Best Lava Field Walks
From fresh Reykjanes lava to ancient moss-covered fields — Iceland's volcanic landscapes on foot
Iceland's lava fields range from brand-new eruption sites still steaming on the Reykjanes Peninsula to ancient moss-carpeted expanses that have been slowly healing for centuries. Walking through these landscapes is unlike anything else on Earth — a direct encounter with the forces that built an entire island from scratch.
Reykjanes Lava Fields — Still Being Made
The most dramatic lava field walks are currently on the Reykjanes Peninsula, where eruptions since 2021 have created fresh black basalt landscapes just 40 km from Reykjavik. Walking the lava fields near Fagradalsfjall and the Sundhnúks crater row, you are crossing ground that did not exist a few years ago.
The terrain is extremely sharp and uneven — sturdy hiking boots with ankle support are essential. Twisted aa lava and ropy pahoehoe lava create very different surfaces. Always check vedur.is before heading out, as this area remains actively volcanic.
Eldhraun — The World's Largest Lava Flow
The vast Eldhraun lava field along the Ring Road between Vík and Kirkjubæjarklaustur was created by the catastrophic Laki eruptions of 1783–1784. It covers 565 km² and is carpeted in a luminous green moss that makes it look like another planet entirely.
The Laki eruptions were among the worst disasters in Icelandic history, killing a quarter of the population through fluorine poisoning and famine. Walking through the silent, moss-covered lava field today, it is hard to imagine the catastrophe that created it.
Þórsmörk — Lava Meets Forest
The Þórsmörk nature reserve sits in a glacial valley surrounded by volcanic ridges, accessible only by 4WD or highland bus. Short walks from the base camps explore twisted lava landscapes juxtaposed with silver birch forest — a combination that feels ancient and mythological.
Þórsmörk is also the endpoint of both the Laugavegur Trail and the Fimmvörðuháls route, making it the starting point for some of Iceland's greatest multi-day treks.
Dimmuborgir — City of Trolls
This extraordinary lava formation near Lake Mývatn was created when a lava lake formed over a wetland approximately 2,300 years ago. Steam from the wetland created hollow lava pillars and bizarre rock formations as the lava cooled and contracted around it.
Walking the marked trails through Dimmuborgir feels like exploring a cathedral of black rock. The area is associated with Icelandic Christmas folklore — legend says the 13 Yule Lads live here. A 2–3 km circuit trail is suitable for all fitness levels.
Safety on Lava Fields
- Wear sturdy hiking boots with ankle support — lava is brutally sharp
- Volcanic gases (SO2) can be invisible but dangerous — check wind direction
- Never walk on active lava or approach fumaroles
- Moss on old lava fields can conceal deep holes — stay on marked paths
- Carry water — there are no services in remote lava fields
- Register your trip at safetravel.is for remote areas
Safety Information
Always check vedur.is before visiting volcanic areas. Volcanic gases are odorless and dangerous. Stay on marked paths. Register at safetravel.is for remote hikes. Call 112 in emergencies.