Journey through active volcanoes, recent eruptions, and the forces that shape Iceland
12 eruptions since 20212 • Most recent: July-August 2025 (ended) • System remains active
Iceland has around 130 volcanic mountains arranged into about 32 active volcanic systems1. A volcanic system includes multiple volcanoes, fissure swarms, and geothermal areas connected by the same magma source, while individual volcanic mountains are single peaks within these larger systems.
After 800 years of dormancy, this system awakened in 2021 creating spectacular lava shows just 40km from Reykjavík. Multiple eruption sites offer world-class volcano viewing.
Iceland's most feared volcano lies beneath Mýrdalsjökull glacier. When it erupts, it causes massive floods and ash clouds affecting global air travel.
Medieval Europe called it the Gateway to Hell. Known for erupting with little warning, it's been unusually quiet since 2000 - the longest gap in recorded history.
Famous for the 1975-1984 "Krafla Fires" eruptions. Active caldera system near Lake Mývatn with dramatic crater lakes and geothermal features.
Iceland's tallest mountain (2,110m) is an active volcano under Vatnajökull. Responsible for Iceland's deadliest eruption in 1362.
9th Sundhnúks eruption July-August 2025 (ended), part of 12 total since 2021 reactivation
System Active7 major eruptions, longest lasting 54 days
High ImpactThird Fagradalsfjall system eruption creates "Little Ram" cone
Tourist AttractionSecond eruption in Fagradalsfjall system
3 weeksFirst eruption after 800 years of dormancy
350,000+ visitorsIceland has one of the world's most advanced volcano monitoring systems. Here's what makes volcano tourism possible.
70+ seismometers and GPS stations track volcanic activity 24/7 (Source: Icelandic Met Office)
Color-coded warnings from green (normal) to red (eruption). Check SafeTravel.is and IMO for real-time alerts.
Coast Guard helicopters and rescue teams on standby
Areas around new eruption sites may be closed when gas levels are high or conditions unsafe. Always check current restrictions before visiting active areas.
Icelandic Met Office (Veðurstofa Íslands). "Volcanic Systems in Iceland." Official geological data on Iceland's volcanic mountains and active systems. en.vedur.is
Guide to Iceland and Icelandair. "Iceland Volcanic Activity Updates 2021-2025: Reykjanes Peninsula Eruptions." Comprehensive timeline of Fagradalsfjall, Litli-Hrútur, Hagafell, and Sundhnúksgígar crater row eruptions. Updated August 2025. guidetoiceland.is
Last updated: August 2025. For the most current volcanic activity, always check the Icelandic Met Office for real-time updates.