Lake Mývatn
Explore Iceland's volcanic heart at Lake Mývatn, featuring surreal geothermal landscapes, relaxing hot springs, and abundant birdlife.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer midges, good birdwatching
Lake Mývatn
Best Time
Fewer midges, good birdwatching

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Iceland's volcanic heart at Lake Mývatn, featuring surreal geothermal landscapes, relaxing hot springs, and abundant birdlife.
"A must-see for its otherworldly volcanic landscapes and unique geothermal wonders!"
Head Net is Your Friend
Don't underestimate the midges in summer! A head net is a lifesaver for enjoying the outdoors. :bug:
Embrace the Geothermal Soak
The Mývatn Nature Baths are a must-do for relaxation after exploring. Book ahead! :woman-in-lotus-position:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mývatn Nature Baths
Geothermally heated pools
Relax in mineral-rich, geothermally heated waters, a northern alternative to the Blue Lagoon.

Hverir Geothermal Area
Near Lake Mývatn
Walk among bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles in a surreal, colorful landscape.

Grjótagjá Cave
Near Lake Mývatn
Discover a hidden cave with a stunning geothermal hot spring inside, surrounded by lava rock.

Viti Crater
Slopes of Krafla volcano
Marvel at a turquoise-filled crater surrounded by lava fields and breathtaking mountains.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Midges!
Geothermal Wonders Await
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Head Net is Your Friend
Don't underestimate the midges in summer! A head net is a lifesaver for enjoying the outdoors.
:bug:Embrace the Geothermal Soak
The Mývatn Nature Baths are a must-do for relaxation after exploring. Book ahead!
:woman-in-lotus-position:Explore Lava Fields
Wander through unique lava formations and volcanic landscapes for otherworldly photos.
:camerawithflash:Birdwatcher's Paradise
Mývatn is a prime spot for diverse birdlife, especially waterfowl. Bring binoculars! :bird:
Tips
from all over the internet
Head Net is Your Friend
Don't underestimate the midges in summer! A head net is a lifesaver for enjoying the outdoors.
:bug:Embrace the Geothermal Soak
The Mývatn Nature Baths are a must-do for relaxation after exploring. Book ahead!
:woman-in-lotus-position:Explore Lava Fields
Wander through unique lava formations and volcanic landscapes for otherworldly photos.
:camerawithflash:Birdwatcher's Paradise
Mývatn is a prime spot for diverse birdlife, especially waterfowl. Bring binoculars! :bird:
Visitor Centre Info
Stop by the visitor center for local insights and information about the area's attractions. :information_desk:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the otherworldly volcanic landscapes and unique geothermal features around Lake Mývatn, with many highlighting the surreal beauty of Hverir and the relaxing Mývatn Nature Baths. While the midges can be a significant drawback in summer, the stunning scenery and diverse birdlife make it a worthwhile destination for many.
"This is a volcanic lake formed after eruption around 2300 years ago that is located on the Ring Road between Aukureyri and Egilsstaðir in the north of Iceland. The lake itself is beautiful and there are quite a few natural attractions related to past volcanic activity that you can seen and explored in the area.
It is worth a visit to the Lake Myvatn Visitor Centre on the southwest end of the lake. You will find a small village called Reykjahlíð on the northeast corner where there is a supermarket, Vinbudin bottle shop, local handcraft gift shop, Fish & Chip restaurant as well as camping sites and a few accommodations for those interested in staying around the lake while travelling in the north of Iceland."
Brad
"Very interesting landscape, nice to walk around a bit. Nearly no midges when we there at the end of June."
Katrin Thüringer
"Very pretty lake area, lots of birds, went in June. Good wind kept the bugs away."
R Cronin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake Mývatn is conveniently located on the Ring Road (Route 1) in North Iceland, making it accessible by car. It's situated between Akureyri and Egilsstaðir. Many visitors rent a car to explore the region at their own pace.
While there are bus services that pass through the Mývatn area, they can be infrequent. Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring the various attractions around the lake.
A rental car is highly recommended for exploring the Mývatn area, as attractions are spread out. Some tours also operate in the region.
Lake Mývatn is approximately a 1-hour drive east of Akureyri, making it a popular stop for those traveling along the Ring Road.
Yes, numerous tour operators offer day trips and multi-day tours that include Lake Mývatn and its surrounding geothermal wonders from Akureyri and other locations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Many natural attractions like Hverir and Viti Crater are free to explore. However, the Mývatn Nature Baths require an entrance fee. It's advisable to book your tickets for the baths in advance, especially during peak season.
The Mývatn Nature Baths typically have extended opening hours, often from morning until late evening, but it's best to check their official website for the most current times.
The natural geothermal areas like Hverir and the lava fields around Lake Mývatn are generally free to access.
