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Geysers and volcanoes in Iceland: Experience the forces of nature up close
Iceland is, quite literally, a hotspot of geothermal and volcanic activity. Set foot on Icelandic soil and you’re standing where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates are pulling apart. It’s one reason the island’s volcanoes are some of the most active in the world. Make the journey here and you’ll come face to face with impressive volcanic craters, steaming fissures and bubbling geysers. You’ll also find hot springs, hidden glaciers and mysterious ice caves well worth exploring.
On a volcano hike in Iceland, you’ll feel the warmth rising from the ground and catch the sting of sulfur in the air well before the crater comes into view. And as you explore, you’ll notice how close the island’s active volcanoes, thermal springs and icy glaciers are to one another. You’ll be hard pressed to find another place on Earth with so many natural elements at such short distances. Take in the ever-changing landscape, which feels ancient and futuristic at the same time. It’s the perfect place to explore on foot, by off-road vehicle or on a guided tour.
Book your Iceland volcano trip on discover-airlines.com and witness the Earth’s raw power for yourself.
What you need to know about Iceland’s volcanoes, craters and hot springs
Iceland is home to more than 30 active volcanic systems, and you’ll feel their influence everywhere, from the landscape to day-to-day life on the island. You’ve probably heard about the eruption of Eyjafjallajökull in 2010, which made Iceland world-famous and acts as a reminder that the ground beneath your feet here is anything but still. As you travel around the island, you’ll see everything from shield-shaped craters to basalt columns and enormous calderas. Don’t miss the Hverfjall crater near Mývatn, or the geothermal area of Landmannalaugar. Hiking these routes will take you through colorful rhyolite landscapes, across black lava fields or right by steaming fissures. The colors alone make it worth the hike, for photography and nature enthusiasts alike.
You’ll also see the island’s volcanic energy in action at Iceland’s geysers and hot springs. Go beyond the famous Blue Lagoon and you’ll find plenty of natural pools out in the open countryside, like in the Reykjadalur Valley or around Hveragerði. Here, you can bathe in warm water while steaming fissures and green hills surround you. Much of the warm water you’ll soak in has traveled a long way to reach you, starting as rainwater that seeps into porous volcanic rock, is heated deep underground and rises back to the surface as steam. Your nose and skin will feel it too, with the distinct sulfurous smell and the water’s vivid mineral deposits.
Over 20 active geysers have been officially documented in Iceland, and you’ll find them concentrated in the north and south of the island, especially around Reykjadalur and the Mývatn area. Both are a bit off the beaten path, giving you a more authentic taste of life on the island. Many regions in Iceland are great for exploring volcanoes, but the same rule always applies wherever you go. Respect nature, use the right kind of equipment and check the latest information before you head out. Visit one of the island’s geothermal power plants, like Hellisheiði, and see firsthand how Iceland turns naturally occurring heat into clean energy. It’s a rare chance to see nature’s raw power and modern engineering working side by side.
Geysers and volcanoes in Iceland not to be missed
How to get the most out of your volcano trip to Iceland
Solid planning and preparation will help you make the most of your Iceland volcano vacation. Before you go, make sure to check current volcanic activity by having a look at the Icelandic Meteorological Office’s website. Remember that many craters in Iceland can only be reached on foot or by off-road vehicle. Make sure to pack sturdy footwear and weatherproof gear and book a guided tour with an experienced guide if you’d rather not go it alone. Weather conditions can change suddenly, so always keep an eye on local forecasts and follow the guidance of tour staff.
Visiting a volcano in Iceland is not a typical excursion. It requires respect for nature. Be sure to observe restricted areas and warning signs, as conditions at lava fields and hot springs can shift quickly. Especially in active zones such as the Reykjanes Peninsula, the landscape can completely transform in a matter of days. Safety always comes first here, so stay on marked trails and avoid freshly cooled lava, as hot spots may still be present underneath.
If you’re into geology, Iceland’s volcanoes are hard to beat. Whether you go on a guided hike, visit a museum or head out to watch the geysers, you’ll see science in action here. Many providers in Iceland specialize in volcano trips and offer combined tours to craters, lava fields and thermal springs. Visitor centers like the Lava Centre in Hvolsvöllur are also worth visiting as they bring the island’s volcanic history to life.
You’ll get the most out of a volcano trip to Iceland in spring, from April to June, or in fall, from September to October. During these months, you’ll find the weather is generally more stable, the landscape shifts dramatically with the season and visitor numbers are moderate. In summer, long days give you plenty of light for longer hikes, while winter brings out the island’s striking contrast of fire and ice. If you wish, you can also combine exploring the volcanoes with viewing the northern lights or going whale watching. Iceland’s nature puts on a show all year round.
Plan your volcano trip to Iceland now on discover-airlines.com and experience fire, water and steam like nowhere else on Earth.
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