Askja Caldera and Viti Crater are two of Iceland’s most striking highland destinations, known for their volcanic landscapes, lunar-like terrain, and geothermal wonders.
Located deep in the remote Icelandic Highlands, these sites are challenging to reach on your own. Askja Caldera and Viti Crater tours make it easy for hikers and adventurous travelers to explore this dramatic region safely, without the need for specialized planning or equipment.
Where Are Askja Caldera and Viti Crater Located?
Askja is located in Iceland’s central Highlands, just north of the Vatnajokull Glacier. Its dramatic landscapes were even used to train Apollo astronauts due to their lunar-like appearance.
Viti Crater was formed during a major volcanic eruption in 1875. The crater, about 492 feet (150 meters) in diameter, now contains a warm geothermal lake with waters around 77-86 F (25–30 C). On some days, rangers at the Drekagil Park Ranger Station may allow visitors to bathe in this unique, sulfur-scented pool—a rare Icelandic experience.
Just a short walk from Viti Crater lies Lake Askja, Iceland’s second-deepest lake. Its stunning blue waters are a highlight of any Askja Caldera and Viti Crater tour.
How to Get to Askja Caldera and Viti Crater
Askja is a popular destination for hikers, with several mountain huts nearby, but it is only accessible during the summer via four-wheel-drive vehicles.
Travelers can reach Askja from the East, North, or West using Iceland’s network of F-roads, which often include river crossings and rough terrain. Super Jeep tours make this journey safe and straightforward.
From the parking area, reaching Viti Crater requires a moderate 20–40 minute walk on marked trails, making it accessible yet rewarding for those ready to explore the Highlands on foot.
Top 5 Askja and Viti Crater Tours
Day tours to Askja Caldera and Viti Crater are ideal for travelers who have only a single day to explore Iceland’s highlands. Super Jeep tours offer thrilling off-road adventures over rugged terrain, river crossings, and volcanic landscapes.
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Fantastic 12-Hour Highland Tour to Holuhraun Volcano and Askja Caldera from Lake Myvatn: Spend a full day discovering volcanic wonders, including the dramatic Askja Caldera and the Holuhraun lava field, formed in the recent eruption.
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Exclusive Full-Day 4x4 Adventure Tour of Askja, Viti Crater & More From North Iceland: Explore Herdbreid Volcano, Gljufrasmidur, and Lake Viti on a full-day Super Jeep tour through the Icelandic highlands, experiencing remote volcanic landscapes up close.
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Super Jeep Tour to Askja Caldera & Holuhraun Lava Field with Transfer from Myvatn: A scenic day trip combining off-road adventure and dramatic volcanic sights, including Askja Caldera and the Holuhraun lava field.
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Breathtaking 12-Hour Tour of Askja Volcanic Caldera from Myvatn: Discover the lunar landscapes of Askja and Viti Crater, with guided stops for photography, short hikes, and highland exploration.
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Private 12-Hour Highland Super Jeep Tour to Askja Caldera: Enjoy a full-day private adventure in a 4x4 vehicle, exploring Askja Caldera, Viti Crater, and the surrounding volcanic highlands at your own pace.
Other Attractions Near Askja and Viti Crater
Tours to Askja and Viti are often combined with visits to other remarkable sites in Iceland’s northern Highlands. These are the most notable attractions you may be able to catch a glimpse of from the car or get the chance to visit on your tour.
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Holuhraun Lava Field – Explore Iceland’s youngest lava field, created during the dramatic 2014 eruption north of Vatnajokull.
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Herdubreid Volcano – See Iceland’s “Queen of the Mountains,” a striking flat-topped volcano rising above the Odadahraun desert.
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Drekagil Canyon – Wander through this dragon-shaped gorge near the Askja ranger station, filled with rugged rock formations and small waterfalls.
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Lake Myvatn – Relax by this serene lake surrounded by geothermal hot spots, lava formations, and birdlife-rich wetlands.
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Modrudalur Farm – Visit Iceland’s highest inhabited farm, known for its panoramic views, cozy café, and mountain surroundings.
Planning a Visit to Askja Caldera and Viti Crater
Most guided tours to Askja and Viti Crater depart from North Iceland, typically from Akureyri or the Lake Myvatn area.
Self-drive tours and vacation packages with itineraries that include time in North Iceland usually make it simple to add a day trip to Askja and Viti. Alternatively, if you prefer to plan your journey yourself, you can rent a car, drive north, and join a tour from there.
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If you’d like to learn more about the region before your trip, check out the complete guide to the Icelandic Highlands and browse all tours to the Icelandic Highlands for more adventures.
