Tucked away in North Iceland, Lake Myvatn is a volcanic lake that’s known for its striking, blue water. Known for its diverse birdlife, nearby geothermal areas, and jaw dropping scenery, this is your guide to visiting Lake Myvatn with a rental car.
Where is Lake Mývatn and Why Visit?
Lake Myvatn is located about 1 hour east of Iceland’s “Northern Capital” of Akureyri. A volcanic lake and one of the largest bodies of water in the country, the areas that surround Lake Myvatn are geothermally active with steaming fumaroles, lava fields, pseudo craters, and mud pits burbling away.
A large basaltic lava eruption occurred over 2300 years ago, blocking a river and creating the Lake Myvatn we know it. As the lava traveled into the Arctic Ocean, it caused a steam explosion which led to the creation of pseudocraters, which you can see around the lake today.
The Myvatn area is a haven for bird watchers, nature lovers, and photographers due to its incredible avian biodiversity and striking landscapes.
Top Attractions Around Lake Mývatn
Hverfjall Crater
Hiking lovers can’t miss the opportunity to experience the Hverfjall Crater. Towering 1,300 feet tall, this crater is a high tephra explosion crater.
Visitors can hike up the craters slopes on one of two trails, which takes around 20 minutes. From the top, you’ll have panoramic views of the crater and Lake Myvatn in the distance.
Dimmuborgir Lava Formations
Unique lava formations that almost resemble a magical fortress, Dimmuborgir is a lava rock formation that’s said to be home to the 13 mischievous Yule Lads, Iceland’s answer to Santa Claus. Visitors can hike through lava pillars and archways formed by volcanic eruptions thousands of years ago.
Mývatn Nature Baths
Northern Icelands answer to the Blue Lagoon, the Myvatn Nature Baths might be the one of the best man made hot springs in the country. Take a dip in the milky, blue geothermal waters, known for their healing properties, and surrounded by dramatic scenery.
Water is drawn from 2,500 meters below the earth’s surface and pumped into the pools at Myvatn Nature Baths, providing ultimate relaxation.
Steam baths and other spa facilities are available in this incredible nature bath. You’ll also find a swim up bar with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to celebrate your trip to Myvatn.
Bird Watching and Duck Species
Lake Mývatn is a dream spot for bird lovers! This nature reserve is home to an incredible variety of birdlife, making it one of the best places in Iceland for spotting rare and beautiful species. With its nutrient-rich waters and thriving ecosystem, the lake attracts more species of ducks than anywhere else in Europe—15 in total!
The most famous among them is the colorful Harlequin Duck, which can be found in large numbers along the upper reaches of the Laxá River. You’ll also see Barrow’s Goldeneye, a species that breeds nowhere else in Europe. Other common sightings include Eurasian wigeons, tufted ducks, common scoters, and even the mighty gyr falcon soaring above.
But it’s not just the birds that make this area special. Lake Mývatn is Iceland’s fourth-largest lake, shaped by volcanic eruptions and bubbling geothermal activity over thousands of years. The rich waters support a booming insect population (yes, midges too—so pack a bug net!), which in turn sustains the lake’s fish, birds, and other wildlife. Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or just a nature lover, this region offers a front-row seat to Iceland’s incredible biodiversity.
5. Skútustaðagígar Pseudo Craters
As mentioned previously, the southern part of Myvatn is known for its pseudo craters, formed by a previous volcanic eruption and steam explosions. The Skutustaðagigar Pseudo Craters have created an almost otherworldly landscape, called so due to the fact that the craters weren’t formed by individual volcanic eruptions.
Visitors can experience the craters on hiking trails that wind through these picturesque geological formations.
6. Víti Crater Lake
Just 10 minutes from Lake Myvatn, Viti Crater Lake is a stunning example of Iceland’s volcanic power. This dramatic, electric blue body of water was formed by a volcanic eruption and loved by both geology enthusiasts and photographers.
