Eldfell Rising: Hiking the Volcano That Rewrote Heimaey
Short, steep, unforgettable—stand on the crater rim where people, geology, and seabirds meet.
The first thing you notice on Heimaey is how recent the land feels—sharp black ribs of lava, patches of stubborn green where grass has begun to reclaim the rock, and a raw, bowl-shaped crater that seems to have been plopped into the town like a giant thumbprint. That crater is Eldfell, the volcano that erupted in January 1973 and reshaped this fishing island overnight. Stand on its rim on a clear morning and the Atlantic stretches away in bruised blues; on a windy afternoon gulls and puffins wheel like punctuation marks at the edge of the sea. The climb to the top is short and blunt, a brisk ascent through volcanic scree that rewards you with a sweep of views few other small islands can match.
Trail Wisdom
Sturdy footwear
Loose volcanic gravel makes good trail shoes essential—choose boots with solid tread for the ascent and descent.
Windproof layers
Weather shifts fast on Heimaey; bring a windproof and waterproof shell even on sunny mornings.
Respect nesting areas
When watching puffins at Stórhöfði, stay on paths and maintain distance to avoid disturbing birds.
Bring water and snacks
The hike is short but steep—carry at least 1 liter of water and a snack to keep energy up for the climb back.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Prestvik beach and the Pelagus shipwreck for dramatic coastal scenes
- •Herjólfsdalur valley and the small Viking turf house exhibits
Wildlife
Atlantic puffin, Arctic tern
Conservation Note
Puffin colonies are sensitive to disturbance—stay on marked paths, avoid cliff edges, and use local guides to minimize impact.
Eldfell’s 1973 eruption forced a mass evacuation but local efforts to cool lava flows saved the harbor and allowed the town to rebuild.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Early puffin arrivals, Cool, clear hikes
Challenges: Unpredictable weather, Shorter daylight than summer
Spring brings the first puffins and quiet trails; expect cool temperatures and rapidly changing weather.
summer
Best for: Peak puffin viewing, Long daylight and boat access
Challenges: Crowds on weekends, Windy exposed points
Summer is prime for wildlife and ferry connections—plan early for popular viewpoints and tours.
fall
Best for: Quieter trails, Dramatic light and storms
Challenges: Shortening days, Colder sea breezes
Fall offers dramatic skies and fewer visitors; dress warmly for bracing winds off the Atlantic.
winter
Best for: Moody landscapes, Aurora viewing on clear nights
Challenges: Icy trails, Limited tour schedules
Winter makes the island stark and cinematic but trails can be icy; guided trips may be reduced.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking bootsEssential
Required for traction on loose volcanic gravel and steep sections.
Windproof, waterproof shellEssential
Protects against sudden Atlantic squalls and chill on exposed ridgelines.
Daypack with water and snacksEssential
Keeps hydration and energy handy during the ascent and while watching wildlife.
Binoculars or tele lens
Useful for observing puffins and distant islands like Surtsey without disturbing birds.
Common Questions
How long does the hike to Eldfell’s rim take?
Expect 30–60 minutes round-trip for the short but steep climb, depending on fitness and stops for photos.
Can I visit Eldfell without a guide?
Yes—the trail is accessible to independent hikers, but guided tours add historical and geological context and can access remote sites.
When is the best time to see puffins?
Puffins nest on Heimaey from about May through August, with June–July being peak activity for watching and photographing them.
Are there safety concerns climbing Eldfell?
Wear good footwear for loose rock, watch for wind on exposed sections, and avoid cliff edges when viewing seabirds.
How do I get to Heimaey?
Ferries run from Landeyjahöfn (seasonal) and there are small local flights—check schedules and book in advance in summer months.
Is the Eldheimar Museum worth visiting?
Yes—the museum offers a compelling, personal account of the 1973 eruption and helps contextualize what you’ll see on the hike.
What to Pack
Hiking boots for traction; windproof shell for sudden squalls; water bottle (1L+) for the climb; binoculars for puffin viewing.
Did You Know
Eldfell erupted on January 23, 1973, prompting the evacuation of the island’s population; strategic cooling of lava saved the town’s harbor and allowed residents to return—an internationally noted example of a community response to a volcanic crisis.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Book ferry or flight ahead in summer; 2) Start early to avoid afternoon winds and crowds; 3) Combine Eldfell hike with a visit to Eldheimar Museum; 4) Respect bird closures during nesting season.
Local Flavor
Heimaey blends Icelandic fishing culture with volcanic history—sample fresh fish soup, visit local bakeries, and explore Eldheimar Museum to hear islanders’ stories of the 1973 eruption.
Logistics Snapshot
Getting there: ferry from Landeyjahöfn (seasonal) or local flights; hike: 1–2 km round-trip, ~200 m elevation gain; best time: June–July for puffins; facilities: small town services in Heimaey; guides and ATVs available.
Sustainability Note
Use local guides, stay on marked trails, and avoid approaching nesting birds; supporting local businesses helps the island’s economy recover from seasonal visitor pressure.