Plizio Visual Lab
Hekla
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
peak
Hekla is one of Iceland's most active and famous volcanoes, situated in the southern part of the country. This stratovolcano reaches an elevation of 1,491 meters and is part of a volcanic ridge stretching about 40 kilometers. During the Middle Ages, Hekla was feared throughout Europe and was frequently referred to as the Gateway to Hell due to its frequent and violent eruptions. Since 1104, over 20 major eruptions have been recorded, some of which ejected massive amounts of tephra and volcanic ash into the atmosphere. The volcano's elongated shape resembles an overturned boat, a result of frequent eruptions along its central fissure. In the 20th century, Hekla erupted fairly regularly about every ten years, with the most recent major event occurring in 2000. Geologists maintain constant surveillance of the mountain because its eruptions often start with very little seismic warning. The surrounding landscape is a stark testament to its power, covered in extensive lava fields and layers of volcanic ash.
- Location: Iceland
- Nearby: Landmannalaugar (29 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -4 | -4 | -3 | -1 | 3 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 1 | -3 | -4 |
| Rain mm | 223 | 205 | 196 | 154 | 111 | 108 | 130 | 139 | 209 | 190 | 193 | 224 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Reaching the base of this notorious volcano requires traversing challenging inland tracks. A rugged 4x4 vehicle is absolutely necessary to navigate the deeply rutted paths made of pumice and ash.
Best season
Ascents are generally only attempted during the height of summer when deep snow recedes. Winter conditions make the area entirely inaccessible and incredibly dangerous for unguided travel.
Terrain & paths
The hike involves grueling steep inclines over loose scoria, sharp lava rocks, and year-round snow patches. Finding a stable path can be exceptionally difficult in poor visibility conditions.
What to bring
Stiff-soled mountaineering boots are required to handle the brutal, sharp terrain. Hikers must carry extensive cold-weather survival gear, navigation tools, and abundant emergency supplies.
Parking
Vehicles are typically left at an informal clearing where the marked hiking trail officially begins. There are absolutely no facilities, shelters, or modern conveniences available at this remote start.
Safety
This is a highly active volcano capable of erupting with virtually zero warning time. Checking seismic activity alerts via local authorities before approaching the mountain is strictly mandatory.
Time needed
A demanding round trip to the summit usually requires between six to eight hours of continuous, strenuous hiking. Weather delays can drastically increase the time spent on the exposed slopes.
Geography
Facts
- Height of 1,491 meters
- Known as the Gateway to Hell
- Over 20 eruptions since 1104
- Last major eruption in 2000
- Part of a 40 km long volcanic ridge
- Very short warning time before eruptions
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Hekla (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How often does Hekla erupt?
It is one of Iceland's most active volcanoes with over 20 eruptions since 874.
Why was it called the 'Gateway to Hell'?
Because of its massive and unpredictable eruptions during the Middle Ages.
Can you hike up Hekla?
Yes, but hikers should check the current alert level before starting.
When was the last eruption?
The last eruption of Hekla occurred in the year 2000.
How high is the volcano?
Hekla reaches a height of about 1,491 meters.
Hekla: where is it located?
Hekla is located in Iceland.
Hekla: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Hekla: why is it worth visiting?
Hekla is one of Iceland's most active and famous volcanoes, situated in the southern part of the country.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Europe
More places in Iceland →
Nearby cities
Reykjavík
Reykjavík is the capital and largest city of Iceland, serving as the nation's cultural, economic, and governmental hub.
Kópavogur
Kópavogur is Iceland's second largest city, located directly south of Reykjavík.
Hafnarfjörður
Hafnarfjörður is a port city south of Reykjavík, built on an ancient lava field.
Hafnarfjörður
A charming port town just outside Reykjavík, known as the 'town in the lava' and famous for its Viking heritage and elf folklore.
Keflavík
Keflavík is a town on the Reykjanes Peninsula, part of the Reykjanesbær municipality.
Mosfellsbær
Mosfellsbær is located northeast of Reykjavík, known for its hilly landscape and thermal springs.
Garðabær
Garðabær is a growing town in the Greater Reykjavík area.
Selfoss
Selfoss is the largest service center in southern Iceland, situated on the banks of the Ölfusá River.
Akranes
Akranes is a port town on Iceland's west coast, known for its long fishing tradition and two distinctive lighthouses.
Seltjarnarnes
Seltjarnarnes is a small municipality on a peninsula just west of Reykjavík.
Vestmannaeyjar
Vestmannaeyjar is a town on Heimaey island in the archipelago of the same name off Iceland's south coast.
Grindavík
Grindavík is a fishing town on the south coast of the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Blue Lagoon (Grindavík)
Iceland's most famous geothermal spa, known for its milky-blue, mineral-rich waters.
Hveragerði
Hveragerði is famous for its high geothermal activity, located about 45 km east of Reykjavík.
Hveragerði
Known as the 'Greenhouse Town', it sits on an active geothermal field and is famous for its hot springs and banana cultivation.
History & landmarks
Nature
More places
Búrfell Hydropower Plant
The Búrfell Hydropower Plant was the largest facility in the country when it opened.
Steinsholt
Steinsholt is an archaeological site where the remains of a medieval assembly place and a farm from the Settlement Period were discovered.
Stöng
Stöng was a Viking Age farm buried under ash in 1104 by an eruption of the volcano Hekla.
Sultartangi Hydropower Plant
The Sultartangi Hydropower Plant is part of the cascade system on the Þjórsá river.
Torfajökull Massif
A large volcanic area in the southern highlands, famous for its colorful rhyolite mountains and intense geothermal activity.
Landmannalaugar
Landmannalaugar is a valley in the Icelandic Highlands known for its colorful rhyolite mountains.
Hrauneyjafoss Hydropower Plant
Hrauneyjafoss is one of the most powerful hydropower plants in Iceland.
Sigalda Power Station
The Sigalda Power Station is located in the Icelandic highlands on the Tungnaá river.