Myvatn Lake

This fourth largest lake in Iceland isn’t special because of its size, but rather its location and chemistry. Myvatn is surrounded by a landscape that is dominated by unique volcanic landforms, including craters, caves, arches, and pillars. Myvatn Lake is also eutrophic, which means it contains an excessive amount of nutrients. This attracts an abundance of aquatic insects, which in turn, attracts an exceptional number of waterbirds. In fact, Myvatn Lake and the surrounding wetlands are known as one of the best birding destinations in the world.

By geological standards, Myvatn Lake is relatively new, forming 2,300 years ago when a volcanic fissure erupted. And there is still volcanic activity in the region, which is characterized by hot springs, boiling mud pools, and fumaroles. A tour of Myvatn Lake and the surrounding landscapes will immerse you in a land of unearthly and magical beauty.

Visiting Myvatn Lake

The major hub of international travel is Keflavik International Airport. From there, you can either take a bus to Reykjavik Domestic Airport and fly into Akureyri, or you can rent a car in Keflavik. Because there is limited public transportation in the Myvatn Lake area, you will need to rent a car in Akureyri even if you fly in. Driving from Keflavik will take you roughly 7 scenic hours.

The Ring Road around the lake is about 22 miles, and contains two small hamlets: Skutustadir and Reykjahlid, which can provide you with groceries, restaurants, and lodging. Aside from the beauty of the lake itself and the incredible bird watching opportunities, there are a few sights you won’t want to miss.

Hverfjall Crater - This symmetrical crater is more than 1,500 feet high and more than 3,000 feet across. There is a trail around the perimeter, but access to the crater floor is not permitted.

Krafla - This impressive caldera volcano towers more than 2,500 feet over the surrounding landscape. A tour of the Krafla area will take you to steaming lava beds, a hot spring, and a teal-green crater lake.

Myvatn Nature Baths - This is a commercial hot spring, featuring a 104°F mineral-rich bathing pool and several natural steam baths. A cafeteria and changing rooms are located onsite.

A trip to Myvatn Lake is characterized by spectacular and unusual scenery, an abundance of bird life, and extreme geothermal activity. No visit to Iceland is complete without a tour of this incredible area.