Herjolfsdalur Valley: Volcanoes & Lava Fields
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Port
Heimaey, Westman Islands, Iceland
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
Information Not Currently Available
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$190
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 3 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Start your tour from the natural harbor, with its tall cliffs inhabited by puffins, fulmars and guillemots.
At Herjolfsdalur Valley, you'll see replicas of the ruins of several old farmhouses dating back to the 9th century. Along the western part of the island, the outer islands come into view. The youngest of the group, Surtsey, is a relative newborn -- having burst out of the ocean in the volcanic eruption of 1963. You'll pass between two volcanoes, Helgafell (Holy Mountain) and the considerably younger Eldfell or Fire Mountain, which formed during yet another eruption in 1973. Drive over Eldfell's new lava fields and walk to the viewpoint located at the base of the volcano.
Don't miss the charming, wooden Skansinn Church, gifted by Norway to the people of the Westman Islands to commemorate a millennium of Christianity in Iceland.
Finally, you will visit the Eldheimar Museum, whose exhibits explain the dramatic 1973 eruption that forced the mass evacuation of the island.
Please note: Wear sturdy walking shoes. It is essential that you wear warm, layered clothing in order to fully enjoy and participate in this excursion. Outer layer should be waterproof and windproof. Bring gloves, a warm hat and a scarf.