Fagradalsfjall Volcano Hike

Story of the Fagradalsfjall Volcano Eruption – From 2021 to 2025 Events

In March 2021, the Reykjanes Peninsula witnessed Iceland’s first volcanic eruption in over 800 years. A fissure opened near Fagradalsfjall, near Grindavík, following weeks of seismic activity that shook Reykjavík, Keflavík, and surrounding towns. The Icelandic MET Office recorded over 4,000 earthquakes, signaling the return of volcanic activity in the area.

The eruption officially began on March 19, 2021, when residents of Grindavík saw lava glowing in the night sky. Fortunately, the lava flowed safely into an uninhabited valley near Geldingadalir, offering a rare chance to hike to an active volcano in a secure and controlled environment. This location quickly became one of Iceland’s most visited sites within the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark.

The landscape continued evolving after eruptions in 2022 and 2023 at Meradalir and Litli-Hrútur. In 2024 and 2025, renewed activity near Grindavík brought more lava flows and gas vents, reshaping trails and drawing renewed global attention.

Today, the Fagradalsfjall volcano hike is a must-do experience. You’ll walk across fresh lava fields, steaming ground, and newly formed craters—guided by certified local experts who live in the area and witnessed the eruption first-hand. This volcano tour from Reykjavík or Grindavík is fully updated for safety, offering flexible starting points, small-group or private tour options, and insights into Iceland’s geology.

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