Iceland is a land shaped by fire and ice, where volcanoes have left spectacular imprints on the landscape. Hiking to a volcanic crater is one of the most memorable experiences the island has to offer.
We’re sharing our selection of the best volcanic craters to hike in Iceland, from the most accessible to the most demanding, to help you choose according to your level and desires.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
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The best volcanic craters to hike in Iceland
Iceland has dozens of volcanic craters scattered all over the island. Some can be covered in less than an hour, while others require a full day and an all-terrain vehicle. The diversity of shapes, colors and landscapes makes each crater unique.
If you only need to do 3, we recommend:
- Hverfjall for its size and perfect shape
- Kerið for its striking colors and easy access
- Saxhóll for its panoramic view of the Snæfellsnes peninsula
We’re talking about long-ago volcanic craters that you can walk on. If you want to see the land of recent eruptions, head for the Reykjanes peninsula. See options.
1. Hverfjall (North)
Why visit it? Our review
Hverfjall is arguably Iceland’s most iconic volcanic crater. This maar-like crater, formed around 2,500 years ago during an explosive eruption, impressed us with its proportions: 1km in diameter and 140m deep. I has a beautiful, almost balanced shape, visible for miles around in the Mývatn region.
The ascent is along a well-marked path that leads to the crater rim. Once at the top, you can follow the ridge all the way around, which takes about 1 hour. The 360° panorama of Lake Mývatn, lava fields and pseudocraters is remarkable. We recommend climbing at the end of the day, when the low-angled light accentuates the relief and dark hues of the volcanic soil.
Practical advice
- In the Mývatn region, north-east Iceland
- Hiking time: 1h to 1h30 (ascent + ridge tour)
- Ascent: approx. 140m, steep but short trail
- Pay parking
- Windy trails: wear warm, windproof layers even in summer
- Hiking shoes recommended (volcanic gravel terrain)
- Accessible year-round, but snow can make the trail slippery in winter
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On Route 1, no 4WD required, off Route 1, it depends on your plans.
2. Saxhóll (Snæfellsnes)
Why visit it? Our review
Saxhóll is a small volcanic crater on the Snæfellsnes peninsula. A metal spiral staircase has been installed on the side of the crater, making the climb very accessible. In just a few minutes, you’ll reach the summit, where the 360° view is remarkable: the glacier, the black lava fields of Neshraun, the Atlantic Ocean and the coastal cliffs.
We found this crater ideal for a quick stopover while exploring the peninsula. The contrast between the dark volcanic rock and the white glacier in the background is striking on a clear day. On the other hand, in bad weather, the wind can blow very hard at the summit.
Practical advice
- On the Snæfellsnes peninsula, about 2h30 from Reykjavik
- Duration: 10min to 20min (ascent + descent)
- Metal staircase: accessible to most visitors
- Free access
- Small parking lot at the foot of the crater, along route 574
- Very windy: dress warmly
- The stairs can be slippery in winter, but the climb is worth it all the same.
3. Pseudocraters of Mývatn (North)
Why visit them? Our review
We know, we know. Technically, they’re not volcano craters, but they’re so beautiful, we wanted to include them!
The pseudocraters of Skútustadir offer a completely different landscape from the classic craters. These formations are not the result of volcanic eruptions in the strict sense: they formed when molten lava flowed over wetlands, triggering steam explosions that sculpted these small cones. We found the site particularly photogenic.
A loop trail takes you between the pseudocraters and along the lakeshore. The walk is short, easy and suitable for all levels. We recommend it as a complement to a visit to Hverfjall, as the two sites are only a few kilometers apart.
Practical advice
- Skútustadir, south shore of Lake Mývatn
- Duration: 30min to 1h for the complete loop
- Flat terrain, groomed path: suitable for families and people with reduced mobility on part of the route
- Free access
- On-site parking
- Mosquitoes can be very prevalent in summer (June to August): bring a head net or mosquito repellent.
- Also possible in winter with crampons
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4. Víti in Krafla (North)
Why visit it? Our review
The Víti crater (“hell” in Icelandic) is located in the Krafla geothermal zone, one of the most active volcanic systems in northern Iceland. This explosion crater was formed in 1724 during the eruption known as the “Mývatn fires”. It contains a milky blue-green lake whose color varies according to season and temperature. We found the contrast between the ochre and rust walls of the crater and the turquoise blue of the water superb.
From the parking lot, the crater can be reached in just a few minutes. A path runs along part of the ridge, offering plunging views of the lake. If you have more time, we encourage you to continue on to the nearby Leirhnjúkur lava field, to discover the fumaroles and still-hot ground.
Practical advice
- In the Krafla area, about a 20-minute drive north of Mývatn
- Duration: 15min to 30min for the crater alone, 1h30 to 2h including Leirhnjúkur
- Parking at foot of crater, chargeable
- The trail can be slippery in wet weather: good-grip shoes recommended
- Swimming in the crater lake is prohibited
- Route generally accessible from May to October (check conditions on road.is)
5. Kerid (Cercle d’Or)
Why visit it? Our review
Kerid is probably Iceland’s most photographed crater, and for two reasons: it lies on the famous Golden Circle, and it contains a turquoise-tinged lake framed by walls of red and black rock. Around 3,000 years old, this crater measures 270m long, 170m wide and 55m deep. We were surprised by the intensity of the colors
A trail leads around the crater via the ridge in around 15 minutes. It’s also possible to walk down to the lakeshore along a path. Located close to the Golden Circle, Kerid is an easy stop to integrate into a classic itinerary. We suggest you go early in the morning or at the end of the day to avoid groups of tourists.
