If you’re dreaming of venturing deep into Iceland’s wild interior, the From Mývatn Lake: Askja Volcano & Wilderness Super Jeep Tour might be just what you’re looking for. Although we haven’t done this exact trip ourselves, the descriptions and reviews paint a vivid picture of what to expect. It’s an adventure for those craving spectacular scenery and a taste of Iceland’s volcanic heart, with the chance to see some of the most dramatic landscapes Iceland has to offer.
What really appeals to us about this tour are the breathtaking views of the Askja caldera and the opportunity to explore the Icelandic Highlands in a small, intimate group. Plus, the chance to hike near geothermal lakes and visit the Víti Crater adds a real sense of adventure. On the flip side, a notable consideration is the long hours involved—a full day of driving and exploring might feel a bit tiring, especially if weather conditions aren’t ideal.
Ultimately, this tour seems best suited for travelers who love natural landscapes, geology, and don’t mind a full-day adventure. It’s also a good pick if you’re comfortable with rougher terrain and don’t have mobility issues. If you’re seeking a highly flexible, guided experience with expert locals and don’t mind the price tag, this could be a memorable highlight of your trip to Iceland.
Key Points
- Remote and scenic: Experience Iceland’s wilderness and volcanic landscape in a small group setting.
- Expert guides: Learn about the geology and history of the area from knowledgeable local guides.
- Hiking and exploration: Includes a walk to the Víti Crater and Askja Lake, with stunning scenery around every turn.
- Weather considerations: The tour’s success depends significantly on weather—snow, storms, or slippery conditions can impact the experience.
- Long but rewarding: A full-day trip, so be ready for hours of driving and adventure.
- Limited age suitability: Not recommended for children under 10 or those with mobility issues.
What to Expect from the Tour
Starting Out from Mývatn
You’ll kick off the day meeting at the parking lot of the Berjaya Hotel in Mývatn. This location is convenient if you’re staying nearby, and from there, you’ll hop into a Super Jeep — a rugged, off-road vehicle built for Iceland’s tough terrain. The small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and soak in the scenery.
Into the Icelandic Highlands
The drive into the Highlands is part of the adventure. The landscape is a mix of lava fields, geothermal features, and wide-open spaces. One of the first sights you’ll likely see is the lava fields surrounding Herðubreiðarlindir volcano — known for its unique flora and the ruins of a historical hut, where an outlaw spent the winter of 1775. These spots offer a glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic and social history, adding layers to the landscape.
The Askja Caldera
The main event is the Askja Caldera, a massive volcanic crater formed by violent eruptions, especially those in 1875. The area is a marvel of natural geology—vast, raw, and dramatic. Our sources mention that the guide’s insights make the trip especially engaging, as they explain the geological forces that shaped this landscape.
More Great Tours NearbyHiking to Víti and Askja Lake
One of the tour’s real highlights is the hike to the Víti Crater, a geothermal explosion crater filled with a warm, inviting lake, with water temperatures around 20-26°C. It’s a surreal spot—imagine stepping into a volcanic crater with steaming hot springs and a brilliant blue lake. The hike isn’t overly strenuous but is enough to get you into the full feel of the landscape. The lake’s warm waters make it a unique experience, and many travelers find this the most memorable part of their journey.
Scenic Stops Along the Way
Throughout the day, your guide will make several stops, sharing insights into the area’s geology, flora, and history. These vary depending on conditions and time, but each adds to the storybook feel of Iceland’s wild interior.
Weather and Accessibility
Weather can be unpredictable—snowstorms or slippery conditions are not uncommon, especially in late seasons. Our review quotes a traveler who, during a snowstorm, was unable to see much and found it unsafe to step near the caldera with snow making everything slippery. It’s worth being prepared for that possibility and understanding that such weather can affect what you see and do.
The Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not
The full-day guided tour costs around $465 per person, which might seem steep but includes all park and facility fees as well as transportation in the specially equipped Super Jeep. The small group size makes the experience more personal, and the guide’s knowledge adds real value.
However, the tour does not include hotel pickup and drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point in Mývatn. It’s also essential to bring your own food and drinks, as there are no provisions included. Given the remote location, packing snacks and water is advisable to keep energized through the long day.
How the Experience Compares
Based on reviews, the majority of travelers found the tour worthwhile, especially praising the guide’s expertise and friendliness. One traveler called the guide “phenomenal,” which underscores the value of local knowledge in understanding such a complex geological area.
That said, some reviews mention the length of the day and the challenging hiking conditions. One reviewer pointed out that snow cover can hinder access to parts of the area, and the trip might not meet expectations if the weather turns bad or if you’re not comfortable with longer drives and some hiking.
Is this Tour Worth It?
If you’re a traveler who loves adventure, scenic landscapes, and geological marvels, this tour offers a unique chance to see Iceland’s interior in an intimate setting. The landscape is mesmerizing, and the opportunity to hike near geothermal lakes is rare and special.
However, it’s essential to be prepared for the weather and the long hours. If you’re traveling with very young children, or if mobility might be an issue, it’s worth considering the tour’s suitability since it isn’t designed for those with mobility impairments. The experience is also weather-dependent—bad weather can limit what you see or even make parts of the trip unsafe.
This Super Jeep tour from Mývatn to Askja is a solid choice for those eager to explore Iceland’s volcanic heart in a small, guided group. The scenery alone makes it worth considering, especially if you enjoy hiking, geology, and remote wilderness. The guide’s insights add richness to what is already a stunning landscape, and the hike to Víti Crater makes the experience more memorable.
While the trip involves a long day of driving and potential weather challenges, the chance to stand beside a geothermal lake in a volcanic crater is truly unique. For travelers comfortable with rough terrain and seeking an authentic Icelandic adventure, this tour offers a window into some of Iceland’s most impressive natural wonders.
If you value expert guidance, striking scenery, and a behind-the-scenes look at Iceland’s volcanic history, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip. Just remember to pack warm clothes, bring snacks, and keep an open mind for the weather — it’s part of the adventure.
From Mývatn Lake: Askja Volcano & Wilderness Super Jeep Tour
“Very good, and the guide was phenomenal.”
FAQ
Do I need to bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, food and drinks are not included, so it’s best to bring snacks and water for the day.
Is hotel pickup available?
No, you will need to meet at the parking lot of the Berjaya Hotel in Mývatn.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 12 hours, so be prepared for a full day of exploration and driving.
What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, allowing for a more personalized experience.
Can children join this tour?
It’s not suitable for children under 10 years old, mainly because of the terrain and duration.
What if the weather is bad?
Weather can impact the experience significantly. Snowstorms or slippery conditions might restrict access or visibility, as some reviews mention.
What should I wear?
Bring warm clothes, sturdy shoes suitable for hiking, and layers to adjust as the day warms or cools.
Is the tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for people with mobility impairments due to hiking and rough terrain.
What makes this tour special?
The chance to see the Askja caldera, hike to Víti Crater, and enjoy the remote beauty of Iceland’s Highlands makes it a truly memorable experience.
How is the landscape?
Expect wide lava fields, geothermal springs, volcanic craters, and stunning mountain views — a landscape that feels like stepping onto another planet.
