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After a short break of almost one year, the volcano at Meradalir has erupted again on August 3rd, 2022. Visit the recent eruption site to see the newly-formed lava field!
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Volcanic eruptions are unpredictable natural events. Whether small or large fissure cracks open, occur due to lava bursting out as well as other pyroclastic effects. Every eruption brings a rare and once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to observe the sheer power behind the lava explosion.
A tour like this, where you get to experience a recently erupted volcano, is one for the books! During this tour, you get to see the newly formed lava field from the recent eruption.
Please note: The total hike to the eruption site and back is either 6 or 12 km long. Take note that the shorter route is actually more challenging, so please evaluate your physical preparation before booking this tour. Regardless of the distance, the hike will take approximately 3-4 hours to complete. Due to safety regulations, we reserve the right to adjust the itinerary and/or choose different hiking routes depending on conditions.
Volcanoes are a natural phenomenon, and the level of volcanic activity at the site varies daily. Even if the volcano is not erupting during your visit, visiting the area is still fascinating.
Generally, the site is open 24/7 to all visitors, keep in mind that the area can be closed quickly due to weather or other unforeseen changes.
A new eruption started on the 3rd of August 2022 in Mt. Fagradalsfjall after being officially declared over on December 18th, 2021.
Since August 21st, 2022 there has been no visible activity in Meradalir Volcano. No flowing lava can be seen at the moment, but the hiking path remains open.
Scientists and the Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management are always monitoring the area closely and informing the public if there are any updates. The area is open to the public but that can of course change with little notice. The safety of our passengers is our number one priority therefore we will follow the instructions coming from the authorities but as of right now the area is open and is not considered to be dangerous to the public.
Also, we recommend visiting active volcano to follow these steps in the area:
The best and safest way to visit a volcano is with a guided tour. Expert guides will be able to lead you to the eruption site, choosing the most secure paths and the optimal distance to observe the flowing lava so you can get the best, safest, and most enjoyable experience. You can choose to book the hike to the eruption site or book a helicopter tour and see the volcanic eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula from above.
The Meradalir Volcano is located on the Reykjanes peninsula close to Grindavík.
It is not obligatory to be accompanied by a professional guide to visit the site. However, taking a guided tour is safer than visiting the eruption site as fellow travelers will accompany you, and a local professional guide will ensure your safety.
According to the Environmental Agency of Iceland, walking on the lava is forbidden and can be very dangerous. The top layer can easily break when stepped on, causing hazards to people. The lava at Fagradalsfjall Volcano is a unique geological monument that we must respect and protect. It is important for visitors to leave no traces such as throwing stones at the lava or making inscriptions on it. Lavas are under special protection according to art. 61 of the Nature Conservation Act. One of the biggest risks of walking on new lava is breaking the top layer over an unknown lava tube. Falling into a lava tube that's still several hundred degrees Celcius can lead to injuries.
The hiking trails can be challenging and condition different day by day and even during the day. If you plan to hike to the volcano it is essential to have good hiking shoes, warm clothing and waterproof outerwear.
There are toilets in the parking lot area that have been set up.
You can bring it with you, but we do also stop for lunch in Grindavík where you can buy snacks as well for the hike. Please note though that food is not included in the tour.
Yes, if you are not joining a guided tour and driving to the eruption site on your own, the parking fee is 1000 ISK (≈ 8 USD) and can be paid electronically at Parka.is. The payment is valid for 24 hours. There are signs at the parking lots with instructions.
There are currently two parking lots that you can choose from, Parking P1 or Parking P2. You will need to pick the correct payment site accordingly:
Parking P1: https://www.parka.is/pay/geldingadalir/
Parking P2 (Stóri-Leirdalur): https://www.parka.is/pay/volcanoskali/
According to parka.is, the payment is necessary to pay for the infrastructure on-site and maintenance of it. The intention is to make access better and increase people's safety. The parking lots are monitored with cameras and if parking is unpaid, an additional fee is added and a bank claim is created. The claim usually goes out one day later, so if you have trouble paying on-site, you are able to finish the payment when you arrive back at your hotel.
