Explore North Iceland: Modrudalur to Askja Caldera

Private Tour Price 269000 ISK

Pick-up is available from Akureyri, Egilssatidr Airport & your hotel in that area
at an additional cost.

Ever wondered what a lake inside a volcano looks like? Then, Askja Caldera, The biggest Caldera in Europe (50 square kilometers) in the Land of Ice and Fire, would be a perfect destination for it. With mountains veiled with snowy tops, the deepest lake of dazzling waters, alongside amber edges of the caldera. You’ll get the most therapeutic experience of your life here.

About Askja Caldera

Askja Caldera  is located in the Vatnajökull Glacier National Park of Iceland. It’s 1,516 meters (4,974 feet) high volcanic crater with a 200 m deep lake inside. Alongside a round milky geothermal lake Víti. The famous Askja belongs to the Dyngjufjöll mountain range.

Over 10,000 years ago, Askja erupted, forcing the lava chamber roof to collapse, forming the largest caldera in Europe, an 8 km (5 miles) long and 200 m (656 feet) depressed lake now known as Lake Öskjuvatn. Even though its base is submerging day by day. Askja is an active volcano site. With several powerful volcanic eruptions in the past. It became very popular among other active volcanoes in Iceland. The last major eruption that took place in 1961 produced about several km of lava.

Best way to get to Askja Caldera

Going to Askja Caldera by road is a tedious task in itself. The F-roads leading towards the cliff include two river crossings, lava fields, and mushy sandy sections. Which is a 4-hour long risky drive. So for that reason, we prefer you to book our thrilling heli ride from Modrudalur farm toward Askja this year. And enjoy the alluring affairs of radiant waters, fumes of Askja, hot springs, and much more in the area.

Total tour Time and distance

• Meeting Point:    Fjallakaffi, 660 Möðrudalur
• Total tour time    70-90 minutes (may fluctuate)
• Total distance from Möðrudalur:   51 kilometers (32 miles)
• Final Destination    Fjallakaffi, 660 Möðrudalur

What will you see from above?

You will be in awe of the Icelandic highland’s magnificence as we soar approach the Askja Caldera.

After Taking off from the pickup point, the sights of the Möðrudalur settlement will amaze you. And you will be fascinated by the multicolored turf houses and structures below. When compared to the expanse of greenery around, they will appear miniature. The slanting angles of the sun’s rays will further highlight the unspoiled Icelandic natural beauty. Some other main attractions you will see from the ride include:

• • Herðubreið Mountain

On your way to Askja Caldera, you’ll get a breathtaking glimpse of Iceland’s national mountain, Herðubreið. It is situated 10 kilometers from Askja Crater and 57 kilometers from Modrudalur. The beautiful high table Mount Herdubreid (1682 meters in height) is covered with snow throughout the year. People named it Iceland’s highland queen because of its beauty.

• • Ódáðahraun desert

The Ódáðahraun desert is a 46000 square kilometer barren region of otherworldly topography and spanning lava fields. Due to the ruggedness of the region, the desert inspires fear among the locals and was a major hideout for the outlaws. Coincidentally, you’ll also have a view of Herðubreiðarlindir (oasis) in the Highland of Iceland.

What will you see over Askja?

After arriving, you’ll see some rocky amber-colored land of Askja. And have a blissful sight of the famous volcano and Öskjuvatn Lake (aka Lake Askja).

Öskjuvatn lake

Lake Askja( Öskjuvatn Lake) remains cold throughout the year. If the weather permits, you can get a beautiful reflection of the surrounding mountains in the glacial waters.

Lake Víti:

Unlike Lake Öskjuvatn, Lake Víti remains warm throughout the year. The geothermal springs underneath make it pleasant to take a swim in Víti Crater Lake. With that, you can have the best times of your life by soaking yourself in the warm waters for a refreshing change. You need to book a special Jeep tour to go there for a swim.

Summing up

Heli Ride could be your ultimate chance to visit the famous Icelandic Highlands, the deep blue waters of öskjuvatn Lake, and the hot Askja springs altogether. The flight is really comfortable and can be the best way to get to Askja Caldera. We also provide a private tour of the area. Please note that the landing is subject to weather conditions.