Lake Mývatn, located in the north of Iceland, is a region rich in geological wonders and natural beauty. Known for its active volcanic landscape, Mývatn features bubbling mudpots, steaming lava fields, and dramatic waterfalls—creating a land still being shaped by nature. Here is all you to know to plan your trip.
By: Paul Healy | Last Updated: | Jump to Comments
Surrounding the shallow lake, Mývatn is a rare wetland area where water and lava combine in remarkable ways.
Walk over still-warm lava fields, hike through surreal volcanic formations, and explore fissures in the earth’s crust.
Discover natural hot springs, bubbling mud pots, steaming vents, and stunning basalt columns with acoustic properties.
Add in whale watching in Húsavík and some of Iceland’s most impressive waterfalls, and it’s clear why Mývatn is a must-visit destination.
There’s no town as such, but Mývatn has a selection of hotels and services, making it a great base in Northern Iceland.
Here’s a guide to the top things to do in the Mývatn area.
MÝVATN MAP
Mývatn covers a broad area of natural attractions surrounding the lake with a few services such as gas stations, some independent restaurants and several hotels dotted around.
As this part of north central Iceland is quite remote, Mývatn is a good base for exploring the wider area on day trips.
You can visit Mývatn on our Ring Road itinerary.
USING OUR MAPS. Click on the top right corner to open in the Google Maps app. Click on the star to save to your Google account.
THINGS TO DO IN MYVATN, ICELAND
1. SKÚTUSTADAGÍGAR PSEUDO CRATERS
Pseudo craters are strange-looking natural formations resembling giant pimples in the earth’s crust.
They are formed when hot lava flows over a wetland and boils the water. The steam created from this process caused explosions, which created clusters of pseudo-craters.
The pseudo craters at Lake Mývatn were formed 2,300 years ago and are some of the largest in the world.
The best way to see the pseudo-craters is to take the lovely path around the Skútustadagígar Pond.
There’s a 2-kilometre trail and a 3-kilometre trail around the lake, which is also very good for bird spotting.
This is a popular spot for bus groups, so we’d suggest going a bit later in the day if possible, as most tour groups arrive here in the mornings.
IMPORTANT LAKE MÝVATN MIDGES TIP
Lake Mývatn is notorious for its swarms of midges, tiny insects that can be a major nuisance, especially in calm weather.
These non-biting midges (unlike Scotland’s biting variety) don’t sting, but they swarm in large numbers, making them hard to avoid.
To stay comfortable, bring insect repellent and consider wearing a lightweight head net or a scarf to cover your face, particularly if there’s little to no wind—ideal conditions for midges to gather.
If you’re visiting in summer, be especially prepared, as midges are most active during warmer months.
2. KÁLFASTRÖND
Kálfaströnd is a scenic area on the southeastern shore of Lake Mývatn, known for its unique lava formations, lush vegetation, and stunning views of the lake.
There is a 2.1-kilometre circuit that should only take around 35 minutes to explore. It’s very easy to follow and includes several secluded spots for a scenic picnic among the strange-shaped lava pillars.
The intriguing and varied landscape on the hike is prime habitat for Harlequin, Barrow’s Goldeneye, Golden Plover and plenty of ducks. So, bird-watchers should bring their binoculars.
3. DIMMUBORGIR
Dimmuborgir is a perfect example of the bizarre landscapes that surround the Mývatn area.
This lava field, dotted with towering pillars, jagged rock formations, and natural arches, was shaped by rare geological processes, giving it an eerie, almost mythical appearance.
The area was formed around 2,300 years ago when a massive lava lake—spanning approximately 2 kilometers—began to cool and drain into what is now Lake Mývatn.
As steam from the boiling water beneath rose through the lava, it rapidly cooled the molten rock, creating the hollowed-out formations and lava pillars seen today.
What makes Dimmuborgir particularly unique is that these types of formations are typically found on the ocean floor, making Mývatn the only place in the world where you can see them on dry land.
Details – Parking is 300 ISK. However, it’s free if you make a purchase at the on-site cafe. The centre is open from 8 am to 7 pm daily.
4. HVERFJALL CRATER
Hverfjall is a tephra cone volcano near Mývatn which is shaped like a massive stadium.
Visible from miles around, it’s one of the most prominent features of the Lake Mývatn area.
The volcano was formed around 4,500 years ago during a powerful explosive eruption, ejecting volcanic ash and rock to create its near-perfectly symmetrical cone.
The crater measures approximately 1 kilometer in diameter and rises 396 meters high, making it one of the largest tephra craters in the world.
There are two paths up to the rim of the crater, which provide excellent views of both the centre of the volcano and the surrounding area.
- Northwest Trail – The most commonly used and shortest route.
- Southern Trail – Less frequented, but provides an alternative ascent.
Both trails require a 20-minute uphill hike, with loose gravel making the terrain a bit challenging in places.
