How do you get to Lakagígar?

Lakagígar is accessed via highland F-roads, primarily F206 from Route 1 near Kirkjubæjarklaustur. A 4WD vehicle with high clearance is mandatory as the route includes river crossings and rough terrain. The road typically opens in late June or early July. Many visitors opt for organized super-jeep tours from Kirkjubæjarklaustur or Skaftafell.

How devastating was the Laki eruption?

The 1783-1784 Laki eruption was one of the most catastrophic volcanic events in recorded history. It released enormous quantities of lava, ash, and toxic gases. The resulting famine, known as the Móðuharðindin (Mist Hardships), killed approximately 20-25% of Iceland's population. The volcanic haze spread across Europe, disrupting weather patterns and contributing to crop failures.

How long should I plan for visiting Lakagígar?

Plan for a full day to visit Lakagígar properly. The drive from Kirkjubæjarklaustur takes 2-3 hours each way on rough F-roads. Once at the site, most visitors spend 2-4 hours exploring the crater row, climbing Laki mountain for views, and walking among the moss-covered lava fields. Guided tours typically last 10-12 hours.

What is the moss-covered lava at Laki?

The thick carpet of woolly fringe moss (Racomitrium lanuginosum) that covers the Laki lava field is one of Iceland's most iconic landscapes. The moss has slowly colonized the rough lava over more than two centuries, creating a soft green blanket over the volcanic rock. It is extremely fragile and takes decades to recover if damaged, so visitors must stay on marked trails.

Lakagígar (Laki Crater Row) – Iceland's Catastrophic 1783 Crater Row

Over 130 craters from one of history's most devastating eruptions, now draped in ethereal green moss across the Icelandic highlands

Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team

Location

South Highlands

Vatnajökull National Park, near Kirkjubæjarklaustur

Lakagígar, the Laki crater row, is one of the most historically significant volcanic sites on Earth. Stretching 25 kilometers across the southern highlands, this chain of more than 130 craters was formed during the catastrophic eruption of 1783-1784, an eight-month event that produced approximately 14 cubic kilometers of basaltic lava -- the largest lava flow in recorded human history. The eruption released massive clouds of toxic gases that caused widespread famine in Iceland, killing roughly one-fifth of the population in what became known as the Móðuharðindin (Mist Hardships). The volcanic haze drifted across Europe, disrupting climate patterns for years. Today, the craters and their vast lava fields are covered in a luminous carpet of green moss, creating one of Iceland's most hauntingly beautiful landscapes within Vatnajökull National Park.

Safety + sourcing

Last updated: 2026-02-01

4WD required for F-road access. Do not walk on the moss, as it takes decades to recover. Check road conditions and river levels before departure. Leave a travel plan at safetravel.is.

Sources to check

Craters

130+

Over 130 craters aligned along a 25 km fissure, forming one of the longest crater rows in the world

Eruption

1783-84

An 8-month eruption that devastated Iceland and affected climate patterns across the Northern Hemisphere

Lava Volume

~14 km³

The largest basaltic lava flow produced in recorded human history, covering approximately 565 km²

What to Expect

Moss-Covered Lava Fields

The vast lava fields are blanketed in luminous green woolly fringe moss, creating an otherworldly landscape that is one of Iceland's most photographed scenes.

Laki Mountain Summit

Climb to the top of Laki mountain (818 m) for a commanding view of the entire crater row stretching to the horizon in both directions.

Crater Row Exploration

Walk among the craters along the fissure, each with its own distinct character, from deep bowls to jagged ridges of red and black scoria.

Historical Significance

Stand at the site of one of the most consequential volcanic events in human history, whose effects were felt across continents.

Remote Highland Wilderness

The journey through the highlands to reach Lakagígar is an adventure itself, crossing rivers and traversing vast uninhabited volcanic terrain.

Tjarnargígur Crater

One of the most beautiful individual craters in the row, Tjarnargígur contains a small green lake surrounded by steep colorful walls.

Getting There

Lakagígar is located in the southern highlands within Vatnajökull National Park. The primary access route is via F206, which branches off from Route 1 near Kirkjubæjarklaustur. The F-road is rough and includes river crossings, requiring a properly equipped 4WD vehicle with good ground clearance. The drive from Kirkjubæjarklaustur to the Laki parking area takes approximately 2-3 hours. The road typically opens in late June or early July depending on conditions. Organized super-jeep day tours depart from Kirkjubæjarklaustur and Skaftafell throughout the summer and are recommended for those without highland driving experience.

Best Time to Visit

Lakagígar is only accessible during the summer months, typically from late June through early September when the highland F-roads are open. July and August provide the most reliable access and the warmest conditions. The moss is at its most vivid green during the height of summer after rainfall. Weather in the highlands can be unpredictable, so prepare for rain, wind, and cold temperatures even in July. Clear days offer the best views from Laki mountain and along the crater row. Allow a full day for the visit, accounting for the long drive on F-roads.

Planning help

Lakagígar FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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