Experience the power of nature at the Namafjall Geothermal Area, where boiling mud pools and steaming vents turn the earth into a living, breathing landscape. Explore how to get there, when to visit, and what makes Namafjall a must-see in North Iceland’s volcanic heart with this guide.
The Namafjall Geothermal Area, also called Hverir, is one of the must-see destinations in North Iceland. It sits just east of Lake Myvatn, right beside the Ring Road, and is part of the Krafla Volcanic System. You can easily visit by joining Myvatn tours or, for more flexibility, rent a car and explore the area at your own pace.
The area features active steam vents, bubbling mud pools, and mineral-stained ground in shades of yellow, red, and brown. The air smells strongly of sulfur, and the heat underfoot is constant, giving you a clear sense of the volcanic activity below.
Namafjall is easy to explore on foot, with marked paths that let you safely wander between the vents and pools. The area isn’t large, but it’s visually striking and packed with activity, making it one of the most memorable stops along the Ring Road or the popular Diamond Circle route in North Iceland.
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The Difference Between Namafjall, Hverir, and Namaskard
The names Namafjall, Hverir, and Namaskard often come up together, which can be confusing at first. They’re all part of the same geothermal area east of Lake Myvatn, but each refers to a different feature of the landscape.
Namafjall is the mountain that overlooks the geothermal field. You can see it clearly from the road, its slopes tinted with red and yellow from the minerals in the soil. A walking trail leads to the top, where you get wide views over the surrounding hills and steam vents below.
Hverir is the geothermal field at the foot of the mountain. This is where you’ll find the steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and the strong smell of sulfur that gives the place its character. The ground here is hot and soft, so it’s important to keep to the marked paths as you walk through for safety.
Namaskard refers to the mountain pass beside Namafjall. The area has the same kind of geothermal activity, and you’ll often see steam rising from the ground as you drive through.
All three spots belong to the same geothermal system within the Krafla Volcanic Region. You might also see the name Hverarond used for this area, though it’s less common today.
How To Get to Namafjall
Namafjall is located in North Iceland along Route 1, the Ring Road, about 4 miles (6 kilometers) east of Reykjahlid Village and Lake Myvatn. The geothermal field sits right beside the road and is easy to spot from a distance because of the rising steam.
Driving is the simplest way to reach the area. You can rent a car and follow the Ring Road, which passes right by the site. From Akureyri, it’s about 56 miles (90 kilometers) and takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. From Egilsstadir, it’s roughly 99 miles (160 kilometers) or about 1 hour and 50 minutes, while the drive from Reykjavik covers around 295 miles (475 kilometers) and takes close to six hours.
Namafjall is also included in many North Iceland tours. Tours from Akureyri or Lake Myvatn often combine stops at the Earth Lagoon Myvatn, Dimmuborgir Lava Field, and the Krafla Volcanic Area. Diamond Circle tours usually include Namafjall along with Godafoss Waterfall, Dettifoss Waterfall, and Husavik. These tours are ideal if you want local guidance or prefer not to drive in Icelandic conditions.
Hiking Namafjall Mountain
The trail up Namafjall starts near the parking area beside the Hverir Geothermal Field. It’s an easy-to-moderate hike, roughly 1.5 miles (2.5 kilometers) long with about 400 feet (120 meters) of elevation gain. Most people complete the loop in around an hour, depending on conditions.
There are two main routes. The right-hand path climbs gradually and is the easier option, while the left-hand path is steeper and follows a looser slope. The ground is mostly gravel and volcanic ash, so take care on uneven or slippery sections. Both paths meet at the ridge, where you’ll find open views over the steam fields, Lake Myvatn, and the Krafla Volcanic Area.
The trail is fully exposed, so be prepared for wind and changing weather. A windproof jacket is useful, and sturdy shoes with good grip make the climb safer. The trail is marked from the parking area and remains accessible most of the year, though winter conditions can be icy.
