north iceland
Askja Caldera
About Askja Caldera
Askja is a dramatic volcanic caldera in the remote Icelandic Highlands, accessible only via rugged F-roads in summer. The main attractions are two crater lakes: the large Öskjuvatn (Iceland's deepest at 220 meters) formed in the catastrophic 1875 eruption, and the smaller Víti, a geothermal crater with warm turquoise water where bathing is possible via a steep descent. NASA sent Apollo astronauts here in the 1960s to train for the moon landing due to the resemblance to lunar terrain.
🐉 Legends of Askja Caldera
Askja Caldera 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.
📖 History of Askja Caldera
In March 1875 Askja erupted catastrophically, sending a massive column of ash over Iceland and parts of Scandinavia. The eruption was so devastating — killing livestock and ruining farmland across northeastern Iceland — that it triggered a wave of emigration, with thousands of Icelanders leaving for North America. NASA selected Askja and its surroundings as lunar training grounds in 1965 because the black basalt lava desert closely resembles the Moon's surface. Astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin trained here before the Apollo 11 Moon landing.
✈️ Why Visit
Apollo astronauts trained here for moon landing
💡 Did You Know?
Öskjuvatn is Iceland's deepest lake at 220 meters
Key Facts
Víti crater lake — 'Víti' means Hell in Icelandic
1875 eruption triggered mass emigration from Iceland
NASA trained Apollo astronauts here in 1965
Accessible only by super jeep expedition in summer
Caldera lake Öskjuvatn is over 200 meters deep
💎 Hidden Gems
Lava Formations Close-Up
Look carefully at the lava formations near Askja Caldera — 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.
🕐 Best Time
Late June–September when F-roads are open
🚗 Access
Remote highland location via F88. 4WD mandatory, often convoy travel. Long drive from any town.
⏱ Duration
Full day from Mývatn
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.
📍 GPS Location
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