Askja Volcano Caldera

Askja sits deep in Iceland’s uninhabited central highlands, a massive volcanic caldera containing the brilliant blue crater lake Öskjuvatn. The approach via F88 and F894 crosses moonscape terrain of black sand, lava fields, and mountain desert that feels more like Mars than Earth. The caldera rim viewpoint offers stunning views into the crater and across to Víti explosion crater with its milky blue geothermal water.

Accessible only by 4WD during summer months (typically July-September), with river crossings and rough tracks requiring high clearance. Weather changes fast here – bring warm layers even in summer. Popular with tour groups during peak season but early morning visits offer solitude in this otherworldly landscape.

Dramatic crater lake in Mars-like highland caldera