If you’re planning a trip to Iceland soon, it’s safe to visit despite the recent volcanic eruption that occurred from March 16, 2024, to May 8, 2024, north of Grindavík on Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula. This eruption was limited to a small, contained area.

Is there an ongoing volcanic eruption in Iceland?

No, the recent eruption at Sundhnúkagígar in Iceland ended on May 8, 2024.

Although there are still ongoing movements under the Svartsengi geothermal area, experts are closely monitoring the situation. While another eruption is possible, all necessary precautions are in place. Iceland remains a captivating and safe destination for travelers.

The latest eruption lasted 54 days, from March 16, 2024, to May 8, 2024.

Like previous eruptions, this one was contained within its surroundings on the Reykjanes Peninsula. This means the eruption did not impact the airport, the Ring Road, the capital city of Reykjavik, or any other areas of Iceland.

Where was the volcanic eruption in Iceland?

The eruption that started on March 16th and ended on May 8th occurred approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland.

Is it still safe to go to Iceland?

Yes, it’s safe to visit Iceland. Despite the recent eruption, flights and tours are operating smoothly. The Ring Road, the main route around the country, remains open as usual.

Is the eruption dangerous?

The eruption is not considered dangerous to the public or flights. A fissure eruption affects only the area immediately surrounding the eruption site with lava flows. If authorities permit, people can approach the site, but until then, they should keep their distance to avoid any danger.

Learn more in this short video featuring Dr. Matthew Roberts, Managing Director at the Icelandic Met Office.

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Are flights affected?

Keflavík Airport is operating as usual, and flights are not affected. We offer safe and quick transfers to and from the airport.

The Reykjanes Peninsula has experienced several volcanic eruptions since 2021, none of which have impacted tours or flights. These volcanic events are different from the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption, which caused significant air travel disruptions due to extensive ash clouds. Unlike the subglacial Eyjafjallajökull eruption, the recent eruptions in Reykjanes are fissure eruptions, which are smaller and do not emit ash.

Can I visit the volcano eruption site?

Currently, the area near the eruption site is closed for safety reasons until further notice.

Can I visit the Blue Lagoon?

Blue Lagoon’s opening times may be affected due to recent seismic activity in the area. Although the eruption at Sundhnúkagígar is at a safe distance from the lagoon, operational hours may be influenced by air quality forecasts.

Is Iceland prepared?

Almannavarnir are well-prepared for such events. Iceland experiences frequent volcanic activity, particularly on the Reykjanes Peninsula, where several eruptions have occurred in recent years.

For more information, follow updates from the Icelandic Meteorological Office or Safe Travel Iceland.

How long will Iceland’s volcano eruption last?

It’s challenging to predict the duration of Iceland’s eruptions. They could potentially last for a few days or extend over several months.

What causes volcanic eruptions in Iceland?

Living with earthquakes and volcanoes is part of everyday life in Iceland. This is because Iceland sits on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge in the North Atlantic Ocean.

Here, the Eurasian and North American plates move apart, creating rift zones where the Earth’s crust breaks apart. Magma, or molten rock, rises up through these fractures and sometimes erupts as lava or ash.

Iceland has some of the most advanced earthquake monitoring and volcanic eruption prediction systems in the world. This ensures the safety of both residents and tourists, allowing them to continue with their daily routines even during times of heightened seismic activity.