7. Geothermal Areas (Námaskarð and Krafla)
Lake Myvatn has two geothermal areas located nearby. Namaskarð is located on Mount Namafjall and is home to boiling hot springs, mud pools, and fumaroles, while Krafla is the name of the larger volcanic region and the nearby Geothermal Center that harnesses the power of the volcano. Both are connected to the Krafla volcano system. Both are within 30 minutes of Lake Myvatn.
How to Get to Lake Mývatn
Getting to Lake Myvatn is relatively easy as you’ll follow Iceland’s famous Ring Road most of the way.
To reach Lake Myvatn from Reykjavik, take the Ring Road, also known as Route 1, north in a clockwise direction. Most of the northern edge of the lake can be accessed from this road as it runs right along the shoreline. Route 848 can be used to access the southern edge of Lake Myvatn. The journey takes about 5 hours and 45 minutes from Reykjavik.
Getting to Lake Myvatn from Akureyri is also simple as you’ll follow the Ring Road in the same direction. It takes just 1 hour to reach Lake Myvatn from Akureyri.
Road conditions vary depending on the time of year. It’s important to check road conditions on Iceland’s official weather (vedur.is) and roadway (road.is) websites before heading out.
The route to reach this beautiful area has plenty of gorgeous stops along the way, too, like the thundering Goðafoss Waterfall.
- Related reading: Iceland Waterfall Map: The 11 Best to See + Location
Best Time to Visit Mývatn
Lake Mývatn is stunning year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what kind of adventure you’re looking for! Whether you’re chasing the endless daylight of summer or the magical northern lights in winter, here’s what to expect in each season:
Summer (May–August):
Summer is hands-down the best time for outdoor exploration in Mývatn. With nearly 24 hours of daylight, you’ll have all the time in the world to explore the region’s unique landscapes, from bubbling mud pools to craggy lava formations. It’s also the peak season for birdwatching—Lake Mývatn is a nature reserve famous for having the most species of ducks in Europe. The warmer temperatures (ranging from 10–15°C) make it perfect for hiking trails around Hverfjall Crater, Dimmuborgir lava fields, and the geothermal hot springs.
However, summer also brings Mývatn’s notorious midges, tiny insects that swarm around the lake. They don’t bite, but they can be a nuisance, so bring a bug net or repellent to stay comfortable while enjoying the views.
Winter (November–March)
If you’re up for a winter road trip, Mývatn transforms into an otherworldly snow-covered paradise. This is one of the best places in Iceland to see the northern lights, thanks to the remote location and minimal light pollution. The Mývatn Nature Baths are an absolute must-visit—imagine soaking in naturally heated blue waters while surrounded by snow!
That said, winter driving in this region is not for the inexperienced. Snowstorms, icy roads, and unpredictable conditions can make the drive challenging, especially around the largest lake in North Iceland. If you’re planning to visit in winter, rent a 4×4 vehicle with studded tires, check road conditions daily, and be prepared for sudden weather changes. If you’re unsure about driving, consider joining a guided tour instead.
What Rental Car is Best for Exploring Mývatn?
Choosing the best rental car for your trip to Lake Myvatn will depend on what season you’re planning to visit in.
Summer travelers can get by with a basic 2WD vehicle as most roads that surround the lake are well-paved and in good condition.
In winter, visitors will need a 4WD vehicle to handle the icy roads and potential snow. It’s extremely important to make sure your car is equipped with snow tires in the cold winter months as the weather can change quickly, making it difficult to navigate on Lake Myvatn’s more remote roadways.
Firefly Iceland offers affordable rental car options, something that’s rare in the Land of Fire and Ice, and both 2WD and 4WD options that also include snow tires for winter visitors. Notorious for expensive prices, this is especially great for budget-conscious travelers.
Book your rental car with Firefly Iceland today for cheap rates and a reliable fleet of vehicles!
Conclusion
Get started planning your trip to Lake Myvatn today by booking a rental car with Firefly Iceland! You’ll have the flexibility to explore every corner of the lake, spotting rare birds and unforgettable geothermal activity along the way.
