Iceland’s volcanoes are both a blessing and a curse. For millions of years, each volcanic eruption Iceland has seen has shaped the island’s breathtaking beauty—but they have also brought devastation. This makes it essential to understand their history and respect their power. By doing so, we can appreciate the island country’s unique character and ensure its people’s safety. Keep reading as we share famous volcanic eruptions in Iceland, including their background and their consequences!
The latest eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula, which started on November 20, 2024, lasted 18 days and ended on December 8.
Iceland’s Volcanoes: The Basics
In Iceland, as well as many other places on Earth, volcanoes are the most prolific and, ironically, destructive architects. Roughly defined as an opening or a vent through which magma escapes, volcanoes have created more than 80% of our planet’s surface, including the magnificent land of fire and ice.
Volcanic eruptions in Iceland hold a special place in both the geological landscape and the cultural identity of the nation. With around 130 volcanoes, 32 of which are currently active, Iceland is a hot spot for volcanic activity, mainly due to its location on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. A volcano erupts in Iceland, on average, every five years. However, there has been a huge increase in volcanic activity in recent years, with eruptions occurring as frequently as once a year.
Eruptions in Iceland can happen in several ways, from explosive outbursts that produce towering ash plumes to effusive eruptions where lava flows slowly and quietly from discrete fissures and craters. The frequency and scale of eruptions can also vary greatly, from small, localized events to major cataclysms that capture global attention and, unfortunately, bring about extraordinary destruction.
With so many active and dormant volcanoes, it’s no wonder nature enthusiasts and thrill seekers flock to Iceland to witness its mesmerizing volcanic activity. In the past few decades, guided tours, hikes to volcanic craters, and even helicopter flights to watch active volcanoes from above have become increasingly popular for visitors to experience these geological wonders firsthand.
Iceland Volcanic Eruption and Tourism: Is It Safe?
Volcanic tourism is safe, but as a visitor, it’s important to always be aware of potential risks and take necessary precautions when visiting sites known for volcanic eruptions in Iceland.
As a volcanic country, local authorities are dedicated to researching and monitoring volcanic activity throughout the island. With dozens of seismic stations across the territory, volcanic eruptions in Iceland are highly monitored. That said, as with everything in nature, the unpredictability of volcanoes means that conditions can change rapidly.
Here are some safety tips for safe and responsible volcanic tourism in Iceland:
Stay Informed: Before embarking on any volcanic tours or excursions or exploring in your campervan rental, stay updated on current volcanic and seismic activity. Monitor official sources such as the Icelandic Meteorological Office for alerts and advisories.
Choose Reputable Tour Operators: Select tour companies with experienced guides who prioritize safety and always stick to strict protocols. Do your research, read reviews, and ask for recommendations to make sure you’re booking with a reputable operator.
Follow Guide Instructions: During the tour, pay attention to the instructions provided by your guide and follow their safety precautions at all times. They are knowledgeable about the local terrain and can advise you on the safest routes and actions to take in case of emergencies. Never compromise your safety for a photo or to explore off-limit areas.
Respect Safety Barriers: Keep an eye out for any safety barriers or signs indicating restricted areas near volcanic sites or marking a recent volcano eruption. Iceland has hundreds of these barriers in place for your protection and to prevent accidents. Just because the volcano seems inactive or dormant doesn’t mean it’s safe to ignore these barriers. Sudden eruptions, toxic volcanic gases, and unstable terrains can pose significant risks even in seemingly calm conditions.
Be Prepared for Emergencies: Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and know how to respond in case of an unexpected event, such as a volcanic eruption, earthquake, or adverse weather conditions.
Stay Together: If traveling in a group, stay together and communicate with your travel buddies. Avoid wandering off alone, especially in remote or unfamiliar areas.
7 Famous Volcanic Eruptions in Iceland
- Eldgjá (934-940 AD)
South Iceland’s Eldgja is the largest volcanic canyon in the world. The 934 eruption originated from the Laki fissure system, and is the largest lava flow recorded in history! Its 19.7 cubic kilometers of lava covered a quarter of the island—forever altering its landscape. Simultaneously, the ash cloud resulting from the eruption disrupted plant growth and contributed to hardships for the Icelanders.
- Katla (934 AD)
A subglacial volcano under Mýrdalsjökull glacier, famous Iceland volcano Katla has a powerful history of eruptions. In fact, it is known to be one of Iceland’s most active volcanoes, with over 28 eruptions recorded in history. Katla is often known to trigger massive floods, known as ’jökulhlaups’. The 934 eruption produced one of the largest jökulhlaups ever recorded—-and inundated vast areas of southern Iceland. Jökulhlaups from Katla have often claimed lives and damaged vegetation.
