It might not be long until we witness the next volcano eruption in Iceland. Where and when Iceland's newest volcanic eruption will take place is uncertain, but evidence indicates that a new eruption could happen soon.

Iceland has entered a new era in volcanic activities. Up until just recently the country experienced volcano eruptions about every 2-3 years. Now with the ongoing activities at Reykjanes peninsula they have become a lot more frequent and approachable. 

Our Best Guess

The Icelandic Meteorological office has announced that magma is collecting again under the surface at Reykjanes Peninsula. Scientists have detected a rise in the earth's crust, followed by a series of small earthquakes in the area. This often indicates that a volcano eruption is about to happen.

When exactly the next volcano eruption in Iceland will happen is hard to predict. This situation can last for a long time and in some cases, nothing comes out of it. Meaning there will be no volcanic activity above ground. But given recent history it is likely there will be an eruption soon.

In the past three years Iceland has had one volcanic eruption per year, all in the same area. The volcano eruption in Fagradalsfjall volcano in March of 2021, the eruption in Meradalir in 2022 and the latest volcanic eruption near Litli Hrutur volcano in the summer of 2023.

According to this pattern we should get the next volcanic eruption in Iceland in 2024 at Reykjanes peninsula. However, nothing is guaranteed and a new eruption might just be right around the corner. Same goes for where Iceland's next volcano eruption will take place. While nothing is guaranteed the odds are it will occur at Reykjanes peninsula within the area of Fagradalsfjall volcano.

Reykjanes peninsula Iceland Hot Spot

Reykjanes peninsula has awakened. With the last three volcanic eruptions in Iceland taking place there it is most likely the next volcano eruption in Iceland will also be on Reykjanes Peninsula.

The recent volcanic activities are highly convenient for travelers visiting Iceland. Keflavik International Airport is also located on Reykjanes peninsula. Making it very accessible for visitors but still within a safe distance so it does not interrupt air traffic.

Reykjanes peninsula is a geothermal hot spot and there are many other interesting sites you might want to check out, aside from the volcanos in Fagradalsfjall. For example Gunnuhver mud pots, the Bridge between continents and of course the famous hot spring called the Blue Lagoon.

Volcanic activities in Iceland

The land of Ice and Fire volcanic history has created the unique landscape and iconic natural wonders Iceland is famous for. Iceland is situated on the Mid Atlantic ridge which separates the tectonic plates of Eurasia and North America. The continental drift results in high volcanic activity as the crack between Europe and America goes right through the island.

Ever since Iceland was settled it has been known for its active volcanoes and glaciers. Hence, being referred to as the Land of Ice and Fire.Before the action at Reykjanes peninsula started a few years ago, which had been inactive for over 2000 years, most volcanic eruptions occurred in Iceland ́s highland.

Iceland's most active volcano is called Grímsvötn volcano and is located at Vatnajökull glacier within Vatnajökull national park. Grímsvötn is however not the most famous volcano in Iceland. For centuries another highly active volcano called Hekla has been Iceland's most famous volcano. Latest eruption occurred in early 2001.

Eyjafjallajökull Volcano

The most famous volcano in Iceland is without a doubt the Eyjafjallajökull, which erupted in 2010. This was no small tourist volcanic eruption. Eyjafjallajökull volcano sits under one of Iceland's largest glaciers. The eruption was massive and exploded in a violent way, forming a gigantic ash cloud which blocked air traffic in large parts of western Europe, including the UK. Eyjafjallajökull made headlines around the world for distributing air traffic and stranding millions of passengers. But also, for its unusual name, which no one outside Iceland could pronounce correctly.

Although the Eyjafjallajökull eruption stopped travel for many people for a few days, it had extremely positive effects for Iceland. All the media attention turned out to be a great advertisement for the country, which had recently suffered from a major financial crisis. Putting Iceland firmly on the map as an exciting destination for travelers around the world looking for natural wonders.

Eyjafjallajökull volcano is located on Iceland's south coast. Not only did the volcano inspire interest but also the amazing sites surrounding it. Like, Skógafoss waterfall, Seljaland Waterfall, Reynisfjara black sand beach and more.

Fiery Westman Islands 

The Westman Islands are highly active volcanic islands off the south coast of Iceland. The latest eruption occurred in 1973, in the town of Vestmannaeyjabær at Heimaey island. Resulting in a total evacuation of the island. The covered a large part of the town, giving it the name; “Pompee of the North.

The islanders were able to return to the islands a few years later, but not everyone returned to their homes.

This has shaped the Westman Islands to become one of Iceland's most amazing natural wonders. From its volcanic past to breathtaking scenery, wildlife, and rich history. Home to Iceland's largest puffin colony, Elephant Rock and more, Westman Islands could just be the most interesting place to visit in Iceland.

Our Conclusion

While we can´t say for sure where exactly and when the next volcano eruption in Iceland will take place it is safe to assume we will not have to wait for long to experience nature's most powerful display again.

Reykjanes peninsula is the hottest spot in Iceland now and most likely to be the stage for Iceland's newest volcanic adventure.

But nothing is certain when it comes to volcanos, especially Icelandic volcanoes. Whatever, where and when, if you want to witness who truly awesome volcanoes in Iceland can be you must be prepared.

Starting by having a trusted rental car from Blue Car Rental. Iceland's best ranked rental service. Offering the perfect rental car for your Iceland volcano adventure as well as the fastest rental delivery in the world, full insurances and zero deposit.

We would love to be a part of your Iceland road trip and assist you in seeing the wonders of Iceland. We recommend our blogs containing great information about natural wonders and practical travel info in Iceland.

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