Tourism Rebounds in Iceland's Grindavík Amid Volcano Eruptions

 

Grindavík, a town on Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula, has reopened to visitors for the first time since last November, following significant volcanic activity. Despite the inherent dangers, the allure of witnessing an active volcano up close has drawn attention to the area, even as the local police chief, Gunnar Schram, acknowledges the challenges posed by the ongoing eruptions.

The region has experienced six eruptions since December, and while safety measures are in place, visiting the site is still considered risky. Schram remarked on the fascination many tourists have for lava, stating, "Many tourists that come to Iceland have never even seen lava up close." However, he cautioned that children should not visit, as the ground still emits steam, with temperatures just below the surface reaching a staggering 800°C. Scientists predict further eruptions in the coming months, intensifying the sense of urgency for visitors.

Once a thriving community of 3,800, Grindavík is now largely deserted due to the ongoing volcanic activity, with only about 50 tourists visiting daily. Schram noted the contrast between the current situation and previous eruptions, such as the 2021 Fagradalsfjall event, which was termed a "tourist eruption" and did not threaten local life.

In February, conditions in Grindavík were stark, with only police and moving vans on the roads as residents prepared to leave their homes. Signs of evacuation were evident, and the sulfur dioxide smell necessitated masks for visitors. Now, while some businesses have reopened, including the Grindavík Guesthouse, the future remains uncertain, with 90% of properties acquired by the government.

Local businesses are promoting the nearby lava fields as a way for tourists to experience Iceland's dramatic landscape firsthand. Although the local tourism board reports a steady flow of visitors since the town's reopening, there are challenges in developing volcano tourism due to the unpredictability of eruptions. Guided tours highlighting the changes in the town and the surrounding landscape are expected to become more common as interest grows.

Tourism numbers have rebounded, with over 1.7 million visitors to Iceland from January to September 2024, slightly exceeding previous figures. The new Icelandic president, Halla Tómasdóttir, emphasized the country's ongoing safety and accessibility for tourists, assuring that Iceland remains open as usual.

However, the Icelandic tourist board warns visitors against disregarding safety advice. Dagbjartur Brynjarsson, a safety specialist, expressed concern about "disaster tourists" who venture too close to dangerous areas for social media attention. He cautioned that individuals who disregard safety protocols should not expect rescue if they encounter trouble.

As Grindavík continues to navigate the aftermath of volcanic activity, the town’s reopening offers a unique, albeit risky, opportunity for visitors to witness the raw power of nature in one of the world's most active volcanic regions.