Since 2021, Iceland has seen more than 10 volcanic eruptions on the Reykjanes peninsula, a relatively small area in the southwest part of the island. This is due to the recent awakening of the volcanic channels in the region that had been dormant for over 800 years until the first eruption in Fagradalsfjall mountain on the 19th of March 2021.
It is not surprising that visitors considering traveling to Iceland might wonder if it is still a safe country to visit. The short answer is: yes! Iceland is still completely safe to visit, even if you travel while there is an active eruption.
Why You Can Trust Our Content
Guide to Iceland is the most trusted travel platform in Iceland, helping millions of visitors each year. All our content is written and reviewed by local experts who are deeply familiar with Iceland. You can count on us for accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy travel advice.
Reasons Why It's Safe to Visit Iceland in 2026:
-
All of the Reykjanes volcanic eruptions have had no effect on flights to or from Iceland.
-
No lives have been endangered by the lava from the previous eruptions.
-
Icelanders are exceptionally prepared for natural events such as volcanoes. This is due to the numerous natural phenomena that have occurred on the island throughout history.
-
Icelandic authorities monitor the activity in the area constantly and send out alerts to the population and media if anything happens.
-
If another volcanic eruption happens, all the protocols that have been perfected throughout the previous eruptions will be applied to ensure the safety of everyone.
-
The closest town to the eruption sites, Grindavik, was evacuated in November 2023, but is now open to the public. There are currently people living in Grindavik.
Can I Visit the Blue Lagoon in Iceland in 2026?
On the Reykjanes peninsula, the eruptions at the Sundhnukagigar crater row between 2023 and 2025 occasionally affected the Blue Lagoon’s opening hours due to the spa’s proximity to the eruption sites. However, the overall impact on operations was limited.
Safety is the top priority, and the Blue Lagoon usually closes at the start of each eruption until authorities evaluate its direction and intensity; once that has been assessed, the lagoon opens again following guidance from local authorities to ensure everyone's safety.
The good news is that you will most likely be able to enjoy bathing in the Blue Lagoon during your visit to Iceland in 2026. The lagoon remained mostly open throughout 2024 and 2025, and its team is highly trained in evacuation procedures and safety protocols to ensure visitor security if volcanic activity increases again.
Can I See a Live Volcanic Eruption in Iceland in 2026?
The first Reykjanes eruptions, beginning in 2021, occurred in areas and under conditions that allowed relatively safe hiking access. By 2025, eruptions were taking place in more complex terrain with greater uncertainty, and it was not until later in the year that conditions allowed limited safe visitation.
The last eruption of 2025 occurred in July. Since then, scientists have continued monitoring the area, but there have been no further eruptions. It remains impossible to predict whether another eruption will occur in 2026 or whether it will be accessible to visitors.
Even without active lava, visiting previous eruption sites is still an incredible experience. A hiking trail runs between the craters, and you can take guided volcano tours or a volcano shuttle for an easier visit.
One of the most popular ways to see the area in 2026 is by the volcano helicopter tour, which offers a sweeping view of the lava fields and crater rows. If another eruption does occur, seeing it from the air would be an unforgettable experience.
As Iceland continues honoring its nickname as the land of ice and fire, it is important to answer all the questions that travelers might have before visiting, so please let us know if you have any more questions, and we will gladly assist!
