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Myvatn Region
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Myvatn Region, Iceland: explore volcanic craters, geothermal fields, birdlife, lava formations and outdoor adventures around Lake Myvatn in every season.

Volcanic Landscapes and Living Geology

Myvatn Region lies in north-east Iceland, centred on Lake Mývatn and the volcanic landscapes extending around its shores. The lake sits within the Krafla volcanic system, where lava fields, pseudocraters, fumaroles, mud pools and steaming ground reveal the continuing relationship between Iceland’s surface and its subterranean heat. Around the lake, the terrain shifts rapidly from fertile wetlands and low birch scrub to dark lava formations, crater rims and broad open horizons. Reykjahlíð is the principal service settlement, while Skútustaðir and smaller farms provide access to different parts of the lake.
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Birdlife, Lava and Water

Mývatn is known for its rich birdlife, particularly during the warmer months, when the lake and surrounding wetlands support numerous waterfowl. Visitors may encounter tufted duck, whooper swan and several other species, although wildlife sightings vary with season and conditions. The pseudocraters at Skútustaðagígar, the contorted lava pillars of Dimmuborgir and the distinctive cone of Hverfjall each express a different phase of the region’s volcanic history. Nearby, the geothermal area of Hverir and the Krafla volcanic zone offer a more active-looking landscape of sulphurous vapour, coloured earth and recent lava.

Exploring the Region

The region combines accessible natural sights with opportunities for walking, bathing and bird observation. Paths lead around selected crater and lava attractions, while the lake itself is best understood through a series of viewpoints and short excursions rather than a single urban centre. Mývatn Nature Baths, just outside Reykjahlíð, provide a geothermal bathing experience with broad views across the volcanic landscape. Food and accommodation are concentrated around Reykjahlíð and nearby settlements, making the area a practical base for exploring one of Iceland’s most geologically varied districts.

When is the best time to visit Myvatn Region?

Best: June–August · 12–14°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January136
February131
March235
April434
May734
June (best)1234
July (best)1434
August (best)1334
September931
October435
November338
December138

Getting to and around Myvatn Region

How to get there

The principal overland approach is Iceland’s Route 1, which passes through or close to the Mývatn area and connects it with Akureyri to the west and Egilsstaðir and the east of Iceland beyond. Reykjahlíð is the main local service centre. Regional buses may connect the area with larger northern settlements, but services can be limited and seasonal, so current timetables should be checked before travelling. Akureyri Airport is the nearest significant domestic air gateway, while international visitors generally arrive through Keflavík and continue by road or domestic connection. Winter weather can affect roads across north Iceland.

Transportation

A car is the most flexible way to visit the widely separated sights around Lake Mývatn, Dimmuborgir, Hverir and the Krafla area. Route 1 provides the main through connection, while local roads lead to individual attractions and farms; conditions can change with weather, particularly outside summer. Walking is practical at individual sites, but the whole region is too dispersed to explore on foot from one base. Cycling is possible for experienced riders, although wind, limited services and long distances require careful planning. Check road conditions and respect closures or restrictions before setting out.

Best attractions in Myvatn Region

The attractions of the Mývatn Region are dispersed across a compact but varied volcanic landscape. At Skútustaðir, a series of grassy pseudocraters rises beside the lake and wetlands, offering short walks and birdwatching. Dimmuborgir presents a maze of lava pillars, arches and caves created by an unusual eruption, while Hverfjall is a broad, dark tephra crater whose rim provides an expansive view when conditions permit. At Hverir, sulphurous steam, bubbling mud and vividly coloured earth reveal the area’s geothermal energy. Further north, the Krafla zone includes the Víti crater and the Leirhnjúkur lava field, where recent volcanic terrain remains clearly visible. The lake shore, shallow bays and surrounding farms provide opportunities to observe waterfowl, especially in the brighter months. Mývatn Nature Baths add a managed geothermal bathing experience near Reykjahlíð, complementing the region’s more rugged natural sites.

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Best landmarks in Myvatn Region

Lake Mývatn is the defining natural landmark, a shallow volcanic lake surrounded by wetlands, pseudocraters and lava landscapes that support important birdlife. The Skútustaðagígar pseudocraters are notable for their formation by steam explosions, while Hverfjall’s near-symmetrical dark cone dominates views across the eastern side of the lake. Dimmuborgir is distinguished by its elaborate lava pillars and passageways, and the Hverir geothermal field by steaming vents, mud pools and mineral-stained ground. In the Krafla volcanic zone, Víti and the Leirhnjúkur lava field record more recent volcanic activity. Reykjahlíð Church, rebuilt after an earlier church was destroyed by lava during the Mývatn Fires of 1729, provides a human landmark linked directly with the region’s volcanic history. Together these features express the close relationship between geology, settlement and local cultural memory.

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Explore Myvatn Region on the map

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Best restaurants in Myvatn Region

Dining in the Mývatn Region is concentrated around Reykjahlíð and the small settlements near the lake, with additional options associated with local accommodation and farms rather than a large independent restaurant scene. Menus commonly reflect Icelandic ingredients, including lamb, dairy, freshwater fish and seasonal produce, while visitors may also find familiar international dishes suited to travellers following the Ring Road. Cafés and guesthouse dining rooms provide useful stops between excursions, but opening patterns and availability can vary with season. The region’s farm-based character is also apparent in local food production and the importance of simple, warming meals after time outdoors. Those travelling beyond Reykjahlíð should carry snacks and water, since services become more limited around remote volcanic attractions and rural roads.

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Best bars in Myvatn Region

The Mývatn Region has little conventional nightlife, and evening entertainment is generally centred on the quiet hospitality of guesthouses, hotels and rural dining venues around Reykjahlíð rather than dedicated clubs or a late-night bar district. A local pub-style atmosphere may be found where accommodation businesses serve drinks with meals, but availability depends on the individual property and season. In summer, long daylight hours encourage walks and bird observation rather than conventional evening entertainment; in winter, darkness and clear conditions can create opportunities for viewing the northern lights when activity and weather align. Visitors seeking a broader selection of bars, live music or cultural events will generally need to look towards larger northern centres such as Akureyri, outside the Mývatn Region.

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Best nightclubs in Myvatn Region

The Mývatn Region has little conventional nightlife, and evening entertainment is generally centred on the quiet hospitality of guesthouses, hotels and rural dining venues around Reykjahlíð rather than dedicated clubs or a late-night bar district. A local pub-style atmosphere may be found where accommodation businesses serve drinks with meals, but availability depends on the individual property and season. In summer, long daylight hours encourage walks and bird observation rather than conventional evening entertainment; in winter, darkness and clear conditions can create opportunities for viewing the northern lights when activity and weather align. Visitors seeking a broader selection of bars, live music or cultural events will generally need to look towards larger northern centres such as Akureyri, outside the Mývatn Region.

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Best shops in Myvatn Region

Shopping in the Mývatn Region is limited and practical rather than concentrated in a large retail district. Reykjahlíð has the area’s main cluster of supplies and visitor-oriented purchases, while accommodation businesses, farm shops and small local producers may offer food, woollen goods, souvenirs or crafts connected with north Iceland. Typical regional products include knitted woollens, locally made preserves and other Icelandic food items, although availability varies by business and season. Visitors should buy specialist outdoor equipment and substantial provisions before reaching the lake if possible, since the region’s rural settlements have a narrower range than Akureyri. Geological sites should be appreciated without removing stones, lava or other natural material, and locally made products are preferable to collecting from the landscape.