Best Time to Visit Namafjall
The best time to visit the Namafjall Geothermal Area is from June to September. During these summer months, the roads are clear, the trails are dry, and the weather is mild enough for walking around the geothermal field or hiking up the mountain. Daylight lasts well into the night, making it easy to fit Namafjall into a full day of exploring the Myvatn region or the Diamond Circle route.
Outside the summer season, the area remains open, but conditions change. Winter (November to March) brings snow, ice, and limited daylight. The geothermal field is still accessible, but the ground can be slippery, and 4x4 vehicles are recommended for driving in North Iceland. Steam rising through the snow creates a dramatic view, but you’ll need to dress for sub-zero temperatures and strong winds.
Spring and autumn are less predictable. Roads are usually open, but sudden weather shifts and lingering snow are common. These months are quieter, which can be an advantage if you want to avoid crowds, though visibility and comfort depend heavily on conditions.
No matter when you go, always check vedur.is for weather updates and umferdin.is/road.is for road conditions before you travel.
Facilities, Parking, and Entrance Fees at Namafjall Geothermal Area
Access to the Namafjall Geothermal Area is free, and the site is open 24 hours a day, year-round. There are no gates or fixed hours, so you can stop at any time while traveling along the Ring Road.
A parking area is located beside the geothermal field, with space for cars and tour buses. A parking fee applies and can be paid at the machine on-site.
There are no restrooms, cafés, or visitor facilities at Namafjall. The nearest services are in Reykjahlid Village, about 4 miles (6 kilometers) west, or at the Earth Lagoon Myvatn, which has restrooms, a café, and a small shop.
Attractions Near Namafjall
The Namafjall Geothermal Area sits in one of North Iceland’s most active and scenic regions. Several major natural attractions are within a short drive, making it easy to include Namafjall in a full day of sightseeing.
Lake Myvatn Area
Just a few miles west of Namafjall, the Lake Myvatn region is home to several popular stops. One of these is the Dimmuborgir Lava Fields, known for their dramatic volcanic rock formations. Grjotagja Cave is another highlight, a small lava cave with a naturally heated spring that appeared in the television series Game of Thrones.
You can explore many of these sites on a guided Lake Myvatn and hot springs tour from Akureyri, which includes stops at the region’s main geothermal and volcanic landmarks.
Earth Lagoon Myvatn
Just west of Namafjall lies Earth Lagoon Myvatn (formerly Myvatn Nature Baths), one of the best places to experience Iceland's geothermal power firsthand. The lagoon’s warm, mineral-rich waters are heated by the same volcanic system that fuels Namafjall’s steam vents and mud pools.
The geothermal energy is drawn from deep boreholes that tap directly into the earth’s natural heat, creating a sustainable and soothing bathing experience. With panoramic views over the lava fields and Lake Myvatn, Earth Lagoon is the perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring the area’s volcanic landscapes.
Krafla Volcanic Region
A short drive east of Namafjall leads into the Krafla Geothermal Area, one of Iceland’s most active volcanic zones. Viti Crater is the main highlight, a turquoise lake formed inside a large explosion crater, while the Leirhnjukur Volcano features a rugged lava field with steaming vents and hardened lava from recent eruptions.
Marked trails wind through the area, allowing you to safely explore the geothermal terrain and observe the heat still rising from the ground. Askja and Viti Crater tours are also available for those interested in seeing more of Iceland’s volcanic landscapes.
Akureyri
Located about 55 miles (90 kilometers) west of Namafjall, Akureyri is North Iceland’s cultural center and one of the region’s most scenic towns. Known as the “Capital of the North,” it sits along Eyjafjordur Fjord, surrounded by snowcapped mountains and dramatic coastal views. Its location makes it a convenient starting point for Akureyri tours that visit Namafjall, Lake Myvatn, and other major stops along the Diamond Circle.
The town itself offers several attractions, including the Akureyri Botanical Garden, the Akureyri Church, and a lively downtown filled with cafés, museums, and local shops. The Akureyri Swimming Pool, one of the best swimming pools in Iceland, features hot tubs, slides, and naturally heated pools.
