Fagradalsfjall Volcano Trails
Witness the raw power of Iceland's volcanic landscape. Hike across ancient lava fields and marvel at the earth's fiery creation.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
See flowing lava & feel heat
Fagradalsfjall Volcano Trails
Best Time
See flowing lava & feel heat

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the raw power of Iceland's volcanic landscape. Hike across ancient lava fields and marvel at the earth's fiery creation.
"One of the coolest natural things I’ve seen in my life."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Uneven, stony paths require good hiking boots. Don't underestimate the trail's difficulty!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
No restrooms on trails. Stay hydrated for the moderately difficult hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Meradalir Viewpoint
Trail A
Witness the awe-inspiring lava fields from the 2021/2 eruptions, offering stunning views towards the sea.

Storholl Viewing Spot
Trail A
A rewarding 1-hour hike to a vantage point showcasing diverse lava flows from past eruptions.

Active Lava Flows
Near eruption sites
Experience the raw power of the earth by walking on and feeling the heat from recent lava flows. Tread carefully!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Gear
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Fagradalsfjall Hike?
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Uneven, stony paths require good hiking boots. Don't underestimate the trail's difficulty!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
No restrooms on trails. Stay hydrated for the moderately difficult hike.
Fagradalsfjall Volcano Hike - is it still worth viewing?
Best Hiking Trail for Fagradalsfjall Currently?
📱 Parking App Payment
Pay for parking via a dedicated app upon arrival.
🗺️ Trail Maps Available
A large map at the parking lot details various trails and viewing spots.
Fagradalsfjall Paths - Which would you take?
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Uneven, stony paths require good hiking boots. Don't underestimate the trail's difficulty!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
No restrooms on trails. Stay hydrated for the moderately difficult hike.
📱 Parking App Payment
Pay for parking via a dedicated app upon arrival.
🗺️ Trail Maps Available
A large map at the parking lot details various trails and viewing spots.
🌬️ Beware of Wind
Strong winds can make the hike challenging, especially on exposed ridges.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently awestruck by the Fagradalsfjall volcano's raw power and the stunning, otherworldly lava fields. The hikes, though challenging due to uneven terrain, are described as incredibly rewarding, offering unique geological sights. Some note the lack of facilities and the intensity of the wind, but the overall experience is deemed unforgettable.
"I had an amazing hike to the Meradalir Viewpoint, a round trip of 12 Kms for which the ascent & descent was moderately difficult given the 200 m + rise from car park & the stoney path/uneven terrain. Passing to see the lava fields from the 2021/2 eruptions was a truly awe inspiring sight of the power of the earth. The scenic views as far as the sea were fantastic. I enjoyed seeing some of the bird life too including the snow bunting."
Mark Auchincloss
"Very nice spot, you have a variety of hiking trails to choose from. Once you arrive at the parking (which you can pay for by downloading an app), there is a big map with all the trails clearly described. We took trail A, 1h one way (2h total), to Storholl, which is a very nice viewing spot where you can see all the races of lava from 2021. The trail isn't easy, it has lots of pebbles and loose stones, so can be quite slow to walk back down. Definitely worth it."
Justyna VDH
"We saw the volcano in late July 2023. To this day it still stands as one of the coolest natural things I’ve seen in my life.
The trail killed me, and I was already dying before we started heading back - however, it was the first day of our round-Europe trip, and I don’t hike a lot 😅 There are no public restrooms on the trail itself, so be prepared to look for private locations if it deems necessary ;) For experienced hikers this shouldn‘t be too bad."
Cindy the Oofer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trails are accessible by car from Reykjavik. Follow Route 41 towards Keflavik, then take Route 43 towards Grindavík. Look for signs directing you to the volcano parking areas. Parking fees are typically paid via an app.
Public transportation options are limited. Renting a car is the most convenient way to reach the volcano. Some tour operators also offer guided trips.
The drive from Reykjavik to the Fagradalsfjall volcano parking areas is approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
Yes, numerous tour operators offer guided hikes to Fagradalsfjall, which can be a great option if you prefer not to drive or want expert insights.
Designated parking areas are available near the trailheads. Payment is usually handled through a mobile app.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entry fee for the volcano area itself, but you will likely need to pay for parking.
The trails are generally accessible 24/7, but it's advisable to hike during daylight hours for safety and visibility. Always check current eruption status and trail conditions.
No, there is no direct entrance fee to access the hiking trails around Fagradalsfjall. Parking fees are the primary cost.
While the area is accessible, it's crucial to check for any safety advisories or temporary closures due to volcanic activity or weather conditions.
Parking fees can vary but are typically around 750-1000 ISK per vehicle. Payment is usually made via a parking app.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hikes are generally considered moderately difficult. Trails involve significant elevation gain (around 600-700 feet) and uneven, stony terrain, making the descent challenging.
The hike to popular viewpoints like Meradalir or Storholl can be around 6 miles round trip, taking approximately 2-4 hours depending on your pace and how long you spend at the viewing areas.
No, there are no public restrooms directly on the hiking trails. Visitors should plan accordingly and use facilities before or after their hike.
Sturdy hiking boots are essential due to the rocky terrain. Dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable, and bring waterproof and windproof outer layers.
Yes, you can walk on some of the older lava fields, but exercise extreme caution. Some areas can be unstable, and there's a risk of falling through to molten lava. Stick to marked paths where possible.
📸 📸 Photography
The Meradalir Viewpoint and Storholl offer panoramic views of the vast lava fields. If there's active lava, getting closer (safely) provides dramatic shots of glowing magma and steam.
An hour before sunset can be magical, allowing you to capture the warm glow of the lava and the changing light. Midday can be harsh, but still offers dramatic landscapes.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on distant volcanic features. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions.
Maintain a safe distance, as heat and gases can be intense. Use a lens that allows you to zoom in without getting too close. Be mindful of wind direction for ash and fumes.
The contrast between the black, solidified lava and the vibrant colors of the sky at sunset is stunning. If the volcano is actively erupting, capturing the glowing lava is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for the lack of facilities, including restrooms, on the trails. It's advisable to visit during daylight hours for better visibility and safety. Consider the weather conditions, as strong winds can be a factor. For families seeking a less strenuous experience, exploring the immediate vicinity of the parking areas might offer some views without the full hike.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To save money, pack your own food and water. Avoid purchasing from any vendors near the site, as prices can be inflated. Renting a car is recommended for flexibility, but if traveling with others, splitting the fuel and parking costs can make it even more economical. Consider visiting during shoulder seasons for potentially lower car rental prices.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Volcanic Activity
When planning your visit, it's crucial to stay updated on the latest eruption status and safety advisories. Websites like the Icelandic Meteorological Office provide real-time information on seismic activity and potential hazards. The landscape is constantly evolving, with new lava flows shaping the terrain. This makes each visit potentially different and offers a chance to see a landscape in formation.
Hiking the Trails: What to Expect
Popular trails, such as Trail A leading to Storholl or the path to the Meradalir Viewpoint, offer incredible vistas of past lava flows. These trails are well-signposted from the parking areas, and a large map at the trailhead provides an overview of the different routes and their estimated times. Despite the physical demands, the reward is an unparalleled experience of Iceland's volcanic grandeur.
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