Iceland’s Volcanoes: A Comprehensive Overview

Explore intriguing information about the volcanoes in Iceland, a distinctive feature of its geography. Delve into the volcanic activity in Iceland and significant eruptions throughout history. Learn about volcano tourism and how you can experience these extraordinary natural phenomena in this thorough overview of Iceland’s volcanoes.

Known as the Land of Fire and Ice, Iceland showcases a unique blend of icy glaciers and frigid Arctic conditions clashing with the Earth’s intense heat. This collision results in a landscape of striking contrasts, offering unparalleled beauty.

Iceland’s volcanic formations shape the country’s terrain, giving rise to expansive fields of lava covered in moss, vast stretches of black sand, rugged peaks, thermal springs, geysers, and immense craters.

Many travelers come to Iceland to experience its volcanoes and the incredible sights they offer. Particularly during eruptions like the recent one on the Reykjanes peninsula, more visitors flock to witness this awe-inspiring and captivating natural phenomenon.

The Sundhnukagigar and Litli-Hrutur Volcano Eruptions in Iceland

In July 2023, an eruption began near the Fagradalsfjall volcano on the Reykjanes peninsula, triggered by the Litli-Hrutur mountain. This event marked the third eruption in the region within three years, with the first occurring in 2021, breaking an 800-year period of dormancy on the Reykjanes peninsula.

Preceded by a week of sustained seismic activity mirroring the previous eruptions in 2022 and 2021, locals anticipated volcanic unrest. The eruption commenced on July 10th, unveiling a new fissure that garnered significant interest from onlookers.

Assessment and Response

During the initial day, authorities and experts secured the region for evaluation and data collection. The following day, a designated hiking route was opened for visitors to access the eruption site.

Continued Impact

Although the eruption ceased on August 5th, 2023, the consequences of the volcanic activity are still observable. Iceland was set to encounter further volcanic events throughout the year.

Subsequent Eruption

Several months later, seismic activity resumed in Reykjanes. Concerns arose due to the proximity of the activity to Grindavik and vital infrastructure like the Svartsengi power station and the famous Blue Lagoon.

On December 18th, a fissure opened in Sundhnukagigar, just northeast of Grindavik. While this eruption initially seemed more intense, it soon became evident that it posed no immediate danger to the residents or local environment.

The End of the Eruption

The eruption was short-lived, and on December 21st, it was announced that the volcanic activity had ceased.

Current Eruptions in 2024

In 2024, the Sundhnukagigar crater row is still experiencing regular eruptions. However, these events have not been accessible to visitors. The only way to catch a glimpse of the area is by reserving a helicopter tour to visit the eruption site.

The 2022 Fagradalsfjall Volcano Eruption in Iceland

Fagradalsfjall volcano experienced its second eruption on August 3rd, lasting for three weeks. This event occurred in Meradalir valley on the Reykjanes peninsula, approximately 1 kilometer away from the location of the 2021 Geldingardalur valley eruption. The volcanic rift spanned over 300 meters, with a continuous lava flow of 20-50 square meters per second at the onset, as reported by the Icelandic Meteorological Office.

Preceding the eruption, there was notable seismic activity on the Reykjanes peninsula, with some earthquakes registering as high as magnitude 5.2 and being felt in Reykjavik. Finally, on August 3rd, lava resurfaced for the first time since the previous eruption concluded in September 2021.

Exploring the Fagradalsfjall Eruption Site

After the Fagradalsfjall eruption in Iceland, tourists were drawn to witness the aftermath, resulting in a mesmerizing area covered in black hardened lava. To experience this unique landscape firsthand, consider joining a guided tour.

On-Foot Exploration

To reach the Fagradalsfjall volcano, a two-hour round-trip hike is required. Make sure to wear appropriate hiking gear and warm clothing, as the weather can quickly change, despite the initial pleasant conditions in Iceland.

Aerial View from a Helicopter

For a faster way to observe the eruption site, consider booking a helicopter tour. This option provides a unique perspective, allowing you to marvel at the Meradalir valley from above.

Iceland’s Volcanoes: The Complete Guide

Witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Iceland’s volcanic activity as lava slowly makes its way from the eruption site at Fagradalsfjall, captured daringly by a photographer.