Once at the top, you can walk around the entire crater rim, which is around 3 kilometers (1.9 miles). This took us around 45–60 minutes.
5. GRJÓTAGJÁ CAVE & FISSURE
Grjótagjá is a small lava cave that shot to prominence after the love scene between Jon Snow and Ygritte from Game of Thrones was filmed in this small, interesting space.
The cave contains a thermal pool, which for years was considered one of the prime hot springs in Iceland.
However, after the nearby Krafla volcanic system erupted nine times between 1975 and 1984, the water in the cave boiled to dangerous temperatures. The water eventually cooled, but the temperature has since become unstable, and swimming is no longer permitted.
Nonetheless, Grjótagjá is still a very interesting place to visit around Mývatn.
You can enter the cave via a small opening where you can see the clear, blue geothermal water.
Don’t miss the huge fissure, best seen from above the cave, which you can see stretching towards Hverfjall.
6. HVERIR
The burnt-orange landscape of Hverir – completely bare of all vegetation – is one of the highlights of a visit to the Mývatn area.
Vents in the earth’s crust, called fumaroles, expel volcanic gases and vapours dramatically into the air.
Large mud pots bubble and gurgle, ejecting grey splatters onto the orange-red earth. Boiling rivers cut across the barren landscape.
It’s a fascinating place to visit that feels like you’re walking on the surface of Mars.
Hverir is located just off the Ring Road (Route 1), about 6 km (3.7 miles) east of Lake Mývatn. The geothermal area is a short, easy walk from the parking lot.
It’s open 24 hours and free to enter, although early morning or late evening is better if you want nice soft light and fewer crowds.
7. KRAFLA
With 29 eruptions under its belt, Krafla is one of the most active volcanoes in Iceland.
The caldera is 10 kilometres wide, but the fissure extends for 90 kilometres. Inside the fissure zone, Viti Crater (not to be confused with the Viti at Askja) with its emerald-green lake is the showpiece of this incredible natural phenomenon.
Krafla is the force that causes the nearby Grjótagjá Hot Springs to swing across a volatile temperature range.
With liquid rock just 2 kilometres beneath the earth’s surface, it’s a unique source of power that Iceland has been harvesting since 1977.
In addition to the Viti Crater, the nearby Leirhnjukur Lava Field is also an interesting thing to see in Mývatn.
Located within the extensive caldera, a hiking trail twists and turns through the still steaming lava field as it passes bubbling mud pots, fumaroles and colorful mosses.
Viti Crater is accessible via a short 10–15 minute uphill walk from the parking lot. Leirhnjúkur Lava Field features an easy 1-hour hike along a marked trail through steaming lava formations.
8. DETTIFOSS
Dettifoss is a powerful waterfall, 77 kilometres (1 hour, 20 minutes) from Mývatn.
Dropping 44 metres into a narrow canyon, it’s the largest waterfall by volume in Iceland and one of the most powerful in Europe.
The falls are fed by the Jökulsá á Fjöllum River, which flows from the Vatnajökull glacier.
The west side of Dettifoss is the easiest access point, with a paved road from the Ring Road and a large car park. There’s an upper and lower viewpoint, and you can expect to get wet at both of them.
It’s a spectacular sight and one of the most impressive waterfalls in Iceland. If you’re based around Lake Mývatn, Dettifoss is a great day trip.
9. HÚSAVÍK
Húsavík is the whale capital of Iceland and one of the best places in the world to see them.
Located just 50 minutes from Mývatn, it’s the ideal day trip to spot one of the 23 species of whales and large colony of puffins that are regularly seen here.
In fact, in July, whale spotting is so common it is almost guaranteed.
Whale spotting tours leave from Húsavík Harbour and it’s something we highly recommend while you’re in the area.
After the tour, here are a few other things you can do in Húsavík:
- Stroll along the picturesque harbor lined with colorful wooden buildings.
- Visit the Húsavík Whale Museum, home to a 22-metre-long Blue Whale skeleton.
- See the Húsavík Church (Húsavíkurkirkja)
- Visit the GeoSea Geothermal Baths.
10. GOÐAFOSS
Goðafoss is a wide horseshoe-shaped waterfall 45 kilometres from Mývatn. Referred to as the Waterfall of the Godes, it’s one of the best waterfalls in Iceland.
The falls are between 9 metres and 17 metres high and curve around low-lying lava fields forming a horseshoe shape.
The water is decorated with a blue-green pattern putting Goðafoss as a contender for the most beautiful waterfalls anywhere.
There are viewing platforms on both the west and east side of the falls.
- West Side – Closer to the falls, you’ll get an excellent view of the cascading water.
- East Side – Great for panoramic views and for photographing the entire waterfall from a distance.
You can easily walk between the two viewpoints in about 20 to 30 minutes.
11. MÝVATN NATURE BATHS
The Mývatn Nature Baths is a milky blue lagoon pool, heated by a nearby hot spring.
