The moss-covered cone of Mælifell rising from black sand plains

Discover Iceland / Highlights / Mælifell

Highlands

Mælifell

Mælifell is a near-perfect volcanic cone covered in bright green moss, standing alone on the black Mælifellssandur desert north of Mýrdalsjökull.

It is one of the highlands' most striking sights, and one of the hardest to reach.

Getting there

Mælifell lies on highland F-roads that open only in summer. You need a 4x4 and experience with river crossings, or join a guided super jeep tour.

When to go

Only in the summer highland season, usually July to early September, once the F-roads are open.

Good to know

  • Check road.is for F-road status before you go.
  • Cross rivers early in the day, when the water is lower.
  • A guided tour is the safest way to visit.

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 Mælifell is.

Map of Iceland with the main highlights marked

Nearby

Also close by.