Eyjafjallajökull Volcano

The Basics

While a few hardy explorers have managed to summit Eyjafjallajökull, ascending the volcano is considered dangerous, with a deadly crevasse-ridden glacier at the top. Many day tours of the south coast from Reykjavik, whether by car or Jeep, venture to Eyjafjallajökull volcano. These tours typically make stops at other destinations in south Iceland, such as Seljalandsfoss waterfall, Skógafoss waterfall, black-sand beaches at Dyrhólaey and Vik, the Thórsmörk valley, and Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. For aerial views of the crater, steaming hot springs, and rugged peaks, opt for a helicopter tour over the volcano.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Eyjafjallajökull volcano is a must for nature lovers.

• Eyjafjallajökull is still an active volcano, and as such, is best explored in the company of an experienced guide who can brief you on safety practices.

• Wear comfortable hiking shoes and warm, rainproof clothing.

• Due to uneven surfaces near the volcano, it’s not recommended for wheelchair users.

How to Get There

Eyjafjallajökull is situated near Iceland’s south shore, just under two hours’ drive from Reykjavik. To get there, follow the Ring Road (Route 1) until Hvolsvöllur, then take the turnoff for Route 261. This route ends at a parking lot, from which it’s possible to view the volcano.

When to Get There

The best time to visit Eyjafjallajökull is during summer, when warmer temperatures and the midnight sun make exploring and hiking easier. Crowds are thinner during September and October.

Iceland’s Volcanoes

Though Eyjafjallajökull volcano may be better known among Europeans following its 2010 eruption, it is but one of many active volcanoes in Iceland. Its larger neighbor, Katla, just east of Eyjafjallajökull, is even more mighty and powerful. Katla, which lasts erupted in 1918, lies under the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap—the fourth-largest glacier in Iceland. It is feared that an eruption of Katla could melt the glacier and cause catastrophic flooding.

Can you visit Eyjafjallajökull Volcano?

Yes, you can visit Eyjafjallajökull Volcano. Several day tours by bus, minibus, and Jeep travel along Iceland’s south coast from Reykjavik and stop at Eyjafjallajökull Volcano. These tours typically include stops at the waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, the black-sand beach of Vik, and the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.

How do you pronounce Eyjafjallajökull?

You pronounce Eyjafjallajökull as “AY-yah-fyah-lah-YOH-kuul.” The volcano’s notoriously tricky name is derived from an Icelandic phrase meaning “the island’s mountain glacier.” In the Icelandic language, “eyja” means island; “fjalla” means mountain, and “jökull” means glacier. The volcano itself lies beneath the Eyjafjallajökull (Eyjafjalla Glacier).

Is Eyjafjallajökull still active?

Yes, Eyjafjallajökull is technically still active. The volcanic ash caused by the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption halted global air traffic and stranded travelers. Although Eyjafjallajökull can erupt again in the future, it is not likely to do so anytime soon. The volcano's eruptions occurred in 900 and 1612, and multiple times between 1821 and 1823.

Are there other attractions near Eyjafjallajökull?

Yes, there are many attractions near Eyjafjallajökull including the Eyjafjallajökull Visitor Center, which provides information about Eyjafjallajökull's eruptions, geology, and the impact on the local community. Also close by is the outdoor swimming pool, Seljavallalaug, and Skógar Museum.

What safety precautions should be taken when visiting Eyjafjallajökull?

Surrounded by rugged terrain, Eyjafjallajökull is best explored in the company of a guide who knows the area well, especially if you want to tackle the challenging day hike to the summit of the volcano. Whatever you plan to do there, it’s a good idea to wear comfortable hiking shoes and warm, rainproof clothing.

When is the best time to visit Eyjafjallajökull Volcano?

The best time to visit Eyjafjallajökull Volcano is during summer when warmer temperatures provide pleasant conditions for being outdoors and long daylight hours allow for more time exploring and hiking. However, you can visit Eyjafjallajökull Volcano year-round. If you plan to visit in winter, you’ll need good cold-weather gear and traction.

Ways to explore

Despite its recent eruption, Eyjafjallajökull is still safe to visit—ideally on a guided tour that can help you confidently navigate the area’s rugged terrain. Summiting the volcano on a glacier hike is possible for hardy explorers, but there are plenty of less strenuous ways to experience Eyjafjallajökull.

Off-roading tours of Iceland’s Thórsmörk Valley often depart from Reykjavik and give you an up-close view of Eyjafjallajökull, allowing you to walk across its outlet glaciers and see the effects of the 2010 eruption. Several experiences visit additional South Coast highlights, such as the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls and black-sand Reynisfjara Beach.

Accessibility

Due to the rough terrain, most Eyjafjallajökull Volcano tours are not wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

Some tours have minimum age requirements for kids, so read the description carefully before booking.

What to pack

Water, camera, picnic lunch or money to purchase food

What to wear

Hiking shoes, warm layers, waterproof outerwear

Not allowed

Rules vary by tour, but most don’t allow pets, alcohol, or smoking.

Amenities

The Eyjafjallajökull visitor center has restrooms, an information point, and food.

Address

Eyjafjallajökull is situated near Iceland’s South Coast, about a 2-hour drive from Reykjavik. 4WD vehicles are best for navigating the landscape’s icy, muddy terrain. If you’d rather leave the driving to a guide, book a tour with included transportation.

Driving

From Reykjavik, follow the Ring Road (Route 1) southeast for about 87 miles (140 kilometers), and you’ll find parking at the Eyjafjallajökull visitor center. Or, after passing Hvolsvollur on Route 1, you can turn left onto Route 249 for closer volcano viewpoints.

Public transportation

There’s no direct public transportation from Reykjavik to Eyjafjallajökull, but you can get closer by taking the 52 bus to Hvolsvöllur. From there, it’s best to join a guided tour to the volcano.

Best times to visit

For the best experience, get an early start when visiting Eyjafjallajökull, allowing you plenty of time for hiking, off-roading, and exploring the surrounding glaciers and waterfalls of the renowned South Coast.

Best days to visit

Every day is a good day to visit the Eyjafjallajökull Volcano—just pay attention to daily weather conditions, especially if you plan to drive there on your own.

Best months to visit

Eyjafjallajökull is best visited from June to August, when warmer, more predictable weather makes hiking and driving safer, and you’ll have enough sunshine for a full day of exploring.