Anne MercadoIceland, the land of fire and ice, has recently lived up to its fiery moniker. A series of volcanic eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula, the latest occurring in late May 2024, has caused some disruption, particularly near the town of Grindavík. Travellers with upcoming Icelandic adventures might be wondering: is Iceland safe to travel to?
Also read: 13 Important Things to Know Before Visiting Iceland
Is Iceland safe to travel to? Here are the details
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Planning a trip to Iceland and worried about the recent volcanic eruptions? Here’s a quick rundown to help you navigate the situation:
Volcanic activity:
- Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula has seen a series of eruptions since December 2023, with the latest occurring on 29 May 2024.
- The eruption happened near Grindavík, a small town in southwest Iceland. Residents and visitors at the Blue Lagoon spa were evacuated due to lava flows.
Is travel safe?
- Despite the eruption, major travel advisories haven’t been issued. Neither the UK Foreign Office nor the US Department of State recommend against travel to Iceland — although they advise staying clear of the affected area around Grindavík.
Planning your trip:
- If you have an upcoming trip to Iceland, here’s what you need to know:
- Avoid the Reykjanes Peninsula, especially the Grindavík area.
- The Blue Lagoon spa is currently closed.
- Air travel remains unaffected.
Staying informed
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- Keep an eye on updates from your airline in case of any changes to your flight schedule.
- Monitor information from Icelandic authorities like the Icelandic Met Office, Safe Travel Iceland, and the Almannavarnadeild Facebook page. These resources will provide the latest updates on the situation.
Travel insurance and cancellations
- Since official travel advisories haven’t changed, your trip might go ahead as planned.
- If you decide to cancel due to the eruption, you might face cancellation penalties from your travel provider unless the Foreign Office advice changes.
- Contact your travel provider directly for specific information about your trip and any potential changes.
Also read: 18 Otherworldly Attractions to Visit in Iceland
Is Iceland safe to travel to? Even though there aren’t any major travel advisories yet, staying informed is crucial.While eruptions can be disruptive, they’re also a reminder of the island’s unique geological character. By staying informed and following safety precautions, you can still have a safe and memorable Icelandic adventure!
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