Myvatn: Exploring the Enchanting Lake District

By Johanna Sigurðardóttir Verified Expert

Myvatn is a magical area in Iceland. From the tranquil waters of the lake reflecting the spectacular surrounding landscapes to the unique geological formations that dot the area and the hot springs where you can relax after a day of exploring, Myvatns promises a truly enchanting experience.

In this article, we dive into the beauty and charm of Myvatn and give you a glimpse into the natural splendor and cultural richness that define this captivating region. Use this article as a guide to the wonders that await in this magical destination so you can have the Icelandic adventure of a lifetime!

A Brief Overview of Myvatn

Myvatn is a region in north Iceland that mainly consists of wetlands, lava fields, and geothermal areas. These contrasting elements make Myvatn an excellent example of why Iceland is called the Land of Fire and Ice. While the Myvatn area was once mainly a farming district, the area has come to rely more and more on tourism, with only 400 permanent residents.

Why the Myvatn Area is Such “Hot Stuff”

Iceland is famously situated on top of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. This ridge is where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates push apart from one another. This is an ongoing process, with the plates moving at least another 2 centimeters apart every year. But this constant tectonic action makes this a volcanic hot spot (pun intended), and this is clear from the tear in the earth’s crust and the many fissures and volcanic craters.

The regions surrounding the immediate volcanic zone are usually characterized by their geothermal areas, which range from boiling mud pots, fumaroles, and, of course, our infamous natural hot springs caused by the volcanic activity heating up our underground water supply. Myvatn is one of these regions situated in the immediate volcanic zone of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.

The Formation of the Myvatn Region

After learning the above-mentioned, you might be able to guess how the contrasting landscape of Myvatn came to be in the first place. If we go back about 10,000 years, the entire Myvatn area was a barren landscape, covered with glaciers.

As volcanic activity in the area increased and more and more eruptions occurred, it wasn’t too long before the region had plenty of mountains and no more glaciers (the latter being due to glacial flooding; lava+ice = no more ice). One of the area’s biggest claims to fame and one of Iceland’s most famous attractions, Lake Myvatn, was formed 2300 years ago by yet another lava fissure eruption.

The Natural Wonders of Myvatn

In such a contrasting landscape, it’s no surprise that Myvatn boasts a few interesting natural wonders and geological formations. So, don’t forget to add the following to your trip itinerary:

Lake Myvatn

As we already mentioned, Lake Myvatn is the result of an eruption here on the island. It is the island’s 4th largest lake, clocking in at 6.5 kilometers wide and 9.5 kilometers long, covering an area of 37 square meters. The lake has an average depth of 2.5 meters, although it can reach depths of up to 4.5 meters in places. Myvatn Lake directly translates to Midge Lake and comes from the pesky insects living in the water.

These tiny little bugs are like mosquitoes (although only the type that looks like a little black fly actually bites like a mosquito) and can get very annoying, so those who visit the lake or want to partake in some of the popular outdoor activities at the lake, usually lather themselves up with insect repellent, especially during the summertime when they are most active.

Pseudocraters of Skutustadagigar

The word pseudocraters always gives us a giggle since it sounds like “wannabe craters.” But that’s actually a really good way of describing them. These craters may look like mini-versions of our big volcanic craters, but they were not caused by “mini” eruptions as one might think.

They are also the result of the big volcanic eruption that occurred in the area 2300 years ago. As the boiling hot lava from the eruption made its way across the cold, wet landscape, it caused gas explosions along the way (similarly to having bubbles pop in a bubble bath). These pseudocraters look almost like big anthills scattered across the surface of the earth around Lake Myvatn. The Skutustadagigar Pseudocraters in Myvatn are also credited for being the largest pseudocraters in Iceland.

The Dimmuborgir Lava Field

The Dimmuborgir Lava Field is exactly what it sounds like; a landscape created by lava flowing across the earth’s surface and then hardening as it cools down. As you might’ve already guessed, the lava that created Dimmuborgir with all its interesting lava rock formations, came from the big volcanic eruption 2300 years ago. With its rocky outcrops and pillars, it’s also known as the Black Fortress or Black Castle.

We’re not the only ones to think this picturesque place is something special; it was even used as a location for the popular series Game of Thrones. A clearly marked and paved pathway runs through the Dimmuborgir Lava Field, with safety rails along the sides to prevent visitors from getting hurt by charting their own path through this geothermal area.

