Nature VolcanoesAll About Exploring Litli-Hrútur Volcano

Litli-Hrútur Volcano lava field, Iceland

By Aron FreyrOct 21, 2024 • 7 min read

All About Exploring Litli-Hrútur Volcano

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Litli-Hrútur History and Formation
Location and How to Get There
Litli-Hrútur Chances of Erupting
Geology
Things to Do Around Litli-Hrútur
Travel Tips to Visit Litli-Hrútur
Conclusion

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and want to experience something unforgettable, Litli-Hrútur should be at the top of your list. This recently active volcano on the Reykjanes Peninsula is not only close to Reykjavík but also offers a chance to see some of Iceland’s most impressive natural landscapes. Whether you love hiking, photography, or want to experience nature in a way you won’t find anywhere else, Litli-Hrútur is a must-see.

Key Takeaways

Litli-Hrútur is a recently active volcano near Reykjavík where visitors can safely see slow-moving lava flows.
It's a popular but challenging 20-kilometer hike over uneven lava fields, with nearby attractions like Fagradalsfjall volcano and the Blue Lagoon.
Located on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, it offers a rare chance to see tectonic plates moving apart above sea level.

Litli-Hrútur History and Formation

Litli-Hrútur is part of the Reykjanes Peninsula’s volcanic system, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates slowly move apart along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. After being quiet for a long time, the area became active again in 2021, with increasing tremors leading to several eruptions.

The most recent eruption, in July 2023, saw lava flows covering the area, drawing attention from visitors and scientists alike. Unlike some of Iceland’s more explosive volcanoes, this one has produced slower, steady lava flows, making it easier and safer for visitors to see up close.

Location and How to Get There

Litli-Hrútur is about 30 kilometers southwest of Reykjavík, near Grindavík, and close to Fagradalsfjall, another volcano that has been active in recent years.

Getting There

By Car: Drive from Reykjavík along Route 41 toward Keflavík International Airport, then take Route 43 toward Grindavík. Follow signs for Litli-Hrútur once you’re in the area.
Public Transport: There aren’t many public transport options, but you can catch a bus to Grindavík and then use a shuttle service from local tour operators.
Guided Tours: Many tours include transportation from Reykjavík, which is a great option if you want to get there easily without worrying about driving.

The hike to Litli-Hrútur is around 20 kilometers round trip. The trail is marked, but the path can be tough, with uneven lava fields and a few steep sections. Be ready for a solid hike.

Litli-Hrútur Chances of Erupting

Litli-Hrútur is still active, and the Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO) is monitoring it closely. Due to the movement of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the area often experiences small earthquakes. Activity has picked up since 2021, and scientists think eruptions could continue for some time.

If you’re planning a visit, it’s a good idea to check the latest updates. Volcanic gases like sulfur dioxide (SO₂) can sometimes make it unsafe to get too close, so stay informed.

Geology

The geology of Litli-Hrútur is one of the things that makes it so interesting. It’s part of what makes Iceland such a special place for nature lovers.

Basaltic Lava Flows

The lava from Litli-Hrútur is mostly basalt, a type of rock that flows easily and spreads out over big distances. This creates wide, open lava fields—the rough, black rock landscapes that are so iconic in Iceland.

Fissure Eruptions

Instead of erupting from a single crater, Litli-Hrútur erupts from cracks in the Earth’s surface called fissures. This creates several smaller craters and vents, spreading the lava out over a wide area.

Unique Features

One of the most amazing things about Litli-Hrútur is its location on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where two of Earth’s major tectonic plates are slowly moving apart. It’s rare to see this kind of thing above sea level, and Iceland is one of the few places to see it.

People watching Litli-Hrútur Volcano eruption

Things to Do Around Litli-Hrútur

There’s much more to do in the area than just visiting the volcano. The Reykjanes Peninsula is full of other interesting spots and activities that make it easy to spend a full day or more exploring.

Volcano Hiking

Hiking to Litli-Hrútur is one of the most popular activities. You can either join a guided hike, which is a great way to learn more about the area and stay safe, or head out alone. If you’re going solo, just be sure you’re well-prepared and have the latest safety info—volcanic gases can still be an issue.

Photography

This place is a photographer’s dream. Whether it’s the glowing lava, the jagged lava fields, or the wide-open views of the peninsula, there’s no shortage of photo opportunities. And if you’re visiting in winter, you might even catch the Northern Lights above the volcanic landscape.

Nearby Attractions

Fagradalsfjall: Another active volcano close by with hiking trails and amazing views.
Blue Lagoon: A geothermal spa that’s perfect for soaking in after a long hike. Its warm, mineral-rich waters are world-famous.
Gunnuhver Hot Springs: Iceland’s largest mud pools and steam vents, with a spooky local legend about a ghost named Gunna.
Reykjanes Geopark: A UNESCO Global Geopark that’s full of walking trails and geological wonders like craters and lava tubes.

Adventure Options

If hiking isn’t enough of a thrill for you, you can try an ATV or buggy tour to explore the rugged landscape. Helicopter tours are also available, offering amazing aerial views of the volcano. For a more traditional experience, horseback riding on Icelandic horses is a unique and fun way to take in the scenery.

Cultural Stops

After you’ve taken in the natural wonders, check out the Viking World Museum to learn about Iceland’s history. And don’t miss the chance to try local dishes like lamb stew or skyr, a creamy Icelandic yogurt. Local galleries also showcase art inspired by the volcanic landscapes.

Travel Tips to Visit Litli-Hrútur

If you’re planning a trip to Litli-Hrútur, a little preparation goes a long way. From picking the right time to visit to knowing what to pack, these tips will help you make the most of your adventure while staying safe and comfortable. Here's what you need to know before exploring Iceland’s active volcanic landscape.

Best Times to Visit

The best time to visit Litli-Hrútur is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is mild, and you’ll have long daylight hours to explore. Spring and fall are also good options if you want fewer tourists, but the weather can be less predictable. Winter hikes should only be done with a guide, as the weather can be tough, and daylight is limited.

What to Pack

If you’re planning to hike to Litli-Hrútur, here’s what you should bring:

Clothing: Dress in layers since the weather can change quickly. Bring a waterproof jacket, sturdy boots, and warm clothing.
Equipment: A backpack with water, snacks, and a headlamp if you’re staying out late. Some tours provide sulfur masks to protect against volcanic gases.
Supplies: Extra food, plenty of water, and a basic first-aid kit for small scrapes or blisters.

Safety Tips

Always check the latest updates from the Icelandic Meteorological Office before heading out. Stick to marked trails, as volcanic gases can be dangerous if you get too close to the vents. It’s a good idea to let someone know your plans, especially if you’re hiking on your own. And remember, Iceland’s weather is unpredictable—what starts as a sunny day can turn windy and rainy, so be prepared.

Conclusion

Visiting Litli-Hrútur gives you the chance to see Iceland’s incredible geology up close. With its lava flows, rugged landscape, and close proximity to Reykjavík, it’s an unforgettable experience for anyone visiting the country. Whether you’re into hiking, photography, or just want to see the raw power of nature, Litli-Hrútur offers something you won’t find anywhere else. It’s not every day you get to walk on fresh lava!