The 2021 Fagradalsfjall Volcano Eruption in Iceland

In 2021, Iceland witnessed a spectacular volcanic eruption on the Reykjanes peninsula, the region that links Reykjavik with Keflavik International Airport. Preceding its eruption, a flurry of earthquakes rattled the capital and its vicinity, usually indicating an upcoming volcanic event.

On March 19, 2021, at 9:30 PM, a massive fissure emerged in the Geldingadalur valley at the Fagradalsfjall volcano, spanning 2,300 feet (700 meters) in length and covering an area of 0.4 square miles (one square kilometer).

Volcano Eruption at Fagradalsfjall in Iceland

Located near the capital, the Fagradalsfjall volcano is situated in a secluded valley, away from any human settlements or infrastructure, making its eruption relatively non-disruptive.

Fagradalsfjall is classified as an effusive volcano, which means that its lava slowly seeps and splutters out onto the surface, rather than erupting explosively with ash, fire, and rocks.

While volcanic eruptions are not uncommon in Iceland, having one occur in close proximity to the capital is rare and drew significant attention.

Various tour operators promptly organized exclusive excursions to witness the eruption at Fagradalsfjall volcano, providing guests with the opportunity to witness the magnificent lava flow and admire the fiery fountains and molten streams, all while being guided by experienced local experts.

Main Eruption Site at Fagradalsfjall Volcano

The initial fissure that emerged at the Fagradalsfjall volcano has now transformed into a large crater following subsequent volcanic activity. Additional fissures have since appeared, highlighting the ever-changing and erratic nature of volcanic phenomena. While the lava has cooled and hardened into a black surface post the September 2021 eruption, it remains intensely hot just beneath the outer layer.

Reasons Behind Iceland’s Volcanic Nature

Iceland’s volcanic nature is a direct result of its location on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, which separates the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. This unique positioning allows Iceland to showcase the ridge above sea level, unlike many other places on Earth.

The Earth’s crust and upper mantle form the tectonic plates, driven by convection currents in the mantle. These plates can either converge to create mountains or diverge to generate oceanic crust. With a total of 15 major tectonic plates, the North American and Eurasian plates rank among the largest ones in the world.

The Divergent Tectonic Plates in Iceland

These two tectonic plates in Iceland are divergent, which means they move apart from each other. This movement causes magma from the mantle to rise and fill the gap between them, leading to volcanic eruptions. Similar geological phenomena can be observed on volcanic islands like the Azores and St. Helena.

Exploring the Rift in Iceland

Iceland offers various locations where visitors can witness parts of the rift, such as the Reykjanes peninsula and the Lake Myvatn Area. However, the most captivating place to experience the divergent plates is Thingvellir. Here, you can stand in a valley between the plates and observe the walls of the continents on either side of Thingvellir National Park. The valley widens by approximately one inch (2.5 centimeters) each year due to the ongoing separation of the plates.

How Many Volcanoes Are There in Iceland?

Approximately 130 volcanoes exist in Iceland, both active and inactive. The majority of these volcanoes are active, with only dormant ones found in the Westfjords region.

The Westfjords area is considered inactive due to its age, dating back around 16 million years and being away from the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. As a result, this region is the sole part of Iceland that relies on electrically-heated water instead of utilizing naturally geothermally-heated water.

How Many Active Volcanoes Are in Iceland?

About 32 active volcanic systems can be found across Iceland except for the Westfjords. Positioned on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, Iceland also lies above a hot spot, indicating unusually high magma activity, similar to famous hot spots like Yellowstone National Park and Hawaii.

The primary active volcanoes in Iceland follow a curved central path running from northeast to southwest. These volcanoes, from north to south, include Krafla, Askja, Laki-Fogrufjoll, Grimsvotn, Hekla, Vatnajokull, and Katla, then Heimaey and Surtsey on the Westman Islands. Grimsvotn stands out as the most active volcano in Iceland.

Map of Volcanoes in Iceland

Presented below is a visual representation outlining the locations of active volcanoes in Iceland, providing a simplified categorization according to their geographical distribution:

Volcanoes Close to Reykjavik

Looking at the map provided, Reykjavik is positioned along the East Volcanic Zone. Close to Reykjavik, there are numerous active volcanoes, including the recent Fagradalsfjall volcano and the currently erupting Litli-Hrutur. These are the closest active volcanoes to Reykjavik, located approximately 18.6 miles (30 kilometers) southwest of the capital.

