July 11th, 2023 - Eruption in Reykjanes
On the 10th of July, an eruption started on the Reykjanes peninsula. This eruption is by Mt. Litli-Hrútur between Mt. Fagradalsfjall and Mt. Keilir. The eruption is similar to the present events before the eruption in Mt. Fagradalsfjall last year and in 2021. The eruption is a live natural event and therefore visitors need to take care and follow the instructions from the authorities.
The eruption site at Mt. Fagradalsfjall is a popular destination and therefore a lot of visitors to the area. We encourage you to follow developments particularly closely. Tourism operators, accommodation providers and others who interact with travellers are generally asked to keep their customers informed.
Before travelling to the eruption site it is essential to familiarise yourself with the conditions in the area, the hiking trail, road and weather conditions, and more.
Below, we have gathered information and frequently asked questions to help you prepare for the visit. In the dropdown list are items for further information on hiking trails, maps, and tours available.
If you feel something is missing. Let us know.
Is the eruption site open for a visit?
Generally, the site is open from 9 am to 6 pm, daily. The Reykjanes Police commissioner sends out a message every morning, stating the status of the trails, security on-site and gas and wind forecast. Our website and Safetravel.is website are updated every morning with those updates. Keep in mind that the area can be closed due to weather or other unforeseen changes.
Is the eruption still ongoing?
A new eruption started on the 10th of July in Mt. Stóri-Hrútur and it is still ongoing.
Can I bring children to the eruption site?
It is allowed to bring children of any age to the eruption site, however, it is not recommended by authorities due to gas pollution at the moment. Parents are reminded that longer hikes can take up to 5-6 hours. Follow the instructions from authorities and study our hiking map to see which hike might be the best one for the family.
Do I need a guide to visit the eruption site?
No, the area is open to everyone, so you can hike yourself. If you prefer a guided tour, then there are tourism companies that offer you a variety of tours. You can see what they have to offer here.
Is it allowed to walk on the lava?
According to the Environmental Agency of Iceland, walking on the lava is forbidden and dangerous. The top layer can easily break when stepped on, causing hazards to people. The lava at Fagradalsfjall Volcano is a unique geological monument that we must respect and protect. It is important for visitors to leave no traces such as throwing stones at the lava or making inscriptions on it. Lavas are under special protection according to the act. 61 of the Nature Conservation Act.
One of the biggest risks of walking on new lava is breaking the top layer over an unknown lava tube. Falling into a lava tube that's still several hundred degrees Celcius can lead to injuries.
Do I need to pay for parking?
Yes, the parking fee is 1000 ISK (≈ 8 USD) and can be paid electronically at Parka.is. The payment is valid for 24 hours. There are signs at the parking lots with instructions.
There are currently two parking lots that you can choose from, Parking P1 or Parking P2. You will need to pick the correct payment site accordingly:
Parking P1: https://www.parka.is/pay/geldingadalir/
Parking P2 (Stóri-Leirdalur): https://www.parka.is/pay/volcanoskali/
According to parka.is, the payment is necessary to pay for the infrastructure on-site and its maintenance. The intention is to make access better and increase people's safety. The parking lots are monitored with cameras and if parking is unpaid, an additional fee is added and a bank claim is created. The claim usually goes out one day later, so if you have trouble paying on-site, you are able to finish the payment when you arrive back at your hotel.
For further questions regarding the parking, please contact fagradalshraun@gmail.com (P1 parking) or gsteins@hi.is (P2 parking).
Where is the volcano and where does the hiking trail start?
The Fagradalsfjall Volcano is located on the Reykjanes peninsula close to Grindavík, you can find a map of the area with info about parking and hiking paths here.
How do I prepare for the hike regarding clothing and equipment?
The hiking trails can be challenging and conditions are different day by day and even during the day. If you plan to hike to the volcano it is essential to have good hiking shoes, warm clothing and waterproof outerwear.
Is there any chance of a bathroom break?
The site is still under construction. There are portable bathrooms by parking places P1 and P2.
Does the weather make any difference?
Yes, the weather can make all the difference and determine whether you can reach the eruption site or if you will enjoy the journey or not. You can find Weather information here and a gas forecast here.
Can I rent a bike?
Yes, you can rent an electric bike from 4x4 Adventures Iceland in Grindavík here.