Things to Do in Askja

Complete Travel Guide to Askja

Askja, a remote and awe-inspiring volcanic caldera in Iceland's highlands, offers an otherworldly landscape that feels like stepping onto another planet. Home to the vast Öskjuvatn lake and the inviting Víti geothermal crater, it's a true wilderness adventure for those seeking unique natural wonders. This desolate yet breathtaking region promises an unforgettable journey into the raw power of Iceland's geology.

Did You Know?

• Öskjuvatn is Iceland's second-deepest lake, reaching depths of 220 meters.
• Víti means 'hell' in Icelandic, named for its violent formation in 1875.
• NASA astronauts trained here for the Apollo moon missions due to its lunar landscape.
• The last major eruption at Askja occurred in 1961.
• The caldera formed primarily during a massive eruption in 1875.
• Access to Askja is only possible during the summer months, typically June to October.

Top Things to Do

• Hike to Víti crater and take a geothermal bath
• Explore the vast Askja caldera and its unique geology
• Photograph the stunning contrasts of the blue lakes and dark volcanic rock
• Experience F-road driving through Iceland's central highlands
• Visit Drekagil (Dragon Gully) and its intriguing rock formations
• Witness the raw, untamed beauty of the highland wilderness

Hidden Gems

• Trekking further into the Askja caldera for a deeper sense of isolation
• Exploring the lesser-known lava formations and fissures around the main craters
• Discovering the 'oasis' areas with unexpected patches of vegetation in the stark landscape

Explore Askja

Suggested 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive at Drekagil mountain hut, your base for exploring Askja. After settling in, embark on the scenic 2.5 km hike to the Askja caldera from the parking area. Spend the afternoon marveling at the vast, deep blue Öskjuvatn lake and the inviting, milky-blue Víti crater. Take a rejuvenating dip in Víti's warm geothermal waters, soaking in the unique volcanic surroundings.

Day 2: Dedicate the morning to further exploration of the Askja area. Consider a longer hike around the caldera rim for panoramic views, or venture towards more remote sections to fully appreciate its immense scale. In the afternoon, drive to the nearby Drekagil (Dragon Gully) and explore its fascinating rock formations and small waterfalls, imagining the trolls and dragons said to inhabit this mystical place.

Day 3: Before departing, take a scenic drive towards Herðubreið, the 'Queen of Icelandic Mountains,' admiring its iconic table-top shape and the surrounding lava fields. Depending on your onward journey, you might explore parts of the Holuhraun lava field (from the 2014-2015 eruption) from a distance, witnessing the raw, recent geological activity that continues to shape this region, before heading out of the highlands.

Practical Information

• Best Time: The best time to visit Askja is from mid-June to mid-September. During this period, the F-roads leading to the caldera are typically open, and the weather is most favorable for hiking and exploring the remote wilderness. Visiting outside these months is generally not possible due to snow and impassable roads.
• Transport: Reaching Askja requires a sturdy 4x4 vehicle capable of navigating challenging F-roads, as well as several river crossings. The main routes are F88 or a combination of F905/F910. Guided tours operating from Akureyri or Myvatn are also a popular and recommended option for those unfamiliar with highland driving.
• Budget: Mid-range to Luxury
• Suggested Duration: 2-3 days
• Best Season: year-round

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