Frequency of Volcanic Eruptions in Iceland

Volcanic events in Iceland occur regularly, yet their timing is unpredictable. Throughout the 19th century, eruptions happened each decade, although their occurrence intervals vary, sometimes close together and at other times with significant gaps between events.

Prior to the recent eruptions at Litli-Hrutur and Fagradalsfjall, the last notable eruption in Iceland was the Holuhraun volcano in the Highlands in 2014. In 2011, Grimsvotn volcano had a brief eruption, while the Eyjafjallajokull volcano garnered significant attention due to travel disruptions caused in 2010.

Subglacial Volcanic Eruptions in Iceland

The term “known” is employed due to various alleged subglacial volcanic eruptions in different parts of Iceland that did not penetrate the ice. Instances include the Katla volcanic eruption in 2017 and the Hamarinn volcanic eruption in 2011.

Assessing the Risk of Volcanic Eruptions in Iceland

Despite advancements in anticipating and managing volcanic eruptions in Iceland, there remain potential hazards that travelers should take into account:

If a volcanic eruption occurs while you are in Iceland, understanding the direction of the wind is crucial. Even eruptions in the Highlands can impact air quality in Reykjavik if the wind conditions are unfavorable, leading to respiratory issues for vulnerable individuals such as the young and elderly.

It is advised to stay indoors with closed windows during periods of high toxicity levels. Updates on eruption alerts and air quality can be found on the Icelandic weather website.

The Risk of Fatality from Iceland’s Volcanic Eruptions

The likelihood of volcanic eruptions in Iceland posing a risk to human life is currently low. The country’s seismic monitoring stations are highly effective in predicting volcanic activity. When major volcanoes like Katla or Askja show signs of activity, immediate restrictions are put in place, and close supervision is maintained.

Due to the strategic settlement decisions made by early inhabitants, most Icelandic towns are situated far away from active volcanoes. For instance, the south coast of Iceland has minimal human habitation as it is close to major volcanoes like Katla and Eyjafjallajokull, both covered by glaciers. Eruptions from these volcanoes can result in massive glacial floods that can devastate anything in their path towards the ocean, leaving behind a landscape that resembles a black-sand desert.

The Risk of Glacial Floods – Jokulhlaups

Glacial floods, known as jokulhlaups in both Icelandic and English, pose a significant danger in Iceland due to their unpredictable nature. Subglacial eruptions can occur suddenly, leading to flash floods without warning.

Ongoing advancements in science enable the monitoring and clearance of areas suspected of jokulhlaups. It is crucial to heed road closures, even during the summer months when hazards may not be immediately visible.

While most volcanoes are located away from populated areas, unforeseen events can still transpire. Iceland’s prompt emergency response was evident in the successful evacuations following the 1973 eruption of the Heimaey volcano in the Westman Islands.

Wider Effects of Iceland Volcanic Eruptions

Although the risk to human life during an Icelandic eruption is minimal, the wider consequences can be significant. Eruptions in Iceland are global events that can have far-reaching impacts, even extending hundreds of miles away.

The materials brought to the surface during these eruptions can contaminate crops and livestock, affecting those dependent on agriculture. The Holuhraun volcano, for instance, was linked to the widespread death of numerous sheep in 2015, posing a severe threat to the livelihoods of many Icelandic farmers.

The ash clouds generated by Iceland’s volcanoes can also have devastating effects. When the Eyjafjallajokull volcano erupted in 2010, flights were grounded across Europe, causing considerable economic damage. Nonetheless, this was a relatively minor consequence compared to past ash cloud incidents. For example, the eruption of the Laki volcano in 1784 had far more catastrophic outcomes.

The Majestic Fagradalsfjall Volcano in Iceland

Fagradalsfjall volcano in Iceland is a mesmerizing natural wonder, characterized by fountains of fire and rivers of flowing lava. This captivating spectacle showcases the raw power and beauty of Iceland’s geology.

Located in a volcanic region, Fagradalsfjall serves as a reminder of Iceland’s dynamic landscape and geological activity. Visitors to this volcanic site can witness firsthand the awe-inspiring sight of molten lava as it cascades down the slopes, creating a breathtaking display of nature’s force.

With its stunning visuals and dramatic eruptions, Fagradalsfjall volcano attracts adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and curious travelers from around the world. The volcano’s ongoing activity provides a unique opportunity to observe the Earth’s inner workings up close.

What Was Iceland’s Most Devastating Eruption?

The most catastrophic volcanic eruption in Icelandic history, in terms of human impact, occurred during the years 1783-1784 at Laki volcano. This event had profound effects on the climate and nearly tore the nation of Iceland asunder.

With an immense amount of ash spewing from the volcano, crops in Iceland became inedible, and the rivers were contaminated. Half of the livestock perished, and a third of the population succumbed to the resulting famine, known as the “mist hardships” or “móðuharðindin” in Icelandic. Another third of the population chose to leave the country, with many immigrating to North America in search of a better life away from what seemed like a dying land.

1784 Laki Eruption

The eruption of the Laki volcano in 1784 sent an ash cloud across Europe, causing thick fog that paralyzed ports, resulting in severe food shortages and hastening food spoilage due to high temperatures. Outdoor workers were also affected by the poisonous gases, with the UK witnessing around 23,000 fatalities.

France suffered even more profoundly, experiencing catastrophic famines driven by the eruption’s impact on the climate. Many historians connect the 1784 Laki eruption as a key factor that fueled the onset of the French Revolution. Meanwhile, in Egypt, the eruption led to decreased temperatures, lack of rainfall, a dried-up Nile River, and the loss of a significant portion of the population.

Overall, it is believed that the Laki volcano eruption resulted in the death of up to six million individuals. Welcome To Iceland.

1973 Heimaey Westman Islands Eruption

The volcanic archipelago of Westman Islands, with Heimaey serving as the sole inhabited island, experienced a significant eruption in 1973. With a population of 5,200 residents residing there at the time, the eruption commenced in the early hours of January 22, 1973. It began with a fissure opening on the outskirts of town, snaking through the center, destroying roads, and engulfing hundreds of buildings in molten lava.

Despite the eruption occurring during the dark, wintry night, the evacuation of the island was prompt and efficient. The inhabitants were swiftly transported to the mainland, where Icelandic rescue teams collaborated with US soldiers stationed in the country to mitigate the impact.

Through the continuous effort of pumping seawater onto the lava stream, they managed to divert it away from numerous residences. This tactic effectively slowed down the lava flow, preventing the closure of the harbor, a scenario that could have inflicted long-lasting damage to the island’s economy.

Recovery from the Heimaey Eruption

Despite the destruction of nearly 400 homes and significant damage to the island’s infrastructure, only one person tragically lost their life during the Heimaey eruption. Presently, the town has been reconstructed and serves as a hub for tourists interested in engaging in whale or puffin watching activities or delving into its volcanic history.

Utilization of Volcanoes in Iceland

Iceland harnesses the power of its volcanoes for various purposes, including generating electricity, providing hot water, supporting infrastructure, fueling industries, and offering recreational opportunities.

While the fear of eruptions and their aftermath is ever-present in the minds of Icelanders, the country owes much of its identity and development to its volcanic systems and geothermal resources.

Utilizing Geothermal Energy from Icelandic Volcanoes

The Icelandic economy heavily depends on harnessing the geothermal energy present in the region. A significant portion of the country’s hot water supply comes directly from beneath the Earth’s surface, providing an affordable and eco-friendly heating solution for homes and buildings. The year-round cultivation of vegetables, fruits, and herbs in greenhouses is made possible by this geothermal energy, ensuring a steady supply of fresh produce even during harsh winter months.

Moreover, approximately 30 percent of Iceland’s electricity is generated from geothermal power plants, complemented by the rest being sourced from hydroelectric sources. This unique energy mix makes Iceland one of the few nations globally that predominantly relies on renewable energy sources for its power needs.

Nevertheless, it is vital to note that the exploitation of Icelandic volcanoes is not always for beneficial purposes. The gradual rise of heavy industrial activities, especially aluminum smelting, in Iceland signifies the growing interest of foreign companies capitalizing on the abundant and readily available heat resources offered by Icelandic volcanoes.

Exploring Iceland’s Volcanic Tourism

Iceland’s tourism sector thrives on its volcanoes, a crucial aspect of being known as the “Land of Fire and Ice.”

