Eyjafjallajökull Mountain in Iceland

Eyjafjallajökull Mountain in Iceland: Peak, Height, History, Geography

Eyjafjallajökull Mountain in Iceland (Islands’ Mountains’ Ice Cap) or E15 as it is popularly known is a volcanic mountain covered with an ice cap with several tongues or outlet glaciers. Geologically speaking, Eyjafjallajökull is a stratovolcano with a 3 to 4 kilometers wide crater and three peaks. The south side of Eyjafjallajökull was once part of the coastline and today, it is rigged with sheer cliffs and spectacular waterfalls such as the famous Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss. The last eruption of Eyjafjallajökull was on April 14, 2010, and resulted in floods and disrupted air travel. 

What is the Location of Eyjafjallajökull Mountain?

Eyjafjallajökull Mountain is located in the central-southwestern parts of iceland with geographic coordinates 63.6314° N, 19.6083° W. To be more specific, it lies west of Mýrdalsjökull and north of Skógar. 

What is the height of the Eyjafjallajökull Mountain?

The Eyjafjallajökull Mountain is 1.651 meters (5.417’) tall. The highest point or peak is named Hámundur. Eyjafjallajökull has two other peaks, Guðnasteinn that is 1.500 meters (4.900’) and Goðasteinn that is 1.497 meters (4.911’). 

Is there an access to Eyjafjallajökull Mountain?

Yes, Eyjafjallajökull can be accessed after a strenuous and long-lasting hike of between 8 and 10 hours. Accessing Eyjafjallajökull is not suited for novice hikers. although the mountain does not require special technical skills, its top is riddled with crevasses and hazardous. 

Is Eyjafjallajökull Mountain Dangerous?

Yes, Eyjafjallajökull is dangerous. Historically speaking, its eruptions have been destructive, and today seismic and geothermal activity in the area is carefully monitored. Hiking Eyjafjallajökull can also be dangerous as the mountain hides many crevasses. 

Does Eyjafjallajökull Mountain have an Active Volcano?

Eyjafjallajökull is an active volcano. Most of its eruptions are explosive but fissure vents are possible as well. Eyjafjallajökull’s last eruption in 2010 caused severe damage. The melting water flooded nearby farms and ash wreaked havoc on air travel. 

What Type of Volcano is Eyjafjallajökull?

Eyjafjallajökull is a stratovolcano. Stratovolcanoes are the most common volcano type. Eyjafjallajökull is conical and built of several layers of pumice, volcanic ash, tephra, and hardened lava. 

What are the Tour Options to Eyjafjallajökull Mountain?

Many South Coast tours include visits to the Eyjafjallajökull Mountain. The area around Eyjafjallajökull is astonishing and worth visiting thus making the mountain itself a frequent tourist destination. Sightseeing and hiking tours are particularly popular. Non-guided, self-drive tours are also available. 

What are the similar mountains to Eyjafjallajökull Mountain in Iceland?

Mountains in Iceland similar to Eyjafjallajökull Mountain include:

  • Hekla Mountain 
  • Hvannadalshnúkur Mountain
  • Snæfellsjökull Mountain
  • Kirkjufell Mountain
  • Bárðarbunga Mountain
  • Keilir Mountain. 

Are there any National Park in Eyjafjallajökull Mountain?

There are three National Parks in Iceland. The closest one to Eyjafjallajökull is Þórsmörk. Þórsmörk is wildly popular among locals and tourists and is part of the Golden Circle Tours in Iceland. Þórsmörk houses some of the best hiking trails in the country. 

Are there Volcanoes around Eyjafjallajökull Mountain in Iceland?

Yes, Eyjafjallajökull is an active volcano. It consists of basalt to andesite lavas and historically speaking it resulted in explosive eruptions. The last eruption of Eyjafjallajökull took place on April 14, 2010. The list of nearby Volcanoes in Iceland includes Katla, which is also covered by a glacier. 

Are there Glaciers around Eyjafjallajökull Mountain in Iceland?

Yes, there are glaciers around the Eyjafjallajökull. In fact, the mountain is covered by the Eyjafjallajökull ice cap has an area of 100 square kilometers and is the country’s 6th largest glacier. Eyjafjallajökull has several outlets and Gígjökull is the largest. Other Glaciers in Iceland close to Eyjafjallajökull are Mýrdalsjökull and Sólheimajökull. 

Which city is closest to Eyjafjallajökull Mountain in Iceland?

Cities in Iceland close to Eyjafjallajökull are Evindarhólar and Holt. Another close locality is the Stóridalur farm. The Eyjafjallajökull Mountain is also relatively close to the capital Reykjavik. Namely, the distance between the mountain and the capital is 120 kilometers.  

author avatar
Staff Writer