Krafla Volcano | Akureyri

Krafla Volcano is one of Iceland's most active and renowned volcanic systems, located in the North of the country, near the Lake Mývatn region. It is part of the Krafla volcanic system, which has produced significant volcanic activity, including eruptions that have shaped the landscape over thousands of years. The volcano is known for its dramatic landscapes, geothermal features, and recent eruptions.

Key Features of Krafla Volcano

1. Volcanic System

• Krafla is a central volcano, which means it has a distinct summit cone with surrounding fissures and calderas. The system includes several craters, lava fields, and geothermal fields, all of which contribute to the area's dynamic geological features.
• The Krafla volcanic system is part of the active volcanic zone that stretches across Iceland, where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge meets the country’s unique geological features. Iceland sits atop the Iceland hotspot, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, resulting in frequent volcanic and geothermal activity.

2. Recent Eruptions

• Krafla has experienced several eruptions in the last few centuries, with one of the most notable eruptive periods occurring between 1975 and 1984. During this time, a series of eruptions, known as the Krafla Fires, created significant lava fields and reshaped the surrounding landscape.
• The eruptions were explosive, with large lava flows and the formation of new fissures. This period marked an intense phase in the volcanic history of Krafla, although the volcano has not had a major eruption since 1984. Despite this, Krafla remains one of the most closely monitored volcanoes in Iceland due to its history of eruptions and ongoing geothermal activity.

3. Crater and Caldera

• Krafla's caldera is one of its most striking features. It measures about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) in diameter and is surrounded by several smaller craters. The caldera has been formed by the collapse of the magma chamber during past eruptions.
• The Viti Crater is a particularly notable feature. It is a volcanic crater lake formed after a significant eruption. The lake inside the crater is blue-green and filled with geothermal water, making it a popular spot for visitors to hike to and explore. The crater is accessible via a short hike from the Krafla Visitor Center.

4. Geothermal Energy

• The Krafla volcanic system is also an important site for geothermal energy production. The region has one of the largest geothermal power stations in Iceland, the Krafla Power Station, which harnesses the area’s geothermal energy for electricity generation.
• The geothermal fields around Krafla feature hot springs, fumaroles, and boiling mud pots, making it an area of scientific interest for studying geothermal activity. These features are part of the same volcanic system that powers Iceland’s renewable energy industry.

5. Geothermal Features and Hikes

• There are several geothermal hotspots around Krafla, which are accessible to visitors for exploration:
  • Hverir Geothermal Area: Located near the Krafla volcano, this area is famous for its fumaroles, sulfur springs, and bubbling mud pots. It offers a chance to see firsthand the geothermal activity that occurs in the region.
  • Krafla Caldera: Visitors can hike to the rim of the caldera for expansive views of the surrounding landscape, including the nearby lava fields, the Viti crater lake, and distant views of Lake Mývatn.
  • Viti Crater: The crater itself is a popular spot for hiking. The water in the crater lake is warm and rich in minerals, with vibrant blue and green colors, and it's an iconic location for photography.

There are well-marked trails around the caldera and other geothermal features that allow visitors to safely explore the area.

6. Krafla Power Station

• The Krafla Power Station is one of the most important geothermal power plants in Iceland, with the ability to produce a significant amount of electricity for the country. Visitors can learn more about Iceland’s geothermal energy production and its role in the country's renewable energy sector.
• The station is part of Iceland’s innovative use of geothermal resources, and the surrounding area is an important site for both tourists and energy researchers.

7. Hiking Around Krafla

• The Krafla Hiking Trail is a popular route that takes visitors around the volcanic landscapes, offering stunning views of the caldera, lava fields, and geothermal areas. The hike can take several hours, depending on how much of the trail you choose to cover. The terrain is rugged, with occasional steam vents and hot springs along the way, so proper preparation is important.
• There are various other shorter hiking routes around the Krafla region, including those leading to the Viti Crater and the Hverir Hot Springs.

8. Geological Importance

• Krafla is an important site for the study of volcanism and plate tectonics. The area is an example of the tectonic activity at the boundary of the North American and Eurasian plates, where the divergence between the plates causes magma to rise to the surface and create volcanic features.
• The region is also used by scientists for geothermal research. The geothermal power plants in the area are among the most efficient in the world, and the surrounding geological formations offer valuable data about the behavior of volcanoes and geothermal energy sources.

9. Best Time to Visit

• Summer (June to August) is the most popular time to visit, as the weather is relatively mild, and the hiking trails are accessible. The long daylight hours provide ample opportunity to explore the area.
• In winter, the region offers a more tranquil experience, but some trails may be icy, and snow can cover parts of the landscape. However, the snow-covered volcanic landscape can create a striking contrast with the geothermal activity.

10. Nearby Attractions

• Lake Mývatn: Krafla is located close to Lake Mývatn, which is famous for its birdlife, geothermal areas, and dramatic landscapes. Visitors often combine a trip to Krafla with a visit to the nearby Mývatn Nature Baths or the Dimmuborgir Lava Fields.
• Hverir Geothermal Area: A short drive from Krafla, this area features sulfuric hot springs and mud pots and is a must-see for anyone interested in Iceland’s geothermal activity.

Conclusion

Krafla Volcano is an iconic feature of Iceland's natural landscape, offering a unique combination of geothermal wonders, volcanic history, and scenic beauty. Its geothermal fields, caldera, and rich volcanic activity make it one of Iceland's top destinations for geologists, hikers, and nature enthusiasts. Whether you're hiking around the volcanic craters, visiting the Viti Crater lake, or exploring the geothermal power station, Krafla is a remarkable place that showcases Iceland's dynamic geological environment.