Imagine you’re traveling on your campervan through South Iceland. The variety of landscapes you’ll pass by is immense, all of them astonishing. Suddenly, you’re surrounded by an endless sea, soft and green. It’s moss that covers lava black rocks underneath. This is Eldhraun Lava Field, a natural marvel born from one of history’s most explosive volcanic events. This place is a visually striking marvel that deserves your time. It invites you to park and explore this area, one that looks like a different planet. On top of that, there are several places nearby where you can park your campervan and spend the night.
Come with us to discover this beautiful corner of Iceland.
Key Takeaways
Eldhraun is a huge lava field, one of the biggest in the world.
It’s located in South Iceland.
It was created at the end of the 18th Century as a result of a catastrophic volcanic eruption.
What’s Eldhraun Lava Field?
Eldhraun Lava Field sprawls across 565 square kilometers (218 square miles) in southern Iceland, making it one of the biggest lava flows of its kind on Earth. This place was formed after the Laki eruption of 1783-1784, a catastrophic event that sent molten rock flying across the land, changing the course of several rivers and filling the air with toxic ash. Today, that geological chaos has settled into an irregular and beautiful field made of volcanic rocks covered by a thick layer of green moss, making it look soft and squishy. A nice and peaceful appearance that makes it difficult to imagine its dramatic creation.
Several trails cross the field and take you around it. It's important to know that you can’t step on the moss. It’s a fragile ecosystem, and it would take years, if not decades, to recover; therefore, it’s essential to maintain your distance. The sea is not far, so you can feel the breeze while you walk on the gravel paths.
This isn’t just a pretty sight—it’s a place of geological and historical importance. The eruption’s aftermath killed over half of Iceland’s livestock and led to famines that altered the island’s population. Some historians even link this eruption to crop failures in many parts of Europe. But today, Eldhraun is a quiet and nice experience. If you’re into photography, its unique terrain is very attractive. It’s a place that feels both ancient and timeless, perfect for a stop in your campervan adventure through Iceland.
Where’s Eldhraun Lava Field and How to Get There?
The Eldhraun Lava Field is located in Southern Iceland, near the coast, approximately halfway between the villages of Vík and Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
If you’re coming from Reykjavik, the route is quite easy and straightforward. You just have to take the famous Ring Road, or Route 1, heading east from the capital. It takes around 3.5 hours without stops to cover the 250 kilometers (155 miles). However, you’ll pass by some great natural landmarks along the way, so take your time to stop and visit them. Before you get to Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Eldhraun comes into view on both sides of the road. The field is huge, and most of it is between the road and the coast.
There’s a road that goes around the lava field. Route 204 (Meðallandsvegur) does a loop surrounding Eldhraun, connecting with the Ring Road at two separate points. One of them is just off Kirkjubæjarklaustur. The other one is further west. There are parking areas where you can leave your campervan and then start exploring on foot. The trails allow you to see everything without disturbing the delicate moss.
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Iceland is an excellent destination for traveling in a campervan. However, there are strict rules about free camping, so you can only park your vehicle in designated areas to spend the night. Luckily, there are a few close to Eldhraun Lava Field. Please note that some of them are only open during specific months. Additionally, the weather can have a significant impact on the conditions, so it’s best to always check before heading out to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Just outside Kirkjubæjarklaustur, this campsite is the closest one to the Eldhraun Lava Field. It’s equipped with everything you need for a cozy campervan stay. The flat, grassy area is ideal for parking, and the electricity hookups allow you to charge devices or run small appliances.
The village has a shop, a gas station, and a restaurant, which can be very convenient for restocking. In addition to camping, they also offer sleeping bag accommodation in seven heated cottages.
Kleifar-Mörk Camping Ground
Distance: 3 km (1.8 miles) from Eldhraun.
Facilities: Toilets and running water.
Opening Period: June to August.
This is a quieter option, located just outside Kirkjubæjarklaustur, very close to the previous one. It’s a smaller camping site surrounded by hills. It’s nice, but the facilities are basic—just toilets and cold running water.
Hörgsland
Distance: 9 km (5.6 miles) from Eldhraun.
Facilities: Toilets, showers, electricity, laundry facilities, and a small shop.
Opening Period: May to September.
Hörgsland is also near Eldhraun, a bit further east on the Ring Road. It has a bit of everything a campervan camping ground needs, plus a small shop with essentials like snacks and camping supplies. It also features a guesthouse and several cabins that can be rented for a more spacious stay.
Þakgil Camping Ground
Distance: 60 km (37 miles) from Eldhraun.
Facilities: Toilets, cold water, and fire pits.
Opening Period: June to September.
It takes a bit longer to reach this one, but the area is truly stunning. Þakgil is a secluded and narrow valley at the edge of a glacier. And there’s a camping ground just there. You need to take a little detour from the Ring Road near the town of Vík. The road leading there is gravel, but most campervans can manage it. It offers spaces for campervans, clean toilets, hot showers, and an outdoor dishwashing sink. There are also wooden cabins that can accommodate up to 4 people and are available for rent.
Vík Camping Ground
Distance: 47 km (29 miles) from Eldhraun.
Facilities: Toilets, showers, electricity, and a playground.
Opening Period: May to October.
