Road Trip to Askja and the Canyon of Dragons from Akureyri

This road trip takes us from Akureyri, through moon-like landscapes, all the way to Askja Volcano, it's a stunning lake and the daunting Canyon of Dragons in the surrounding mountains. Hop in to witness some of Iceland's most other-worldly scenes, and even get a chance for a swim in the hot springs!

We depart from Akureyri in direction of the Hrossaborg crater before taking a mountain route, crossing rivers, and trailing gravel trails to Herðubreiðalindir. This area is a beautiful green oasis situated in the midst of a barren volcanic landscape - a bizarre and wonderful sight, that once sheltered one of Iceland's most famous outlaws, Fjalla-Eyvindur. 

From Herðubreiðalindir we continue our journey to Askja, crossing through the lunar-like landscapes where NASA trained their astronauts in preparation for the Apollo moon landings.

Upon arrival at Askja, we park at the Vikraborgir craters which erupted in 1961. From there we will embark on a 2.4 km scenic walk down the trail leading o Askja lake and Viti, a smaller lake that has formed inside a crater. These two pools form one of the most breathtaking sights in all of Iceland. Not only that, but you will be able to immerse yourself in the landscape, as you bathe in the warm waters of the Víti crater (don’t forget to bring your towel). There is no obligation to go swimming for those who wish to remain on dry land. 

In the mountains that surround Askja lies Drekagil – the Canyon of the Dragons, and that´s where we will head next. Drekagil contains some strange yet intriguingly beautiful rock formations for you to marvel at.

Once we have toured Drekagil and its mineral wonders, we will head back to Akureyri. After this day-long tour of Iceland's highlands, be prepared to go to bed completely mind-boggled as you attempt to make sense of the surreal images you have witnessed!

For those who wish to have a private road trip, we offer the same trip in our Jeep for a maximum of 3 people per group.