How Do I Plan a Trip to Explore Lake Mývatn and Its Surroundings?
Wondering how to plan a trip to explore Lake Mývatn and its surroundings? The region is easy to explore, but a little planning can make your visit much more rewarding. Choosing the right season, deciding where to stay, and grouping nearby attractions will all help you make the most of your time.
This guide covers everything you need to know before you visit. You'll find advice on transport, accommodation, activities, budgeting, and exploring Lake Mývatn and the surrounding area.
Plan How You’ll Get To and Around Lake Mývatn
Before you plan your trip, decide how you'll get to Lake Mývatn (Midges Lake) and get around the region. The area is well connected by the Ring Road, making it easy to include in a wider North Iceland itinerary.
How to get to Lake Mývatn
Whether you're driving around Iceland or flying into North Iceland, there are several convenient ways to reach Lake Mývatn.
By driving the Ring Road
Driving is the most flexible way to reach Lake Mývatn. From Reykjavík, follow Route 1 (the Ring Road) for around 460 km (285 mi), which takes approximately 6–7 hours. The route passes through the Vaðlaheiðargöng Tunnel near Akureyri before continuing to the lake.
Lake Mývatn is also easy to reach from elsewhere along the Ring Road. For example, it's about a 2-hour drive from Egilsstaðir, making it a convenient stop when exploring East and North Iceland.
Note: The Vaðlaheiðargöng Tunnel is subject to a toll, which can be paid online via tunnel.is.
By a direct domestic flight
Daily flights operate between Reykjavík Airport (RKV) and Akureyri Airport (AEY), with a flight time of around 45 minutes. From Akureyri, it's about one hour by car to Lake Mývatn. You can continue by rental car or arrange an airport transfer.
If you're arriving via Keflavík International Airport (KEF), transfer to Reykjavík Airport for your domestic flight.
By a direct international flight
If you're travelling from Europe, seasonal international flights can help you reach North Iceland more directly.
Akureyri Airport offers selected seasonal routes, including from:
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London (United Kingdom): Winter flights from October to April
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Manchester (United Kingdom): Winter flights from November to March
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Zürich (Switzerland): Winter flights from February to March and summer flights from June to August
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Amsterdam (the Netherlands): Winter flights from January to March and summer flights from June to August
Availability varies by airline and season, so it's worth checking current schedules when planning your trip.
By a Strætó bus
Public buses are available if you prefer not to drive, although reaching Lake Mývatn requires a transfer in Akureyri.
To reach Lake Mývatn by bus, take the following routes:
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Route 57: Travels from Reykjavík (Mjódd) to Akureyri (Hof) in approximately 6.5–7 hours.
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Route 56: Continues from Akureyri (Hof) to Egilsstaðir. Get off at the Mývatn–Reykjahlíð bus stop after around 1.5 hours.
Keep in mind that bus services operate on limited schedules. So, it's worth checking timetables (via straeto.is) in advance when planning your trip.
How to get around Lake Mývatn
Once you arrive, there are a few convenient ways to explore the lake and its surrounding attractions.
By rental car
Renting a car in Iceland is the easiest way to explore Lake Mývatn at your own pace. Most attractions are only a short drive apart, making it easy to visit geothermal areas, volcanic landscapes, and viewpoints. If you're hiring locally, Mývatn Car Rental offers vehicles suitable for exploring both the lake and the wider North Iceland region.
By guided tours
Guided tours are a convenient alternative if you prefer not to drive. Geo Travel offers sightseeing and seasonal excursions, while Mývatn Tours runs guided trips to destinations like Askja during the summer. For private tours, you can connect with a local guide such as Kristinn Ingi Pétursson (also known as KIP).
Decide When to Visit Lake Mývatn
When planning a trip to explore Lake Mývatn and its surroundings, think about what you'd like to experience most. Your choice of season affects the scenery, activities, and travel conditions throughout the region.
Here's what to expect around Lake Mývatn depending on the season:
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Summer (June–August): Best for hiking, sightseeing, birdwatching, and exploring the Highlands, including Askja. Expect long daylight hours and the harmless midges that gave Lake Mývatn its name. A lightweight head net can make lakeside walks more comfortable.
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Autumn (September–October): Enjoy colourful landscapes, quieter attractions, and the return of dark nights. This is a great time to combine sightseeing with Northern Lights viewing around Lake Mývatn.
