Discover the Majesty of Askja: A Volcanic Wonderland
Explore Askja, Iceland's breathtaking volcanic caldera, featuring stunning lakes, geothermal springs, and unique geological landscapes, perfect for adventure seekers.
Askja, a breathtaking volcanic caldera in Iceland, offers tourists a unique adventure through its stunning landscapes, geothermal features, and serene blue lakes. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
A brief summary to Askja
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Local tips
- Visit during the summer for the best hiking conditions and accessibility.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited in the area.
- Dress in layers, as temperatures can change rapidly in this volcanic region.
- Consider joining a guided tour to enhance your experience and ensure safety.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and unique geological features.
Getting There
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Car
To reach Askja Caldera by car, drive from Reykjavik towards Akureyri on Route 1. After approximately 4.5 hours, take Route 842 towards Lake Mývatn. Continue on Route 1 until you reach the junction for Route 26, which leads to Askja. Follow Route 26 until you reach the turn-off for F88 (the road to Askja). Note that F88 is a highland road and requires a 4x4 vehicle. Prepare for a challenging drive, as the road can be rough and may require river crossings. It is advised to check road conditions before the trip. The total travel time from Reykjavik to Askja is about 6-7 hours, depending on road conditions.
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Public Transportation
To access Askja Caldera via public transport, take a bus from Reykjavik to Akureyri. From Akureyri, you will need to book a tour that includes a 4x4 vehicle to reach Askja, as there are no direct public transport routes to the caldera. Several tour companies offer day trips to Askja from Akureyri during the summer months. The bus ride from Reykjavik to Akureyri takes around 5-6 hours, followed by a tour duration that can vary but usually lasts around 10 hours for the full trip to Askja and back.
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Hiking
If you are already in the Askja Caldera area and looking to explore the surrounding landscape, there are hiking trails available. Make sure to follow marked paths for safety. A popular route is a hike to the Viti Crater, which is adjacent to the main caldera. The hike is approximately 1-2 hours one way, depending on your starting point within the caldera. Always check weather conditions before heading out and ensure you have proper gear.
Discover more about Askja
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Askja trail
6.4 km
Experience the breathtaking Askja Trail in Iceland, where stunning volcanic landscapes and serene lakes await your exploration.
Holuhraun
18.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Holuhraun, Iceland's newest lava field, where nature's raw power and stunning landscapes await your exploration.
Ódáðahraun
19.4 km
Explore the enchanting lava fields of Ódáðahraun, where dramatic landscapes and unique geological formations await adventurers in Iceland's wild beauty.
Kverkfjöll
40.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kverkfjöll, where Iceland's volcanoes and glaciers create a stunning natural paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Magnahellir
47.3 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty of Magnahellir, a serene nature preserve in Iceland, ideal for hiking and experiencing unique geological wonders.
Iceland Desert
58.9 km
Discover the enchanting beauty and historical significance of Iceland's Desert, a unique landscape that captivates every traveler.
Mývatn Research Station
63.0 km
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Kaffi Sel and Mývatn öl brewery
63.3 km
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Dimmuborgir Guesthouse
66.3 km
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Laugarfell
67.2 km
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Mývatn Tours
68.1 km
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Vogafjós Farm Resort
68.7 km
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Vogafjós Farm Resort - guesthouse location
68.8 km
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Nýidalur
68.9 km
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Sprengisandur
69.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Lake Askja
2.5 km
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Öskjuvatn
2.5 km
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Lake Viti
4.1 km
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Vikraborgir Car Park
6.3 km
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Dyngjufjoll
6.6 km
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Drekagil
7.6 km
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Herðubreið
27.1 km
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Gljúfrasmiður (=Canyon Builder) (on Jökulsá á Fjöllum)
30.4 km
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Kverkfjöll Ice Cave
31.1 km
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Vatnajökull National Park
33.3 km
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Hrafnabjargafoss
45.8 km
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Laugarvellir Hot Natural Pot
46.5 km
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Hafrahvammagljúfur
47.2 km
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Aldeyjarfoss
48.1 km
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Grafarlandsfoss
48.4 km
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Essential places to dine
Fjallakaffi
57.1 km
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Beitarhúsið
61.4 km
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Bistro Sel & Pizza
63.3 km
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Eldey Restaurant
64.6 km
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Kaffi Borgir
65.0 km
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Daddi's Pizza
68.6 km
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Kvika Kaffi
69.1 km
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Fish and Chips Lake Mývatn
70.5 km
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Gamli Bærinn
70.9 km
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Mylla Restaurant
70.9 km
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Dalakofinn Útibú
84.1 km
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Klausturkaffi
84.4 km
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Hengifoss Food Truck
88.0 km
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Fimbul Cafe
88.6 km
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Jökla ehf
94.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Dreki
8.0 km
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Möðrudalur/Fjalladýrð
57.1 km
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Skútaís - Farm Ice Cream
63.3 km
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فراز کالای انور
64.3 km
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Studlagil Farmer´s Market
69.5 km
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Handicrafts Market
70.5 km
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Vínbúðin
70.5 km
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Vinbudin
70.5 km
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VERSLUM Supermarket
70.5 km
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Krambúðin Reykjahlíð
70.5 km
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Stuðlafoss Waterfall
71.4 km
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Wilderness Center
75.2 km
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Icewear Goðafoss
83.5 km
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Skriduklaustur
84.4 km
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Snæfellsstofa Visitor Center
84.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Laxá Hótel
64.5 km
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Mývatn - Berjaya Iceland Hotels
70.9 km
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Fosshotel Mývatn
72.7 km
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Hengifoss carpark
87.9 km
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Ölstofa Akureyrar - Local Beer
97.0 km
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Einstök Brewer's Lounge
97.0 km
Experience the taste of Iceland at Einstök Brewer's Lounge, where craft beer meets a cozy atmosphere in Akureyri.
Götubarinn
97.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Akureyri at Götubarinn, Iceland's favorite bar with local brews and a lively atmosphere, perfect for unwinding.
Bláa Kannan Cafe
97.1 km
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Kaffi Ilmur
97.2 km
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R5 Micro Bar
97.2 km
Experience the best of Icelandic brews and vibrant nightlife at R5 Micro Bar in the heart of Akureyri.
Aurora Restaurant
97.2 km
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Vamos AEY
97.2 km
Enjoy the vibrant nightlife at Vamos AEY, Akureyri's premier bar and cocktail lounge, blending exquisite drinks with lively entertainment.
DJ Grill
97.3 km
Savor the best burgers and fast food delights in Akureyri at DJ Grill, where quality meets convenience in a friendly atmosphere.
Sykurverk Café
97.3 km
Experience the delightful flavors of Iceland at Sykurverk Café in Akureyri, where sweet pastries and aromatic coffee await.
Sjallinn
97.3 km
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