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Myvatn Region essentials

Currency and Payment
Iceland uses the Icelandic króna, abbreviated ISK. Cards and contactless payments are widely used in established businesses around Reykjahlíð and along the main tourist route, but visitors should not rely entirely on digital payment in a remote region. Carrying some cash is sensible for small purchases or unexpected interruptions, and supplies should be obtained in a larger settlement before travelling into less serviced areas. Foreign currency is not normally a practical substitute for króna, while exchange rates and overseas card fees depend on the visitor’s own provider.
Safety
Mývatn’s volcanic terrain requires care around hot springs, fumaroles, mud pots and other geothermal ground, particularly at Hverir and near Krafla. Stay on marked paths and obey signs, as thin crusts can conceal scalding ground. Weather may change quickly, with strong wind, rain, fog, snow and poor visibility possible outside summer. Crater rims, lava fields and paths can be uneven, slippery or exposed. Keep away from cliff edges and unstable formations, protect food from inquisitive birds, and avoid disturbing nesting wildlife. Check local conditions before travelling to remote viewpoints or walking routes.
Emergency Situations
Dial 112 in Iceland for police, fire and medical emergencies. Give the operator the clearest possible location, using a named road, attraction, trail, farm or visible landmark, and explain whether the incident involves injury, fire or hazardous terrain. In remote places, weather and distance may delay assistance, so avoid leaving an injured person alone unless necessary and follow instructions from emergency services. Mobile coverage can vary, particularly away from settlements and main roads. For non-urgent medical advice, ask accommodation staff or local services to direct you to the appropriate healthcare facility.
Do's and Don'ts
Keep to marked paths at geothermal sites, crater areas and lava formations, and never step onto steaming ground or cross barriers for photographs. Do not collect lava, rocks, plants or other natural material, and take all litter away with you. Give birds and other wildlife space, especially during nesting periods, and close rural gates after passing through them. Drive considerately on narrow roads and never stop where vehicles cannot pass safely. Respect farms, private land and quiet local communities, and follow current signs because access arrangements can change with weather, conservation needs or volcanic activity.
Local Tips
Plan the region as a series of short visits rather than expecting one central attraction to represent Lake Mývatn. Skútustaðir is useful for seeing pseudocraters and wetlands, Reykjahlíð for services and bathing, and the eastern and north-eastern side for Dimmuborgir, Hverir and Krafla. Early or later daylight can provide calmer conditions for photography and bird observation, while summer offers the longest opportunity for exploring. Check weather, road and site information each day, and allow extra time because wind, low visibility or volcanic-area restrictions may alter plans.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloHalló[HAH-loh]
GoodbyeBless[BLESS]
YesJá[YOW]
NoNei[NAY]
Please/You're welcomeGjörðu svo vel[GYUR-thu svoh vel]
Thank youTakk fyrir[TAKK feer-ir]
Excuse me/SorryAfkvæmið[AHF-kvye-meeth]
How are you?Hvernig hefur þú það?[KVER-nig HEH-ur thoo thahd]
Fine. And you?Fínt. En þú?[FEENT. Ehn thoo]
Do you speak English?Talar þú ensku?[TAH-lar thoo EHN-skoo]
I don't understandÉg skil ekki[YEG skil EHK-ki]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseÉg myndi vilja sjá matsedilinn, takk[YEG MUN-dee VIL-ya syah MAT-seh-dil-inn, tahk]
I don't eat meatÉg borða ekki kjöt[YEG BOR-tha EHK-ki chyut]
Cheers!Skál![SKOWL]
I would like to pay, pleaseÉg myndi vilja greiða, takk[YEG MUN-dee VIL-ya gray-tha, tahk]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Hjálp![HYOWLP]
Go away!Farðu í burtu![FAHR-thu ee BUHR-too]
Call the Police!Hringðu í lögregluna![HRING-thu ee LER-eg-loo-na]
Call a doctor!Hringðu í lækninn![HRING-thu ee LAYK-nin]
I'm lostÉg er týndur[YEG AIR TEEN-thur]
I'm illÉg er veikur[YEG AIR VAKE-ur]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Ég myndi vilja kaupa...[YEG MUN-dee VIL-ya KOW-pa]
I'm just lookingÉg er bara að skoða[YEG AIR BAH-rah ath SKO-tha]
How much is it?Hvað kostar það?[Kvath KOS-tar thahd]
That's too expensiveÞað er of dýrt[Thath air ov DEERT]
Can you lower the price?Getur þú lækkað verðið?[GEH-tur thoo LAI-kath VER-thith]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?Hvað er klukkan?[Kvath air KLOO-khan]
It's one o'clockKlukkan er eitt[KLOO-khan air ayth]
Half past (10)Hálftíu[HOWLFT-yoo]
MorningMorgun[MOR-gun]
AfternoonSíðdegi[SEETH-deh-ye]
EveningKvöld[KVUHLTH]
YesterdayÍ gær[EE gire]
TodayÍ dag[EE dahg]
TomorrowÁ morgun[OW MOR-gun]
1Eitt[ayth]
2Tvö[tvoe]
3Þrjú[thryoo]
4Fjögur[fyuh-gur]
5Fimm[fim]
6Sex[sehx]
7Sjö[syuh]
8Átta[owt-ta]
9Níu[nee-oo]
10Tíu[tee-oo]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?Hvar er...[Kvahr air]
What's the address?Hvað er heimilisfangið?[Kvath air HAY-me-lee-sfang-ith]
Can you show me (on the map)?Getur þú sýnt mér (á kortinu)?[GEH-tur thoo seent mehr (ow KORT-inn-oo)]
When's the next (bus)?Hvenær kemur næsti (strætisvagn)?[KVER-ni-air KEH-mur NAI-sti (STRAI-tis-vahg-n)]
A ticket (to ....)Einn miða (til ...)[ayth MI-tha (til ...)]

