Summary
Our arrival in Iceland was, to say the least, dramatic—largely due to a volcanic eruption in Iceland that had apparently been developing for weeks, unbeknownst to us.
Having taken an early morning flight from London (the kind that requires a 3 a.m. start), we headed directly to our accommodation—the Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel—eager for a nap before venturing out to explore Reykjavik.
Just as I was about to nod off, the hotel began to shake and creak unexpectedly.
I initially assumed it was due to someone performing construction work nearby.
However, we were actually experiencing an earthquake in Iceland.
This event was just one of hundreds that had hit Reykjavik in recent weeks, but it proved particularly noteworthy as it signaled the eruption of a new volcano not far from Reykjavik.
Fast forward a few hours, well-rested, we ventured out for dinner at Islenski Barinn, only to realize that the ongoing volcanic eruption in Iceland felt surreal.
The local inhabitants in the bar seemed unfazed by the earthquake.
On the contrary, it appeared to be an exhilarating occurrence.
We did not pay further consideration to the event; I believe I even posted about it on TikTok, then we proceeded to enjoy our meal and set out to discover Reykjavik.
As we began to explore Reykjavik, we felt no further aftershocks during our stay.
Suddenly, it became evident that the earthquakes were a result of the volcano preparing to erupt, and once the eruption occurred, these seismic activities ceased.
Upon waking the next day and reviewing the news, we observed numerous individuals had hiked to the volcano, which seemed perplexing at first.
One may wonder why there would be an inclination to get so close.
In reality, it was indeed safe, and the phenomenon captivated even the locals.
A similar eruption had taken place the previous year, leading the authorities to establish pathways for safe hiking to the site.
As an impulsive decision, we opted to hike to the volcano as well.
The drive from Reykjavik to the Meradalir volcano site was quite picturesque, albeit the wind was particularly strong that day.
Walking was a challenge due to the forceful wind, yet this same wind fortuitously dispersed the volcanic fumes, thus ensuring a safe hiking environment.
The government continuously monitored the conditions and once the winds shifted a few days later, they temporarily suspended the hikes until conditions permitted.
Our decision to hike was somewhat impulsive, assuming it would be a short trek.
The trail, while manageable, proved more challenging than anticipated.
It took approximately 2.5 to 3 hours each way, and not carrying enough sustenance was an oversight on my part.
Fortunately, Lloyd was prepared, bringing water along with him.
The hike commenced with a steep incline, and just when we thought it was easing, it became even steeper.
Right off the bat, the remnants of the previous volcanic flow were visible, presenting a fascinating expanse of black lava stretching across the valley.
Once we achieved a flatter section, we were able to pause and truly absorb our surroundings.
As night fell, the formerly dull sectors of the lava fields began to emit a glow.
This moment underscored that active lava resided beneath what appeared to be ordinary lava fields.
Such experiences reaffirmed our decision to refrain from traversing the fields adjacent to an active volcanic site in Iceland.
Ultimately, our return route seemed unending and taxing, with segments that presented considerable difficulty as we navigated precarious footing on loose rocks.
Eventually, we reached the car around midnight, thoroughly exhausted. We hastily consumed as many snacks as we could while journeying to our next accommodation, The Greenhouse Hotel in Selfoss.
Dinner consisted of a pack of Indomie noodles, bananas, and dried fruits.
The noodles were an excellent last-minute decision made prior to leaving London, as they proved incredibly useful that evening when most dine-in establishments were closed.
The subsequent day was filled with further adventures in this post.
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