KraflaAbout 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.
Best Time to Visit Krafla
Summer offers the most straightforward access; winter gives stark, ice-and-steam landscapes but can be hazardous.
Weather & Climate near Krafla
Krafla's climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with cold summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in March). Temperatures range from -7°C to 11°C. Moderate rainfall (613 mm/year).
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Poor | -6° - -1° | -12° | 52 mm | overcast | 94% | 8.6 m/s | 0.0 low | 4.4h |
| February | Poor | -6° - -2° | -12° | 43 mm | overcast | 93% | 8.4 m/s | 0.0 low | 8.0h |
| March | Poor | -7° - -2° | -12° | 46 mm | overcast | 93% | 8.4 m/s | 0.2 low | 11.5h |
| April | Poor | -5° - -1° | -10° | 30 mm | overcast | 92% | 7.5 m/s | 0.7 moderate | 15.0h |
| May | Poor | -1° - 3° | -5° | 36 mm | overcast | 89% | 6.8 m/s | 1.1 high | 18.6h |
| June | Poor | 2° - 8° | 1° | 45 mm | overcast | 87% | 6.3 m/s | 1.2 high | 21.3h |
| July | Acceptable | 5° - 11° | 4° | 59 mm | overcast | 89% | 6.0 m/s | 1.0 moderate | 19.8h |
| August | Acceptable | 4° - 10° | 4° | 61 mm | overcast | 90% | 5.9 m/s | 0.6 moderate | 16.3h |
| September | Poor | 1° - 6° | -2° | 61 mm | overcast | 92% | 6.6 m/s | 0.3 low | 12.8h |
| October | Poor | -2° - 2° | -6° | 70 mm | overcast | 94% | 6.9 m/s | 0.1 low | 9.3h |
| November | Poor | -5° - 0° | -10° | 61 mm | overcast | 95% | 7.3 m/s | 0.0 low | 5.7h |
| December | Poor | -7° - -1° | -11° | 49 mm | overcast | 94% | 7.9 m/s | 0.0 low | 2.8h |
How to Get to Krafla
Krafla is near Lake Mývatn in northeastern Iceland. From Reykjahlíð (the main village by Mývatn), take Route 1 and then local roads (often F-roads or numbered local routes); a car is required. Some sections may require a 4x4 in winter; guided tours from Mývatn are widely available.
Tips for Visiting Krafla
- Drive slowly on the F88 road and stop at marked lay-bys for views of the lava fields and Víti crater.
- Bring windproof clothing - Krafla area is exposed and can be very windy even on mild days.
- Check local geothermal activity reports; high steam or seismic activity can close parts of the field.