Guide to Skútustaðir & Pseudocraters
Skútustaðir is a picturesque area located on the southern shores of Lake Mývatn in northern Iceland, renowned for its unique pseudocraters. These fascinating landforms, also known as rootless cones, were created by steam explosions that occurred when hot lava flowed over the wetlands around 2,300 years ago. The resulting craters, which resemble true volcanic craters but are not connected to a magma chamber, dot the landscape and create a distinctive, almost lunar scene.
The Skútustaðir pseudocraters are surrounded by lush greenery and provide excellent opportunities for walking and birdwatching. The area is part of the Lake Mývatn Nature Reserve, which is known for its rich birdlife, particularly the large populations of ducks and other waterfowl that nest in the region. The well-maintained walking paths around the pseudocraters allow visitors to explore this unique geological phenomenon up close while enjoying panoramic views of one of the most beautiful lakes in Iceland and the surrounding volcanic landscape.
Skútustaðir is a popular stop for those exploring the wonders of the Lake Mývatn area, offering a serene and scenic setting to appreciate Iceland’s remarkable geology and natural beauty.
Overview Facts & Figures
- Location: Near Lake Mývatn, North Iceland
- Elevation: The pseudocraters at Skútustaðagígar rise about 15 meters above the landscape
- Crater Count: Around 20 pseudocraters in the area
- Formation: Formed 2,300 years ago during volcanic activity when lava flowed over wetlands, trapping steam that created explosive depressions
- UNESCO Status: Part of the UNESCO Global Geopark in the Lake Mývatn area
Where is Skútustaðir?
Skútustaðir is set in North Iceland, near the southern shore of Lake Mývatn. The Skútustaðagígar pseudocraters are easily accessible from the same location.
- GPS Coordinates: 65°34'08.3"N 17°02'10.6"W
How to Get There?
To reach Skútustaðir, drive north from Reykjavík along Route 1 (Ring Road) for approximately 470 kilometers, which takes around 6 hours in total. If you’ve already reached Akureyri you’ve only got about 1.5 hours to go (90 kilometers). Once at Lake Mývatn, follow signs to Skútustaðir for the pseudocraters and hiking trails.
Skútustaðagígar Pseudocraters
The Skútustaðagígar pseudocraters are a prime example of a rare geological phenomenon. They formed when boiling lava flowed over waterlogged ground, causing steam explosions that created the crater-like formation seen today. Unlike traditional volcanic craters, pseudocraters lack a magma chamber beneath them, forming from surface-level explosions. The area is known for its striking landscape, dotted with craters and offering stunning views of Lake Mývatn.
Visitors can walk through the area and observe the unique crater structures up close. The region is also rich in birdlife, especially in summer, when flocks of birds gather at the lake.
Skútustaðir Hiking Trail
For those who wish to explore on foot, the Skútustaðir Hiking Trail offers a gentle, rewarding experience, circling the pseudocraters and providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Distance: 1.6 – 2.9 km (depending on the route)
- Elevation: 15 meters (49 feet)
- Duration: 20 minutes to 1 hour
- Season: March – October
The trail is well-marked and suitable for all ages, making it a perfect stop for families and casual hikers. You can visit in summer when the landscape is alive with birds or in quieter seasons to get a more peaceful experience in Iceland's natural beauty.