Iceland: Fagradalsfjall Volcano Hike & Lava Fields with Local Insights

Summary

Walk fresh lava fields, meet locals, and see Iceland’s wild volcanic energy up close

You’ll hike across fresh lava at Fagradalsfjall volcano with a local guide who knows every twist in the trail, explore colorful geothermal pools at Seltún, and pause by mysterious Kleifarvatn lake. Expect raw landscapes, real stories from locals affected by eruptions, and moments that stick with you long after you’ve left Iceland’s volcanic heart.

What’s the experience like?

“You smell that? That’s the earth cooking,” our guide Jón grinned as we stepped out near Fagradalsfjall. Honestly, I’d never smelled anything like it — sort of like hot stones and eggs left too long in the sun. The wind was sharp enough to make my eyes water, but Jón just shrugged and handed out hiking poles. He’d lived through the eruptions here in 2021, so when he pointed at a still-warm patch of black rock and told us not to touch it, I listened. There was something about his voice — calm but with that edge you get from seeing things up close.

The hike itself wasn’t easy or hard; it just felt… alive. We crossed over crunchy new lava flows (some parts were still steaming), and Jón kept stopping to show us tiny cracks where heat escaped in little puffs. At one point, he picked up a piece of rock — “born last year,” he said — and let me hold it. It was lighter than I expected, almost chalky. The wind carried this weird mix of sulfur and sea air from the coast below. I tried to imagine living in Grindavík like Jón’s cousin did before they had to leave after another eruption — he pointed out the empty houses as we drove by. Kind of sobering.

Later we stopped at Seltún, which looked like someone spilled paint everywhere: yellows, reds, all swirling around bubbling mud pools. The ground squelched under my boots (bring good ones — trust me). There were only a few other people around; mostly locals who nodded at us but didn’t say much. Then we paused at Kleifarvatn lake for photos — the water was dark and glassy with low clouds hanging right above it. I thought about how different this landscape must look in winter… or maybe not so different at all.

I didn’t expect to feel so small out there, surrounded by all that new earth and steam hissing quietly underfoot. Even now I can picture those black hills stretching off into the mist behind Jón as he waited for us to catch up. If you want a day trip from Reykjavík that actually makes you feel something (and gives you stories to tell), this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Volcano hike and geothermal sights

• Drive across Reykjanes Peninsula
• Pass evacuated eruption zone near Grindavík
• Hike 5 miles at Fagradalsfjall volcano
• Walk through Seltún Geothermal Area
• Stop at Kleifarvatn lake viewpoint

Top questions

How long is the Fagradalsfjall volcano hike?

The hike is about 5 miles (8 km) round-trip with roughly 984 feet (300 m) elevation gain.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

Pickup from Reykjavík is included if you select that option during booking; self-drive guests meet at Grindavík.

Can children join the Fagradalsfjall hiking tour?

The minimum age for group tours is 7 years old; younger children are not allowed unless arranged privately.

What should I bring on the volcano hike?

You should bring layered waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, water, snacks, gloves, and your phone or camera.

Are Seltún and Kleifarvatn included for self-drive guests?

Seltún and Kleifarvatn stops are included only for tours returning to Reykjavík; self-drivers may follow in their own car after the main hike.

Is glowing lava guaranteed on this tour?

No—glowing lava is only visible during active eruptions and can’t be guaranteed; routes adapt based on current conditions.

How difficult is the Fagradalsfjall volcano hike?

The hike requires moderate fitness due to uneven ground and some elevation gain; private tours are best for slower pace or extra breaks.

What happens if volcanic access is closed?

If access is closed due to activity or safety rules, guides will change the route to safe alternative volcanic sites nearby.

What’s included

Your day includes certified local guide service with real eruption experience, use of hiking poles (plus crampons or headlamps if needed in winter), pickup from Reykjavík if selected when booking—or clear instructions for self-drivers meeting in Grindavík—and extra stops at Seltún geothermal area and Kleifarvatn lake when returning to Reykjavík after your volcano adventure.