Hverfjall (Hverfell)
Hverfjall (Hverfell) volcano is near by Lake Myvatn in the north of Iceland. The volcano has two names, just because people cannot agree on which one is the right one. The volcano is a tuff ring volcano formed out of tephra and being one of the largest tephra cones in the world.
Plan Hverfjall / Hverfell with route advice, nearby places, guided tours, map coordinates, itinerary ideas and practical FAQ.
Quick guide to Hverfjall / Hverfell Volcano
| Location | North Iceland, beside Lake Mývatn |
| Best for | Mývatn crater hiking, volcanic landscapes, Dimmuborgir, geothermal stops and Diamond Circle route planning |
| Nearby places | Lake Mývatn, Dimmuborgir, Hverir, Goðafoss and Akureyri |
| Typical visit time | 1 to 2 hours for the crater walk; longer when combined with Mývatn sights |
| Best season | Spring to autumn is easiest; winter depends on paths, ice and visibility |
| Good to know | Use marked paths only; the crater slopes are fragile and erosion-sensitive |
| Coordinates | 65.6023,-16.8794 |
What is Hverfjall / Hverfell Volcano?
Hverfjall, also called Hverfell, is a large tephra crater beside Lake Mývatn in North Iceland.
It is one of the clearest volcano walks in the Mývatn area and pairs naturally with Dimmuborgir, Hverir and the lake viewpoints.
Hverfjall / Hverfell is one of the defining volcanic forms around Lake Mývatn.
Why visit Hverfjall / Hverfell?
Visit Hverfjall if you want a volcanic hike that is visually simple to understand: a huge circular crater, wide lake views and a clear relationship to the lava landscapes around Mývatn.
It is especially strong for travellers building a full Mývatn or Diamond Circle day.
How to visit Hverfjall / Hverfell
Use marked paths and avoid cutting across fragile slopes. For guided context, choose Mývatn Hot Springs and Volcanoes from Akureyri or a Private Diamond Circle Day Tour.
Self-drivers should combine Hverfjall with Dimmuborgir, Lake Mývatn, Hverir and Goðafoss if timing allows.
Best Hverfjall and Lake Mývatn tours
Hverfjall belongs in a wider Mývatn day, with tours from Akureyri, cruise-port options and private Diamond Circle routes.
The strongest guided day for Hverfjall, geothermal scenery and Mývatn highlights.
A local active option for travellers who want walking and geothermal bathing.
A cruise-timed Mývatn route with volcanic landscapes and Goðafoss.
A flexible private route for Mývatn, Dettifoss, Ásbyrgi and volcanic stops.
Places near Hverfjall / Hverfell
Hverfjall / Hverfell works best when it is connected with nearby nature stops and route anchors.
Towns and villages near Hverfjall / Hverfell
These are the most practical bases and service stops for planning the route.
Suggested itinerary ideas
Short Mývatn crater walk
Walk Hverfjall, then continue to Dimmuborgir and Lake Mývatn viewpoints.
Mývatn from Akureyri
Book Mývatn Hot Springs and Volcanoes from Akureyri for a guided crater, geothermal and bathing-style day.
Diamond Circle extension
Use a Private Diamond Circle Day Tour if Hverfjall should connect with Dettifoss, Ásbyrgi and Goðafoss.
FAQ about Hverfjall / Hverfell
Is it Hverfjall or Hverfell?
Both names are commonly used for the same crater. On FunIceland we use Hverfjall / Hverfell so travellers recognise both forms.
Can you hike Hverfjall?
Yes. The crater is a popular Mývatn hike, but you should stay on marked paths because the slopes are fragile.
How long do you need at Hverfjall?
Allow 1 to 2 hours depending on whether you walk only to the rim or continue around the crater.
What is the best Hverfjall tour?
Good choices include:
- Mývatn Hot Springs and Volcanoes from Akureyri for a classic guided day.
- Hike and Bath Mývatn if walking and bathing are the priority.
- Private Diamond Circle Day Tour for a flexible wider route.
Is Hverfjall near Dimmuborgir?
Yes. Dimmuborgir is one of the closest and most natural places to combine with Hverfjall.
Can you visit Hverfjall from Akureyri?
Yes. Akureyri is the main tour and service base for many Mývatn routes, including guided Mývatn volcano tours.
Is Hverfjall good in winter?
It can be scenic, but path ice, wind and visibility matter. Keep the hike optional in winter.
What should I combine with Hverfjall?
Combine it with Lake Mývatn, Dimmuborgir, Hverir, Goðafoss and Mývatn Nature Baths.