Guide de Voyage : Namaskard Pass

Namaskard Pass is a geothermal area on the slopes of Namafjall Mountain in North Iceland. Located less than a 30-minute drive from Lake Myvatn, it sits right beside the Ring Road (Route 1), making it an easy and popular stop for travelers exploring the region.

Part of the Krafla Volcanic System, Namaskard features steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pools, and vivid mineral-stained ground. You can see it by joining guided Myvatn tours, or easily visit on your own if you rent a car in Akureyri or do self-drive tours in Iceland through the north.

Often confused with Hverir Geothermal Area, which is part of the same area and lies just a short drive away, Namaskard offers its own unique geothermal features that you can access directly through the Ring Road (Route 1). Read on to find out what makes this volcanic hotspot truly worth the visit and why it’s a must-see stop in North Iceland.

Namaskard Pass at a Glance

• Location: On the slopes of Namafjall Mountain, North Iceland, less than a 30-minute drive east of Lake Myvatn

• Elevation: About 1,312 feet (400 meters) above sea level

• Access: Directly off the Ring Road, an easy stop for self-drive tours in the region

• Geothermal Features: Steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pools, and mineral-stained ground

• Entrance: Free

• Facilities: Paid parking and, very recently, paid restrooms. No cafes or visitor center.

• Best Time To Visit: Summer (June to September), when the weather is warm, roads are clear, and access is easy

• Visit Duration: A quick stop can take 30 to 45 minutes, though you may spend longer exploring the surrounding Krafla region

• Nearby Attractions: Hverir Geothermal Area, Viti Crater, Lake Myvatn, Earth Lagoon Myvatn

• Tours Options: Guided Myvatn adventures, Akureyri tours, and Diamond Circle trips

How To Get to Namaskard Pass

Namaskard is a narrow geothermal pass between the Namafjall and Dalfjall mountains in North Iceland. Getting there is easier than you might think, thanks to its convenient location right off Iceland’s Ring Road.

Driving to Namaskard Pass

If you’re staying in accommodation in Akureyri and have booked a rental car, it’s about 54 miles (87 kilometers) east along the Ring Road. The journey takes roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes, passing through scenic farmlands, lava fields, and volcanic landscapes.

From Lake Myvatn, Namaskard is much closer, just 9 miles (14 kilometers) to the northeast, or around a 15 to 20-minute drive.

If you’re traveling on one of the Ring Road tours from the east, Namaskard is a convenient stop along the route. Nearby attractions you can easily combine with your visit include Studlagil Canyon, with its basalt columns and turquoise waters, Dettifoss, one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls, and Asbyrgi Canyon, a horseshoe-shaped gorge.

The Ring Road takes you almost directly to the parking area. Just follow the signs for Namaskard or Namafjall, and you’ll be at the steaming fumaroles and bubbling mud pools in no time.

Joining Guided Tours to Namaskard Pass

If you prefer a more relaxed option, you can join one of several guided tours available:

• 6-Hour Tour of Lake Myvatn & Godafoss for Cruise Ships with Transfer from Akureyri Port – Perfect if you’re visiting by cruise, combining geothermal features, waterfalls, and stunning landscapes.

• Diamond Circle Minibus Tour in North Iceland with Transfer from Akureyri – Explore Namaskard, Husavik, Dettifoss, and other North Iceland highlights with ease.

• Private 10-Hour Diamond Circle Minibus Tour from Akureyri – Explore Namaskard and other North Iceland highlights with a private guide.

• Geological Wonders 6-Hour Hot Springs, Waterfall & Volcanoes Tour from Akureyri – A focused tour showcasing geothermal areas, waterfalls, and volcanic scenery.

• 6-Day Guided Adventure Trip Around Iceland’s Full Ring Road – A longer adventure that includes Namaskard as part of a full-country exploration.

These tours are perfect if you want to experience Namaskard and the surrounding volcanic landscapes without worrying about driving or navigation.

Volcanic Geology of Namaskard Geothermal Area

Namaskard is part of the Krafla Volcanic System, one of Iceland’s most active volcanic zones. It was created by repeated volcanic eruptions and geothermal activity over thousands of years, which heated the ground, deposited minerals, and shaped the steaming landscape you see today.

The area is notable for its barren landscape, with no vegetation growing on its slopes. This is due to the intense heat beneath the earth, the acidic soil, and the poisonous gases being released.

The air smells strongly of sulphur, which, while unpleasant, is a constant reminder of the powerful geothermal forces at work beneath your feet. Although it would be harmful to breathe it for too long, a visit of a few hours poses no danger.

