Exploring the Mystical Askja Caldera: A Solo Adventure

Chasing Dragons and Volcanic Dreams

Today was a day of lunar landscapes and mythical canyons, a true immersion into the raw, untamed heart of Iceland. Leaving behind the comforts of Reykjavik, I journeyed deeper into the Highlands, a realm where the earth breathes fire and ice. It's days like these that remind me why I set out on this solo adventure, to witness the unparalleled beauty and solitude of Askja Caldera.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Kanslarinn in Hella. I opted for the traditional Icelandic lamb soup, hoping it would fortify me for the adventures ahead. The restaurant had a cozy, welcoming vibe, and the staff were incredibly friendly, making it a great start to the day. Refueled and ready, I hit the road, my trusty 4x4 eager to tackle the rugged terrain that lay ahead. I made sure to stock up on water, as I knew the day would be a long one, with limited opportunities for resupply. I also made a mental note to remember insect repellent next time; the midges were already proving to be quite the nuisance!

The drive itself was an experience. The landscape transformed from lush green pastures to stark, volcanic plains, a testament to Iceland's dramatic geological history. It was a stark contrast to the familiar cityscapes of Toronto, and even more so to the tropical beaches of my homeland, the Maldives. As a software developer, I spend most of my days indoors, staring at a screen, so these moments of pure, unadulterated nature are incredibly precious to me. They remind me of the vastness of the world and the importance of disconnecting from the digital realm to reconnect with the earth.

My first stop was Drekagil, also known as Dragon Gully. The name alone conjured images of mythical beasts and hidden treasures, and the reality did not disappoint. As I approached the canyon, the twisted lava formations rose up like the spines of ancient dragons, a testament to the powerful forces that shaped this land. The canyon is part of the Dyngjufjöll mountain range, near the Askja volcano. NASA even used this rocky, inhospitable terrain to simulate rover navigation on Mars.


Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Drekagil Ravine, a serene escape in Iceland with stunning landscapes and rich geological history.

I embarked on a hike through the narrow gorge, the steep cliffs casting long shadows that danced with the light. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of moss and damp earth. The trail led me along a small stream, which I followed, scrambling over minor rocks, until I reached a hidden waterfall tucked away in an almost cave-like cliff. The sight was magical, a secret oasis hidden within the dragon's lair. I paused to take it all in, the sound of the water cascading down the rocks, the sheer scale of the canyon walls, the feeling of being utterly alone in this otherworldly place.

The earth has music for those who listen.

Leaving Drekagil, I continued my journey towards Lake Askja, the crown jewel of the caldera. The drive was challenging, the F-roads living up to their reputation for being bumpy and unforgiving. I was grateful for my 4x4 and my experience navigating such terrain. I can’t imagine attempting this drive without a proper vehicle, and I was glad that I had checked road conditions before setting out. The landscape grew even more barren, a vast expanse of black sand and volcanic rock, stretching as far as the eye could see. It felt like I had landed on the moon, a world devoid of life, yet strangely beautiful in its desolation.


Explore Lake Askja, Iceland's stunning volcanic lake, a breathtaking destination for adventure and natural beauty in the heart of the highlands.

Finally, I reached the parking area and began the walk to the lake. The path was well-marked, but the wind was fierce, whipping around me and carrying sand that stung my face. I pulled my hood tighter and pushed on, determined to reach my destination. As I crested the final ridge, the view opened up before me, and I gasped in awe. Lake Askja was a vast expanse of deep blue water, nestled within the caldera, surrounded by towering cliffs of black rock. It was a sight that took my breath away, a testament to the raw power and beauty of nature. The lake is the second deepest in Iceland, around 220 meters deep.

I spent hours exploring the shores of the lake, taking photos and simply soaking in the atmosphere. The silence was profound, broken only by the occasional cry of a bird or the lapping of the waves against the shore. I felt a sense of peace and solitude that I rarely experience in my busy city life. I reflected on my life back in Toronto, my work, my family, my responsibilities. I thought about Aisha and Zayn, and I missed them dearly. I knew they would have loved this place, this otherworldly landscape that felt so far removed from everything we knew.

Next to Lake Askja is Víti, a geothermal lake with water temperatures around 25°C. Víti translates to 'Hell' in English. I was tempted to take a dip, but I had read that the conditions weren't always suitable for swimming due to the pH levels. I decided to err on the side of caution and simply admire it from afar. It was a colorful and captivating place.

As the day drew to a close, I began the long drive back towards civilization. The sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple, a final farewell from this magical land. I stopped briefly at UNA Local Product / Sveitabúðin Una in Hvolsvöllur. It was a great place to find local products and souvenirs. I bought some hand-picked local jams and teas. I also admired the intricate designs and drawings in the store.


Explore a treasure trove of authentic Icelandic goods at UNA Local Product in Hvolsvöllur, where local craftsmanship meets unique souvenirs.

For dinner, I stopped at Klaustur Restaurant & Bar in Kirkjubæjarklaustur. I decided to treat myself to the Klaustur char, which was delicious. The restaurant had spectacular mountain views and a cozy atmosphere.


Experience the best of traditional Icelandic cuisine at Klaustur Restaurant & Bar in Kirkjubæjarklaustur.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Dyngjufjoll. I will have breakfast at Sauðá, lunch at Drangar Restaurant, and dinner at Jon Riki. I also plan to visit the Askja bar.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for this incredible experience. Askja Caldera is a place that will stay with me forever, a reminder of the power and beauty of nature, and the importance of seeking out adventure and solitude in this ever-connected world. It's a place where I felt truly alive, a place where I reconnected with myself and the earth. And as I drift off to sleep, I dream of dragons and volcanic dreams, eager for whatever tomorrow may bring.

Before heading to bed, I checked the Evendo blog to see if there were any new posts about sustainable tourism. It's something I'm passionate about, and I always try to stay informed about the latest developments in the field.