Hverfjall Crater

If you head over to the eastern shore of Lake Myvatn, you will find Hverfjall Crater. This crater was created by a tephra explosion roughly 4500 years ago that famously spewed ash all over the region. You’ll also see that this crater looks very different from many other volcanic craters on the island.

Hverfjall looks more like a gigantic anthill made of ash. The crater is about 1 kilometer in diameter and truly is a must-visit site. Not only does the crater itself make for interesting viewing, but once you’ve climbed up its steep sides to walk along the rim, you will have breathtaking views of the Myvatn landscape.

Grjotagja Cave

The Grjotagja Cave is a small cave in Myvatn with a natural hot spring inside. This is quite a historic and legendary spot here in Iceland. For example, it was the perfect hiding spot for Jon Markusson, a renowned outlaw, back in the 18th century, especially since he had natural “plumbing” for bathing. The hot spring inside Grjotagja remained a popular bathing site among locals till the 1970s.

But except for the locals and a handful of people who had Grjotagia on their Iceland bucket list, the cave was considered a bit of a hidden gem here in Iceland until it got its starring role in Game of Thrones. One of the most famous scenes in the series is when Jon Snow and Ygritte have a romantic rendezvous inside the cave. After the scene aired, fans would flock to the location. But herein lies the ultimate irony. Volcanic activity between 1975 and 1984 caused the hot spring to become unpredictable. Sometimes, temperatures of more than 50 degrees Celsius were recorded.

So, once taking a dip in the hot spring became a game of Kentucky Fried Human Russian Roulette, the hot spring was closed to the public. Except for the fact that the hot spring can no longer be used, the famous scene was never shot on location. A replica of Grjotagja Cave and its hot spring was built, and the scene was shot in-studio. So, the fans flocking to the famous Game of Thrones spot never get to go to the actual location, and they can’t take a dip in the hot spring themselves.

The Myvatn Nature Baths

Grjotagja isn’t the only place in Myvatn with a hot spring. The Myvatn Nature Baths is one of our geothermal pool resorts here in Iceland. And, although man-made, it makes use of natural hot spring water that is drawn from 2500 meters below the earth’s surface. The Baths is quite the experience.

It has a lagoon with a swim-up bar (for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages), as well as a café and steam baths – all of which offer breathtaking views of the Myvatn landscape. The Myvatn Nature Baths charges an entrance fee, granting visitors access to the lagoon and the steam baths all day long. The Myvatn Nature Baths also have those who forget their towel or swimwear covered by offering rentals.

The Flora and Fauna of Myvatn

While Myvatn isn’t particularly known for its wildlife (although there’s always a chance to spot a couple of Reindeer or an Arctic Fox, if you’re lucky), it certainly has a reputation when it comes to its birds and its plant life. Here’s what you need to know:

Birding at Myvatn

Myvatn is a popular spot among avid birders. This is because the region’s diverse habitats (the lake, wetlands, woodlands, etc.) have also resulted in a vast number of diverse bird species. In fact, just at Lake Myvatn in Iceland alone, over 115 bird species have been identified. Many believe it’s because the lake has so many midges, which means a never-ending food supply. The following are usually the go-to spots for certain species:

Neslandavik

• Tufted Duck
• Widgeon
• Gadwell
• Scaup
• Red-throated Diver
• Slavonian Grebe
• Pintail
• Red-breasted Merganser

*As an additional “sighting” in the area, you may want to pop into Sigurgeir’s Bird Museum. 

Alar

• Barrow’s Goldeneye
• Long-tailed Duck
• Great Northern Duck

*As a side note, many of the birds at Alar are quite far from land, so this is the one place where a good pair of binoculars is non-negotiable. 

Laxa

• Common Scoter
• Harlequin Duck
• Goosander
• Barrow’s Goldeneye 

Skutustadir and Stakholstjörn

• Long-tailed Duck
• Barrow’s Goldeneye 

Höfdi

• Common Redpoll
• Redwing
• Winter Wren 

Other Species to See in the Myvatn Area

• Common Eider
• Common Shelduck
• Whooper Swan
• Greylag Goose
• Pink-footed Goose
• Great Northern Diver
• Red-throated Diver
• Horned Grebe
• Gyr Falcon
• Arctic Tern
• Mallards
• Red-necked Phalarope
• Black-tailed Godwit
• Black-headed Gull 

The Best Time to Go Birding in Myvatn

Although there will always be the opportunity to tick off a couple of species on your birding list all throughout the year, many avid birders prefer going on a birdwatching tour in Myvatn during the spring and summer months. Myvatn becomes alive with migratory species flocking to the island as spring arrives. Then, they breed and raise their young before heading off again in the colder months of the year.

