How often does Hekla erupt?

Hekla has erupted over 20 times since Iceland's settlement in 874 AD, making it one of the country's most active volcanoes. Recent eruptions occurred in 1947, 1970, 1980, 1991, and 2000. It is currently considered overdue for an eruption.

Why was Hekla called the Gateway to Hell?

Medieval Europeans believed Hekla was the entrance to Hell. Its frequent, violent eruptions, combined with the sulfurous gases and glowing lava, convinced monks and travelers that it was a literal gateway to the underworld.

Hiking Hekla is strongly discouraged by Icelandic authorities due to eruption risk. Hekla can erupt with less than 30 minutes warning, leaving no time for safe evacuation from the summit or slopes. If you do hike, you accept significant personal risk.

How much warning is there before a Hekla eruption?

Hekla can erupt with as little as 30 minutes of seismic warning, which is unusually short for a volcano. This makes it extremely dangerous for anyone on or near the mountain when an eruption begins.

Where is Hekla located?

Hekla is located in South Iceland, visible from Route 1 (the Ring Road). It is about 110 km east of Reykjavik and can be seen from many points along the south coast, including near the town of Hella.

When did Hekla last erupt?

Hekla last erupted on February 26, 2000. The eruption lasted about two weeks. Given the pattern of eruptions roughly every 10-20 years, volcanologists consider Hekla overdue for its next eruption.

Hekla Volcano Iceland - Gateway to Hell Guide

One of Iceland's most active volcanoes, erupting over 20 times since 874 AD. Medieval Europeans called it "Gateway to Hell." Currently overdue for an eruption—hiking is discouraged.

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

Region

South Iceland

1,491m (4,892 ft) · Iceland's most active volcano

Hekla is one of Iceland's most active and feared volcanoes, having erupted over 20 times since settlement in 874 AD. Standing at 1,491 meters in South Iceland, it was called the "Gateway to Hell" by medieval Europeans who witnessed its violent eruptions. Located along the Ring Road and visible from many points in South Iceland, Hekla last erupted in 2000 and is considered overdue for its next eruption. Hiking is strongly discouraged because the volcano can erupt with less than 30 minutes of seismic warning.

Safety + sourcing

Last updated: 2026-02-01

This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Hekla is overdue for an eruption and can erupt with less than 30 minutes warning. Hiking is strongly discouraged by Icelandic authorities. Check volcanic monitoring alerts.

Sources to check

Elevation

1,491m (4,892 ft)

One of Iceland's most active volcanoes since 874 AD.

Warning

Eruption overdue

Can erupt with <30 min warning. Hiking discouraged.

Viewing

From Route 1

Visible from the Ring Road near Hella in South Iceland.

What to Expect at Hekla

Summit elevation of 1,491m (4,892 ft) with a prominence of approximately 1,180m above surrounding terrain
First recorded ascent in 1750 by Eggert Ólafsson and Bjarni Pálsson during their scientific survey of Iceland
A 5.5 km long ridge-shaped volcano dominating the South Iceland landscape, with over 20 eruptions since 874 AD
Lava fields from the 1947, 1970, 1980, 1991, and 2000 eruptions surround the base in distinct layers
The Lava Centre in Hvolsvöllur features real-time seismic monitoring and interactive eruption simulations
Stark contrast between green farmland to the west and barren volcanic terrain to the east

Nearby Attractions

Landmannalaugar colorful rhyolite mountains
Þjórsárdalur valley and Hjálparfoss waterfall
Hella and Hvolsvöllur towns along the Ring Road
Stöng Viking longhouse ruins in Þjórsárdalur
Háifoss and Granni twin waterfalls on the Fossá river

How to View Hekla Safely

Visible from Route 1 near the town of Hella, approximately 110 km (1.5 hrs) east of Reykjavik
Route 26 branches off Route 1 near Hella and passes directly beneath Hekla's northwestern flank
The Lava Centre in Hvolsvöllur (on Route 1) is the main eruption exhibit and information center
No 4WD required for Route 1 or Route 26 viewpoints; regular car sufficient year-round
Do not approach or climb the volcano—eruption possible with less than 30 minutes seismic warning
Helicopter tours from Reykjavik offer aerial views without ground risk, weather permitting

Best Time to View Hekla

June–August: Best road conditions on Route 26; longest daylight for photography; clear summit views most frequent
September–October: Autumn colors in surrounding farmland; fewer tourists; snow may dust the summit
November–March: Dramatic snow-capped views on clear days; Route 1 open year-round but Route 26 may be icy
April–May: Spring thaw reveals lava field textures; increasing daylight; check road.is for Route 26 conditions
The Lava Centre in Hvolsvöllur is open year-round—a reliable indoor visit regardless of weather
Always check vedur.is volcanic monitoring status before visiting the area; eruption alerts are posted in real time

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Planning help

Hekla FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.