The Diamond Circle Route
Namafjall is part of the Diamond Circle, a 155- to 160-mile (250- to 260-kilometer) driving route through North Iceland. Other key stops along the route include Godafoss Waterfall, Dettifoss Waterfall, Asbyrgi Canyon, and the town of Husavik, known for whale watching tours and the Husavik Whale Museum.
Several Diamond Circle tours make it easy to explore these natural landmarks in a single day. One of the most popular options is the Diamond Circle Tour from Akureyri with Lake Myvatn & Asbyrgi Canyon, which includes visits to some of the region’s most impressive geothermal, volcanic, and coastal sites.
Frequently Asked Questions About Namafjall Geothermal Area
Here are the most frequently asked questions about visiting the Namafjall Geothermal Area to help you plan your trip.
What is the difference between Namafjall and Hverir?
Namafjall is the mountain that overlooks the geothermal field, while Hverir refers to the geothermal area at its base. Both are part of the same active geothermal system in North Iceland near Lake Myvatn.
Where is the Namafjall Geothermal Area located?
The Namafjall Geothermal Area is just east of Lake Myvatn, along Route 1 (the Ring Road) in North Iceland. It’s about 4 miles (6 kilometers) from the village of Reykjahlid and easy to reach by car from Akureyri or Egilsstadir.
How long should I plan to spend at Namafjall?
Most people spend about 30 to 45 minutes exploring the geothermal field. If you include the short hike up Namafjall Mountain, plan for around an hour.
Do I need to join a guided tour to visit Namafjall Geothermal Area?
You don’t need a guided tour to visit Namafjall Geothermal Area, as it’s easily accessible by car. However, guided tours from Akureyri or Lake Myvatn are available and often include stops at other Diamond Circle attractions such as Dettifoss and Godafoss.
When is the best time to visit Namafjall Geothermal Area?
The best time to visit Namafjall Geothermal Area is from June to September, when weather conditions are mild and roads are clear. Winter visits between November and March are also possible, but require a 4x4 vehicle and caution due to snow and ice.
What should I wear or bring when visiting Namafjall?
Wear a waterproof and windproof jacket, layered clothing, and sturdy footwear with good grip. Bring a scarf or mask to manage the sulfur smell, insect repellent for summer midges, and protect your camera gear from steam and moisture.
Is there an entrance fee for Namafjall Geothermal Area?
Entrance to Namafjall Geothermal Area is free. A parking fee applies at the lot beside the geothermal field.
Are there facilities at Namafjall Geothermal Area?
There are no restrooms, cafés, or visitor centers at Namafjall. The nearest facilities are in Reykjahlid Village or at Earth Lagoon Myvatn, both a short drive away.
What attractions are near Namafjall?
Nearby attractions include Earth Lagoon Myvatn, Dimmuborgir Lava Fields, Grjotagja Cave, Viti Crater, Leirhnjukur Lava Field, Godafoss Waterfall, Dettifoss Waterfall, Asbyrgi Canyon, and the town of Husavik, known for whale watching tours.
Is Namafjall Geothermal Area safe for children and older travelers?
Yes, as long as everyone stays on the marked paths. The ground is unstable and very hot in places, so children should be supervised, and anyone with limited mobility should walk carefully near vents and soft ground.
Planning Your Visit to Namafjall Geothermal Area
Namafjall Geothermal Area fits naturally into both guided tours and self-drive trips around North Iceland. It’s located right along the Ring Road, making it one of the easiest geothermal sites in the country to visit without detouring.
The stop connects easily with major Diamond Circle attractions and is often included in tours from Akureyri or Lake Myvatn alongside Dettifoss Waterfall and the Krafla region, offering a full view of Iceland’s volcanic landscape in one day.
The site is compact but distinctive, offering a clear look at how Iceland’s geothermal energy shapes both the environment and daily life in the north. Visiting Namafjall gives a lasting impression of Iceland’s natural power and how deeply it’s connected to the landscape itself.
