Nothing boosts Iceland tourism like a volcanic eruption! Two weeks ago, a volcano that has been dormant for 200 years erupted in southern Iceland. Officials on a travel and tourism board couldn't have come up with a better advertising campaign to draw visitors to the area. Despite the fact that a second fissure has occurred since the initial eruption, tourists and hikers are flocking to the area.
Lava flow subsequent to the eruption is heading in two different directions surrounding the volcano. It's quite a spectacular site to see and has become a lively activity for hikers. Vidir Reymissom, a spokesman for the Civil Protection Department, alerted the public that the lava does not present a risk of danger for onlookers. In fact, the attraction has been phenomenal for Iceland tourism--thousands of tourists and travelers have been in the area in the last two weeks simply to see the volcano.
Eyjafjallajokull is the name of the volcano that erupted on March after a 200-year period of dormancy. Much like the fact that aftershocks follow earthquakes, second fissures can occur after initial volcano eruptions. A week later, more lava was released from the rumbling mountain, causing a flow of the hot substance to the northeast and northwest. It last erupted in 1821.
To facilitate the viewing of the volcano, which also happens to be located beneath a glacier, tour vendors have surfaced to offer their services for navigating the area. Tours are available via helicopter or Jeep. For less than $400 per person, a 100-mile trip of the massive area is one option. If you choose to explore the area yourself, some distinct spots specifically cater to tourists, although the immediate area of the volcano is restricted.
Nearby homes were evacuated, but the 500 local residents have since returned to their homes. Thankfully, negative aspects of the eruption have been minimal, and the event has mainly been a new and exciting Iceland tourism attraction.
