The eruption site by Mt. Litli-Hrutur in Reykjanes is now accessible.

Please note:

The weather can be unpredictable in Iceland so you may expect us to occasionally alter the tour itinerary if weather/road conditions are unfavorable.

Included: Hiking poles and headlamps at no extra cost.

Available: All year

Duration: Approx. 9-10 hours, depending on your pace and the hiking route.

Pick-up: From your hotel/accommodation within the Reykjavik Capital Area or Reykjanes Peninsula Area.

Highlights

• Hike to the newest eruption by Mt. Litli-Hrutur
• Newly formed lava fields
• Guided hike

Description

Your private driver guide, who is also an experienced hiker, will take you to the site of the newest eruption in Iceland and hike with you to the eruption site by Mt. Litli-Hrutur next to the Meradalir valley and the Fagradalsfjall volcano. We provide all our guests with hiking poles and headlamps for a safer and more enjoyable hike.

The hike is approx. 19.7 km (12.2 mi) total, can take up to 7-8 hours both ways and is a moderate hike. Please note the hiking route may differ depending on the lava flow and wind direction. Your private guide is an experienced hiker with great knowledge of the eruption site and all conditions on site will be taken into account with your safety in mind. Wear good hiking shoes, dress in warm and waterproof layers for the unpredictable Icelandic weather, and bring water and snacks for the hike (your guide can also make a stop on the way for you to buy provisions).

An eruption began by Mt. Litli-Hrutur at 4:40 pm on July 10, 2023. It is just North-East of the two prior eruptions; Geldingadalur valley which began erupting at 9:45 pm on March 19 in 2021, and Meradalir valley which began erupting at 1:18 pm on August 3 in 2022. We have now entered a new volcanic era which is expected to last with frequent eruptions for the next 100-200 years in the Reykjanes area, but the last one occurred in 1210 and lasted till 1240, called Reykjaneseldar (e. The Reykjanes Fires). The current eruption is situated in an area that hadn't erupted in over 6,000 years until the eruption in Geldingadalur valley in 2021.

Located on the Reykjanes peninsula, this area sits on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and has been shaped by volcanic activity during interglacial periods, consisting of five volcanic systems from SW to NE. Due to its geological heritage, Reykjanes was recognized as a Global Geopark by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization) in 2015, with 55 geosites.

If you plan on using a drone, please note the following regulations:

• DO NOT fly a drone higher than 120 m (394 ft) above the ground.
• Drones shall Always give way to manned aircraft.
• Drones shall not be flown beyond visual lines of sight ( BVLOS).
• The operator of the drone is responsible for any damage that may result from its use.
• For commercial drones, additional requirements are in place, for example regarding registration.

Further information on drone usage at the eruption site can be found on the website of the Icelandic Transport Authority. 

• Hiking poles and headlamps
• Knowledgeable & experienced English-speaking hiking and driver-guide
• Pickup & drop-off within the Reykjavik Capital Area or Reykjanes Peninsula Area
• Private transport in an air-conditioned vehicle
• Parking fees