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Winter (November–March): Discover snow-covered volcanic landscapes, frozen waterfalls, geothermal bathing, and winter activities around Lake Mývatn. This is also the best time to see the Northern Lights.
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Spring (April–May): Experience longer days, fewer visitors, and the return of birdlife around Lake Mývatn. While some Highland roads remain closed, attractions around the lake become increasingly accessible.
Choose How Many Days to Spend Around Lake Mývatn
As you plan your itinerary, decide how much time you'd like to spend around Lake Mývatn. This will help you prioritise attractions, activities, and day trips without feeling rushed.
Here's what you can expect based on the length of your stay:
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One day in Lake Mývatn: Enough time to see Lake Mývatn's top spots, including Skútustaðagígar Pseudocraters, Dimmuborgir Rock Formations, Grjótagjá Cave, and Hverfjall Crater Volcano. You may also have time for a relaxing visit to Earth Lagoon Mývatn (formerly Mývatn Nature Baths). Expect a full day with a fairly busy schedule.
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Two days in Lake Mývatn: Ideal for a more relaxed visit. You'll have time to enjoy scenic walks, spend longer at each attraction, and soak in the geothermal waters. This is especially recommended during winter when daylight hours are shorter.
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Three days or more in Lake Mývatn: Perfect if you want to explore beyond the lake. You can visit the Diamond Circle or take a full-day trip to Askja during the summer. In winter, this allows time to enjoy activities such as downhill skiing in the Krafla area.
Need help putting your itinerary together? Our 1–3-day Lake Mývatn itinerary ideas can help you plan shorter stays. For longer winter visits, our 7-day North Iceland winter itinerary offers inspiration for exploring more of the region.
Pick Your Desired Place to Stay Around Lake Mývatn
If you're planning a trip to explore Lake Mývatn and its surroundings, choosing the right accommodation can make your visit much easier. Consider your itinerary, travel style, and budget before booking.
Stay in a full-service hotel
Hotels are a good choice if you're looking for comfortable rooms, on-site restaurants, and convenient amenities after a day of exploring. Recommended options include:
Experience local guesthouses and farm stays
Guesthouses and farm stays offer a quieter atmosphere and a more local experience. Many are set around Lake Mývatn, making it easy to explore the region while enjoying peaceful countryside views. Popular choices include:
Camp close to nature
Camping is a budget-friendly choice for summer travellers who want to stay close to Lake Mývatn's unique landscapes. Some campsites also offer guesthouse accommodation if you prefer additional comfort. You can choose from:
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CJA Camping (campsite and guesthouse)
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Vogar Travel Service (campsite and guesthouses)
Tip: Accommodation around Lake Mývatn is in high demand during summer and holiday periods. If your travel dates are fixed, book several months in advance to secure your preferred stay.
Use Lake Mývatn as a Base for Exploring North Iceland
Lake Mývatn is an excellent base for exploring North Iceland without having to change accommodation every day. Many of the region's top attractions are within comfortable driving distance, making day trips simple and convenient.
From Lake Mývatn, you can easily visit:
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The Diamond Circle, including Goðafoss, Dettifoss, Ásbyrgi Canyon, and Húsavík
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Askja (summer only)
Staying in one place makes it easier to adjust your travel plans. You can spend more time at attractions or change your plans if the weather changes.
Plan an Efficient Route Around Lake Mývatn
Planning your route before you arrive helps reduce driving time and gives you more time to enjoy each stop. A simple way to organise your itinerary is to group nearby attractions together.
When planning a trip to explore Lake Mývatn and its surroundings, consider planning your days like this:
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Group the attractions closest to Lake Mývatn into one day: Hverir Geothermal Area, Grjótagjá Cave, Dimmuborgir Lava Fields, Hverfjall Crater Volcano, Skútustaðagígar Pseudocraters, and Earth Lagoon Mývatn. They're close enough together to visit comfortably without much driving between stops.
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Take a day trip around the Diamond Circle: Visit Goðafoss, Dettifoss, Ásbyrgi Canyon, and Húsavík. Starting early gives you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without rushing. If you're visiting during winter, consider splitting the Diamond Circle over two days to allow for shorter daylight hours.
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Set aside a full day for Askja (summer only): Askja is much farther from Lake Mývatn than the other attractions. So, it's best to plan it as a dedicated day trip.
