north-iceland · Iceland
Krafla
Krafla is an active volcanic caldera system in North Iceland, northeast of Lake Mývatn, that experienced a series of dramatic eruptions between 1975 and 1984 known as the Krafla Fires. The area features the striking Víti crater lake — a turquoise geothermal pool inside a volcanic crater — the active Leirhnjúkur lava field, and views across steaming, colourful geothermal terrain. It remains one of Iceland's most volcanically dynamic landscapes.
About Krafla
Krafla is an active volcanic caldera system in North Iceland, northeast of Lake Mývatn, that experienced a series of dramatic eruptions between 1975 and 1984 known as the Krafla Fires. The area features the striking Víti crater lake — a turquoise geothermal pool inside a volcanic crater — the active Leirhnjúkur lava field, and views across steaming, colourful geothermal terrain. It remains one of Iceland's most volcanically dynamic landscapes.
History & Background
Krafla has been a significant site in Iceland's landscape. Throughout the years, this location has played an important role in Icelandic culture and natural history.
Did You Know?
- ✔Iceland sits on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet
- ✔There are around 130 volcanic mountains in Iceland, about 30 of which are active
- ✔Iceland experiences a volcanic eruption roughly every 4-5 years on average
- ✔Volcanic activity has shaped Iceland's unique landscape of lava fields, hot springs, and geothermal areas
Tours Near Krafla
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Browse Iceland Tours →About Krafla
Krafla is one of the most interesting natural attractions in north-iceland of Iceland.
History & Background
Krafla has been a significant site in Iceland's landscape. Throughout the years, this location has played an important role in Icelandic culture and natural history.
Story & Folklore
Krafla is a volcanic system in North Iceland that experienced its most dramatic modern activity in the 'Krafla Fires' of 1975–1984 — nine eruptions over nine years that created rifting, lava flows and forced evacuation of the area around Mývatn. The geothermal power plant built at Krafla in the 1970s accidentally triggered the eruptions by drilling into the magma system. Today the caldera is accessible for hiking, with vivid blue crater lake Víti at the summit and the steaming, sulphurous landscape of Leirhnjúkur on the caldera floor. The geological drama of Krafla is ongoing — seismic activity continues. New magma intrusion was detected in 2024.
Visitor Information
Best Time
June–September for access to all trails
Duration
1–2 hours
Access
Off Route 1, northeast of Mývatn. Parking at Víti crater and Leirhnjúkur trails.
Why Visit
Walk on lava flows from the 1975-1984 eruptions
Did You Know?
The Víti crater lake was created in the 1724 Mývatn Fires
Legends of Krafla
Krafla has been part of Icelandic folklore for generations. Local tales speak of hidden people (huldufólk) and other supernatural beings who inhabit the area. According to tradition, this place deserves respect and visitors should be mindful of the ancient spirits who call it home.
Hidden Gems Nearby
Lava Formations Close-Up
Look carefully at the lava formations near Krafla — each tells a story of how it cooled.
Rope lava, pillow lava, and columnar basalt each formed under different conditions, creating a geological textbook in stone.
Moss & Lichens
The moss and lichen growing on the volcanic rock are some of the first life to colonize new lava fields.
Some of these organisms grow less than 1cm per year, meaning the patches you see may be decades or centuries old.
Sunset Colors
The volcanic rock takes on incredible red and gold hues during sunset.
The iron-rich minerals in the lava glow in warm light, creating a photographer's paradise.
Practical Information
Best Time
June–September for access to all trails
Duration
1–2 hours
Access
Off Route 1, northeast of Mývatn. Parking at Víti crater and Leirhnjúkur trails.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to visit volcanic sites in Iceland?▾
Most volcanic sites are safe when you stay on marked trails. Always check SafeTravel.is for current volcanic activity alerts.
Do I need a guide to visit this site?▾
Many volcanic sites can be visited independently, but guided tours offer valuable geological insight and enhanced safety.
Can I visit in winter?▾
Access depends on the specific site and road conditions. Check road.is for current conditions before your visit.