Unique Plant Life

Myvatn’s main claim to fame when it comes to plant life is the incredibly rare freshwater algae. This velvety, green algae, called Marimo Algae (or Moss Balls), can be found just beneath the surface of the lake’s shallow water. These ball-shaped algae are formed by the gentle wave action of the water, gathering the algae and bundling them together.

Marimo Algae has been disappearing from Myvatn due to the pollution caused by mining in the area in the 1960s. The mining was halted in 2004, and the algae is now a protected species (since 2006). So, be careful when you’re out and about in the lake area. You don’t want to damage or destroy this important part of the Myvatn ecosystem.

Outdoor Activities in Myvatn

With such beautiful scenery, you’ll find plenty of outdoor activities here in Myvatn. These are some of the most popular ways to immerse yourself in the beauty of Myvatn and admire its surroundings:

Hiking

Hiking is a favorite pastime for both locals and visitors alike at Myvatn. You don’t have to be a pro to get started here. There are many trails here, all varying in distance and difficulty level, making hiking an activity suitable for all. Some of the most popular hiking trails in the region are:

Hofdi Loop at Lake Myvatn

Distance: +/- 1.5 kilometers

Duration: +/- 30 minutes, depending on your pace

Difficulty Level: Easy

Believe it or not, this hike has actually had a few photos go viral because of the incredible scenery. Along this hike, you will not only get treated to breathtaking views, but you’ll also encounter numerous bird species and find all sorts of interesting rock formations. As the name suggests, this trail is a loop road with Höfdi extending into the Kalfastrandarvogur Bay of Lake Myvatn.

Vindbelgjarfjall

Distance: +/- 5.2 kilometers

Duration: +/- 2 hours, depending on your pace

Difficulty Level: Moderate 

Vindbelgjarfjall is a mountain that sits on the western shore of Lake Myvatn. This out-and-back trail starts at Vagnbrekka Farm and has you hike up the mountain, where you’ll be met with spectacular views over the Myvatn landscape. Surprisingly, the climb up the mountain is pretty flat, but there is a steep uphill at the top, which can be challenging for some.

Lake Myvatn Loop

Distance: +/- 36.4 kilometers

Duration: +/- 7 hours, depending on your pace

Difficulty Level: Hard

This trail name is also very descriptive of the actual hike. It is a loop route that wraps around the entire lake. This trail is ideal for avid hikers and runners in training as the route takes you many meters below and above sea level (up to 308 meters at its highest point). So, not only will you give your endurance (and lungs) a good practice run, but you’ll also have amazing scenery to marvel at along the way.

Scenic Flights

With so many birds flocking to Myvatn, it was only a matter of time before our feathered friends inspired us to also check out the birds-eye view from above. You can now take a sightseeing flight from the small airport by Lake Myvatn. There are various tours to choose from, but you’ll get to see most of the area and its local wonders if you go on the Myvatn and Surroundings sightseeing flight.

This includes sights such as the Pseudocraters at Skutustadir, Hverfjall, and Mt. Namafjall. There is a 2-passenger minimum requirement, and the cost is 27 000 ISK (roughly $195 or €181) for adults (anyone 12+ years old) and 13 500 ISK (roughly $97.10 or €90.45) for children aged 11 and younger.

Other Attractions Near Myvatn

If you would like to extend your exploration beyond the borders of Myvatn during your travels, the following attractions can be found nearby:

Dettifoss Waterfall

Dettifoss is one of the must-visit waterfalls in Iceland, and just like Myvatn, it’s one of the highlights of a Diamond Circle road trip. This waterfall is an incredible sight that will give you a new-found respect for Mother Nature. The waterfall has officially received the title of the second most powerful waterfall in Europe, and when you’re standing next to it, feeling it rumbling and listening to it roar, it’s easy to understand why.

There are roughly 3,059,436 gallons (or 11,581,225 liters) of water rushing over the cliffs here at Dettifoss. This is not surprising since the waterfall is ultimately fed by the largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajökull. The waterfall runs a staggering 100 meters wide and has a drop of 44 meters. When visiting Dettifoss, we highly recommend wearing a raincoat or waterproof clothing, since this powerful waterfall’s mist and spray are almost certain to get you drenched (especially on windy days when you find yourself on the wrong viewing side).

