Hverfjall Crater, Iceland: A Self-Drive Guide

In the heart of North Iceland’s dramatic volcanic region lies a natural wonder of staggering scale and perfect symmetry: Hverfjall crater. Also known as Hverfell, this colossal tephra ring rises from the earth near Lake Mývatn, its dark, imposing form a testament to the raw power that has shaped this corner of the world. A hike to its summit offers not just a physical challenge, but a journey into Iceland's geological past, rewarded with some of the most breathtaking panoramic views imaginable.

For those undertaking a self-drive Iceland tour, Hverfjall is an unmissable highlight. This guide provides everything you need to plan your visit, from choosing the right vehicle to understanding the crater's formation. Discover how exploring with a rental car offers the freedom to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of the Mývatn area and how Höldur Car Rental ensures your journey is smooth from start to finish.

Getting to Hverfjall Crater

Hverfjall is a prominent landmark in the Lake Mývatn area, making it an accessible and rewarding stop on any North Iceland itinerary. Its location just off the Ring Road means you can easily integrate it into your travel plans.

From Reykjavík

The journey from Reykjavík to Hverfjall covers approximately 470 kilometers (around 292 miles) and takes about six hours of continuous driving. This route primarily follows Iceland's main Ring Road (Route 1) eastward. However, we highly recommend breaking up the trip over two or more days. This allows you to explore other incredible regions along the way, such as the Snæfellsnes Peninsula or the charming towns of the north coast, transforming the drive into a scenic expedition.

From Akureyri

If you are basing yourself in Akureyri, the "Capital of the North," Hverfjall is a simple and scenic drive away. The 90-kilometer (56-mile) trip east along Route 1 takes just over an hour, making it an easy day trip. The drive itself winds through beautiful valleys and offers your first glimpse of the unique Mývatn landscape.

From Lake Mývatn

For those staying in the immediate Lake Mývatn area, Hverfjall is right on your doorstep. The crater is easily reached from the Ring Road by turning onto Route 848. Well-marked signs will guide you to one of two official car parks at the base of the crater, each providing access to a designated hiking trail.

Recommended Vehicles for Your Trip

The road to the Hverfjall car park is a gravel track, but it is generally well-maintained. Your choice of vehicle should depend on the season and your overall travel plans.

• Summer (May–September): During the summer months, a standard 2WD vehicle is perfectly adequate for reaching Hverfjall and navigating the paved and gravel roads around Lake Mývatn.
• Winter (October–April): North Iceland experiences significant snow and ice during winter. For your safety and comfort, a 4x4 rental car in Iceland is strongly recommended. A 4x4 with studded winter tires provides superior traction and stability, giving you the confidence to handle unpredictable road conditions.

Höldur offers a diverse fleet to suit every need, from compact cars for summer Ring Road trips to robust 4x4s for winter expeditions. You can conveniently start your adventure from our premium locations, including the arrivals hall at Keflavik International Airport or our office in Central Reykjavik.

What to Do at Hverfjall

Hverfjall is more than just a destination; it's an experience. The main activity is the hike to the rim, but the rewards extend far beyond the crater itself.

Hike to the Crater Rim

Two designated paths lead to the top of Hverfjall—one from the car park to the north and another from the car park to the south. It is crucial to stay on these marked trails to protect the fragile environment and prevent erosion. The ascent is short but steep, taking about 15-20 minutes. While it will get your heart pumping, it is manageable for most people with a reasonable level of fitness.

Once you reach the top, the sheer scale of the crater becomes apparent. You are standing on the rim of a nearly perfect circle, one kilometer in diameter. A 3-kilometer (1.9-mile) path allows you to walk the entire circumference. This walk, which takes about an hour, is relatively flat and offers ever-changing perspectives of the crater's dark, barren floor and the vast landscape beyond.

Absorb the Panoramic Views

The view from the top of Hverfjall is nothing short of spectacular. In every direction, a new Icelandic vista unfolds. To the west, the shimmering expanse of Lake Mývatn is dotted with pseudo-craters. To the south, the dramatic lava pillars of Dimmuborgir rise like the ruins of a mythical city. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Askja caldera and the Herdubreid table mountain in the distant highlands.

Explore the Surrounding Area

A self-drive tour gives you the flexibility to easily combine your Hverfjall hike with other nearby attractions. The Lake Mývatn region is a geothermal wonderland, and some of its most famous sites are just a short drive away:

• Dimmuborgir: Explore the "Dark Castles," a labyrinth of bizarre lava formations steeped in folklore.
• Grjótagjá Cave: A small lava cave containing a crystal-clear geothermal spring, made famous by the TV show Game of Thrones.
• Námaskarð (Hverir): Witness a surreal landscape of bubbling mud pots, hissing steam vents, and sulfur-stained earth.

Why a Self-Drive Tour is Ideal for Hverfjall

Visiting Hverfjall with your own rental car provides unmatched freedom and flexibility. You can arrive early to catch the soft morning light or stay late to watch the sunset paint the sky over the crater. A self-drive approach allows you to:

• Hike at your own pace without being tied to a tour group's schedule.
• Seamlessly combine your visit with other must-see sights around Lake Mývatn.
• Discover hidden gems and photo opportunities along the way.

With Höldur Car Rental’s nationwide coverage, you can explore North Iceland with the confidence that support is always within reach. Our commitment to service ensures your Icelandic adventure is as memorable as the destination itself.

FAQs About Hverfjall

How was Hverfjall formed?

Hverfjall is a tephra explosion crater, not a classic volcano. It was formed approximately 2,500 years ago when rising magma met groundwater, causing a massive steam explosion. This hydrovolcanic eruption blasted pulverized rock, or tephra, into the air, which then settled to form the crater's uniform, symmetrical rim.

How long should I plan for a visit to Hverfjall?

Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours for your visit. This gives you enough time for the 20-minute hike up, an hour to walk the rim, and plenty of time to take photos and soak in the incredible views.

Is there an entrance fee for Hverfjall?

There is no entrance fee to hike Hverfjall, but there is a modest parking fee. This fee contributes to the maintenance of the facilities and the conservation of this unique natural site.

Can I walk inside the crater?

No, walking or sliding down into the crater is strictly forbidden to prevent erosion and preserve the crater's natural state. Please respect the signs and stay on the designated path along the rim.

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Final Thoughts

With its perfect crater shape, dramatic rim walk, and sweeping views of North Iceland, Hverfjall is an essential stop on any self-drive adventure. Its location near Lake Mývatn makes it easy to combine with geothermal wonders, lava fields, and volcanic landscapes.

With Höldur Car Rental, your journey is as unforgettable as the destination — from the moment you collect your car in Reykjavík or Keflavik to the moment you stand atop Hverfjall’s rim.

Your Icelandic adventure awaits — and we’ll be right there with you every mile of the way.

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