Canonical URL: https://www.iceland.org/volcanoes/fremrinamur Content updated: 2026-09-10 This is the Markdown representation of the page. Interactive tools and forms are available on the [HTML page](). Source-check and review dates retain the meanings stated in the article. --- # Fremrinámur: a Remote Shield Volcano in the Northeast Highlands A remote shield volcano in the northeast highlands, part of the Northern Volcanic Zone and one of Iceland's least-visited volcanic systems, with geothermal features in remote wilderness. Updated September 10, 2026 · [Published by Iceland.org]() · [Writing & review]() Region Northeast Highlands Very remote. 4x4 only in summer. ## Quick Answer Fremrinámur sits in one of Iceland's most remote and least-traveled areas, the northeast highlands. It is part of the Northern Volcanic Zone, the volcanic belt that runs through north Iceland. Few visitors make the journey; those who do find geothermal features and volcanic landscapes with no tourism infrastructure at all. Sources and page update Updated: 2026-09-10 This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. This is an extremely remote area. Carry emergency supplies and GPS, and inform others of your plans. For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy. Official sources to check - [Weather (IMO)]() - [Road status (road.is)]() - [SafeTravel alerts]() - [Environment Agency of Iceland]() Type Shield volcano Broad, gently sloping basaltic volcano. Volcanic zone Northern Volcanic Zone Part of Iceland's main volcanic belt. Access Very remote 4x4 No facilities. Summer only. ## What to Expect - Volcanic system containing shield volcanoes and fissure vents - Part of the Northern Volcanic Zone: one of several volcanic systems between Krafla and Askja - No eruptions in recorded history, but Holocene lava flows indicate geologically recent activity - Geothermal hot springs, steam vents, and altered ground with colorful mineral deposits (reds, yellows, whites) - Remote wilderness with no tourist infrastructure and few other visitors - No marked trails: GPS navigation, detailed topographic maps, and backcountry experience essential - Visitors can observe the transition from vegetated lowland to barren volcanic highland terrain ## Related Areas - Askja caldera (highland destination) - Herðubreið tuya - Krafla caldera (north Iceland) - Mývatn lake and pseudo-craters - Jökulsárgljúfur canyon (Vatnajökull NP) - Dettifoss waterfall (Europe's most powerful) ## How to Get There - Extremely remote: access via rough highland tracks from Route 1 east of Myvatn or from F-roads in the highlands - Identify the exact route and its vehicle requirements before travelling - Navigation requires GPS and topographic maps; no road signs or markers in this area - Nearest services are in Myvatn area (~80+ km away); carry all fuel, food, water, and emergency supplies - Not recommended without highland driving experience and ideally travel in convoy with multiple vehicles - Confirm whether a specialist operator offers your intended route ## Best Time to Visit - July to mid-August only: the narrow window when highland tracks may be passable - Snow and ice persist late into summer in this high-altitude northeast highland area - Check road.is for highland road status; tracks may not open at all in poor snow years - 24-hour summer daylight provides maximum flexibility for navigation and exploration - Weather can change rapidly in the highlands; bring layers and rain gear and be prepared for cold - Winter: completely inaccessible; snow cover from September/October through June ## One system, several volcanic features The [Smithsonian profile]() describes a system containing the Ketildyngja shield and the Sveinar fissure swarm, which extends toward the north coast. Its latest confirmed eruption is listed at approximately 1200 BCE, associated with Búrfellshraun; an 1823 report is explicitly discredited. That makes the volcanic-system name more useful than treating Fremrinámur as a single cone. The catalogue does not establish a visitor route. Identify the exact feature and a permitted approach before planning a journey. Planning help ## Fremrinámur FAQs Quick answers with safety notes where it matters. **What is Fremrinámur?** Fremrinámur is a volcanic system that includes the Ketildyngja shield volcano and the Sveinar fissure swarm. **Can you visit Fremrinámur?** Fremrinámur is in a very remote part of the northeast highlands, accessible only by 4x4 vehicles on rough highland tracks during summer. It is rarely visited by tourists and has no facilities or marked trails. **When did Fremrinámur last erupt?** Smithsonian lists the latest confirmed eruption at approximately 1200 BCE. Its catalogue marks an 1823 eruption report as discredited. **Are there geothermal features at Fremrinámur?** Yes, the Fremrinámur area has geothermal features including hot springs, steam vents, and altered ground. These indicate ongoing volcanic heat beneath the surface, typical of Iceland's active volcanic zones. **What is the Northern Volcanic Zone?** The Northern Volcanic Zone is one of Iceland's main volcanic belts, running from the Vatnajökull area northward to the Tjörnes Fracture Zone near Húsavík. It includes major volcanic systems like Krafla, Askja, and Fremrinámur. [All volcanoes]() For a countrywide view of Iceland’s volcanic systems, explore our [Iceland statistics]().