Lake Mývatn is a shallow lake in an area of active volcanism in northeast Iceland, created about 2,300 years ago by a huge basaltic lava eruption. Its name literally means 'Midge Lake,' and its nutrient-rich waters host fifteen breeding duck species - the largest number in Europe - making it a Ramsar wetland protected by Icelandic law since 1974. Pseudocraters, lava pillars, an explosion crater, and bubbling geothermal fields are packed into a small radius, making Mývatn the centerpiece of North Iceland's Diamond Circle. As of July 2026 the summer midnight sun means no northern lights, but it is prime season for birdwatching and volcanic-landscape hiking.
Skútustaðagígar pseudocraters - a protected cluster of rootless craters on the south shore with an easy walking loop
Dimmuborgir, the 'Dark Castles' - a maze of dramatic lava pillars; stay on marked paths as the rock is brittle and climbing is banned
Hverfjall crater - a roughly 1 km-wide tephra explosion crater about 2,500 years old, with a rim hike offering panoramic views over the whole area
Hverir / Námafjall geothermal field - a Mars-like landscape of boiling mud pots and hissing sulphur steam vents
Höfði promontory and the lakeshore for waterfowl birdwatching, plus Grjótagjá lava cave hot spring (viewing only, bathing prohibited)
Good to know
SeasonTrue to its name 'Midge Lake,' summer brings dense swarms of flies. They peak in late May to early June and again in July; most are the non-biting nuisance kind but cluster around eyes, nose and mouth. Bring a mesh head net (also sold at Icelandic supermarkets and outdoor shops).
SeasonIn July the midnight sun keeps the sky bright all night, so the northern lights cannot be seen. Mývatn markets itself as an 'aurora capital,' but the aurora season runs roughly September to April; set summer expectations toward birds and bright-night hiking.
RulesGrjótagjá cave sits on private land (Vogar farm) and bathing is prohibited because the water runs unstably hot. For a soak, use Earth Lagoon (the former Mývatn Nature Baths) - check current opening hours, prices and booking, as they may change.
RulesTo protect lava and vegetation, walk only on marked trails; do not stack rock cairns or leave graffiti, and off-road driving is illegal. In designated bird-protection zones, hiking is allowed only on marked trails from 15 May to 20 July.
SafetyGeothermal fields such as Hverir are boiling just below the crust. Never step past ropes or markers, and keep away from steaming mud pools. Icelandic weather and road conditions change fast, so check road.is (Vegagerdin) before setting out.
MannersThe whole lake is an internationally important wetland reserve. Do not approach nesting birds or chicks, keep noise down, and confirm drone rules (updated in 2026) before flying in the protected area. Carry out all your litter.
CautionIceland has very little petty crime or overcharging and is very safe, but book baths and tours through official channels (Earth Lagoon, licensed operators), since some third-party resellers add markups. This is a rural area with few cash ATMs, so plan to pay by card.
Practical info
Mývatn lies on the Ring Road (Route 1), about 100 km east of Akureyri (roughly a 1 hour 15 minute drive). The lakeside village of Reykjahlíð is the local base, and a loop road around the lake links the main sights. The lake is a free open area, though some car parks and facilities (e.g. Dimmuborgir) may charge, and Earth Lagoon's hours and prices should be checked before your visit (reopened in 2026 after an early-2026 rebuild).
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