Iceland · Geological Wonders

Private Highland tour to Askja Caldera

12 Hours Round trip from Pickup service provided in Akureyri. Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Private 4x4 highland adventure from Akureyri
02 Visit the remote Askja Caldera in Iceland’s central highlands
03 Travel through volcanic landscapes where NASA trained Apollo astronauts
04 Walk the A1 trail to Askja lake and the Víti crater
05 Optional chance to bathe in the warm waters of Víti
06 Explore Herðubreiðalindir, a green oasis in a barren landscape
07 Discover the dramatic rock formations of Drekagil, the Canyon of the Dragons
08 English-speaking guide and private transport included

Venture deep into Iceland’s remote central highlands on a private 4x4 journey to the dramatic Askja Caldera. Travelling from Akureyri through the Mývatn area, you’ll pass striking volcanic scenery, cross mountain roads and rivers, and visit Herðubreiðalindir, a green oasis set against a stark lava landscape.

At Askja, follow the A1 trail to the lake and the Víti crater, where adventurous travellers may choose to bathe in the warm water. The day also includes time at Drekagil, the Canyon of the Dragons, known for its dark, narrow passage and unusual rock formations. With private transport and an English-speaking guide, this is a memorable way to experience one of Iceland’s most breathtaking wilderness regions.

Venture deep into Iceland’s remote central highlands on a private 4x4 journey to the dramatic Askja Caldera.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 12 Hours

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Akureyri, Askja

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Drekagil

Drekagil or Dragons Gully bears a rightful name. It is a dark and narrow place loaded with geological formations that can only remind you of another world with dragons and fairy tails. Although not exactly difficult to walk from the jaws of the gully to the end where you find a beautiful waterfall, it is a bit of a climb. Along the way you enjoy all the interesting formations. If you look up, you might see some of the dragons that watch over the canyon as if there is a hidden treasure somewhere.

Askja

Askja is an active volcano situated in a remote part of the central highlands of Iceland. The name Askja refers to a complex of nested calderas within the surrounding Dyngjufjöll mountains, which rise to 1,510 m. Askja meaning box or caldera in Icelandic.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Pickup service provided in Akureyri. 2 cities · 12 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

This tour includes comfortable private transportation (4x4 Jeep), a complimentary pickup service, and an English-speaking guide to enhance your experience.

Logistics