Lake Mývatn

Overview

Lake Mývatn stands as one of Iceland's most geologically active and ecologically significant destinations, a shallow volcanic lake formed approximately 2,300 years ago by a massive basaltic lava eruption. Located in Iceland's volcanic Northern Region, this 37-square-kilometre lake sits at the heart of a remarkable geothermal landscape that encompasses pseudo-craters, lava pillars, bubbling mud pools, and some of Europe's most powerful geothermal activity. The lake's unusual warmth, maintained by underwater hot springs, creates a unique ecosystem that supports an extraordinary diversity of waterfowl—more duck species breed here than anywhere else in Iceland.

The Mývatn region represents a living textbook of volcanic processes, where visitors can witness the ongoing interaction between fire and ice that has shaped Iceland for millennia. The area's geothermal features, from the explosive geysers at Hverir to the otherworldly lava formations at Dimmuborgir, demonstrate the raw geological forces still actively sculpting this landscape. Beyond its scientific significance, Mývatn has gained international recognition as a filming location for major productions, most notably serving as a backdrop for scenes beyond the Wall in Game of Thrones.

Quick Facts

**GPS Coordinates:** 65.6000°N, 16.9833°W

**Entry Fee:** Free to visit the lake; individual attractions may charge separately

**Opening Hours:** Accessible 24/7; visitor facilities typically 9:00-17:00

**Best Time to Visit:** June-August for full access; May-September for optimal conditions

**Difficulty Level:** Easy to moderate; mostly accessible by standard vehicle

**Nearest Town:** Reykjahlíð (2km)

**Accommodation Base:** Reykjahlíð village or Akureyri (100km)

How to Get There

Driving

From Reykjavík, take the Ring Road (Route 1) eastbound for approximately 470km, a journey of 5.5-6 hours. Continue through Akureyri, then follow Route 1 for another 100km before turning south onto Route 87 towards Reykjahlíð. The final approach offers spectacular views across the lake. From Akureyri, the journey takes 1.5 hours via Route 1 east to the Route 87 junction.

Alternative access from the Westfjords involves Route 1 southbound through the Sprengisandur highland route, though this requires a 4WD vehicle and is only accessible during summer months.

Parking

Multiple parking areas serve different attractions around the lake. The main car park at Reykjahlíð accommodates approximately 50 vehicles and is free of charge. Dimmuborgir offers a dedicated car park (200 ISK/€1.50 per hour) with space for 80 cars. Skútustaðagígar has a smaller gravel car park for 20-30 vehicles. During peak season (July-August), arrive before 10:00 to secure parking at popular sites.

Access

Most viewing points are accessible within 50-200 metres of car parks via well-maintained gravel paths. The Dimmuborgir walking trails range from 15 minutes to 1 hour, following marked paths suitable for most fitness levels. Skútustaðagígar requires a 10-minute walk across uneven volcanic terrain to reach the pseudo-crater viewpoints.

What to See and Do

The lake circuit offers diverse volcanic phenomena within a compact area. Skútustaðagígar presents a remarkable field of pseudo-craters formed when lava flowed over wetlands, creating steam explosions that left perfectly circular formations. The largest crater provides panoramic views across the entire lake system.

Dimmuborgir, known as the "Dark Castles," features towering lava pillars and caves formed when a lava lake partially drained, leaving behind dramatic rock formations. The site offers several marked trails, including the popular Church Circle route (30 minutes) and the longer Kirkja path (45 minutes) that leads through a natural lava arch.

Höfði peninsula extends into the lake's eastern shore, creating a bird-watching paradise accessible via a 2km walking trail. The peninsula's birch woodlands and wetlands attract over 15 duck species, including rare Barrow's goldeneye and common scoter. Early morning visits (6:00-9:00) provide optimal viewing opportunities.

Grjótagjá cave, a small lava cave filled with geothermally heated water, gained fame as a filming location but is now too hot for bathing (45-50°C). The cave remains worth visiting for its geological significance and atmospheric blue lighting.

Best Time to Visit

**May-June:** Spring migration brings peak birdlife activity, though some highland roads may remain closed. Weather is unpredictable but crowds are minimal. Average temperatures: 8-15°C.

**July-August:** Peak season offers warmest weather (12-18°C), full road access, and longest daylight hours. Expect crowds at major attractions and higher accommodation prices. Lupine flowers create purple carpets across the landscape.

**September:** Excellent compromise with fewer visitors, stable weather, and accessible roads. Autumn colours enhance the volcanic landscape. Some facilities begin reducing hours.

**October-April:** Winter visits require careful planning due to reduced daylight and harsh weather. Northern lights viewing opportunities increase, but road conditions can be challenging. Many highland routes close entirely.

**Bird watching:** Optimal from mid-May through July during nesting season. Midnight sun (June-July) enables extended observation periods.

Safety

Geothermal areas pose serious burn risks—maintain safe distances from hot springs and fumaroles, where ground temperatures can exceed 100°C. Stay on marked paths, as thin crusts may conceal boiling mud or water beneath.

Weather changes rapidly in this exposed volcanic landscape. Carry windproof clothing and extra layers even during summer visits. Strong winds are common across the lake, particularly during afternoon hours.

Winter driving requires studded tyres or chains, with Route 87 subject to temporary closures during severe weather. Check road.is for current conditions before travelling.

Pseudo-crater edges can be unstable—avoid climbing on formations at Skútustaðagígar. The volcanic rock is often sharp and can cause cuts through standard footwear.

Nearby Places

**Námafjall Hverir (8km):** High-temperature geothermal field featuring bubbling mud pools, steam vents, and sulphur deposits. Active geological processes visible throughout the colourful landscape.

**Krafla Power Station and Víti Crater (15km):** Geothermal power facility with visitor centre, plus a stunning explosion crater containing milky blue water. Demonstrates Iceland's renewable energy expertise.

**Goðafoss Waterfall (50km):** The "Waterfall of the Gods" drops 12 metres across a 30-metre width, significant in Iceland's conversion to Christianity in 1000 AD.

**Húsavík (60km):** Europe's whale watching capital, offering year-round cetacean spotting opportunities in Skjálfandi Bay, plus the excellent Whale Museum.

**Ásbyrgi Canyon (85km):** Horseshoe-shaped canyon in Vatnajökull National Park, formed by glacial flooding. Features hiking trails through unique arctic birch forest.

Getting around Iceland is easiest by car. Compare rental options and find the best deals on Discover Cars — free cancellation available.

Planning a trip to Iceland? Make sure you travel with peace of mind — SafetyWing offers flexible Nomad Insurance from $56.28/4 weeks, covering medical emergencies, trip interruptions, and adventure activities. Perfect for Iceland's unpredictable weather and remote landscapes.

Book Iceland tours and experiences through GetYourGuide — compare hundreds of guided activities including glacier hikes, whale watching, northern lights tours, and Golden Circle day trips. Instant confirmation, free cancellation on most bookings.