While exploring Namaskard, be sure not to touch the running water, as it is likely boiling. Also, keep a safe distance from Namaskard hot springs, since the land around them can be unstable and scalding steam may escape from just beneath the surface.

What You’ll See at Namaskard in Iceland

Namaskard is a feast for the eyes, even if the smell is a little intense! The area is full of steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pools, and vividly colored geothermal ground. Expect to see striking shades of red, orange, yellow, and green, especially around Namaskard hot springs and vents where minerals rise to the surface.

You’ll also notice the constant wisps of steam rising from cracks in the ground. The barren slopes give the place a stark beauty, making the colorful geothermal features stand out even more.

Boardwalks and marked paths guide you safely through the area, letting you get close enough to watch the mud bubble and steam vent, but keeping you away from dangerous boiling water and unstable ground.

Just south of Namaskard is the Namafjall Mountain, a geothermal area with its eastern slopes streaked yellow from the geothermal fumes. At the foothills of Namafjall, you’ll find the Hverir Geothermal Area. Here, a series of fumaroles, mud pots, and colorful pools shift and change with the heat and mineral activity, creating a constantly evolving, otherworldly landscape.

Facilities at Namaskard Pass

Visiting Namaskard Pass is easy and accessible, and entry is free. The site is open 24 hours a day, year-round, so you can stop whenever you’re traveling along the Ring Road.

A parking area is located right off the Ring Road, with a parking fee.

Recently, paid restrooms have been added on-site, which is a helpful upgrade for visitors. However, there are still no cafes or visitor centers at the Namaskard Geothermal Area. The nearest additional services are:

• Reykjahlid Village – About 3 miles (5 kilometers) away, where you can find gas stations, restaurants, a supermarket, and accommodations.

• Earth Lagoon Myvatn – Around 1.8 miles (3 kilometers) away, where you can enjoy geothermal baths and a cafe.

Because facilities are limited, it’s a good idea to bring water, snacks, and any essentials with you when visiting Namaskard Pass.

Best Time To Visit Namaskard Pass

You can visit Namaskard in Iceland year-round, but the summer months from June to August are generally the most pleasant. The weather is milder, the roads are easier to navigate, and the paths around the Namaskard Geothermal Area are safer to explore.

This is the perfect time to fully enjoy bubbling Namaskard hot springs and vividly colored mineral-stained ground. If you’re planning your own adventure, consider choosing from summer self-drive tours in Iceland to explore Namaskard and the surrounding North Iceland landscapes at your own pace.

Winter visits to Namaskard are possible and can be magical, especially for chasing the northern lights, but heavy snow and icy conditions mean you’ll need extra caution. If you’re up for it, winter self-drive adventures let you experience Namaskard Pass in a quieter, snow-dusted setting, though it’s important to understand driving in Iceland in winter before hitting the roads.

Nearby Attractions To Combine with Namaskard Pass

Namaskard Pass is surrounded by some of the must-see attractions in North Iceland. Whether you’re into geothermal areas, waterfalls, lava fields, or wildlife, there are plenty of attractions nearby to make your visit even more memorable.

• Krafla Volcano & Viti Crater – Explore this active volcanic area and the geothermal Viti Crater, a striking blue-green crater lake surrounded by steaming vents.

• Lake Myvatn – A scenic area known for birdwatching, unique lava formations, and its peaceful lakeside beauty.

• Grjotagja Cave – A small lava cave with a geothermal hot spring inside, famous for being one of Game of Thrones filming locations.

• Skutustadagigar Pseudo Craters – A field of small craters formed by steam explosions, perfect for easy hikes and photography.

• Dimmuborgir Lava Field – Dramatic lava formations creating “castles” and caves, ideal for walking and exploring Icelandic folklore.

• Earth Lagoon Myvatn – A relaxing geothermal pool with a cafe, great for warming up after exploring the area.

• Godafoss Waterfall – Known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” this stunning waterfall is easily accessible and photo-worthy.

• Dettifoss Waterfall – One of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls, showcasing the raw energy of Iceland’s rivers.

• Asbyrgi Canyon – A horseshoe-shaped gorge with lush greenery, hiking trails, and peaceful viewpoints.

• Husavik – Famous for whale watching tours, a charming harbor, and small local restaurants.

• Akureyri – The capital of North Iceland, offering Akureyri accommodations, dining, and tour options for visitors exploring the region.

