Hiking to the Fagradalsfjall volcano

One of Iceland's biggest tourist attractions is the Fagradalsfjall volcano in Iceland, which gives you an opportunity to witness a volcanic eruption up close - a lifetime experience for most people. Whether you prefer hiking to the volcano or watching the spewing lava from the air, there are different possibilities for visiting the eruption site on the Reykjanes peninsula.

WHERE TO PARK? - DRIVE AND HIKE 

The eruption site is located within a 50-minute drive from Reykjavík. Take road 41 towards Keflavík, turn to road 43 towards Grindavík, and follow road 427 until you see the marked parking lots. Parking along road 427 is forbidden, but you can find a map with hiking routes and parking spots here. The parking fee of 1000 ISK (8 USD) can be paid electronically at Parka.is.

HOW LONG IS THE HIKE? - HIKING ROUTES TO THE VOLCANO 

Below you find possible hiking routes to the volcano. Please note that they are constantly changing due to the changes in the lava size and flow directions. So before you get started, check SafeTravel.is for daily updated weather information, GPS tracks and hiking maps. Also, note that the paths have a rugged terrain with gravel, rocks and steep hills. It is strongly advised to wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring hiking poles for balance.

Path A is closed due to lava flow.

Path B is 3.3 km long and leads to the backside of the crater. The hike takes  2-3 hours (return trip) and lies through partially steep and challenging terrain.  Taking this route is NOT advised if the wind is blowing from the East due to possible pollution from volcanic gasses.

Path C by Langihryggur is 4.5 km long, to a spot where you can see the front of the crater. It is a 3-4 hour hike, and the path leads through partially challenging terrain and has one very steep elevation.  Taking this route is NOT advised if the wind is blowing from the West due to possible pollution from volcanic gasses.

Path C to Nátthagi is 2km long and a much easier hike. There you can see the newly formed lava, but not the crater itself.

Are you up for it? Check out this article on Safety at the eruption site.

GUIDED TOURS TO THE VOLCANO

Many tour operators offer guided tours to the volcano. Visiting with a local guide is highly recommended to get the most out of the experience and maximum safety. The tours may include a pick-up from Reykjavík or meeting with your guide at the parking if you prefer to drive there yourself.  

OTHER WAYS TO GET THERE - BY AIRPLANE OR HELICOPTER 

If hiking to the volcano in Iceland is not your thing: witnessing the eruption from above is a unique and very exclusive experience. So, if you would like to get a bird’s eye view of Fagradalsfjall, a helicopter or airplane flight over the volcano might be the right option for you. 

AVAILABLE LIVE STREAMS 

 Can’t come to Iceland and take a look for yourself? Check out the collection of live streams from the eruption site: