Krafla

Krafla is a volcanic caldera and rift system in north-eastern Iceland, located near Lake Mývatn. The caldera and its associated fissures, craters and lava fields are part of an active volcanic zone on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.

Key features include the Víti explosion crater and extensive lava fields created during 20th-century eruptive episodes. The system underwent repeated eruptions and rifting during the period 1975-1984, which produced large lava flows and opened fissures across the landscape.

The site is a focal point for volcanic geology and geothermal energy; a geothermal power station and related research operate in the area. Krafla is reached from the Lake Mývatn region and is a common destination for visitors exploring northern Iceland’s volcanic terrain.

• Caldera size and 1975-84 activity: The Krafla caldera is roughly 10 kilometres in diameter and the volcanic system produced a sequence of eruptions and rifting events during 1975-1984 known as the Mývatn Fires.
• Geothermal development: A geothermal power station and research installations operate in the Krafla area, utilising high-temperature geothermal resources beneath the caldera.

What to See #

• Víti crater: Víti crater, a prominent explosion crater with a greenish crater lake, formed during the volcanic activity of the Krafla system and visited via marked paths.
• Lava fields: Lava fields and fissure vents produced during the latter 20th-century eruption episodes known as the Mývatn Fires, which left extensive aa and pahoehoe lava flows.