Yes, Grjótagjá Cave is accessible, but swimming is no longer permitted due to fluctuating water temperatures. It's a popular spot for photos.
Currently, there aren't specific multi-attraction passes for the Mývatn area. Tickets are usually purchased individually for paid attractions like the Nature Baths.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for uneven terrain. Stay on marked paths for safety, and enjoy the unique sights and smells of the bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles.
Bring your swimsuit! Towels and robes are usually available for rent. It's recommended to shower before entering the baths.
Absolutely! Lake Mývatn is renowned for its diverse birdlife, especially waterfowl. The best time for birdwatching is typically spring and summer.
No, swimming is no longer allowed in the hot spring within Grjótagjá Cave due to unpredictable water temperatures. It's primarily a sight-seeing spot now.
Besides a vast array of birds, you might spot Arctic foxes in the surrounding areas, though they are elusive. The unique volcanic landscape is also a major draw.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The village of Reykjahlíð on the northeast corner of the lake has a supermarket, a fish and chips restaurant, and a few other dining options.
Yes, the Mývatn Nature Baths complex usually includes a cafe or restaurant where you can enjoy refreshments and meals.
Expect traditional Icelandic fare, with an emphasis on fresh fish. Local lamb dishes are also common.
Yes, there are many scenic spots around the lake and in the surrounding natural areas where you can enjoy a picnic. Remember to pack out all your trash.
While options might be more limited than in larger towns, most restaurants in Iceland are accommodating. It's always a good idea to ask about vegetarian or vegan choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Hverir geothermal area with its bubbling mud pots, Viti Crater's vibrant water, Grjótagjá Cave's unique interior, and the lava formations are all incredibly photogenic. The lake itself offers beautiful reflections.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour light for landscapes. Midday can be harsh, but the vibrant colors of Hverir are striking any time.
Yes, Lake Mývatn is a fantastic location for Northern Lights photography due to its dark skies and dramatic landscapes. Best seen from September to April.
A wide-angle lens is great for the vast landscapes. A sturdy tripod is essential for low-light photography, especially for the Northern Lights. Consider a polarizing filter for the lake.
Generally, photography is allowed in most natural areas. However, always respect signage and stay on designated paths to protect the fragile environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the summer months, but be prepared for midges by bringing head nets. The varied landscapes, from lava fields to the lake itself, offer plenty of opportunities for exploration and imaginative play. Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities can be spread out.
💰 Budget Travelers
While the Mývatn Nature Baths have an entrance fee, they are generally more affordable than the Blue Lagoon. Packing your own food and utilizing the supermarket in Reykjahlíð can help save on dining costs.
📸 Photographers
For landscape photographers, the lake itself, especially during sunrise or sunset, can yield breathtaking reflections and atmospheric shots. If visiting between September and April, Mývatn's dark skies make it an ideal location for Northern Lights photography. A wide-angle lens and a sturdy tripod are essential gear for capturing the grandeur of this volcanic region.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Volcanic Heart of Mývatn
Visitors can explore these volcanic wonders up close. The Hverir geothermal area is a must-see, with its bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and vibrant, sulfur-stained earth that truly feels like another planet. The Viti Crater, a stunning explosion crater filled with turquoise water, offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into the raw power of volcanic forces. Walking through the Dimmuborgir lava formations, often called the 'Dark Castles,' feels like stepping into a mythical realm, with towering pillars and arches sculpted by ancient lava flows.
Relaxation and Rejuvenation at Mývatn Nature Baths
The baths feature a large, shallow lagoon with varying temperatures, steam baths carved into the lava rock, and a swim-up bar. The water, rich in silica and other minerals, is a milky blue and is heated naturally by the earth's geothermal energy. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape while soaking in the warm waters, making it a truly unique and rejuvenating experience.
It's recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred time slot. The facility also offers amenities like changing rooms, showers, and a cafe for refreshments.
A Haven for Birdwatchers
Bird enthusiasts can spend days exploring the lake's shores and nearby areas, spotting species like the Barrow's Goldeneye, Harlequin Duck, and various species of phalaropes. The Mývatn area is also known to host birds of prey, including the Gyrfalcon. The sheer diversity and abundance of birdlife make Mývatn a must-visit for anyone passionate about ornithology.
To enhance the birdwatching experience, it's advisable to bring binoculars and a good field guide. Early mornings and late evenings often offer the best opportunities for sightings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit