The Race

The weather in Iceland is very unpredictable. Even though it's high summer, it will not be "warm" by most people's definitions. 

It's a good idea to be ready for weather conditions ranging from warm and sunny, to rainy and windy. Think layers! You can always drop clothes off at the waterstations. 

In terms of footwear, trail running shoes are recommended though the course can be run on normal running shoes. 

The marathon and half marathon will begin at 07.30 in the morning, with a time limit of 7 hours. The quarter marathon will start slightly after. 

To ensure runners' safety, a cut-off point has been established on the marathon route at the 32 kilometer mark - 5 hours and 15 minutes after the start.  

The race finishes for all distances at 14.30. 

Full Marathon: 42.195 km / 26.2 mi

Half Marathon: 21.097 km / 13.1 mi

Quarter Marathon: 10.55 km / 6.56 mi

Note: Marathon runners must be 18 years old, Half Marathon runners must be 16 years old and Quarter Marathon runners 8 years old. Runners under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.  ´

Distance changes: 

Distance changes can be made up until 2 days before the race starts. If you want to change your distance while on tour, contact a race director after the briefing on Inspection Day. 

For downgrades from marathon / half marathon to quarter-marathon, you will be refunded the difference if the change is sent to us no later than two weeks before the race. Later downgrades will not be refunded. If you wish to upgrade to a marathon / half marathon, you will be required to pay the difference. 

Distance change is NOT permitted on Race Day

The Iceland Volcano Marathon generally takes place on the third weekend of June each year.

2025: June 28th

2026: June 27th

Registration closes one month before the tour package begins, but spots fill up fast! To secure your place and preferred accommodation, we recommend booking early. 

International runners will receive their goodie bags in Akureyri, on the second day of the tour. 

Included in your goodie bag will be your bib number, marathon schedule, re-usable Iceland Volcano Marathon water cup, and your race t-shirt. The bib must be attached to the front of your body and readable - both for safety and for photographic purposes.

The bibs are color coded according to the distance you are running. 

• Full Marathon: Blue
• Half Marathon: Red
• Quarter-Marathon: White

Please do not bend or fold the bibs as the timing chip inside may break. 

It is possible to deposit bags with personal items in the finish area for use after the race. Runners can also drop supplies on the route at Aid Station C (see Route & Elevation for more details). 

Please mark your bag clearly with your name and bib number. 

Although the luggage area is manned, the race organisers cannot be held responsible for any lost or damaged items. 

Kindly note that all decisions made by the race officials and or medical team are final and not up for discussion. 

Albatros Adventure Marathons reserve the right to change the itinerary and/or running course without further notice in the event of extreme weather, or other natural causes. This also includes the decision to cut the course short. 

By signing up for the Iceland Volcano Marathon, you agree to the Terms & Conditions of Albatros Adventure Marathons.

Watch race recaps from previous and past years here:

Race recaps

Route Map

Elevation Map

Surface: Expect to run on gravel, lava-sand and asphalt. 

In compliance with Icelandic law, it is strictly forbidden to walk / run outside the marked trails and roads. Please be respectful of this delicate ecosystem! 

Nordic trekking poles and baby joggers are not allowed. 

Medical Team Availability
Danish english speaking doctors and Icelandic paramedics will be on-site during the race. The medical team is ready in case of injury or severe exhaustion, and will patrol the route as well as stand by the finishing line. They have the authority to stop runners if they deem it necessary for health reasons. All decisions by the medical team are final.

If you need to drop out, head to the nearest drink station for a cooling drink and we will transport you back to the finish area, but expect some wait time, due to the conditions of the race route. 
 

The Iceland Volcano Marathon is timed using a Bib-chip. The chip is attached on the back fo the bib number and will record each runners finishing time. Do not fold or bend the bib as it could damage the chip.

Results will be available here on the evening of the race. There are no age categories.