Katla Volcano

The Basics

See why Iceland is known as the Land of Fire and Ice on a Super Jeep tour that takes you deep into the glaciers that cover Katla. Alternatively, amp up the action on an ATV tour—which typically cover the black sands of Iceland’s southern coast, the Solheimasandur Plane Wreck, and a number of super-volcanic glaciers—or combine adventure with nature on a tour that zips you across Mýrdalsjökull on a snowmobile before visiting several waterfalls and museums.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Katla is one of Iceland’s natural highlights and a must-see sight for first-time visitors.

• Tours of Katla typically depart from Reykjavík or the southern town of Vik.

• Many tours that venture into the ice caves include all necessary equipment, but ensure you’re wearing warm clothing and sturdy footwear if you plan on explore the surrounding area on foot.

How to Get There

Katla is a subglacial volcano located 31 miles (49 kilometers) north of Vík and east of Eyjafjallajökull along Route 1. On a clear day, you can see the glacier and underlying volcano while driving on the Ring Road.

When to Get There

In Iceland, the majority of ice caves are only open during winter, when freezing temperatures harden the ice and make it safe to enter the caves. Visit Katla during mid-winter to fully experience the volcano.

Katla From Afar

You don’t have to go into the caves above Katla for the best views of the volcano. On a hike through Thórsmörk Nature Reserve, you’ll catch panoramic views of Katla. The Fimmvörðuháls trek, a 16-mile (25-kilometer) hike beginning at the top of Skógafoss, is best to embark on during the summer when Iceland’s landscapes are at their greenest.