The Eruption Escapade: Tour of New Volcanic Area in Iceland
Landings are permitted subject to weather conditions. In case of an eruption, no landings are allowed.
Explore the dramatic aftermath of Iceland’s most recent volcanic eruptions. The Eruption Escapade helicopter tour takes you over the Reykjanes Peninsula, where fresh lava fields, dormant craters, and steaming vents showcase the raw power of nature.
Although the volcano is not erupting, the landscape remains active and visually stunning. This tour offers a rare opportunity to witness newly formed geological wonders from the sky — a must-see for nature lovers and photographers.
Eruption Details
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The most recent eruption in the Reykjanes Peninsula began on November 20, 2024, northeast of Grindavík between Stóra-Skógfell and Sýlingarfell. A 3 km-long fissure released lava flows that approached key landmarks, including the Blue Lagoon, prompting temporary evacuations. The eruption concluded on December 9, 2024.
Previous Eruptions in the Area
- Geldingadalur Valley (March 2021): In Geldingadalur Valley, the first explosion in the area happened and lasted for six months.
- Meradalir Valley (August 2022): The second eruption happened in the Meradalir Valley and lasted for three weeks.
Assessment and Impact
- Current Assessment: The Icelandic government told people not to go to the site of the earthquake until they had figured out what was going on and made sure it was safe.
- Historical Dormancy: Before the earthquake in 2021, the area had been quiet for 800 years. However, the recent rise in volcanic activity suggests the start of a new cycle that could last for years.
- Volcanic Activity and Air Traffic: The latest effusive eruptions in the area have not been dangerous or had a big effect on air traffic.
Volcanic Activity in Iceland
- Active Volcanic Systems: Iceland boasts 33 volcanic systems considered active, the highest number in Europe, with eruptions occurring, on average, every five years.
- Geographical Factors: Iceland straddles the mid-Atlantic ridge, a crack in the ocean floor separating the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, making it geologically active.
Historical Significance
- Eyjafjallajökull Eruption (April 2010): The massive eruption of the Eyjafjallajökull volcano led to widespread flight cancellations and stranded millions of travelers.
- Katla and Askja Volcanoes: Volcanoes such as Katla and Askja have shown signs of activity, with Katla potentially indicating an imminent reawakening after its last eruption in 1918.
- Laki Volcanic Fissure Eruption (1783): The 1783 eruption of the Laki volcanic fissure is considered one of the most devastating in Iceland’s history, leading to environmental and socioeconomic catastrophes.
The most recent volcanic eruption in Iceland began on November 20, 2024, on the Reykjanes Peninsula, between Stóra-Skógfell and Sýlingarfell, northeast of Grindavík. A fissure approximately 3 kilometers long opened, releasing lava flows that advanced toward infrastructure and the Blue Lagoon area, prompting temporary evacuations.
The eruption ended on December 9, 2024, leaving behind extensive lava fields and reshaped terrain. While no eruption is ongoing, geological unrest continues, with magma accumulation beneath the Svartsengi area, indicating potential for future activity.
This recent event offers visitors a unique opportunity to view newly formed volcanic features from the air.
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