Welcome To Iceland Volcano Tourism

The recent surge in tourism in Iceland is often attributed to the 2010 eruption of the Eyjafjallajokull volcano, despite the havoc it caused to the aviation sector. The eruption, with its unpronounceable name, captured the attention of the world and showcased the country’s natural beauty in all its raw and dramatic glory, motivating many to experience it firsthand.

It is not surprising, then, that a significant portion of the tourism industry in Iceland revolves around exploring volcanoes and volcanic areas. There is a wide range of tours available catering to different interests and preferences.

Tours Exploring the Depths of Iceland’s Volcanoes

The Into the Volcano experience allows visitors to descend into the vast, brightly-colored magma chamber of a dormant volcano using an elevator. This rare opportunity showcases Iceland’s natural beauty at its most spectacular, offering a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Volcanoes are a prominent feature of Iceland’s landscape, with numerous tours exploring these geological wonders. For instance, all Snaefellsnes peninsula tours take place near the impressive Snaefellsjokull volcano. Additionally, excursions around Lake Myvatn offer glimpses of the Krafla volcanic system, while Highland hikes provide further volcanic encounters.

The Fimmvorouhals hiking trail guides hikers through the lava fields formed by Eyjafjallajokull’s recent eruption, allowing them to explore Iceland’s newest craters, including Magni and Mooi.

The Top Nine Most Notable Volcanoes in Iceland

With Iceland boasting more than 130 identified volcanoes, exploring all of them would be quite a feat. Therefore, we have curated a selection of nine volcanoes that we believe every traveler to Iceland should witness in person.

9. Eyjafjallajokull: Iceland’s Most Famous Volcano

The eruption of the Eyjafjallajokull volcano in 2010 caused significant disruption to European flights, making it a well-known natural event. However, in the context of Iceland’s history, this eruption was relatively minor compared to previous incidents.

Among the eruptions of Eyjafjallajokull, the 2010 event stands out as the largest recorded in history. While there were some smaller eruptions before, none matched the scale of this particular eruption.

An extended eruption occurred from 1821 to 1823, while records of earlier eruptions in 1612-1613 and 920 are scarce. Despite these historical events, the volcano’s link to the Katla volcanic system raises concerns, as eruptions at Eyjafjallajokull often precede those at Katla within a few years. Although Katla is overdue for a significant eruption, this sequence has not yet occurred.

The Eyjafjallajokull Volcano: A Popular Attraction

In 2010, the Eyjafjallajokull volcano experienced a significant eruption that captured the attention of thousands of visitors. People from around the world traveled to Iceland to witness this natural spectacle firsthand, some even opting for aerial views by boarding planes or helicopters.

8. Explore Thrihnukagigur Volcano

If you’re looking for a unique experience, Thrihnukagigur volcano in Iceland is the only one in the world where you can enter its magma chamber. This volcano has been dormant for about 4,000 years, ensuring safety during tours while offering a fascinating adventure.

The Thrihnukagigur volcano boasts an impressive magma chamber size of approximately 5,300,000 cubic feet (150,000 cubic meters). Visitors access the chamber by descending 390 feet (120 meters) using a small mining lift at the entrance, revealing a vast cavern base comparable in size to a football field, providing ample space for exploration. To visualize its size, the iconic Statue of Liberty could easily fit inside this remarkable volcano.

One of the most striking features of the Thrihnukagigur volcano’s magma chamber is its vibrant color palette. The lava present in the chamber reflects various elements from the Earth’s mantle, resulting in vivid hues of red, green, and yellow. Iron, copper, and sulfur impart these stunning colors to the chamber’s walls, creating a visual spectacle for visitors to behold.

7. Grimsvotn: Iceland’s Most Dangerous Volcano

The Grimsvotn volcanic system, situated beneath the Vatnajokull glacier in the southeast of Iceland, is known to be the most unpredictable volcanic system in the country. Despite its craters being mostly hidden below the ice, the ash clouds produced during eruptions are extremely significant and dangerous.

Included in this volcanic system is the Laki volcano, infamous for causing widespread chaos in 1783 and 1784 on a global scale.

6. Hekla Volcano: The Entrance to the Underworld

Hekla volcano is renowned as one of Iceland’s most active and well-known volcanoes. In historical times, it earned the moniker “The Gateway to Hell” due to its frequent and tumultuous eruptions. Nevertheless, it remains one of the least predictable volcanoes in Iceland, with eruptions occurring at irregular intervals ranging from nine to 121 years.

