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Volcanic geology
Where the 2014 eruption began beneath the ice.
Dyngjujokull (Dyngjujökull) Glacier Iceland: 2014 Eruption & Holuhraun
A northern Vatnajökull outlet glacier made famous by the 2014 Bárðarbunga eruption that created the vast Holuhraun lava field.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Region
North Vatnajökull
Site of the 2014 Bárðarbunga eruption.
Dyngjujökull gained worldwide attention in 2014 when magma from the Bárðarbunga volcanic system migrated beneath this glacier before erupting at Holuhraun, just north of the ice margin. The six-month eruption produced Iceland's largest lava field since the 1783 Laki eruption. The glacier sits above one of Iceland's most active volcanic zones, making it a focal point for monitoring jökulhlaup risk along the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
Dyngjujökull is in an active volcanic zone with jökulhlaup risk. Always check volcanic activity updates from IMO and follow any area closures or evacuation orders immediately.
Sources to check
Access
Remote highland 4×4
F-roads only, seasonal access June–September.
Pro tip
Visit Holuhraun
The fresh lava field is an extraordinary sight.
What to Expect
- Raw volcanic landscape where ice meets fresh lava
- The vast Holuhraun lava field stretching north
- Complete remoteness with no facilities or other visitors
- Steaming ground and warm spots in the fresh lava field
- Powerful glacial rivers fed by Vatnajökull meltwater
- Evidence of the massive 2014–15 Bárðarbunga eruption everywhere
Nearby Attractions
- Askja caldera and Víti geothermal crater lake
- Herðubreið table mountain—Queen of Icelandic Mountains
- Holuhraun lava field (2014–15)—Iceland's newest landscape
- Kverkfjöll ice caves and geothermal area
- Dreki mountain huts as a highland base camp
- Dettifoss waterfall via Route 862 or 864 to the north
How to Get There
- Highland F-roads from Route 1 via Möðrudalur or Mývatn area
- Capable 4×4 vehicle essential—river crossings likely
- Access roads typically open late June to early September
- Register travel plans at safetravel.is
- Carry extra fuel, food, and emergency supplies
Best Time to Visit
- July–August for best road conditions
- 24-hour daylight in midsummer aids exploration
- Check IMO for volcanic activity updates before going
- Weather can shift rapidly in the highlands
- Combine with an Askja day trip for the full experience
Planning help
Dyngjujokull (Dyngjujökull) Glacier FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.