How To Plan A Volcano-Themed Trip To Iceland

09.01.2024 - 20:26 / forbes.com

Few destinations better demonstrate the raw power of our planet than Iceland. Its ever-changing landscape, marked by stunning lava fields, hot springs, and glaciers, has been further transformed by a series of volcanic eruptions in recent years, showcasing the tremendous forces of nature.

Visitors have long been drawn to Iceland by these natural attractions, but tourism numbers have boomed since the Eyjafjallajökull eruption of 2010 that garnered worldwide attention. By 2018, visitor numbers had grown by 400%.

Following the most recent eruption in December 2023, which followed the evacuation of the town of Grindavik, Iceland faces a sustained period of seismic activity, with risks of further eruptions.

Tourism experts say this could put off some visitors. Local photographer and tour guide Gunnar Gunnarsson says that the typical tourist “seems a bit reluctant” following the most recent eruption, because of the potential disruption to flights and general safety concerns.

However, he adds that “more adventurous travelers, photographers, and journalists were very interested,” suggesting that fears of a tourism dip may be premature.

For those planning to visit Iceland in 2024, a series of fascinating volcano museums and attractions await.

Gunnarsson recommends checking out Reykjavik’s Lava Show, a novel attraction that heats up old lava to recreate an eruption: “It allows you to feel the incredible heat in a safe and controlled environment. If you don’t get to see an active volcano, this is still a great way to gain some perspective on Iceland's volcanic landscape.”

Before departing the capital, visit the Perlan museum, which offers visitors a thorough introduction not only to volcanoes but also to all of Iceland’s fantastic geology and nature.

In particular, the Geldingadalir eruption of 2021, less than 20 miles from Reykjavik, is put into focus. Its slow moving lava allowed locals and scientists to observe the eruption with relative safety, leading to some outstanding footage on display in the museum.

Finally, visitors can see for themselves the impact caused by this and other eruptions on a helicopter tour from Reykjavik.

Many different tour providers are available, each covering a specialist theme or geographic area. Such tours don't just provide a view of volcanoes and lava fields, they also reveal Iceland’s glaciers, mountainous landscapes, and other geological features.

If tourism numbers do prove to be down, it would be a great time to hire a car and visit the often-crowded attractions of Iceland’s Golden Circle.

The 185-mile tourist route loop from Reykjavik to the southern uplands includes three of Iceland’s best-known landmarks: Thingvellir National Park, the Gullfoss waterfall, and the