August 3rd, 2022 - An eruption has started in Mt. Fagradalsfjall again - click to read
After a little less than a week of a robust seismic swarm ongoing just northeast of Fagradalsfjall in Reykjanes, an eruption has started again in Merardalir, a little north of the last eruption.
Before you visit the site, please read through the information in the boxes below and familiarize yourself with the safety guidelines from authorities.
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. On Safetravel.is, you can find daily updates on opening and conditions on-site.
Below, we have gathered information and frequently asked questions that can help you to 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 24/7 to all visitors. Keep in mind that the area can be closed due to weather or other unforeseen changes. The Safetravel website is updated regularly with further information.
Is the eruption still ongoing?
Currently there is no activity at the eruption site. A new eruption started on the 3rd of August 2022 in Mt. Fagradalsfjall and enden August 22nd.
Can I bring children to the eruption site?
It is now allowed to bring children to the eruption site. Parents are reminded that the hike can take up to 5-6 hours.
Do I need a guide to visit the eruption site?
No, the area is open to everyone, which means you can do the hike yourself. If you prefer a guided tour, then there are tourism companies that offer you some solutions. 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 can be very 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 art. 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 maintenance of it. 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 condition 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 for a bathroom break?
There are no toilets in the area at this moment.
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.