Practical advice
- In southern Iceland, about 1 hour from Reykjavik, off route 35
- If you don’t want to drive, it is often included in organized tours – see options
- Duration: 15min to 30min for ridge tour, add 15min if descent to lake
- Well-developed trail, suitable for most walkers
- Paid admission
- Open “when the sun shines” – see latest info here
- Ample on-site parking
- Accessible all year round
- Very busy in high season (June-August): prefer off-peak hours
- Avoid the queue, buy your ticket
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6. Grábrók (West)
Why visit it? Our review
Grábrók is a volcanic crater just off Route 1 in western Iceland, making it one of the easiest to reach in the country. Formed around 3,400 years ago, it is part of a group of three craters surrounded by a lava field covered with moss and lichen. We enjoyed the short climb up the wooden steps to the top of the ridge.
From the shore, the view extends over the Borgarfjörður valley and the surrounding mountains. The hike is fast and ideal for a break on the way between Reykjavik and the north of the island. We recommend taking advantage of this opportunity to follow the short, well-marked and pleasant path around the lava field.
Practical advice
- On Route 1, about 1h15 north of Reykjavik
- Duration: 20min to 40min for the ascent and tour of the crater
- Wooden staircase: accessible to most walkers
- Free access
- Parking right next to the road
- Accessible all year round (beware of icy steps in winter)
7. Eldborg á Mýrum (West)
Why visit it? Our review
Eldborg á Mýrum (“fortress of fire”) is an almost perfectly circular volcanic crater, formed some 5,000 to 6,000 years ago. Situated on a lava plain in western Iceland, it stands out for its isolation and its regular silhouette that stands out clearly on the horizon. We found the approach hike through the thick moss-covered lava field as interesting as the crater itself.
The climb to the ridge is short but steep at the end. From the summit, the panorama opens out onto an immense green lava field, the mountains of the region and, on a clear day, the Snæfellsjökull glacier in the distance. We recommend this hike to walkers who appreciate lunar landscapes and solitude.
Practical advice
- In western Iceland, between Borgarnes and the Snæfellsnes peninsula
- Duration: 2h to 3h round trip (including 45min flat walk to reach the crater)
- Moderate ascent for the final climb (approx. 60m)
- Free access
- Parking along the road, then path through the lava field
- Hiking shoes essential (irregular lava terrain)
- Few signs: find the trail on a map before setting off
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Hard-to-reach craters
The next two craters are reserved for experienced hikers and require special preparation. Access is via mountain trails (F-roads) which require a 4WD off-road vehicle and are only open for a few months a year, generally from late June to September depending on weather conditions.
Hekla
Hekla is one of Iceland’s most famous and active volcanoes. Nicknamed “the gateway to hell” in the Middle Ages, it rises to 1491m and last erupted in 2000. The hike to the summit is demanding: allow between 7 and 10 hours round trip, depending on your pace. The trail crosses fields of ash and snow, often in fog. Please note that Hekla is considered a volcano at risk of eruption, and the Icelandic authorities regularly advise against approaching it.
If you do decide to attempt the climb, be sure to consult the Icelandic Meteorological Office’s volcanic bulletins (vedur.is) and inform someone of your itinerary. Weather changes very quickly at altitude and visibility can be zero. It’s not a crater we’d recommend for casual hikers.
Practical advice
- In southern Iceland, about 1h30 from Reykjavik by car
- Duration: 7h to 10h round trip
- Ascent: approx. 1100m
- Free access, but 4WD track required to reach starting point
- For experienced, well-equipped hikers only
- Check vedur.is for volcano warnings before you climb
- Recommended period: July-August
Askja (Highlands)
Askja is a huge volcanic caldera in the heart of Iceland’s Highlands, one of the country’s most remote regions. The site includes Lake Öskjuvatn (Iceland’s deepest, at 220m) and a second crater called Víti, not to be confused with Krafla. The Apollo astronauts trained here in 1965 and 1969, so reminiscent is the landscape of the lunar surface.
Access to Askja is via the long and demanding F88 track, which requires a robust 4WD vehicle and the crossing of several fords. We found the route as spectacular as the destination itself: crossing the Ódáðahraun ash desert is an experience in itself. Once there, a short 30-minute walk takes you to the edge of the caldera and the Víti crater. Swimming in the Víti is possible, but at your own risk, as the stability of the walls is not guaranteed.
Other volcanoes to climb in Iceland
And there are plenty of other craters around Iceland.
- Gráakúla (North of Snaefellses peninsula)
- Laki craters
- Raudibotn crater
- …
PLAN YOUR SUMMER TRIP TO iceland
- Best of
What to do in Iceland
The most beautiful waterfalls
The most beautiful black sand beaches
Volcanic craters to climb
Lava caves to visit
Best excursions from Reykjavik
- Practical advice
Summer travel tips
How to rent a car in Iceland
Driving tips
Where to stay in Iceland
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 1 week – 10 days
- The must-dos
What to do in Reykjavik
Best attractions in the Golden Circle
South Coast attractions
Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Silver Circle
Lake Myvatn attractions