Tips for Visiting Namaskard Pass

A few local tips can help you make the most of your visit to Namaskard Pass and stay safe while exploring this geothermal wonder.

• Wear waterproof hiking boots or shoes. The ground can be uneven, and some areas near the hot springs and fumaroles are slippery or unstable.

• Dress in layers. Even during summer in Iceland, the wind at Namaskard can be chilly, and steam from the geothermal areas can make the air feel damp.

• Bring a windproof jacket. The pass is exposed, and gusts can be strong between Namafjall and Dalfjall.

• Stay on marked paths. The ground near the hot springs is fragile and sometimes dangerously hot underneath. Don’t step off the boardwalks.

• Protect your camera and electronics. Steam and acidic mineral deposits can leave residue on lenses and devices, so bring a waterproof camera cover or zip-lock bag. Also, consider a microfiber cloth to wipe off any droplets.

• Visit early or later in the day. Time your visit during these hours if you want photos without too many tourists from guided tours or Ring Road traffic.

• Bring snacks and water. There are no facilities at Namaskard itself; the nearest options are Reykjahlid Village and the Earth Lagoon Myvatn.

• Always check weather updates. The weather in Iceland can change quickly; sudden fog or rain can make walking around the pass more challenging. Check the weather and road conditions before going.

FAQs About Namaskard in Iceland

Got questions about visiting Namaskard Pass in Iceland? Here are the answers to the most common ones to help you plan your trip.

Is Namaskard in Iceland free to visit?

Yes! Entry to Namaskard Pass and the Namaskard Geothermal Area is completely free, and the site is open 24 hours a day, year-round. However, there is a small parking fee for vehicles using the lot located just off the Ring Road.

Where can I park at Namaskard Iceland?

There is a parking area right off the Ring Road with space for cars and tour buses. A small parking fee applies, making access to the geothermal area convenient.

Is Namaskard suitable for all ages?

Yes, the Namaskard Area is family-friendly, but small children should be closely supervised, as some spots near the hot springs and fumaroles are dangerously hot or unstable.

Can you walk everywhere in Namaskard?

No, you can’t walk everywhere in Namaskard and should stay on marked boardwalks and paths. The ground around hot springs and vents can be fragile and unsafe if you step off the trails.

How long should I spend at Namaskard Pass?

Most visitors spend 30 minutes to 1 hour at Namaskard, enough to explore the steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pools, and colorful geothermal features, take photos, and enjoy the scenery.

Is it safe to visit Namaskard in winter?

Yes, you can safely visit Namaskard in winter, but do so with caution. Snow and icy conditions can make paths slippery and access more difficult, so check road conditions and consider guided tours or winter self-drive adventures.

Can you visit Namaskard at night?

Absolutely! Namaskard is open 24/7, making it possible to explore the area at night. Visiting after dark in winter may even give you a chance to spot the northern lights over the geothermal landscape.

What should I bring when visiting Namaskard?

When you visit Namaskard, make sure to bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities at the geothermal area itself. A windproof jacket is also recommended, especially in cooler months.

Are there toilets or cafes at Namaskard?

Paid restrooms are now available on-site at Namaskard Pass. However, there are still no cafes or visitor centers in the area. For additional services, head to Reykjahlid (about 3 miles / 5 kilometers away) or the Earth Lagoon at Myvatn (about 1.8 miles / 3 kilometers), where you’ll find cafes, more facilities, and some lodging options.

Do I need a guide to visit Namaskard?

You don’t necessarily need a guide to visit Namaskard. The area is easy to explore on your own, but guided tours can provide extra context about the geothermal features and the Krafla volcanic system in general.

Can I take photos at Namaskard?

Yes! The colorful geothermal ground, steaming vents, and surrounding mountains at Namaskard make for incredible photos. Just be careful to stay on marked paths to protect yourself and the environment.

Why Namaskard Should Be on Your Iceland Itinerary

A visit to Namaskard Pass is a chance to see some of Iceland’s most dramatic natural wonders. Witness steaming fumaroles and bubbling mud pools, and see vibrant, mineral-streaked slopes of Namafjall.

Whether you’re traveling on your own or exploring the north on guided tours in Iceland, this geothermal hotspot is a must-see stop that captures the raw power of the country’s volcanic landscape. And if you’re planning a longer adventure, consider combining Namaskard with other attractions along the Ring Road through vacation packages in Iceland.

Namaskard Pass is a unique stop that offers both awe-inspiring scenery and a taste of Iceland’s geothermal energy in action!