Although it’s a man-made pool, the lagoon is set overlooking a barren landscape with the facilities nicely blending into the surroundings.
The temperature changes slightly as you move around the pool, but averages a delightfully pleasant 96°F – 104°F (36°C – 40°C).
There are 2 steam baths, a hot tub, a separate pool for kids, a café and a swim up bar where you can order alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
It’s a great balance between the Blue Lagoon which is expensive and can get very busy, and the completely natural hot springs, like those in the Westfjords, which have no facilities at all.
Advance booking is recommended.
12. ÁSBYRGI
Ásbyrgi is a unique horseshoe-shaped canyon located in the northeastern part of Iceland, within the Vatnajökull National Park.
Stretching 3.5 kilometers long and 1.1 kilometers wide, this natural wonder is another fascinating geological landscape worth exploring while you’re visiting Mývatn.
The 100-metre-high curved canyon walls are a sight to see, but the surreal aspect of Ásbyrgi is the thick woodland that surrounds them.
In an otherwise barren country, Ásbyrgi is a haven for various species of trees. The most common is birch, but you’ll also find spruce, larch and pine.
There are a few hiking paths to explore the area. The most popular is Lake Botnstjörn, a serene body of water located at the base of the canyon.
The Island, a 25-metre rock formation that divides Ásbyrgi in half, is another great hike.
13. ASKJA
Askja is a large volcano situated in the Dyngjufjöll Mountain Range which is part of the Vatnajökull Glacier National Park.
The volcano’s main caldera was formed over 10,000 years ago at the end of the last Ice Age. During an eruption, the roof of the large magma chamber collapsed, causing a massive depression and creating the caldera.
The result was an enormous 45 square kilometre caldera, 8 kilometres in length.
It’s a challenging drive that requires a 4×4 which we cover in our guide to Askja.
But tours also leave from Myvatn so you can enjoy this special place without taking on the drive yourself.
Whichever way you make it to Askja, it’s worth the effort. The colourful rocky walls are nestled beside a younger crater with steep orange and yellow sides and a milky geothermal pool.
We’ve been 3 times now and it’s an amazing place to visit.
14. HLJÓÐAKLETTAR
Hljóðaklettar is a collection of basalt columns located in the Vatnajökull National Park, about 1 hour’s drive from Lake Mývatn.
The columns stretch in multiple directions, creating unique shapes like swirls, spirals, roses, and arches.
The area is known for its acoustic effects, with sounds echoing through the columns, adding a mystical atmosphere to this natural wonder.
There are two hiking trails which start at the parking lot.
- Blue Trail: This 1-kilometre path takes around 30 minutes to complete with easy access to some of the best viewpoints.
- Red Trail: This longer 2-3 hour trail circles the entire area to get the best photographic spots.
Keep an eye out for the fortress-like Kastali, the giant Tröllið and the Kirkjan or church.
How to get there – From Mývatn, Hljóðaklettar is accessed via the 862 which is closed in winter.
If you are a fan of basalt columns then you should not miss the remarkable sight of Studlagil Canyon a few hours drive to the east.
WHERE TO STAY IN MÝVATN
Most hotels in Myvatn are spread along the lakeshore where you’ll also find a few other essentials such as a small supermarket, fuel stations and some restaurants.
For more recommendations, read our guide on where to stay in Iceland.
MÝVATN
FOSSHOTEL MÝVATN
Fosshotel is a modern comfortable chain hotel with a good selection of facilities including free Wi-Fi, private bathrooms and 24-hour reception. The onsite restaurant with expansive views overlooking the lake is open for breakfast and dinner.
MÝVATN
HÓTEL LAXÁ
With views over the lake but away from the town, Hótel Laxá is an excellent hotel in Iceland to view the Northern Lights. It’s quality, modern accommodation with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. The restaurant / bar area is and nice place to hang out and breakfast will sort you out for the day.
MÝVATN
SKÚTUSTADIR GUESTHOUSE
With a shared kitchen and lounge area, Skútustadir Guesthouse is a great base for families visiting Myvatn. There are private or shared bathrooms available, free Wi-Fi and laundry facilities. Their homemade bread and jam is a breakfast treat.
MORE ICELAND RING ROAD GUIDES
- Check out our 10-day Iceland Ring Road itinerary.
- Make sure you don’t miss our favourite places to visit in Iceland.
- Looking for accommodation on the Ring Road? Here’s where to stay in Iceland.
- Don’t miss a thermal soak with our guide to the best hot springs in Iceland.
- Just off the Ring Road is Iceland’s newest volcano – Fagradalsfjall.
- The best way to spend a day seeing Iceland’s iconic Golden Circle.
- Tips for getting good pictures of the puffins at Dyrhólaey Peninsula.
- When driving the Ring Road don’t miss Vestrahorn – Bat Mountain.
- How to spend a few days exploring Myvatn.
- A complete list of our favourite waterfalls in Iceland.
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