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 a 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?
The eruption site at Sundhnúksgígar is closed for public access, however, you can visit the previous eruption site at Mt. Fagradalsfjall. Check for the most recent updates on Our news website and Safetravel.is These websites are updated regularly to keep you informed.
Is the eruption still ongoing?
Currently there is no ongoing eruption. However, that could change in the coming weeks or months.
Can I bring children to the eruption site?
When open, it is allowed to bring children of any age to the eruption site, however, it is not recommended by authorities due to gas pollution when an eruption is ongoing.
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 trace 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 a hidden 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?
- When visiting the Mt. Fagradalsfjall eruption sites:
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 can 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).
- When visiting the eruption site by Sundhnúksgígar: The site is closed and no hiking trails or parking areas have been defined at this moment. This will be updated.
Where is the volcano and where does the hiking trail start?
- The Fagradalsfjall Volcano is located on the Reykjanes peninsula, east of the town of Grindavík by road no. 427 (Suðurstrandarvegur). A map of the area with info about parking and hiking paths can be found here.
- The eruption site by Sundhnúksgígar is located on the Reykjanes peninsula, north of the town of the town of Grindavík and to the east of the Blue Lagoon, by road no. 43 (Grindavíkurvegur). No hiking trails have been marked for the eruption site as it is currently closed to visitors.
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. It is important to take extra care during the winter as the weather is colder and can change rapidly within the day and location. Safetravel has prepared a list of recommended clothing, see here.
Is there any chance of a bathroom break?
By Mt. Fagradalsfjall the area is still under construction. There are usually portable bathrooms available 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?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to rent a bike due to Grindavík being closed.
