A blue crater lake beside a moss-green mountain

Discover Iceland / Highlights / Crater lakes

Highlands

Crater lakes

In Iceland's southern highlands, old volcanic craters have filled with bright blue water. Around Veiðivötn there are dozens of lakes in a landscape of black sand, moss and lava.

It is remote, quiet and only reachable in summer.

Getting there

The crater lakes are reached by highland F-roads that require a 4x4. Check which roads are open before setting out, or join a guided highland tour.

When to go

Summer only, usually July to early September.

Good to know

  • Carry extra food, water and fuel.
  • Check road.is and vedur.is before you go.
  • Leave a travel plan on SafeTravel.

Read more in the journal

Drive times are approximate and depend on weather and road conditions. Check road.is and vedur.is before you set off.

On the map

Where Crater lakes is.

Map of Iceland with the main highlights marked

Nearby

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