Hekla Volcano

The Basics

During summer, Hekla is popular among hikers and climbers—you can summit the volcano in about 3-4 hours. In spring, you can also ski around the crater. Day trips—most of which depart from Reykjavik—typically give you chance to explore lava fields and take a dip in hot springs before driving through the rainbow-hued highlands of Landmannalaugar.

Alternatively, see Hekla from above during a scenic helicopter flight or combine the volcano with other Iceland attractions on a bus tour, which often feature Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and the Vestmannaeyjar Islands.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Hiking or climbing on Hekla is not recommended if you don’t have mountaineering experience, as the trail is marked only part of the way and the weather can get extreme near the summit.

• If you’re planning to summit the volcano, hiking boots, crampons, hiking sticks, and a GPS device are integral; hiking tours typically include all of the equipment listed above.

• You can stay overnight on the volcano; the Hekla trailhead is a good place to camp.

How to Get There

Bus and jeep tours are a reliable way to ensure you get to and from the volcano safely, but you can also drive to the volcano yourself—a high-clearance, 4WD car is essential if you plan on driving to the base of the mountain. From Reykjavík, take highway 1 (Ring Road) to Route 26. Be aware that the road becomes more of a dirt path at the end.

When to Get There

Hiking Hekla is best in summer, when there’s less snow and plenty of sunlight thanks to the Midnight Sun. Skiing is popular in spring; once the harsh winter conditions have simmered, daylight lasts longer and the dense snow proves ideal for skiing.

The Geology of Hekla

As a stratovolcano, Hekla is made up of alternating layers of lava and ash due to centuries of eruptions. In 1104, the volcano’s largest eruption sent millions of tons of tephra into the sky and covered more than half of Iceland with rock fragments. In total, Hekla has produced around 8 cubic kilometers of lava over the last millennium, one of the largest amounts in the world. As you climb Hekla today, you’ll notice that the shape of the mountain resembles an overturned boat dotted with craters.

Is Hekla Volcano an active volcano?

Yes, Hekla Volcano is an active volcano. In fact, Hekla is one of the most active volcanoes in Iceland. Since Iceland was established around 874, the Hekla Volcano has erupted more than 20 times. Hekla’s most recent eruption was in the year 2000; experts predict that it’s going to erupt again soon.

Can you hike to the summit of Hekla Volcano?

Yes, you can hike to the summit of Hekla Volcano. The hike typically takes seven hours in total (out and back). Considered a challenging climb, it should only be tackled by experienced mountaineers—navigation equipment and good hiking boots are essential. Hiking with a guide is recommended.

Is it safe to visit Hekla Volcano?

Yes, it is generally considered safe to visit Hekla Volcano. However, as the volcano could potentially erupt at any moment, you need to pay close attention to any warnings that may be in place. Visiting in the company of a guide who knows the volcano well is your best bet.

How far is the Hekla Volcano from Reykjavik?

Hekla Volcano is 68 miles (110 kilometers) east of Reykjavik. The drive typically takes around 2.5 hours, making it a feasible day trip destination from the capital. You’ll need a high-clearance, 4WD vehicle if you plan on driving to the volcano’s base. Alternatively, book a Jeep tour departing from Reykjavik.

Are there guided tours to Hekla Volcano?

Yes, there are guided tours to Hekla Volcano. Full-day trips that depart from Reykjavik are typically in Jeeps and include time to explore the rugged Landmannalaugar area, soak in a geothermal hot spring, and visit waterfalls and lakes. These tours tend to run in small groups and include hotel transfers.

What is the significance of Hekla Volcano in Icelandic folklore?

Hekla Volcano is shrouded in Icelandic folklore. During the Middle Ages, after the explosive 1104 eruption, the Icelandic Norse called the volcano the "Gateway to Hell." The idea that Hekla was the entrance to Hell spread across Europe and persisted until the 19th century. Today, some Icelanders still believe witches gather on Hekla at Easter time.

Ways to explore

Day trips to Iceland’s South Coast, most of which set out from Reykjavik, often include a photo stop at Hekla Volcano. Explore the rhyolite mountains of Landmannalaugar in a 4WD vehicle, soak in natural hot springs, or hike through the lava fields. Many tours include other South Coast attractions, such as Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, the black sand beach of Vik, or Eyjafjallajökull volcano.

Hekla is also a magnet for outdoor adventurers: Hikers can tackle the challenging hike to the summit, and thrill-seekers can even try ski mountaineering around the crater. Hiking isn’t recommended without a guide.

Accessibility

The natural terrain around Hekla Volcano isn’t easily accessible for wheelchairs or travelers with reduced mobility.

Age limits

Many tours welcome children, but hiking the volcano is a challenge best suited to more experienced hikers and climbers

What to pack

Camera, reusable water bottle, sunglasses, sunscreen, a rain poncho, hat, scarf, gloves and glacial equipment and crampons if hiking

What to wear

Thermal layers, ski pants, and a waterproof and windproof coat in winter; light layers plus a fleece and waterproof jacket in summer; sturdy hiking boots or closed-toe shoes year-round

Not allowed

Off-road driving, wild camping, removing lava rocks or any natural minerals, open fires.

Amenities

There are no facilities and patchy cell phone service at Hekla, so bring everything you need or stock up on supplies at the closest towns, Hvolsvöllur or Hella.

Address

Hekla Volcano is located in southern Iceland, about 69 miles (110 kilometers) east of Reykjavik. It’s best visited on a tour, but self-drive tours are also possible.

Driving

A high-clearance, 4WD car is essential if you plan on driving to the base of the mountain, and self-drive tours are only recommended in summer. From Reykjavík, head east along the Ring Road (Route 1), then take Route 26 towards the Hekla Center. From the center, it’s a further 10 miles (16 kilometers) along dirt roads.

Public transportation

There is no public transport to Hekla, but group tours leave daily from Reykjavik.

Best times to visit

Guided hikes to the summit of Hekla typically set out early, as it’s about a 4-hour trek to the top. For the best views, time your visit for mid-morning through mid-afternoon when the morning mist has lifted and visibility is usually at its highest.

Best days to visit

South Coast tours from Reykjavik are most popular on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, so opting for a midweek tour often means smaller groups and fewer cars on the road.

Best months to visit

Hiking Hekla is best in summer, when there’s less snow and plenty of sunlight thanks to the Midnight Sun. In winter, you can expect spectacular views, but the snow and ice-covered landscapes are best navigated with a professional guide.