And if you get Déjà vu at the waterfall, feeling like you’ve been there before, it might be half true. Dettifoss made its Hollywood debut in the opening scene of the blockbuster sci-fi movie Prometheus:

Godafoss Waterfall

Godafoss is another of our must-visit waterfalls here in Iceland. While much smaller than Dettifoss, clocking in at 30 meters wide and 12 meters tall, it’s still just as impressive. But this waterfall isn’t just known for its breathtaking aesthetics. The waterfall is of great cultural significance here in Iceland.

The name, Godafoss, translates to “waterfall of the gods”. While many think it’s merely a commentary on the beauty of the waterfall, it’s to signify a big transition here on the island. Iceland followed the Old Norse religions with deities such as Odin, Thor, Loki, Freya, etc. But by 1000 AD, the island was under a lot of political pressure due to their faith, and a gathering was held at Thingvellir (the Icelandic parliament back in those days).

During the gathering, it was officially decided that Iceland would convert to Christianity (although locals were still planning on practicing their Norse religion in private). To officially mark this switch, the lawspeaker/priest threw all his pagan idols into the waterfall. Today, this incident can be seen depicted in the stained-glass window of Akureyrarkirkja (aka the Akureyri Church).

Krafla Volcano

Krafla Volcano is a volcanic crater or caldera found north of Lake Myvatn and is considered one of Iceland’s most active volcanos. Krafla has erupted 29 times since people first settled on the island. In fact, it is one of Krafla’s eruptions that made the Grjotagja hot spring so volatile. But Krafla’s fierce power doesn’t just result in disruption.

A power station was established at Krafla in 1977, adding to the north’s sustainable energy efforts. Krafla stands 818 meters tall with a rim of 10 kilometers in diameter. But don’t let this fool you; the volcanic fissure itself stretches for over 90 kilometers! Although Krafla is such an active volcano and has a history of sudden outbursts, it’s safe to visit.

Icelanders are pros when it comes to spotting pre-eruption signs and have all sorts of safety measures in place, pre-and-post-eruptions. So, you can go hiking up Krafla and along its rim, either by yourself or visit as part of a guided tour.

Asbyrgi Canyon

Asbyrgi Canyon is the result of the elemental clashes the Land of Fire and Ice is famous for. After a few volcanic eruptions causing glacial floods, the water carved this incredible path deep into the earth’s surface. That’s why, you’ll still find the glacial river, Jökulsa a Fjöllum running through the 3.5-kilometer canyon. The canyon is pretty wide, running roughly 1.1 kilometers across with spectacularly high cliffs of up to 100 meters tall.

Asbyrgi Canyon is a favorite among hikers and birders alike. The trail through the canyon is beautiful and an easy enough walk to make it suitable for most, irrespective of their skill or experience level. The cliffs are also popular breeding and nesting grounds for a wide variety of bird species. Speaking of birds, if you have a bird's-eye view of Asbyrgi, you will see that it is in the shape of a horseshoe.

Although it’s general (and scientific) knowledge of how the canyon was formed, we’re not going to lie; the legend sounds way more exciting. It is said that the canyon is actually the imprint left behind by Odin’s eight-legged horse as they galloped across the earth. In the same legendary vein, it may also not just be birds nesting in the canyon’s cliffs. Legend has it that Asbyrgi is the capital city of our Huldufolk (“Hidden Folk), little beings similar to elves. 

Husavik

You may only have seen or heard about Husavik because of the blockbuster movie Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga or the popular theme song that came out of it, Husavik (My Hometown). But this town, with its less than 2500 permanent residents, is actually well-known to us locals and whale enthusiasts. Husavik is known as the whale capital of Iceland.

So, if you want to get close to some of the gentle giants along our coast, Husavik should be your go-to. We especially recommend you go on a whale-watching boat tour between April and September. This is our official whale season here in Iceland, during which you can spot many migratory species as well.

If you want to explore the rest of the quaint and picturesque little town, we definitely recommend you don’t miss out on Husavikurkirkja (“Husavik Church”), with its architectural and historical relevance. This beautiful little wooden church was built in 1907! Husavik is an easy visit to plan from Myvatn since it’s only 57 kilometers away.

