Iceland Volcano Holidays

Exploring Iceland’s volcanic landscapes

Volcanoes have long been a big attraction of this north Atlantic island, and plenty can be found on the doorstep of Reykjavik – both the 2022 eruption and the 2021 eruption sites at Fagradalsfjall are just 25km from the capital, in an uninhabited valley. Whether you want to spend a week or more exploring Iceland’s most impressive eruption sites – such as those on the new Volcanic Way touring route – or just stop off for a curious peak as you drive along the coast, then you’ve come to the right place!

From live eruptions to dormant volcano explorations, for many years we’ve been sending our clients to experience the splendour of Iceland’s iconic volcanic landscape. You might choose to descend deep into the magma chamber of a dormant volcano, fly over a crater in a helicopter, bathe in geothermal springs or hike over Iceland’s lava fields.

Our collection of volcano holidays includes short breaks and self-drives. Add in a host of excursions such as a Superjeep adventure or visit the fascinating Lava Centre for a multi-sensory experience. Perhaps combine with a northern lights quest if you’re travelling September to early April. Our team will be thrilled to tailor an itinerary to factor in a host of Iceland’s volcanic curiosities.

Notable eruptions in Iceland

In 2014 , a significant volcanic eruption occurred at the Holuhraun lava field, north of the Vatnajokull icecap in the central Highlands. This spectacular eruption lasted six months from late August 2014 to the end of February 2015. Fountains of molten rock erupted from fissures up to a mile in length, producing a lava field over 85 sq km in area – the largest in Iceland since the Laki eruption of 1783. A marked hiking trail has since opened through the lava field.

Making headlines in 2010

Prior to that, the 2010 eruption at Eyjafjallajökull made global headlines, sending a huge volcanic ash cloud high into the atmosphere that grounded aviation in the northern hemisphere for several days. The eruption had started as a tourist eruption with lava being emitted from fissures in stunning fashion against the dark skies of March. But a second, more powerful phase saw a fissure open under the thick ice of the glacier, which erupted explosively on 14 April 2010 creating the now infamous ash cloud.