History of Myvatn Region

Volcanic Formation and the Lake

Lake Mývatn and its surroundings were shaped by repeated volcanic activity, with lava flows, explosive eruptions and water-filled depressions creating the present landscape. The lake is associated with the Krafla volcanic system, one of Iceland’s active volcanic zones. Its pseudocraters, particularly around Skútustaðir, formed when hot lava flowed across wet ground and triggered steam explosions rather than developing as conventional volcanic vents. The region’s geology remains visible in its crater cones, lava fields and geothermal springs, giving the landscape a readable record of changing volcanic processes.

Settlement and Farming

People have farmed around Mývatn for centuries, using the lake, wetlands and surrounding grasslands as part of a rural economy. The area’s name refers to its abundance of midges, which are an important part of the lake’s food chain as well as a seasonal nuisance for visitors. Fishing and egg gathering historically contributed to local livelihoods, while farming communities adapted to a landscape influenced by volcanic soils, harsh weather and fluctuating water conditions. The settlement pattern remains dispersed, with farms and small communities rather than a large town.

Dimmuborgir and Local Tradition

The lava formations of Dimmuborgir were created during an eruption when molten material accumulated around a lake or body of trapped water before draining away, leaving behind pillars, arches and cavernous structures. Their unusual forms have long stimulated local folklore, and in modern Icelandic culture Dimmuborgir is closely associated with the Yule Lads, the country’s traditional Christmas figures. The landscape therefore carries both geological importance and a strong place in Icelandic storytelling, while paths through the formations have made it one of the region’s best-known visitor sites.

The Krafla Eruptions

The Krafla volcanic system experienced a major period of activity between 1975 and 1984, commonly known as the Krafla Fires. Repeated fissure eruptions, earthquakes and ground movements affected the area and produced fresh lava fields. The episode demonstrated that the region is an active volcanic environment rather than simply a collection of ancient formations. Today, the Krafla area includes visible lava landscapes and geothermal infrastructure, while access and routes can be affected by volcanic conditions and local management decisions.

Tourism and Conservation

Mývatn’s combination of accessible geology, birdlife and geothermal scenery brought increasing numbers of visitors during the twentieth century, particularly as the Ring Road improved travel through north Iceland. Tourism developed alongside scientific interest in the lake’s wetlands and volcanic features. Conservation has become increasingly important because nesting birds, geothermal sites, mosses and lava formations are vulnerable to disturbance and erosion. Modern visits are shaped by marked paths, managed viewpoints and guidance intended to protect the landscape while allowing access to sites such as Skútustaðagígar, Dimmuborgir and Hverir.

Myvatn Region in Photos

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