Skútustaðagígar Pseudocraters

Overview

Skútustaðagígar Pseudocraters represent one of Iceland's most distinctive volcanic formations—a collection of roughly 50 small explosion craters scattered across the southern shore of Lake Mývatn. These geological curiosities formed approximately 2,300 years ago when molten lava from the Lúdent and Þrengslaborgir crater rows flowed over marshy wetlands. The trapped moisture beneath the advancing lava rapidly converted to steam, creating explosive eruptions that blasted through the cooling lava crust to form these distinctive crater-like depressions.

Unlike true volcanic craters that form at eruption sites, pseudocraters are secondary features created by steam explosions, making Skútustaðagígar among the world's finest examples of this phenomenon. The circular rims, ranging from 10 to 200 metres in diameter, rise 5 to 20 metres above the surrounding terrain, creating a lunar-like landscape that has served as a filming location for science fiction productions. The site takes its name from the nearby Skútustaðir farm, with "gígar" meaning "craters" in Icelandic.

The pseudocraters now form a protected nature reserve within the larger Mývatn-Laxá Conservation Area, offering visitors an easily accessible window into Iceland's complex volcanic processes. The well-maintained walking paths and interpretive signage make this an ideal introduction to Icelandic volcanism for visitors of all ages and fitness levels.

Quick Facts

**GPS Coordinates:** 65.5681°N, 17.0253°W

**Entry Fee:** Free of charge

**Opening Hours:** 24/7 accessible

**Best Time to Visit:** May through September for optimal walking conditions

**Difficulty Level:** Easy—suitable for all ages and fitness levels

**Nearest Town:** Reykjahlíð (3.2km)

**Walking Time:** 30-45 minutes for complete loop trail

**Trail Length:** 1.8km circular path

**Elevation Gain:** Minimal (less than 30 metres)

How to Get There

Driving

From Reykjavík, take Route 1 (Ring Road) northeast for approximately 480km to reach the Mývatn area—a journey of roughly 5.5 hours. Exit onto Route 848 signposted for Skútustaðir, located 7km before reaching Reykjahlíð village when travelling clockwise around the lake. The final 2km stretch follows a well-maintained gravel road suitable for all vehicle types.

From Akureyri, the journey covers 103km via Route 1 east, then Route 87 north through Laugar, rejoining Route 1 briefly before taking Route 848 to Skútustaðir. This route takes approximately 1 hour 20 minutes and offers scenic views across the Mývatn region.

Parking

A dedicated car park at Skútustaðir provides free parking for approximately 40 vehicles, including designated spaces for coaches and motorhomes. The car park features basic facilities including an information board and waste bins. During peak summer months (July-August), arrive before 10:00 or after 16:00 to secure parking, as the site's popularity can lead to capacity issues.

Access

The marked trail begins directly from the car park with no additional walking required. The path consists of well-maintained boardwalks and gravel sections designed to protect the fragile volcanic substrate whilst providing safe passage for visitors. The entire route is wheelchair accessible for the first 400 metres, though the complete circuit requires navigating some uneven terrain and gentle slopes.

What to See and Do

The circular walking trail offers spectacular views across the pseudocrater field whilst providing access to several of the larger formations. The largest crater, measuring approximately 200 metres across, provides an excellent vantage point for photography and understanding the site's geological significance. Interpretive panels positioned at key viewpoints explain the formation process in multiple languages, including detailed diagrams showing how lava and water interaction created these unique features.

Birdwatching opportunities abound, particularly during spring and summer months when the area hosts breeding populations of Arctic terns, red-necked phalaropes, and various duck species attracted to the shallow pools within several craters. The elevated crater rims provide excellent observation points across Lake Mývatn's southern bays, where whooper swans and great northern divers are frequently spotted.

Photography enthusiasts will find optimal lighting conditions during the golden hours, with the crater formations creating dramatic shadows and textures. The contrast between the dark volcanic rock and the bright green moss covering many crater slopes produces striking images throughout the growing season. Winter visits offer completely different photographic opportunities, with snow-covered craters creating minimalist compositions against the frozen lake backdrop.

Best Time to Visit

**May-June:** Optimal conditions with moderate temperatures, minimal crowds, and excellent bird activity. Trails may have occasional muddy sections from snowmelt, but the main paths remain accessible.

**July-August:** Peak tourist season brings the warmest weather and fullest vegetation coverage, but also the largest crowds. Arrive early morning or evening for the best experience and parking availability.

**September:** Excellent conditions with autumn colours, fewer visitors, and still-accessible trails. Weather becomes more unpredictable with potential for sudden temperature drops.

**October-April:** Winter access remains possible but requires appropriate clothing and footwear for icy conditions. Limited daylight hours restrict visit duration, but snow-covered landscapes offer unique photographic opportunities. Strong winds from the lake can create challenging conditions.

Safety

The well-maintained paths present minimal hazards for reasonably cautious visitors. However, several considerations ensure safe exploration. Crater rims can become slippery when wet, particularly the moss-covered sections that become treacherous during light rain or morning dew. Avoid climbing on crater walls, as the volcanic substrate can be unstable and erosion-prone.

Strong winds frequently sweep across the exposed terrain from Lake Mývatn, particularly during winter months when gusts can exceed 80 km/h. The elevated crater rims amplify wind effects, making balance challenging for children and elderly visitors during adverse weather.

Weather conditions change rapidly in the Mývatn area, with summer thunderstorms developing quickly across the flat landscape. The metal railings and elevated positions on crater rims create lightning risk during electrical storms. Winter visitors must prepare for temperatures dropping below -15°C combined with significant wind chill effects.

Mobile phone coverage is generally reliable, but emergency services remain 30-40 minutes away in optimal conditions.

Nearby Places

**Dimmuborgir Lava Formations** (8.5km): Dramatic lava pillars and caves formed by lava lakes, offering marked walking trails through otherworldly volcanic sculptures.

**Mývatn Nature Baths** (12km): Geothermal lagoon featuring milky blue mineral-rich waters maintained at 36-40°C, providing a more intimate alternative to the Blue Lagoon.

**Hverfjall Crater** (9km): A perfectly preserved tephra cone rising 150 metres above the surrounding landscape, accessible via a moderately challenging hiking trail.

**Grjótagjá Cave** (11km): A small lava cave containing a natural hot spring, famous as a filming location for Game of Thrones, though bathing is no longer permitted due to elevated temperatures.

**Krafla Geothermal Area** (18km): Active volcanic system featuring bubbling mud pools, steaming fumaroles, and the impressive Víti crater lake, accessible via a scenic mountain road.

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