Vík í Mýrdal is one of the main towns on Iceland’s south coast. And there’s a camping site close to the center. It features campervan pitches, restrooms, showers (available for a small fee), and electricity hookups. There are shops, restaurants, and gas stations in Vík, so it’s perfect for restocking.
Skaftafell Camping Ground
Distance: 70 km (43 miles) from Eldhraun.Facilities: Toilets, showers, a visitor center, and trail access.Opening Period: All year.
Of all the places we’ve listed, this is the only one that opens year-round. However, traveling to Iceland in winter requires extra preparation. Skaftafell Camping Ground is located within Vatnajökull National Park, and the Skaftafell area is ideal for nature lovers. Several trails depart from the campsite and lead to amazing natural monuments, such as Svartifoss waterfall or Skaftafellsjökull glacier. Don’t expect great luxuries in the camping ground, but it has all the basics to meet your campervan needs.
Best hiking trail in the Skaftafell Nature Reserve
The weather in Iceland is like a rollercoaster. It changes a lot and is quite unpredictable. The south of Iceland, where Eldhraun Lava Field is located, is not as cold as the center and north of the country. On the other hand, it rains more often and is windier, so it’s essential to be prepared for the conditions in the area.
Spring (April and May)
After the long and cold winter, the snow melts, revealing the green moss that covers the volcanic rocks. The temperatures typically range from 0°C to 7°C (32°F-45°F). Rain is frequent, and there could be the last days of snow at the beginning of the season. The days lengthen, giving more time for exploration.
Summer (June-August)
Summer is prime time, with temperatures rising to 10°C-15°C (50°F-59°F). The days are incredibly long, with approximately 20 hours of natural light, making it perfect for discovering all that this area has to offer. There can be occasional rain showers, but the moss looks especially radiant.
Similar to spring but going in the opposite direction. The average temperature typically ranges from 2 °C to 8 °C (36°F to 46°F), accompanied by shorter days and moderate to strong winds. The moss changes its color, less vibrant, and rain is common, so waterproof gear is key. It’s a quieter season, with fewer tourists.
Winter (November-March)
Winter temperatures range from -4°C to 3°C (25°F-37°F), with snow covering the lava field. Daylight shrinks to 4-7 hours, and the ice present on the roads makes it compulsory to drive with caution. It’s important to remember that most of the camping sites in the area close for the season.
What to Wear at Eldhraun Lava Field
Packing well for a campervan through south Iceland can make the difference. As the weather changes so much, the key to staying comfortable is dressing in layers. Here you have some essentials to bring in your suitcase:
Waterproof Jacket: Rain is a common companion, so the best way to stay dry is to wear a good waterproof and windproof jacket.
Fleece or Insulated Layer: This would be your intermediate layer. Keeps you warm against chilly winds.
Sturdy Hiking Boots: Essential for uneven trails near the lava. Better if they’re waterproof.
Waterproof Pants: Protects against wet moss and sudden showers.
Hat and Gloves: Help you deal with the wind and the cold, especially in winter.
Sunglasses: Even in winter, the reflection of the sun off the snow can be really harmful to your eyes.
What to See and Do Near Eldhraun Lava Field
Eldhraun is a fantastic place to visit on its own. But luckily, there are plenty of great places in South Iceland to add to an itinerary through the region.
Fjadrárgljúfur Canyon
Fjadrárgljúfur is a dramatic canyon not far from Eldhraun. It has a length of approximately 2 kilometers (1.25 miles) and reaches depths of up to 100 meters (328 feet) at its highest point. The Fjaðrá River has carved the canyon as it flows through it, snaking its way between the tall rock walls, which are covered in a beautiful blanket of green moss. It seems out of a fantasy novel, perfect for a day trip in your campervan.
Vík’s Black Sand Beaches
Several black sand beaches near the town of Vik are worth visiting. The most famous of them all is Reynisfjara, one of the most photographed beaches in the world. Impressive basalt columns frame the beach, and then there are the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, arising dramatically from the sea. It’s a great place to take a walk, but you have to be careful. The waves are unpredictable and famously powerful. Keep your distance from the water.
Skaftafell
This place was once a national park in its own right, but was later integrated into the larger Vatnajökull National Park. This area features several glaciers, stunning waterfalls, such as the famous Svartifoss, and numerous hiking trails.
Laki Craters
The Laki Craters are another geographical feature created by the 1783-1784 eruption. Laki is a volcanic fissure that produced one of the largest lava flows ever recorded. The area is marked by a chain of craters, which are visible as you hike across the barren volcanic landscape.
Travel Tips
Check the Weather Forecast and Road Conditions: As the weather changes frequently, it’s essential to check the local forecast daily (and sometimes multiple times a day). Also, as it can affect the roads, check their status as well.
Respect the Moss: It’s fragile and takes decades to regrow, so stick to marked paths.
Fuel Up: Gas stations can be sparse—fill your campervan in Vík or Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
Pack Snacks: There are no shops around the lava field one you get away from the nearby towns, so bring snacks and water for your excursion.
Book Campsites Early: In summer, all the campsites are open and it’s, objectively, the best time to visit. However, some camping grounds can fill up quickly.
Conclusion
Eldhraun Lava Field isn’t just a stop on your campervan journey. It’s a place where you can easily connect to Iceland’s natural past. The rocks, covered in moss, stretch for miles and create one of the most different and unique sights in the world. If you’re traveling in your campervan through South Iceland, don’t hesitate, and discover this magical place.
