Laki Craters (Lakagígar)

The Laki Craters hike is a short loop up the slopes of Laki mountain in Iceland's southern highlands, looking out over Lakagígar, the line of craters left by one of the most destructive eruptions in recorded history. The loop is 2.5 km, takes 1–1.5 hours, involves about 210 m of ascent and reaches a highest point of 818 m. It is a moderate walk on a clear but steep path, and the setting is remote.

The Laki fissure erupted in 1783–84, splitting the land open along roughly 25 km and pouring out enormous lava flows and poisonous gases. The resulting famine killed a large share of Iceland's population and livestock, and the haze affected weather across Europe. Today the craters are softened by thick green moss, and from the top of Laki you can see the row stretching away in both directions. The area is part of Vatnajökull National Park.

Highlights

• The view along the crater row from the top of Laki
• Moss-covered lava from the 1783 eruption
• A remote highland setting few visitors reach
• Short walk once you have made the journey

The route

Getting to the trailhead

Laki is reached by F206, which leaves Route 1 just west of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. The road is rough and includes four unbridged river crossings, so a proper 4x4 is required and the drive takes several hours each way. Many visitors join a summer tour from Kirkjubæjarklaustur instead. Check road.is before setting off, as F206 opens only in summer.

Where to stay

Kirkjubæjarklaustur, on Route 1, is the nearest village and has hotels, guesthouses and a campsite. There is no accommodation at the Laki car park itself, so plan for a long day trip from the lowlands.

Best time to hike

The season runs from mid-June, when F206 typically opens, to September. Opening dates vary with snow and road conditions. July and August offer the best weather and longest days. Visibility matters, as the view from the summit is the main reward.

Safety

The main risks are the access road, with river crossings that can rise after rain, and the remoteness: help is far away and phone coverage is limited. On the mountain the gravel is loose and wind can be strong at the top. Never step on the moss. Carry warm, waterproof clothes and food. Leave a travel plan at SafeTravel.is and call 112 in an emergency.