- Laki (1783-1784)
This eruption is easily one of the most disastrous in human history and is the largest volcanic eruption in Iceland’s history! It wasn’t a single mountain belching lava. In fact, a 220-kilometer fissure system spewed toxic gases—and ash—for eight months, causing famine and deaths across Iceland. The sulfur dioxide cloud formed a ’Laki haze’ and affected the global climate by lowering temperatures. However, the weathered lava also created fertile land in Iceland. And the volcanic heat generated by the eruption is harnessed today as geothermal energy.
- Eldfell (1973)
In January 1973, a previously unknown fissure opened up beneath the small Icelandic island of Heimaey, less than a mile from the town of Vestmannaeyjar. The newly-formed volcano was named Eldfell, or “Hill of Fire,” and erupted for six consecutive months, burying most of the town in ash and destroying hundreds of homes. The eruption was so severe that the entire population of around 5,000 had to be evacuated. An enormous effort was made to slow down and control the lava flow by continuously spraying seawater on it. Despite the destruction, no one was killed, thanks to the heroic efforts of the residents and the Icelandic coast guard.
- Eyjafjallajökull (2010)
Eyjafjallajökull probably one of the most famous Iceland volcano is a stratovolcano found under the eponymous ice cap in southern Iceland. Though smaller than others, this Iceland volcano eruption in 2010 became famous because of its ash plume—which disrupted air travel across Europe for weeks! Over 100,000 flights were affected (and even more passengers were stranded). The event told the world about the impacts that even minor Iceland volcanic eruptions can have on places beyond the island.
Even though it’s incredibly popular, Eyjafjallajökull isn’t even close to being Iceland’s most active volcano. Compared to some eruptions from the past, the one from 2010 was a minor event.
- Fagradalsfjall (March 2021)
In 2021, the Fagradalsfjall eruption made headlines when it became the first significant volcanic activity in the Reykjanes region in over 800 years. The eruption resulted in towering lava flows emerging from Geldingadalur valley, which captured the attention of people worldwide and led to thousands of visitors flocking to the area to witness the spectacle firsthand. In August 2022, the Fagradalsfjall volcano erupted again, this time in Meradalir valley, continuing the volcanic activity that began the previous year.
- Sundhnjúkagígar (2023-2024)
In December 2023, following weeks of earthquakes, another eruption occurred in the Reykjanes Peninsula, this time originating from a volcano named Sundhnjúkagígar. In January 2024, a new fissure opened up in the same area, leading to another eruption, followed by third and fourth eruptions from fissures measuring more than three kilometers in length. This prompted the temporary closure of the famous Blue Lagoon hot springs as a precautionary measure. The latest eruption, which occurred in March 2024, is considered the most powerful eruption to have happened in the region since the renewed volcanic activity began in 2021.
Are Volcanic Eruptions Common?
Volcanic eruptions are regular on Iceland, and they are also unpredictable. From the beginning of the 19th century, there hasn’t been a decade without an eruption. On average, there is a major volcanic event in Iceland every five years. One-third of all the lava on earth’s surface comes from volcanic eruptions in Iceland. Whether the eruptions go off spaced apart or in quick succession is completely random.
Iceland Volcano Tours And Experiences
The 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajökull is often credited for the boom in tourism in Iceland. Newscasters around the world showed photos of Iceland, its volcanoes, and its natural wonders to millions of people. After seeing the raw nature, the dramatic contrasts and the brilliant wonders of Iceland volcanoes and the aftermath of their eruptions, tourists got inspired to visit and learn more.
Much of the tourist industry is created around volcano exploring tours, and they come in various forms. Some people go to simple sightseeing tours, and some like to rent an Iceland camper and involve more adventure in their visit.
The Land of Ice and Fire has a unique beauty graced with amazing contrasts and mesmerizing landscapes. None of these natural wonders would exist if it weren’t for active volcanoes in Iceland throughout history.
They constantly define the nature of Iceland, creating vast craters, endless mass-coated lava fields, hot springs, and other unique natural beauties. Contact us if you want to learn more or if you’re ready to book a camper to take you on an amazing volcanic adventure. We also highly recommend our Iceland travel guide if you’d like to learn more before you go. We look forward to helping you have the trip of a lifetime!