Since the early settlement period, Hekla has unleashed chaos several times, ejecting massive amounts of tephra with each eruption. Its most formidable eruption occurred in 1104, while subsequent eruptions in 1300, 1693, and 1845 caused significant damage to animals, structures, and human lives. The most recent eruption, on February 26, 2000, was relatively minor in comparison.

5. Katla Volcano: Eyjafjallajokull Volcano’s Explosive Neighbor

Katla volcano, situated under the Mýrdalsjökull glacier in southeast Iceland, is known for its immense power and explosive nature. Geologists have been monitoring its activity closely, issuing regular warnings due to increased seismic activity and the looming threat of an overdue eruption. Sharing the same volcanic system as Eyjafjallajokull, Katla typically erupts shortly after its neighbor, resulting in significant and impactful events.

This volcano, located beneath the Myrdalsjokull glacier in Southern Iceland, is infamous for producing massive ash clouds and devastating glacial floods known as jokulhlaups during its eruptions.

4. Snaefellsjokull Volcano: Gateway to the Earth’s Core

Snaefellsjokull volcano, situated on the tip of the Snaefellsnes peninsula, is a popular and cherished landmark in Iceland. Its majestic presence serves as a stunning backdrop to numerous attractions in the area and is designated as a national park due to its remarkable beauty.

Not only admired for its natural allure, Snaefellsjokull volcano holds cultural significance as well. Many artists have drawn inspiration from its splendor, including renowned writers like Halldor Laxness, who featured it prominently in “Under the Glacier,” and Jules Verne, who famously depicted it as the entrance to the Earth’s core in “A Journey to the Center of the Earth.”

Celebrating Icelandic Culture and Legends

Many have indulged in the stories about Mount Snæfellsjökull’s purported supernatural qualities. Interestingly, in 1992, a significant number of individuals were convinced that extraterrestrial beings would choose this volcano as a touchdown spot precisely at midnight on November 5th. This led to a sizable assembly of spectators, with global camera teams in attendance, awaiting this extraordinary event. However, the night passed without any remarkable incidents occurring.

3. Askja: Iceland’s Hot Spring Volcano

The volcanic eruption of Askja in 1875 was a significant event that had devastating effects on Iceland. The resulting ashfall poisoned the land, leading to the death of livestock and causing widespread damage, particularly in the Eastfjords region. The impact of the eruption was felt as far as Norway and Sweden and prompted a wave of Icelandic emigration to North America, reminiscent of the Laki eruptions of 1784.

Today, Askja volcano is renowned for the large lake that now fills its caldera, a direct result of the 1875 eruption. Despite its high elevation, the lake remained warm for an extended period before eventually freezing over for most of the year. Additionally, visitors can enjoy bathing in a smaller geothermal lake, Viti, located in a nearby caldera.

2. Krafla: The Cold Crater Lake Volcano

Krafla volcano, located in North Iceland, has been erupting frequently, with a total of 29 eruptions since the country’s settlement. Notably, nine of these eruptions occurred between 1975 and 1984. One of its distinguishing features is the crater lake, known as Viti, within its caldera. Unlike the Viti in Askja volcano, Krafla’s Viti is characterized by its cold, emerald-blue-colored lake, offering a unique and picturesque sight for visitors.

Krafla Volcano

Welcome To Iceland offers tours to Krafla volcano, a favorite destination in the Lake Myvatn region. Situated near the Namafjall geothermal area, this volcano stands at 2,684 feet (818 meters) tall, with a depth of 1.25 miles (two kilometers). The caldera boasts a diameter of 6.2 miles (10 kilometers), making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

1. Hverfjall/Hverfell: Simple Volcanic Hike

A well-liked volcano in North Iceland, known as Hverfjall or Hverfell, has been dormant for roughly 4,500 years in spite of the volcanic events in the vicinity.

Hverfjall volcano is a favorite due to its convenient hiking trails. The crater is easily reachable from the Ring Road and measures just 0.62 miles (one kilometer) in diameter. Visitors can complete a leisurely walk around the rim of this popular tephra cone in approximately an hour, conveniently located next to Lake Myvatn.

Despite learning about the destructive nature of Icelandic volcanoes, do not miss the opportunity to visit the captivating Land of Fire and Ice. Volcano tourism in Iceland presents some of the most unforgettable moments in the country.