Dimmuborgir & Hverfjall

The bizarre volcanic formations in the Dimmuborgir area are a highlight of the Mývatn area.

Dimmuborgir & Hverfjall

The Hverfjall and Dimmuborgir areas are located in the Myvatn region of the north, and they are known for their stunning volcanic landscapes and geological formations. The area around Mývatn ("mosquito lake") in the North is something very special. Not only is it one of the most geothermal areas in the country, it's also relatively new: the lake and some of the surrounding hills are merely 2000 years old!

Hiking around the Hverfjall and Dimmuborgir areas in the north of Iceland is a popular activity that offers beautiful views and the opportunity to explore a unique and fascinating landscape. One popular hiking trail in the area is the trail around Hverfjall, a large, circular volcanic crater that offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The trail is relatively easy and takes about an hour to complete. Another popular hike in the area is the trail through Dimmuborgir, a series of volcanic caves and tunnels that are said to be the home of the Icelandic Yule Lads. When hiking around Hverfjall and Dimmuborgir, it is important to come prepared with the right gear and supplies, including proper clothing, water, and snacks.

The hike around the Dimmuborgir area is very nice, because the geography is unique. The "dark castles" that the area is named after are a direct result of volcanic activity. Make sure to follow the signs to the large cave called "the cathedral"! See if you can find the other cave where the troll family lives.

After Dimmuborgir, go up the Hverfjall crater via one of the two paths and enjoy the views over the steaming lake. On good days, you can look right into the highlands if you look south.

Enjoy a hot coffee in Kaffi Borgir afterwards to warm up.

hike

type

2-3 hours

duration

7 km

distance

2/5

difficulty

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temperature

Conditions

Weather today

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Forecast

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Road conditions

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Details

duration

2-3 hours

distance

7 km

difficulty

2/5 - Easy to find with clear marked paths. Optional steep ascent to Hverfjall.

tourist density

medium

Nearby

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Food & Drink

Kaffi Borgir, Dimmuborgir, 660 Mývatn, Island

Food & Drink

Daddi's Pizza, Vogar, 660 Mývatn, Island

Food & Drink

Vogafjós Farm Resort, Vogar, 660 Myvatn, Island

Toilets

Kaffi Borgir, Dimmuborgir, 660 Mývatn, Island

Supermarkets

Korbúðin, Reykjahlíð, Island

Hotels and camp grounds

Camping Vogar, Vogar, 660 Mývatn, Island

Hotels and camp grounds

Vogar Farm Guesthouse, Vogar 1, Myvatn, Island

Location

(Nearest) address

Dimmuborgir, Iceland

Accessiblity

Directly at paved road.

GPS Coordinates

65.585500, -16.902389

Distance to Reykjavík

Reykjavík is 470 km away. It takes about 360 minutes (or 6 hours) to drive by car.

Distance to nearest town

Akureyri is the nearest city at 85 km distance. It takes about 70 minutes (or 1.2 hours) to drive by car.

Parking

Summary

Large, paved parking lot

Way to start of hike

starts at the parking lot.

GPS Coordinates

65.591808, -16.913189

Google Maps Plus Code

H3PX+52 Skutustadhir, Iceland

Capacity

around 200

Security

none

Alternative

none

Costs

free

Tips for visiting

Recommended Car Type

normal car, no 4x4-drive needed

Don't miss

The view over the geothermal active region and the feeling of standing on a hot cauldron...

Recommended Equipment

Sturdy sports or hiking shoes.

Photo Opportunities

On a clear day from Hverfjall south into the highlands.

Do's and don't

Stay on the paths, take enough to drink and eat, don't leave trash behind.

Things to watch out for

The sides of the Hverfjall cone are slippery with sand and small gravel. In winter, the area might not be cleared for pedestrian traffic.

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