Askja Caldera Expedition
Visit the remote Askja volcanic caldera and bathe in the warm Víti crater lake.
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About this tour
Askja is a remote volcanic caldera in Iceland's central highlands, accessible only in summer (mid-June to mid-September) when the F-roads open. The caldera holds two crater lakes — Öskjuvatn, the deeper one, and Víti, a milky-blue geothermal pool you can swim in. Apollo astronauts trained here for moon landings; the landscape is that otherworldly.
This is a 13-hour day from Reykjavík in a high-clearance 4×4 super-jeep. The drive crosses the central highlands and includes river crossings — the F88 to Askja is closed even to most rental cars. The final approach to the caldera is a 1-hour walk over volcanic gravel.
Bring sturdy boots, layers, swimwear (for Víti), and a sense of adventure. Group capped at 14. Includes lunch on board, hot drinks, and your guide's geological narrative throughout.
What's planned
Reykjavík departure
07:00Super-jeep pickup at BSÍ Bus Terminal. Coffee and pastries on board.
Drive into the highlands
150 minAcross the southern lowlands, then north onto the F-roads. River crossings begin.
Lunch at Hrauneyjar
45 minHighland gateway lodge. Lunch included; vegetarian options available.
Askja caldera approach
60 min walkFrom the parking area at Vikraborgir, a one-hour walk across volcanic gravel to the caldera rim.
Víti crater & swim
60 minSwim in the milky-blue geothermal lake (~22°C). Changing room is a stone shelter — bring swimwear.
Return to Reykjavík
240 minDirect return via Hrauneyjar. Sunset highland views.
Highlights
- Askja volcanic caldera
- Víti crater lake geothermal bathing
- Remote F-road super jeep drive
- Holuhraun lava field
What's included
- Super jeep transport
- Expert highland guide
- Hotel pickup from Akureyri or Mývatn
Not included
- Meals
- Accommodation
- Swimwear
Pickup & meeting point
Pickup & meeting point
Pickup at BSÍ Bus Terminal in Reykjavík at 07:00. Highland-rated 4×4 vehicles only — this is not a regular coach tour.
BSI Bus Terminal — Vatnsmýrarvegur 10, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
Arrive 15 minutes before departure.
View on mapFrequently asked questions
What's included in the tour price?
All transportation, professional English-speaking guide, hotel pickup and drop-off in the Reykjavík capital area, and any entrance fees specific to your tour. Meals are not included unless explicitly stated.
What should I bring?
Warm waterproof outer layer, sturdy footwear, gloves, and a hat — Iceland's weather changes quickly. Charged phone and camera. We provide bottled water on board; a small snack is wise for longer routes.
What's your cancellation policy?
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable. If we cancel due to weather or road conditions, you receive a full refund or a free reschedule — your choice.
Will the tour run if the weather is bad?
We run year-round and adapt routes to conditions. If a specific stop becomes unsafe, we substitute a comparable alternative. If the entire tour is unsafe, we contact you the night before with a refund or reschedule option.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes. We pick up at designated stops in the Reykjavík capital area; your booking confirmation lists the exact stop nearest your hotel. The driver waits 5 minutes maximum, so please be ready 5 minutes before your scheduled pickup.
Can I bring my children?
Most tours are family-friendly for ages 6+. Northern Lights, glacier hiking, and highland tours have minimum-age restrictions detailed on each tour page. Children under 12 receive a 25% discount on most tours.
Are tours wheelchair accessible?
Our standard coaches are not wheelchair accessible, but we can operate several tours with a wheelchair-accessible coach (hydraulic lift) on request — please contact us at least 7 days before departure so we can confirm availability for your date. Many stops are step-free, but some highland and glacier sites involve uneven terrain. Tell us your needs before booking and we'll confirm what's possible for your specific tour.
How small are the groups?
Day tours are capped at 19 guests. Highland and multi-day tours are capped at 14 guests. Multi-day expeditions to remote regions cap at 8. We never combine groups — your booking is your group.
Ready to book Askja Caldera Expedition?
From €269 per person