Practical Information for Your Visit

Below, you will find all the information you need to plan the ultimate trip to the Myvatn area.

Where is Myvatn in Iceland?

As we already mentioned, the Myvatn region is in the north of Iceland. Myvatn lies on the Ring Road around the island and forms part of the highlights of the Diamond Circle road trip route.

There is just one small town in the Myvatn region called Reykjahlid. The nearest big cities (in Iceland terms) are Akureyri (known as the capital of the north), which is just over an hour’s drive away, and then, of course, the previously mentioned Husavik, which is roughly a 45-minute drive away.

How to Get to Myvatn

There are many ways to visit Myvatn:

You Can Go Via a Tour

Guided tour options come in many shapes and forms here on the island. It can either be offered by one of our bigger tour operators or one of our local guides. They may also have existing tour packages that include Myvatn, whether as a day tour or as part of a multi-day holiday tour. If one of those tours doesn’t take your fancy, you can also negotiate a private, customized tour for you and your party.

You Can Go Via Plane

If you want to DIY your trip to Myvatn, one of the quickest ways is to catch a flight. This is also the best option for those with limited time on the island. Flights depart daily from Reykjavik Airport (not to be confused with Keflavik Airport) and land at Akureyri Airport. From Akureyri, you can either use public transport or a taxi or rent a vehicle to explore the area roughly an hour away.

You Can Go Via Bus

There are a few bus options from nearby cities. From Akureyri, you can catch a TRex bus to Myvatn, which takes roughly an hour and 10 minutes. You can also catch a TRex bus from Egilsstadir. That journey will take you about an hour and a half. 

The Stræto Bus 56 from Akureyri will also get you to Reykjahlid. If you want to catch a bus all the way from the capital city of Reykjavik, you can catch the Stræto Bus 57 to Akureyri, and then transfer to the Stræto Bus 56 which will take you all the way to Reykjahlid. But this is not a trip for the faint of heart, since it will take you almost 9 hours.

You Can Go Via Car

This is always the best bet, especially since it enables you to truly immerse yourself in the Icelandic landscape and be the master of your own time and trip itinerary. The fact that Myvatn is also part of the popular Diamond Circle route just begs for it to be a stop along a road trip. We recommend renting a car in Reykjavik upon arrival so you can first take on the Ring Road before doing the Diamond Circle.

What Does it Cost to Visit the Myvatn Nature Reserve and Lake Myvatn in Iceland?

Although certain attractions in and around Myvatn, such as the Myvatn Nature Baths, will cost you a fee, there’s absolutely no charge for cruising around the Myvatn area or visiting the lake.

The Best Time to Visit Myvatn

As an area known for its beautiful landscape with many outdoor activities, most prefer visiting during the warmer months of the year, which have much milder weather conditions and more daylight hours for a jam-packed trip itinerary.

For these reasons, summertime (June to August) is obviously a favorite. But since summer is also considered peak season here on the island (which means peak season crowds as well as peak season prices), many opt to come during one of the shoulder months (April/May or September/October) when the weather is still fair, and there’s still enough daylight hours, but no pesky crowds or prices.

This being said, there’s no reason why you can’t visit Myvatn if you’ve already planned your trip for another time of the year. Technically, Myvatn is open to the public all year round. The only thing to consider during the colder months of the year is that Northern Iceland is notoriously colder than the rest of the island, and road conditions can become tricky to navigate.

Oftentimes, you will also have to deal with annual and sudden road closures in the north that will inevitably impact your exploration. So, if you’re visiting Myvatn during the colder months of the year, please keep an eye on the Icelandic weather forecast and the Icelandic road conditions.

Accommodation Options at Myvatn

If you think you’re going to need a couple of days to properly explore the area, there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from. For a touch of luxury, you can book a spot at Fosshotel Myvatn. Or you can opt for a comfortable yet affordable stay at Elda Guesthouse. If you want to take advantage of the most budget-friendly option, the Myvatn Campground is the perfect spot to get you as close to the action as possible.

Experience the Captivating Beauty of Myvatn for Yourself

From the otherworldly lava fields to the tranquil hot springs, each corner of this region beckons adventurers to immerse themselves in its splendor and magic. Embarking on this journey with your own transport allows for a deeper connection with the natural wonders and diverse landscapes that grace this Icelandic gem. So, pack your bags, rent a car in Reykjavik, hit the road, and get ready to experience the captivating beauty of Myvatn for yourself!