Exploring the Mystical Askja Caldera: A Solo Adventure

Touching Down in Another World

The journey to Askja Caldera has begun, and already I feel like I've stepped onto another planet. The stark, raw beauty of Iceland's highlands is unlike anything I've ever witnessed. It's a landscape that humbles you, makes you feel incredibly small yet intensely connected to the powerful forces that shaped this earth. Today was all about the journey, the anticipation building with every mile traveled, and the first taste of what this volcanic wonderland has to offer.


Explore Askja, Iceland's breathtaking volcanic caldera, featuring stunning lakes, geothermal springs, and unique geological landscapes, perfect for adventure seekers.

My day started early in Toronto, with a flurry of last-minute checks and goodbyes. Aisha and Zayn were up to see me off, Zayn, of course, wanted to come along, clutching his toy jeep and promising to be a 'brave explorer'. It’s these moments that tug at my heart, making solo trips bittersweet. But Aisha reminded me how much I needed this, a chance to recharge amidst nature's grandeur. The flight to Reykjavik was smooth, and after gathering my rental vehicle, I set off towards the northeast, my destination: Lake Mývatn, the gateway to Askja.

The drive itself was an immersion into Iceland’s diverse landscapes. Lush green pastures gave way to barren lava fields, and distant mountains peeked through the misty horizon. I made a stop at Vogafjós Farm Resort for a hearty breakfast. The resort was charming, with its cozy, cabin-like feel and the unique experience of watching the cows being milked while enjoying my meal. I opted for their famous rye bread and skyr, a traditional Icelandic yogurt, which gave me the energy I needed for the day ahead. It was pricey, but worth it.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine and warm hospitality at Vogafjós Farm Resort near Myvatn Lake.

Sometimes, the greatest journeys are those that lead us back to ourselves.

After breakfast, I continued my drive towards Askja. The weather in August is relatively mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), but the wind can be quite fierce. I made sure to pack layers, as recommended, to stay comfortable throughout the day. The landscape grew more dramatic as I approached the highlands. The roads became rougher, and the scenery transformed into a lunar-like expanse of volcanic rock and black sand.

For lunch, I stopped at Grána Bistro. The bistro offered a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring local cuisine. I enjoyed a delicious panino caprese.


Discover Grána Bistro in Sauðárkrókur for an unforgettable taste of Icelandic cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Before heading to my final destination, I made a stop at Shopicelandic. I wanted to pick up a few souvenirs to bring back home to Aisha and Zayn. The shop had a wide variety of Icelandic products, including wool sweaters, blankets, and candies. I chose a cozy wool blanket for Aisha and some traditional Icelandic sweets for Zayn.


Discover unique Icelandic souvenirs at Shopicelandic in Reykjavík, featuring local crafts and contemporary designs to cherish your memories.

Finally, I arrived at Askja Caldera. The sheer scale of the place is overwhelming. The vast, desolate landscape stretches out in every direction, a testament to the raw power of nature. I took some time to hike around the area, soaking in the surreal atmosphere. The silence was profound, broken only by the occasional gust of wind. It was a moment of pure solitude, a chance to connect with the earth and find a sense of peace amidst the rugged terrain.

For dinner, I decided to try Gígur restaurant. It turned out to be an excellent choice. The restaurant offered panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, and the menu featured traditional Icelandic dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. I opted for the Arctic char, which was cooked to perfection.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Gígur in Kirkjubæjarklaustur, where every meal tells a story of local flavors and warm hospitality.

As the day came to a close, I found a spot to set up my camp. The sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the volcanic landscape. The stars began to emerge, twinkling in the clear night sky. I sat by my tent, sipping a warm cup of tea, reflecting on the day's experiences. The journey to Askja had been long, but it was worth every mile. I felt a sense of accomplishment, of having ventured into the unknown and discovered something truly special. This is just the beginning, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the Hverfjall Volcano Trail and Leirhnjukur. I'm excited to see more of this incredible landscape and delve deeper into its geological wonders. I'm also looking forward to trying out Cafe Munkar for breakfast, Kjarr Restaurant for lunch, and Systrakaffi for dinner. And perhaps, if the weather permits, I'll end the day with a drink at SKY Bar.

I'm also reminded of the insect repellent and extra SD cards that I forgot to pack. I will need to find a store that sells these items.

As I zipped up my tent and settled in for the night, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this opportunity. Askja Caldera is a place that stays with you, a reminder of the power and beauty of our planet. I can't wait to share more of this adventure with you all.

Reflections on the First Day

Today was more than just a journey to a destination; it was a journey into myself. The solitude and stark beauty of Askja Caldera have a way of stripping away the unnecessary, leaving you with a profound sense of clarity. It's a reminder that sometimes, the greatest adventures are those that take us far from the familiar and into the heart of the unknown.