North Iceland · Iceland
Lake Mývatn
Lake Mývatn is a shallow, geothermal lake surrounded by extraordinary volcanic formations, pseudocraters, lava pillars and geothermal areas — one of Iceland's richest natural regions for both geology and birdlife.
About Lake Mývatn
Lake Mývatn is a shallow, geothermal lake surrounded by extraordinary volcanic formations, pseudocraters, lava pillars and geothermal areas — one of Iceland's richest natural regions for both geology and birdlife.
History & Background
The lake was created approximately 2,300 years ago by a massive lava eruption that dammed the river valley. Its name means 'Midge Lake' — referring to the enormous swarms of midges that hatch from the lake each summer and provide the rich food source that makes the lake such a spectacular habitat for birds. The area sits over one of Iceland's most active volcanic zones and experienced a major eruption series in 1724–1729 called the 'Mývatn Fires'.
Key Facts
- ✔Name means 'Midge Lake'
- ✔Created by a lava eruption approximately 2,300 years ago
- ✔One of the best places in Iceland for birdwatching — up to 40 species of ducks
- ✔Hverir geothermal area and Krafla volcano are nearby
- ✔Dimmuborgir lava formations and Grjótagjá hot spring cave also nearby
