Region
South Iceland
260 km from Reykjavik
Kirkjubaejarklaustur Iceland: Laki Craters & Historic Monastery
Iceland's monastery village—a tiny oasis between volcanic wastelands, gateway to the Laki craters and dramatic Fjadrargljufur canyon.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Population
~150
South Iceland • Historic site
Kirkjubaejarklaustur—mercifully shortened to 'Klaustur' by locals—is a green oasis surrounded by vast lava fields and glacial outwash plains. This historic settlement housed a medieval monastery and today serves as the last services for 70 km in either direction along the Ring Road.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
Laki craters require a 4x4 and are only accessible in summer (typically July-September).
Sources to check
Population
~150
Ring Road service village
Known for
Laki craters
Historic monastery site
Top Attractions near Kirkjubaejarklaustur
Laki Craters (Lakagígar)
130 volcanic craters from 1783 eruption
Fjadrargljufur Canyon
Stunning 100m deep moss-covered gorge
Kirkjugolf
Natural basalt 'church floor' formation
Systrafoss Waterfall
Picturesque waterfall near the village
Eldhraunid Lava Field
Vast moss-covered lava from Laki
Skaftafell
Vatnajokull National Park gateway
How to Get to Kirkjubaejarklaustur
From Reykjavik: 3.5 hours via Route 1 (Ring Road), passing through Vik.
From Vik: About 1 hour east on Route 1. Essential stop before or after Skaftafell.
To Laki: 4x4 only via F-road 206. Guided tours recommended. Road open July-September typically.
Best Time to Visit Kirkjubaejarklaustur
Summer: Only time to access Laki craters (July-September). Best for highland F-roads and long hiking days.
Year-round: Fjadrargljufur canyon and Ring Road attractions accessible. Village services open daily.
Planning help
Kirkjubaejarklaustur FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.