Why is Hekla called the 'Gateway to Hell'?

Medieval Europeans believed Hekla was an entrance to Hell due to its frequent, violent eruptions. The name appeared in European literature from the 12th century, and monks wrote that damned souls could be seen entering the mountain.

How much warning before a Hekla eruption?

Hekla is known for extremely short warning times—sometimes less than 30 minutes between the first detectable seismic activity and the start of an eruption. This makes it one of the most dangerous volcanoes to be near when it erupts.

While it is technically possible to hike Hekla in calm conditions, Icelandic authorities strongly advise against it due to the very short eruption warning time. If you choose to hike, carry a GPS device and monitor IMO seismic data constantly.

How often does Hekla erupt?

Hekla has erupted over 20 times since settlement in 874 AD, with major eruptions roughly every 10–30 years. The last eruption was in 2000, and scientists consider the next eruption overdue based on historical patterns.

Where is Hekla located?

Hekla is in south Iceland, about 110 km east of Reykjavik. It is visible from the Ring Road and nearby Route 26. The area around it includes farmland and highland trails.

Hekla Volcano Iceland: Gateway to Hell Guide

The "Gateway to Hell"—a 1,491-meter stratovolcano in south Iceland and one of the country's most active, with over 20 eruptions since settlement and notoriously short warning times.

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

Region

South Iceland

Hiking discouraged due to <30 min eruption warning.

For centuries, Hekla was feared across Europe as a literal gateway to the underworld. Today, it remains one of Iceland's most active volcanoes, capable of erupting with less than 30 minutes of warning. Standing 1,491 meters tall in the south Iceland highlands, its snow-streaked ridge is visible from much of the lowlands.

Safety + sourcing

Last updated: 2026-02-01

This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Hekla can erupt with very little warning—check official alerts before approaching.

Sources to check

Elevation

1,491 meters

Prominent ridge visible across south Iceland.

Eruptions

20+ since 874 AD

Last erupted in 2000. Considered overdue.

Warning time

Under 30 minutes

One of the shortest warning times of any volcano.

What to Expect Near Hekla

Stratovolcano classification: 1,491 m elongated ridge with a 5.5 km fissure summit
20+ eruptions since 874 AD; last eruption 2000 (VEI 3); eruption interval averages 10-30 years
Vast lava fields spanning centuries—Hekla's lava covers over 40 km² of surrounding terrain
Snow-capped ridge dominating the horizon, visible from Route 1 and Route 26
Visitors can observe tephra layers and pumice deposits from different eruption periods
Hiking strongly discouraged due to <30 minute eruption warning time
Medieval 'Gateway to Hell' reputation—12th-century European monks believed souls entered the mountain

Nearby Attractions

Landmannalaugar (colorful rhyolite mountains)
Þjórsárdalur valley and Hjálparfoss
Hekla Center exhibition in Leirubakki
Stöng medieval farmstead ruins
Háifoss waterfall (122 meters)
Þjórsá river—Iceland's longest river

How to Get There

Drive Route 1 east from Reykjavik (~110 km), then take Route 26 south toward Landmannalaugar
No F-road required to view Hekla—Route 26 is a paved/gravel highland road
The Hekla Center at Leirubakki farm is accessible by 2WD and provides exhibits and information
For closer approach, a 4WD track leads from Route 26 toward the base, but hiking the summit is officially discouraged
Guided super jeep tours run from Reykjavik and Selfoss in summer
No public transport—rental car or guided tour required

Best Time to Visit

June to September: best weather and longest daylight for viewing and photography
Route 26 is accessible most of the year but may have winter closures in heavy snow
July-August: warmest months, best visibility of the ridge from surrounding areas
Winter visits are possible from Route 1 for distant views, but approach roads may be impassable
Always check vedur.is for Hekla-specific seismic alerts before any approach regardless of season
Midnight sun period (mid-June to mid-July) offers unique lighting for photography

Planning help

Hekla FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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