Eyjafjallajökull

Overview

Eyjafjallajökull stands as one of Iceland's most infamous volcanoes, a glacier-capped stratovolcano whose modest 1,651-metre summit belies its capacity for global disruption. Rising from the flat coastal plains of South Iceland, this ice-covered peak gained worldwide notoriety in 2010 when its explosive eruption produced an ash cloud that grounded European air traffic for six weeks, stranding millions of passengers and causing €1.7 billion in losses. Despite its intimidating reputation, Eyjafjallajökull (pronounced AY-ya-fyat-la-YOE-kut, meaning "Island Mountain Glacier") represents a relatively small volcanic system compared to its neighbours.

The volcano's deceptively peaceful appearance masks a complex geological structure comprising multiple craters beneath the Eyjafjallajökull glacier. Its strategic position along Iceland's southern coast makes it particularly dangerous when active, as the interaction between hot volcanic material and glacial ice creates the explosive conditions that generate far-travelling ash clouds. Today, Eyjafjallajökull serves as both a compelling geological study site and a reminder of nature's power to disrupt modern civilisation. While the volcano remains monitored for future activity, visitors can safely explore the surrounding area and witness the dramatic landscape shaped by millennia of volcanic and glacial activity.

Quick Facts

**GPS Coordinates:** 63.6330°N, 19.6330°W

**Entry Fee:** Free (viewpoint access)

**Opening Hours:** 24/7 (weather dependent)

**Best Time to Visit:** May to September

**Difficulty Level:** Easy to moderate (viewing from base)

**Nearest Town:** Hvolsvöllur (35km west)

**Elevation:** 1,651 metres

**Last Eruption:** 2010 (March-October)

**Glacier Coverage:** 100 square kilometres

How to Get There

Driving

From Reykjavík, take Route 1 (Ring Road) eastbound for 120km (1 hour 45 minutes) to reach the Eyjafjallajökull area. The volcano dominates the horizon from approximately Selfoss onwards. For the closest approach, exit Route 1 at the junction near Seljavallalaug pool (between Skógar and Vík) and follow Route 242 north for 8km towards Þórsmörk. Alternative viewing points include the area around Skógar (Route 1, 155km from Reykjavík) or from Route 261 via Hvolsvöllur for western perspectives.

The most popular viewpoint lies along Route 1 near the Gígjagjá (Gígja's Gorge) area, where clear sightlines showcase the glacier's full profile. For closer access to the glacier's base, high-clearance 4WD vehicles can attempt the F-road approaches, though these require river crossings and are suitable only for experienced drivers with proper equipment.

Parking

Informal parking areas exist along Route 1's shoulder near optimal viewing points, particularly around the Seljavallalaug turnoff. No designated car parks serve the volcano specifically, though the nearby Skógar Museum offers paid parking (500 ISK) with good views. Roadside parking is free but limited during peak summer months. The Þórsmörk area provides more substantial parking facilities (1,000 ISK daily) for those accessing hiking trails.

Access

Most visitors view Eyjafjallajökull directly from roadside locations with no walking required. For closer approaches, a 2-3km hike from Route 242 leads to the glacier's terminus, following marked paths across relatively flat terrain. The trail involves stream crossings and loose volcanic soil. Serious mountaineers can attempt summit climbs (8-12 hours return), though this requires extensive glacier experience, proper equipment, and favourable conditions.

What to See and Do

The primary attraction is witnessing Eyjafjallajökull's imposing glacier-covered dome, particularly striking during golden hour when the ice cap glows against dark volcanic slopes. Photography enthusiasts find excellent compositions from multiple angles along Route 1, with the flat coastal plain providing foreground interest against the dramatic peak.

The 2010 eruption sites remain visible as dark lava flows and ash deposits on the glacier's flanks, offering tangible evidence of recent volcanic activity. Educational signage at several viewpoints explains the eruption's global impact and ongoing monitoring efforts. Visitors can explore the Þórsmörk nature reserve at the volcano's base, featuring marked hiking trails through birch forests and glacial valleys carved by eruption-triggered floods.

Advanced hikers can tackle glacier walks on Eyjafjallajökull's lower reaches, though these require professional guides and specialised equipment. Local operators in Hvolsvöllur offer glacier tours (from 15,000 ISK) during summer months. The nearby Seljavallalaug geothermal pool, heated by volcanic activity, provides a unique bathing experience with volcano views.

Best Time to Visit

**May-September:** Optimal conditions with clear visibility and accessible roads. July-August offer the warmest temperatures and longest daylight hours, though crowds peak during these months. Glacier contrast appears most dramatic against summer's green landscape.

**October-November:** Shoulder season provides excellent visibility with fewer visitors. Northern lights occasionally appear over the volcano during clear nights. Weather becomes increasingly unpredictable.

**December-April:** Winter offers stunning snow-covered landscapes and aurora opportunities, though visibility frequently diminishes due to storms. Road conditions can be challenging, particularly on side routes. F-roads remain closed. Daylight hours are severely limited in December-January.

**March-April:** Historically significant as the 2010 eruption period, though purely coincidental. Spring brings improving weather but unpredictable conditions and potential road closures from late-season storms.

Safety

Eyjafjallajökull poses minimal direct danger to casual visitors, though several hazards require attention. The volcano remains active with continuous seismic monitoring—sudden eruptions are possible with little warning. Never approach the glacier or climb beyond marked boundaries without professional guidance and appropriate equipment.

Weather changes rapidly, with visibility dropping to zero within minutes during storms. Carry emergency supplies, warm clothing, and communication devices when venturing beyond roadside viewpoints. Strong winds frequently affect the area, particularly dangerous near cliff edges or unstable ground.

River crossings on approach routes can become impassable during glacial melt or rainfall. F-roads require experienced 4WD handling and should never be attempted in standard vehicles. Inform others of your plans and expected return times for any hiking activities. Emergency services coverage can be limited in remote areas around the volcano's base.

Nearby Places

**Skógafoss Waterfall** (25km east): Iceland's most powerful waterfall, dropping 60 metres over ancient sea cliffs with excellent Eyjafjallajökull views from the top platform.

**Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool** (15km southeast): A hidden geothermal pool requiring a 2km hike, offering warm bathing with direct volcano views across the valley.

**Þórsmörk Nature Reserve** (20km northeast): Pristine wilderness area accessible by 4WD, featuring hiking trails, mountain huts, and close-up glacier perspectives.

**Westman Islands** (40km south): Visible offshore archipelago reached by ferry from Landeyjahöfn, offering boat-based volcano views and additional volcanic landscapes.

**Gljúfrabúi Waterfall** (23km east): Secret waterfall hidden behind rock walls near Seljalandsfoss, providing a dramatic foreground for volcano photography.

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