Eyjafjallajokull Volcano: Things You Need to Know

Is it a volcano? Is it a glacier? It’s both! Snæfellsjökull volcano is a glacier-capped volcano in Iceland and the highlight of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, a stunning area in western Iceland. Standing at an impressive 1446 metres high, the Snæfellsjökull volcano in Iceland is one of the country’s most notable landmarks and can sometimes even be seen from Reykjavik. What are the top things to know before visiting Snæfellsjökull volcano? Read on to find out.

Aptly named ‘The Gateway to Hell,’ the Hekla volcano in the south of Iceland is a deadly force with a shocking history of destruction. This reputation caused people in the middle ages to believe that Hekla or Hecla was the entrance to Hell. That however, hasn’t stopped brave travellers from exploring one of Iceland’s active volcanoes!

Close your eyes, and imagine a lagoon filled with hot, milky blue water. As you stand on the shore, surrounded by the volcanic rock of lava fields, and see the steam rising off the water into a frigid twilight sky you might believe for a moment that you were standing on the surface of an alien world. As cosmic as this landscape might appear, it is actually an apt description of one of the most unique locals of our own amazing planet — the Blue Lagoon in Iceland, the most popular of the best hot springs in Iceland.

The Öræfajökull volcano on Iceland's south-east coast is a name you might have heard quite frequently in the media this last little while. That is because scientists predict that this volatile peak might erupt at any moment! Öræfajökull is one of Iceland’s many ice-capped volcanoes. As Iceland’s largest active volcano and Europe’s second largest volcano (second only to Mt Etna in Sicily), Öræfajökull is constantly kept under close surveillance. There are at least two known records of the Öræfajökull volcano erupting: an explosive eruption in 1362, which totally destroyed the nearby district formerly known as Litla-Hérað, followed by a smaller eruption in the late 1720s. In 2017, increased earthquake activity was noticed. Most recently, an ice-cauldron (also called a caldera) appears to have formed in Öræfajökull volcano’s main crater, and the smell of sulphur can be detected in the air nearby. While a potential eruption cannot easily be predicted (and may sound a bit frightening), there is no need to fear. Volcanoes often show increasing geothermal activity for years prior to an eruption. At the time of writing this article, a yellow warning has been issued for the volcano —more of a safety precaution than anything else as scientists are unsure of the Öræfajökull volcano’s eruption habits. All the same, tourists continue to flock to the area, particularly in the summer months. This fascinating volcano is incredibly impressive and well worth a visit during your trip to Iceland — particularly if you’re a bit of a geology geek! If a visit to Öræfajökull is on your bucket list, here is everything you need to know to make it totally worthwhile.

Katla volcano, the most powerful volcano in Iceland, packs a punch that has garnered a fearsome reputation. Due to patterns that have developed over time, it is now believed that whenever Eyjafjallajökull volcano erupts, Katla follows suit with a more powerful and destructive explosion, which is why it is thought to be a twin of the Eyjafjallajökull volcano. The name ‘Katla’ is steeped in Icelandic folklore, where it is told that the volcano was named after a maid on a nearby farm that dabbled in witchcraft. This mystical link only adds to the reverence given to volcanos in Iceland, a land that has been shaped and formed by these beautiful forces of nature. Found in the south of Iceland, hidden under the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, Katla’s eruptions cause massive floods and ash fall, resulting in major destruction. In 2010, Icelanders held their breath after the famous Eyjafjallajökull eruption, though luckily Katla stayed quiet. However, an eruption is now long overdue, so who knows how long the calm will last!

Hverfjall volcano is a very popular Icelandic attraction that goes by two names; Icelanders can’t seem to decide between Hverfjall or Hverfell. However, the more common moniker is Hverfjall. The almost perfect circular shape of Hverfjall is part of what makes it such a must-see volcano in Iceland. Oh – and the fact that you can walk the whole way around its circumference! You want to give it a go on your next Iceland trip if you are into volcanoes.

The fourth largest glacier in Iceland, Myrdalsjokull is a true embodiment of the land of fire and ice. Deep within Myrdalsjokull’s ice cap lies one of the largest active volcanoes in Iceland, the destructive Katla. Set along Iceland’s popular south coast, Mydalsjokull is one of its most easily accessible glaciers, jam packed with activities — a must-visit on your Iceland holiday. Getting to Myrdalsjokull depends on which part you will be visiting - glaciers are quite big after all! However, the two main routes include heading to either Seljalandsfoss waterfall or Sólheimajökull, an outlet glacier of Myrdalsjokull. Both routes entail driving along Route 1 on the south coast of Iceland. Seljalandsfoss is located approximately 125 km along Route 1 from Reykjavik and Solheimajokull is a further 25 km away.

Every country has its little hidden secrets, and Gljúfrabúi waterfall is one of Iceland’s finest. Gljúfrabúi (also known as Gljúfrabúifoss) is a 40-metre high waterfall on Iceland’s south coast, not far from the incredibly popular Seljalandsfoss. While it may not be quite as famous as its nearby friend, that certainly doesn’t mean it is any less impressive. Translated into English as “canyon dweller” or “dweller of the gorge”, Gljúfrabúi waterfall is a true beauty hidden away below steep cliffs. The waterfall cascades down into a little cave with light pouring in from above — a truly beautiful sight that is worth veering off the beaten path to see! Here is everything you need to know about Gljúfrabúi waterall, including how to get there and what absolutely shouldn’t be missed.

There may be many well-known waterfalls in Iceland, but none are quite like Gullfoss waterfall. Literally translated to the “golden falls” from Icelandic, these falls tumble down the rugged landscape into a cloud of mist that makes them appear as if they are indeed golden and sparkling. Framed between tall canyon walls, the Gullfoss waterfall is truly iconic, cascading down 32 meters from the Hvítá river, created from the Langjökull glacier. In fact, Gullfoss can be considered two separate waterfalls as the water flows from two stages: a primary drop of 11 metres, followed by an impressive 21-metre drop. This jaw-dropping sight is one that absolutely cannot be missed on your visit to Iceland. To ensure you make the most of your day visit to the falls, we’ve put together this guide with all the must-know information.

As the second highest waterfall in Iceland, Glymur waterfall is not for the faint of heart. Cascading 198 m down a rugged landscape, adventure seekers, nature lovers, and adrenaline junkies from all over the world have traveled to Iceland just to climb Glymur. In fact, this waterfall is not even visible from the main road, meaning a considerable hike is involved just to lay your eyes on it! While the view from the very top is surely stunning, the scenery on the journey is just as impressive (and is sure to keep you motivated all the way up!). Here is all you need to know about hiking Glymur waterfall.

Often referred to as “Iceland in miniature”, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is the one area in Iceland you simply cannot miss if you want to taste everything Iceland has to offer. With a volcano, a glacier, towering mountains, sandy beaches, and small fishing villages, this peninsula has plenty to offer. Read on to discover the area’s highlights and our top tips for travelling to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

A key highlight of Iceland’s southern coast, Seljalandsfoss waterfall, with its stunning cascading falls from a steep cliff, is perhaps one of the most well-known waterfalls in Iceland. Standing at an impressive 65 meters tall, Seljalandsfoss is fed from the waters of the glacier-topped Eyjafjallajokull volcano and completely captivates all those who make the trip to see it. No trip to the south of Iceland is complete without a visit to this jaw-dropping work of nature, particularly if you are already taking in the sites of the South Coast route. Seljalandsfoss along with Skogafoss is one of the two main highlights of the famous Golden Circle in Iceland. In this article we cover all the highlights of a visit to Seljalandsfoss, how to get there, and the best way to spend your time.