When did Eyjafjallajökull last erupt?

Eyjafjallajökull erupted in March and April 2010. The April eruption sent a massive ash cloud into the atmosphere that disrupted European air traffic for weeks, stranding millions of passengers worldwide.

What does Eyjafjallajökull mean?

Eyjafjallajökull translates to 'island mountains glacier' in Icelandic. The name refers to the glacier cap that covers the caldera of the stratovolcano, with the Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands) visible offshore.

Can you hike on Eyjafjallajökull?

Guided glacier walks are available on Eyjafjallajökull during summer months. These tours require crampons and proper equipment provided by guide companies. Independent hiking on the glacier is dangerous and not recommended.

Where is Eyjafjallajökull located?

Eyjafjallajökull is located in South Iceland between the famous Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, along the Route 1 Ring Road. It is about 120 km east of Reykjavik.

How do you pronounce Eyjafjallajökull?

It is roughly pronounced 'AY-ya-fyat-la-YO-kutl.' The name became internationally famous after the 2010 eruption when news anchors worldwide struggled to pronounce it correctly.

Is Eyjafjallajökull still active?

Yes, Eyjafjallajökull is an active stratovolcano. While there are no signs of imminent eruption, it has erupted multiple times throughout history, including in 1821-1823 and 920 AD, in addition to the 2010 eruption.

Eyjafjallajokull (Eyjafjallajökull) Volcano Iceland - 2010 Eruption & Glacier Guide

The ice-capped stratovolcano famous for its 2010 eruption that disrupted European air traffic for weeks. Located between Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls in South Iceland.

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

Region

South Iceland

1,651m (5,417 ft) · Famous 2010 eruption

Eyjafjallajökull is the ice-capped stratovolcano that became world-famous when its 2010 eruption sent a massive ash cloud across Europe, disrupting air traffic for weeks and stranding millions of passengers. The name means "island mountains glacier" in Icelandic. Standing at 1,651 meters in South Iceland, it sits between the iconic Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls. The glacier cap covers the volcanic caldera, and guided glacier walks are available during summer months.

Safety + sourcing

Last updated: 2026-02-01

This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Eyjafjallajökull is an active volcano. Glacier travel requires proper equipment and a guide. Check volcanic monitoring alerts before visiting.

Sources to check

Elevation

1,651m (5,417 ft)

Ice-capped stratovolcano in South Iceland.

Best for

Glacier walks + history

Guided glacier tours and 2010 eruption sites.

Access

Guided tours

Glacier walks available in summer. Independent travel not recommended.

What to Expect at Eyjafjallajökull

Summit elevation of 1,651m (5,417 ft) with a prominence of approximately 1,651m as a standalone stratovolcano
First recorded ascent in 1793 by Sveinn Pálsson, an Icelandic naturalist and physician
The 2010 eruption sent ash to 9 km altitude, grounding 100,000 flights and stranding 10 million passengers
Guided glacier walks on the lower slopes operate June through September with certified guides
The Lava Centre in Hvolsvöllur features interactive eruption displays and real-time seismic monitoring
Outlet glaciers including Gígjökull flow down from the 78 km² ice cap into green valleys below

Nearby Attractions

Skógafoss waterfall (60m cascade)
Seljalandsfoss waterfall (walk behind it)
Þórsmörk highland valley
Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands) visible offshore
Sólheimajökull glacier tongue for ice walks
Fimmvörðuháls hiking trail between Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull

How to Get to Eyjafjallajökull

Located along Route 1 (Ring Road) in South Iceland, approximately 120 km east of Reykjavik
Visible from Route 1 between Hella and Vík; best viewpoints near Seljalandsfoss (Route 249 turnoff)
Glacier tour operators depart from Sólheimajökull parking area (Route 221, 5 km gravel road)
The F-249 to Þórsmörk valley passes the volcano's eastern flank—super jeep or bus required for river crossings
The Lava Centre in Hvolsvöllur (directly on Route 1) is the main eruption visitor center
No 4WD required for viewing; regular car sufficient to reach all roadside viewpoints and the Lava Centre

Best Time to Visit Eyjafjallajökull

June–August: Peak season for glacier walks and the clearest summit views; book tours in advance
April–May: Fewer crowds, spring light creates dramatic contrasts; some glacier tours begin operating
September–October: Autumn colors in surrounding valleys; glacier walks still available early autumn
November–March: Viewable from Route 1 but glacier tours limited; snow-capped views are striking on clear days
Early morning offers the best photography light on the south-facing glacier from Route 1 viewpoints
The Lava Centre in Hvolsvöllur is open year-round, making it a reliable all-weather visit

Back to Mountains

Planning help

Eyjafjallajökull FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.