Grouping attractions this way creates a more relaxed Lake Mývatn itinerary. It also gives you extra time to enjoy scenic walks, viewpoints, and cafés along the way.
Book Key Parts of Your Lake Mývatn Trip in Advance
Booking the essentials before you travel can make planning your Lake Mývatn itinerary much easier, especially if you're visiting during the summer or the winter Northern Lights season.
Consider booking the following in advance:
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Accommodation: Hotels, guesthouses, and campsites around Lake Mývatn can fill up quickly during peak travel periods.
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Rental car: Reserve early for better availability and pricing, especially if you need a 4×4 during winter.
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Domestic or international flights: If you're flying to Akureyri, booking ahead often gives you more flight options and better fares.
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Earth Lagoon Mývatn: Secure your preferred entry time, particularly during busy periods.
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Guided tours: Book experiences such as Askja tours, snowmobiling, Northern Lights tours, and whale watching in nearby Húsavík before they sell out.
Tip: If you're travelling during school holidays or between June and August, try to book accommodation, transport, and popular tours at least 2–4 months ahead.
Know Where to Eat Around Lake Mývatn
Most restaurants, cafés, and grocery stores are located in Reykjahlíð. This makes it the most convenient place to stop for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. If you're staying in self-catering accommodation, it's also a good place to stock up on groceries before continuing your trip.
Planning to spend the day exploring beyond Lake Mývatn, such as visiting Askja or driving the Diamond Circle? Consider packing snacks, drinks, or a picnic lunch. Food options become much more limited once you leave Reykjahlíð.
For a restaurant meal, consider:
For a café or casual meal, try:
Tip: Check opening hours before your visit, as some restaurants and cafés around Lake Mývatn operate seasonally.
Pack for Lake Mývatn Based on the Season
The weather around Lake Mývatn can change quickly. So, packing the right clothing will help you stay comfortable throughout your trip.
No matter when you visit, it's a good idea to bring:
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Warm layers
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Waterproof jacket
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Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
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Swimsuit and quick-dry towel for geothermal bathing
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Sunscreen and sunglasses (UV exposure can still be strong, even on cooler days)
Seasonal tips:
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Summer: Pack lighter clothing, but bring an extra layer for cooler evenings. A head net is useful during the midge season. An eye mask and earplugs can also help, as the Midnight Sun brings extended daylight and increased bird activity.
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Winter: Bring insulated outerwear, waterproof boots, gloves, a warm hat, and thermal base layers. Ice grips can also provide extra support on icy paths around popular attractions.
Before setting out each day, check the weather forecast so you can adjust your clothing and, if needed, your itinerary.
Plan Your Lake Mývatn Adventure with Confidence
Planning helps you make the most of your time around Lake Mývatn. With a well-organised itinerary, you'll have more time to enjoy the region's volcanic landscapes, geothermal attractions, and scenic drives.
If you're still wondering how to plan your trip, the answer is simple: leave enough time, stay flexible, and make room for both the famous landmarks and the quieter corners of the region.
FAQs
Is Lake Mývatn worth visiting?
Yes, Lake Mývatn is worth visiting. It’s one of North Iceland's most diverse destinations, offering volcanic landscapes, geothermal areas, birdlife, and access to the Diamond Circle.
What to do around Lake Mývatn?
You'll find plenty of things to do around Lake Mývatn. Explore Dimmuborgir Lava Formations, Hverir Geothermal Area, Grjótagjá Cave, Hverfjall Crater Volcano, and relax at Earth Lagoon Mývatn. You can also take day trips to Goðafoss Waterfall, Dettifoss Waterfall, Ásbyrgi Canyon, the town of Húsavík, and Askja Caldera.
How much time should you spend at Lake Mývatn?
One day is enough to see the main highlights of Lake Mývatn during the summer. However, staying for 2–3 days gives you time to explore at a slower pace and visit nearby North Iceland attractions.
How to visit Lake Mývatn?
The easiest way to visit Lake Mývatn is by rental car. But you can also fly to Akureyri and continue by car or bus. Public buses and guided tours are also available, depending on your itinerary and travel style.
Do you need a rental car in Lake Mývatn?
A rental car is recommended for most visitors planning to visit Lake Mývatn. It gives you the freedom to adjust your itinerary and explore at your own pace.
