Krafla Lava Fields & Víti
Explore the otherworldly Krafla Lava Fields and the breathtaking Viti Crater, a vibrant blue lake in a volcanic caldera.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best views of crater lake colors
Krafla Lava Fields & Víti
Best Time
Best views of crater lake colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the otherworldly Krafla Lava Fields and the breathtaking Viti Crater, a vibrant blue lake in a volcanic caldera.
"Stunning crater lake with beautiful emerald blue color, a must-see in North Iceland!"
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
The terrain is rugged and volcanic. Wear good hiking boots for comfort and safety.
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Be prepared for parking fees, even for short stays. Check payment methods beforehand.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Viti Crater Lake
Krafla Volcanic Area
An iconic, emerald-blue crater lake nestled within a volcanic caldera. A truly breathtaking sight.
Krafla Lava Fields
Krafla Volcanic Area
Vast, rugged fields of solidified lava, offering a stark and dramatic volcanic landscape.
Geothermal Shower
On the way to Krafla
A unique, natural geothermal shower in the middle of nowhere for a refreshing stop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Lunar Landscape
Timing is Key for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
The terrain is rugged and volcanic. Wear good hiking boots for comfort and safety.
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Be prepared for parking fees, even for short stays. Check payment methods beforehand.
🥾 Hike for the Best Views
A short hike around the crater offers spectacular panoramic views.
💨 Geothermal Steam
Nearby power stations create impressive steam clouds, especially in snowy conditions.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
The terrain is rugged and volcanic. Wear good hiking boots for comfort and safety.
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Be prepared for parking fees, even for short stays. Check payment methods beforehand.
🥾 Hike for the Best Views
A short hike around the crater offers spectacular panoramic views.
💨 Geothermal Steam
Nearby power stations create impressive steam clouds, especially in snowy conditions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently awestruck by the stunning, otherworldly beauty of Viti Crater Lake, praising its vibrant emerald-blue color and the dramatic volcanic landscape. The short hike offers rewarding panoramic views, making it a worthwhile stop. Some note the presence of parking fees and limited facilities, and caution is advised regarding road conditions, especially after snow.
"Stunning crater lake. Views after a short hike up and around the crater is something not to be missed. Again, like most places Iceland, have to pay for parking."
Vikram Muthyam
"Beautiful color of water. You can view it and take a beautiful full grab and free parking lot. This also quite hike if you wanna take that as well."
Valerie D
"A fun volcano lake for a quick stop — it's super close to the parking lot. You can walk along the lake and climb up if you’d like, but it’s not necessary to enjoy the view."
Wenzhu Sun
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Krafla is located in North Iceland, accessible by car. The roads can be challenging, especially in winter or after heavy snow. It's often visited as part of a tour from Lake Myvatn.
The road can be steep and potentially slippery, especially after snow or rain. Check road conditions before you go.
Visiting in winter is possible but requires caution. Roads may be blocked due to snow, and conditions can be hazardous.
Public transport is limited. Renting a car or joining a guided tour from nearby towns like Akureyri or Lake Myvatn is the most common way to visit.
Exploring the lava fields is best done on foot. Stick to marked paths to avoid damaging the fragile environment and for your own safety.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the natural landscape itself is free to explore, there are often parking fees at designated areas.
No advance booking is typically required for general access to the Krafla area. Parking fees are usually paid on-site.
The area is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, road closures due to weather can affect access.
Facilities can be limited. Some parking areas may have toilets, but it's advisable to check in advance or come prepared.
There are parking lots near the main attractions. Be aware that parking fees are often charged by the day.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hike around Viti Crater is relatively short but can be steep in places. It offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding volcanic landscape.
Swimming in Viti Crater lake is generally not recommended due to its cold temperature and depth.
It's a natural geothermal shower found near Krafla, offering a unique and refreshing experience.
Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are highly recommended, along with sturdy hiking boots.
Stick to marked trails. The lava fields can be unstable and sharp, so it's important to stay on designated paths for safety.
📸 📸 Photography
The rim of the crater offers the most iconic views. Capture the vibrant blue lake against the dark volcanic rock. 
Daylight hours provide the best light for capturing the colors of the lake and the dramatic landscape. Golden hour can offer unique lighting.
Drone regulations can vary. Always check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in protected natural areas.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A polarizing filter can help enhance the colors of the lake.
The steam from the nearby geothermal power station can create dramatic atmospheric effects, especially with snow.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, as facilities are limited. Ensure children wear sturdy shoes and are supervised closely due to the rugged terrain. Consider visiting during warmer months to make the exploration more comfortable. The dramatic scenery, with its volcanic rocks and the striking blue lake, provides a memorable backdrop for family photos and a fantastic educational opportunity about geology and volcanism.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Be prepared for potential parking fees and limited amenities. It's wise to fill up your gas tank and stock up on any food or drinks before heading to Krafla, as services are scarce in the immediate vicinity. Checking road conditions, especially outside of summer, is crucial for a smooth journey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Krafla and Viti
The Viti crater is a striking example of a maar, a volcanic crater formed by a phreatomagmatic eruption (an explosion caused by groundwater meeting magma). The crater is filled with a stunning, often icy blue lake, whose color is a result of mineral content and light reflection. The surrounding landscape is a testament to volcanic power, with vast lava fields stretching out from the caldera.
Adjacent to the Viti crater is the Krafla Geothermal Power Station, which harnesses the immense underground heat. The steam plumes rising from the power station add a unique, almost surreal element to the already dramatic scenery, especially when contrasted with snow or the stark volcanic rock.
Exploring the Lava Fields
While the landscape is awe-inspiring, it's crucial to stay on marked trails. The lava rock can be sharp and brittle, posing a risk of injury. Furthermore, the volcanic terrain is a fragile ecosystem, and straying from paths can cause damage. The stark beauty of the fields is best appreciated with respect for the environment.
For those seeking a unique experience, the Obsidian Trail (though mentioned in a different context in TikTok, it represents similar volcanic terrain) offers a glimpse into the diverse geological features found in volcanic areas, including meadows, creeks, and wildflowers alongside lava formations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit