Discovering Hekla Volcano: All You Need to Know

Hekla’s History and Formation

Hekla has been active for over a thousand years, making it one of Iceland’s best-known volcanoes. Located in southern Iceland, it has erupted more than 20 times since the 9th century. The first recorded eruption, back in 1104, was a huge event—it covered large parts of the island in ash and changed the landscape, especially for farming communities. Since then, Hekla has erupted frequently, usually about once a decade, though the timing isn’t always predictable.

Hekla’s eruptions usually start with a big blast, sending ash and volcanic debris high into the sky. These ash clouds can travel far, sometimes reaching Northern Europe. After this explosive start, the eruption usually slows down, with lava spreading across the surrounding area and forming vast lava fields that change the landscape.

Despite the damage, Hekla’s eruptions have also had some benefits. The ash eventually breaks down and makes the soil really fertile, which has been great for farming. Over time, this process has helped shape both the land and the agricultural life of southern Iceland.

Location and How to Get There

Hekla is about 110 kilometers southeast of Reykjavík, making it an easy day trip from the capital. It’s a popular spot for both day hikes and longer trips, attracting visitors from all over.

Getting There

• By Car: From Reykjavík, take the Ring Road (Route 1) and follow the signs for Hekla. The drive takes about 90 minutes.
• Public Transport: Public transport is limited, so it’s best to rent a car or join a guided tour.
• Guided Tours: Many tour companies offer guided hikes and 4x4 trips, which are great if you want expert info and a safe way to explore.

Explore Iceland's natural wonders with your car rental

10 years of epic journeys with over 400,000 explorers

Book today

The hike to Hekla’s summit takes around four hours and can be tough, but the views on a clear day are incredible, with glaciers, highlands, and volcanic plains in sight.

Hekla’s Chances of Erupting

Hekla is one of the most active volcanoes in Iceland, but it’s also known for being unpredictable. Some volcanoes give lots of warning before they erupt, but Hekla can blow with just 30 minutes’ notice. That’s why scientists keep a close eye on it.

The Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO) uses different tools to track the volcano, like GPS and sensors that can detect changes underground. They’re always looking for signs that magma is moving or the ground is shifting, which could mean an eruption is coming. While Hekla hasn’t erupted since 2000, small tremors have been picked up, reminding everyone that it’s still active.

Geology

Hekla’s structure makes it a unique volcano. Instead of having just one crater, it has a long crack that runs along the top, stretching about 5.5 kilometers. This crack allows for multiple eruptions at once, sending up ash clouds and lava flows.

Lava and Ash

Hekla’s eruptions release a mix of different types of lava, which spread quickly across large areas. It’s also known for producing a lot of ash, with some even reaching Scandinavia and mainland Europe. The combination of lava and ash reshapes the landscape every time it erupts.

Volcanic Fissures

Hekla’s eruptions usually start with a bang—an explosive phase known as a Plinian eruption that sends ash and gases high into the air. After that, the eruption shifts to slower lava flows that can stretch as far as 25 kilometers from the vent, reshaping the land with every eruption.

Tephrochronology

Another fascinating aspect of Hekla is its significance in tephrochronology—the study of volcanic ash layers (tephra) to date geological and archaeological events. Hekla's eruptions have dispersed ash across vast areas of Northern Europe, creating distinct layers in the soil and sediment. These layers serve as time markers because the chemical composition of Hekla's tephra is unique and can be precisely linked to specific eruptions. Scientists utilize these markers to synchronize the timing of various natural events and human activities across different regions, enhancing our understanding of historical timelines and environmental changes.

Things to Do Around Hekla

Hekla’s volcanic activity is a big attraction, but there’s plenty more to do in the area for adventurers and nature lovers.

Hiking the Summit

For those up for a challenge, hiking to the top of Hekla is a popular activity. It’s a steep and tough climb that takes about four hours. Along the way, you’ll walk through lava fields and patches of moss and maybe even some snow near the top. On clear days, the views are amazing, with glaciers and the highlands all around you.

Explore the Lava Fields

Hekla’s past eruptions have created huge lava fields that are really interesting to explore. The black volcanic rock and moss make the landscape feel otherworldly, and hiking through these fields gives you a real sense of the power behind past eruptions.

Nearby Attractions

There are plenty of other spots near Hekla that are worth visiting:

• Landmannalaugar: Known for its colorful mountains and hot springs, this is the perfect place to relax after a long hike.
• Thórsmörk Valley: A beautiful valley surrounded by glaciers and cliffs, it’s a great spot for hiking and taking in the dramatic landscapes.
• Vatnajökull Glacier: Europe’s largest glacier can be seen from Hekla’s summit on clear days. It’s a must-see if you’re interested in glacier hikes or ice cave tours.

Travel Tips for Visiting Hekla

Planning a trip to Hekla? Here’s what you need to know:

Best Time to Visit

The best time to hike Hekla is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is warmer and the trails are clear. Spring and fall are also good times to visit, but the weather can be a bit more unpredictable. Winter hikes are only for the pros, as the snow and ice make things much harder.

What to Pack

If you’re planning to hike Hekla, make sure you pack:

• Clothing: Dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket and sturdy hiking boots.
• Equipment: Carry plenty of water, snacks, and a headlamp if you’re hiking later in the day. You might also want a scarf or mask to protect yourself from ash if there’s an eruption.
• Supplies: A first-aid kit and a fully charged phone are always a good idea when hiking in remote areas.

Safety Tips

Check real-time alerts from the Icelandic Meteorological Office before heading to Hekla, as eruptions can happen quickly. Stick to marked trails, and be prepared for sudden weather changes. It’s also a good idea to let someone know your plans if you’re hiking alone.

Conclusion

Hekla isn’t just a part of Iceland’s volcanic landscape—it’s a place where you can experience nature’s raw power up close. Whether you’re drawn to the hiking trails, the rugged lava fields, or just the excitement of standing on an active volcano, Hekla will surely give you an adventure you won’t forget. Just remember to stay informed and prepared, as this volcano’s unpredictable nature is part of what makes it so exciting to visit!