There is an active volcanic eruption in Iceland, which began on July 16, 2025, near the Sundhnúksgígar crater row, southeast of Litla-Skógfell on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Lava emerged from a 700–1,000 meter (2,300–3,280 foot) fissure during the eruption, which is the second of the year, the ninth in this area since December 2023, and the twelfth on the peninsula since 2021.
Our Iceland tours are operating as usual. These events are closely monitored and well-managed, and your safety is always a top priority. Iceland remains a fantastic destination—and witnessing its raw natural power from a safe distance is all part of the experience.
Volcano eruption in Southwest Iceland. Photo by Gunnar Gaukur Guthmundsson.
Authorities responded quickly, and small town of Grindavík was safely evacuated as a precaution. The eruption is limited to a remote zone, and while the Blue Lagoon may be closed temporarily, travel across Iceland remained normal and unaffected. Flights are running normally, and all other major destinations are open and safe to visit.
Recent volcano eruption in Iceland on the Reykjanes Peninsula
On July 16, 2025, a fissure eruption began in the Sundhnúksgígar crater row on the Reykjanes Peninsula, southeast of Litla-Skógfell and near the town of Grindavík—about 30 miles (48 km) southwest of Reykjavik. This is the twelfth eruption on the peninsula since 2021 and the ninth in this crater row since December 2023. The fissure is approximately 700–1,000 meters (2,300–3,280 feet) long. This eruption began just over three months after the previous one, which occurred on April 1, 2025. The current activity remains confined to a remote area and is being closely monitored by authorities.
Residents of Grindavík were safely evacuated before the eruption started. Despite the new volcanic activity, flights, airport transfers, and travel along Iceland's main highway, the Ring Road, have not been disrupted. Whether you've already planned your trip or are considering visiting Iceland, you can proceed confidently.
For more information, check the official Icelandic sources:
Iceland’s latest eruption started and ended on July 16, 2025, in the Sundhnúksgígaröð crater row near Grindavík. It opened a fissure roughly 700-1,000 meters long and is the second eruption of the year. The event has not caused any disruption to air travel or major tourist routes.
Despite frequent volcanic activity, Iceland remains fully accessible to travelers. Flights and most group tours will continue as planned. Key routes, including the Ring Road and the popular Golden Circle, remain open and unaffected, ensuring smooth travel across the island.
Experts say the latest eruptions in Iceland pose little to no threat to the public or air travel. This is because they were fissure eruptions, meaning lava flows are confined to the immediate area around the vent. However, it's important to follow the advice of the local authorities until they allow access to the site.
See this video by Dr. Matthew Roberts, the Managing Director at the Icelandic Met Office.
Keflavík Airport remains fully operational, and flights are running as scheduled. The Reykjanes Peninsula has experienced several eruptions since 2021, none of which caused any issues for air travel or tours.
Unlike the 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajökull, which was subglacial and produced significant ash clouds that disrupted air travel, the recent eruptions in Reykjanes are fissure eruptions. These are smaller and typically don't emit ash, minimizing any impact on flights.
Helicopter tours are an exciting and safe way to see the eruption from the air. While the area around the eruption site can be temporarily closed to the public due to ongoing volcanic activity, you can still experience this natural wonder from above. On the other hand, the Grindavík & Krýsuvík tour gives a more on-the-ground experience. Besides visiting the 2021 eruption site, you’ll also see the remnants of volcanic destruction in Grindavik town. Keep an eye out for other guided tours that may become available as the situation develops, offering even more ways to explore Iceland's volcanic landscapes safely.
The Blue Lagoon might be temporarily closed due to volcanic activity. You can check the geothermal spa’s official website for updates on the operating schedule.
Absolutely. Iceland has extensive experience managing volcanic activity, especially in the Reykjanes Peninsula, which has seen multiple eruptions recently. The country has well-developed protocols in place and experienced authorities to manage such events.
The good news is that tours in Iceland are operating normally despite the eruption. However, we understand you might have questions about your specific itinerary. Feel free to contact us directly, and we'll be happy to address any concerns.
Unfortunately, predicting the exact duration of volcanic eruptions in Iceland is difficult. They can range from short bursts lasting a couple of days to events spanning several months.
Volcanic activity is a regular part of life in Iceland, given the movement of tectonic plates. Residents are familiar with earthquakes and eruptions, and authorities are equipped to respond effectively.
Iceland typically experiences eruptions every 5 years on average, but since 2021, the frequency has increased, with eruptions occurring almost every few months.
The Reykjanes peninsula, known for its stunning volcanic landscapes, has experienced increased activity since 2021, particularly around the Fagradasfjall volcanic area. This marks the beginning of a new volcanic cycle, expected to last for decades. Despite several fissure eruptions, these events did not pose any danger to people or disrupt flights and tours.
Following safety assessments by authorities, previous sites affected by the eruptions were reopened, allowing both locals and visitors to witness the lava fields firsthand. Many travelers consider this a unique and unforgettable experience.
A series of nine eruptions have taken place in the Sundhnúkur volcanic system on Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula since December 2023. Most eruptions occurred in the same general area near Grindavík and were closely monitored with safety precautions in place.
All events have been managed safely, and travel across Iceland continues without disruption.
March 2024 Volcano Eruption in Iceland - Photo by Julius Matikas
