LDR: Is this the same eruption site as in 2021? If not, how far is it from there?

RC: This new eruption, which began on August 3, 2022, is occurring at the same general location as the Geldingadalur volcanic eruption, also referred to as Fagradalsfjall [which erupted from March to September 2021]. The key difference is that lava is now emerging from a new 300-meter fissure that opened on the northeast side of the original craters in a valley known as Meradalur. New craters are already forming, and the lava flow is substantial. This indicates that the lava/magma originates from the same magma chamber but is now being released from a different location.

The captivating aspect of this new fissure is that reaching it requires you to traverse the edges of the cooled lava field from the 2021 eruption, passing by the two main craters formed last year.

This means the hike to the new volcanic eruption is stunning yet significantly longer than the trek to the 2021 site. The journey to the new fissure spans about 14 km/9 miles and includes sections with rough terrain, loose rocks, and a few steep areas. I estimate the hike (each way) takes around 2 to 2.5 hours for the average hiker. Local authorities are actively working to improve the trails and have begun installing reflectors to guide visitors. While I believe the path and facilities will enhance over time, for now, this hike is best suited for experienced hikers in good physical condition.

The 2021 eruption attracted thousands of locals and tourists as spectators. Is there a volcanic eruption that can be considered safe (or safer) to observe?

No volcano can ever be considered completely safe to visit. After all, there’s lava erupting at temperatures up to 1,250 degrees Celsius in all directions. So, is this volcano “safe to view”? With appropriate caution, the right guide, and by choosing the safest viewing platforms, I believe travelers can appreciate it as long as they heed professional advice. As a wilderness guide in Iceland, I may be biased in saying it’s definitely worth it—but the decision ultimately lies with you. There will always be risks, and it’s up to each individual to decide if they’re worth taking.

The main reason I find this volcano manageable to visit is due to the nature of the eruption itself. The term “predictable” isn’t often associated with Icelandic volcanoes, and I won't label it as such here. That said, this eruption (and the last) is classified as an “effusive eruption,” meaning that most of the activity involves lava flow, which is less explosive. Although lava can be intimidating, it is somewhat more predictable and easier to manage (from a viewing perspective) than “explosive eruptions,” which can launch debris high into the air over great distances.

Another crucial factor regarding volcanoes is the hazardous gases they release. Each eruption is unique. The 2021 eruption emitted various harmful gases, which required caution in choosing viewing spots. High hills are ideal, while deep valleys are less safe. This eruption is no different.

What’s happening on the ground right now?

A warning has been issued regarding the potential for a new fissure to emerge near the current lava flow. This means that the new eruption might still have surprises in store for us.

As of now, with the new fissure actively releasing lava into the Meradalur valley and being close to where the anticipated “next fissure” could open, it's not safe to approach the lava flow as closely as we did in 2021. There are simply too many variables to consider on a guided tour. However, that doesn't mean you can't still visit.

Fortunately, the current eruption is quite significant, and the nearby hills where we take our guests provide an ideal vantage point for one of the most stunning views you could ever experience. Just like with the previous eruption, the volcano evolves and surprises us almost daily, so each visit offers new experiences and perspectives. I recommend not waiting too long to come and see it for yourself.

What’s the best (and most responsible) way to view the volcano?

Avoid venturing into the Meradalur valley where you risk exposure to gases and are very close to the lava flow. Staying with an experienced wilderness guide and checking in with local authorities (like safetravel.is) will help ensure a safe visit. Guides from Hidden Iceland are well-acquainted with this terrain. On any given day, at least one Hidden Iceland guide on site will carry a gas monitor, gas mask, satellite radio, and a full wilderness rescue pack, along with access to the latest information from local authorities. Traveling with a dedicated local guide is the safest way to witness this natural spectacle.

The safest route (as of now) is to take Route A from the main parking area and follow the reflective markers along the edge of the cooled lava fields from the 2021 eruption. After a hike of 7 km (about 4.5 miles) and some steep sections, you will be able to get a close-up view of the new fissure. Keep in mind that while this is the best route today, it could change significantly as soon as next week.

What tours is Hidden Iceland offering?

Hidden Iceland currently provides a private version of this volcanic eruption hike, available either as a day trip or part of a multiday experience that includes visiting Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in the southeast and engaging in glacier hikes. For those who may not be avid hikers or possess a good fitness level, we can also arrange helicopter flyovers with local partners. While the last eruption lasted six months, there’s no guarantee this one will follow the same pattern.

How far is the eruption from . . . everything else?

The starting car park for your hike is just a 20-minute drive from the airport. It’s also only 50 minutes from Reykjavík and a mere 10 minutes from the renowned Blue Lagoon in the town of Grindavík. Since the volcano is erupting in the same general area as the 2021 eruption, many facilities remain in place, such as the car park, temporary toilets, and designated areas for search and rescue teams. The main downside is the length of the walk itself.