Krafla and Leirhnjúkur is where you can literally feel the Earth's power beneath your feet. This incredible volcanic system in North Iceland is so active that the lava fields are still steaming hot decades after the last eruption, and in some spots, they can actually melt the soles of your shoes.

Picture walking across landscapes that look like another planet entirely, with bubbling mud pools, fuming lava fields, and that famous bright green Víti crater lake that changes color depending on the light. This is volcanic activity at its most dramatic, and you can experience it safely thanks to well-marked walking trails through this geological wonderland.

Located just 24 kilometers northeast of Lake Mývatn, the Krafla volcanic system sits within one of Iceland's most active volcanic zones. The massive caldera stretches 10 kilometers across, and the whole system runs along a 90-kilometer fissure zone that's part of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge where two tectonic plates are slowly pulling apart.

Krafla isn't just one volcano, it's an entire volcanic system that's been shaping this landscape for thousands of years. What makes it really special is how active and accessible it is compared to other volcanic areas.

The Krafla system sits right on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly separating. This creates constant geological activity that manifests in eruptions, earthquakes, and the geothermal features you see today.

What you're experiencing:

Caldera size: 10 kilometers in diameter, one of Iceland's largest Fissure zone: 90 kilometers long, showing the massive scale of this system Recent activity: 9 eruptions between 1975 and 1984 Historical eruptions: Leirhnjúkur has erupted 29 times in recorded history Current status: Still very much active and closely monitored

Leirhnjúkur sits in the western part of the Krafla caldera and holds the record as one of Iceland's most active volcanic areas. The name literally means "Clay Peak," though what you'll see looks way more dramatic than clay.

The most recent volcanic activity here was absolutely spectacular. Between 1975 and 1984, Leirhnjúkur erupted 9 times in what became known as the Krafla Fires.

What happened:

What you see today: The lava fields from these eruptions are still cooling and steaming. In some areas, the rock is so hot it can burn through shoe soles, which is why sticking to marked paths isn't just a suggestion, it's essential for safety.

The hiking trail around Leirhnjúkur is one of Iceland's most unique walking experiences. This 5-kilometer loop takes you through landscapes that were literally created in your lifetime.

Trail highlights:

Time needed: 1-2 hours depending on how much you stop to take photos (and trust me, you'll stop a lot)

Víti crater is probably the most photographed spot in the entire Krafla area, and once you see it, you'll understand why. This explosion crater formed during the Mývatn Fires (1724-1729) and now contains a stunning lake that changes color throughout the day.

The Víti crater lake is famous for its shifting colors, from emerald green to turquoise blue depending on weather conditions, time of day, and the mineral content in the water.

Why the colors change:

Photography tip: Visit at different times of day if possible, the color variations are incredible and each visit offers different photo opportunities.

Víti crater formed during one of Iceland's longest historical eruptions, the Mývatn Fires that lasted from 1724 to 1729. This 5-year eruption reshaped the entire area and created many of the volcanic features you see today.

Historical impact: The eruptions were so severe they affected the entire Lake Mývatn region, creating new lava fields and changing the landscape permanently.

One of the coolest things about visiting Krafla is seeing how Iceland harnesses this incredible geothermal energy for practical use. The Krafla Power Plant, which you'll pass on the way to the volcanic area, generates electricity using the same geothermal forces that create the eruptions.

How it works: Deep wells tap into the underground heat sources, creating steam that drives turbines to generate electricity Power output: The plant generates about 60 megawatts of electricity Environmental benefit: Clean, renewable energy that produces virtually no emissions Local impact: Provides power for thousands of homes and businesses in North Iceland

Why it matters: This is a perfect example of how Icelanders have learned to live with and benefit from their volcanic environment rather than just surviving it.

Visiting Krafla is generally very safe, but you're literally walking on top of an active volcanic system, so some precautions are essential.

Stay on marked paths: The lava can be hot enough to melt shoes and seriously burn feet Watch for steam vents: Fumaroles can release extremely hot steam and toxic gases Check weather conditions: Visibility can change quickly, making navigation dangerous Bring proper footwear: Sturdy hiking boots with thick soles are absolutely essential Don't touch the rocks: Some areas are still scorching hot decades after eruption

Iceland has sophisticated monitoring systems watching Krafla 24/7:

Good to know: If there's any dangerous activity, access roads are closed immediately and tourists are kept well away from hazardous areas.

The volcanic area is easily accessible from Lake Mývatn, making it perfect for day trips or as part of a larger North Iceland exploration.

From Lake Mývatn: 24 kilometers northeast via Route 1 and Route 863 Route: Take Ring Road north from Mývatn area, drive through Reykjahlíð village, turn onto Route 863 Landmarks: You'll pass the Krafla Power Plant, parking area is well-marked Drive time: About 30 minutes from Lake Mývatn accommodation

Facilities: Basic parking, information boards, and trail maps Trail access: Multiple trails start from here, clearly marked with difficulty levels Information: Educational signs explaining the volcanic system and safety guidelines No services: Bring water and snacks, there are no facilities in the volcanic area

Summer (June-August): Peak season with the warmest weather and most stable conditions. All trails are accessible, and you'll have nearly 24-hour daylight for extended exploration.

Spring/Fall (April-May, September-October): Fewer crowds and often dramatic weather that creates incredible atmospheric conditions for photography. Trails are usually accessible but check conditions.

Winter (November-March): Limited access due to snow and harsh conditions, but those who make it experience an otherworldly landscape of snow, steam, and volcanic activity.

Any time: The geothermal activity continues year-round, so the steaming and geological features are always active regardless of season.

This area offers some of Iceland's most unique photography opportunities, combining active volcanic features with incredible landscapes.

Víti crater: The classic shot of the green lake surrounded by volcanic landscape Steaming lava fields: Capture the ongoing geological activity with visible steam Colorful mineral deposits: Sulfur and other minerals create incredible natural color palettes Landscape contrasts: The contrast between old cooled lava and fresh steaming rock

Multiple visits: The changing light throughout the day creates completely different moods Weather drama: Overcast conditions often enhance the otherworldly atmosphere Safety first: Never compromise safety for a photo, the volcanic hazards are real Wide-angle lenses: Capture the massive scale of the volcanic landscape

Krafla's location near Lake Mývatn makes it perfect for combining with other North Iceland highlights.

Same day combinations:

Multi-day North Iceland itinerary:

In a country full of volcanic wonders, Krafla stands out for its combination of accessibility, ongoing activity, and educational value. You can safely walk through an active volcanic system and literally see how Iceland is still being created.

Unique features:

Ready to walk through one of Iceland's most active volcanic systems? Krafla and Leirhnjúkur offer an incredible journey through landscapes that are literally still being created, where you can feel the Earth's power beneath your feet.

You've got the freedom to customize your North Iceland adventure exactly how you want it. Include Krafla in a Lake Mývatn exploration, combine it with other volcanic attractions, or make it part of a comprehensive geological tour of Iceland.

Our local travel team is here if you need help planning the perfect volcanic adventure. With just a 5% deposit, you can secure your spot and start looking forward to experiencing one of the most active and accessible volcanic systems in the world.

Ready to walk across lava fields that are still steaming hot? Start planning your Krafla adventure today and prepare to witness the incredible forces that continue to shape Iceland.

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