Highlight • Lake
Hiking
5.0
(16)
Ljótipollur Crater Lake is a striking maar-type explosion crater lake nestled in the Southern Highlands of Iceland, within the dramatic Fjallabak Nature Reserve. Located at an elevation of 653 meters, this natural monument is renowned for its vibrant, deep blue waters contrasting sharply with the steep, colorful red and green volcanic crater walls. It's a prominent feature of the Veiðivötn volcanic fissure system, close to the popular Landmannalaugar area.
Visitors are consistently captivated by the exceptional scenic beauty and photographic…
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Friðland að Fjallabaki
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Ljótipollur Crater Lake
4.8
(13)
101
hikers
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.6
(9)
42
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
17
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 650 m
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Monday 30 March
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-3°C
64 %
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Max wind speed: 36.0 km/h
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The most common approach is a hike from Landmannalaugar, which typically takes about 2.5 hours one way. Once at the crater, a popular option is a circular walk along the crater rim, offering panoramic views. There are also routes that connect Ljótipollur to other features within the Fjallabak Nature Reserve.
The hike from Landmannalaugar is generally considered moderate, covering varied terrain. The walk around the crater rim is relatively straightforward but involves some elevation gain and uneven surfaces. Hikers should be prepared for exposed conditions and potentially strong winds, making sturdy footwear essential.
Ljótipollur is a maar-type explosion crater, formed in 1477 during a phreatomagmatic eruption where magma violently interacted with groundwater. This created its distinctive steep-sided depression. Its vibrant red and green volcanic walls, contrasting with the deep blue water, are a direct result of these powerful geological forces and the mineral composition of the surrounding lava rocks.
Direct public transport to Ljótipollur is not available. Access is primarily via challenging F-roads that require a 4x4 vehicle, or by hiking from Landmannalaugar, which is serviced by highland buses during the summer months. Many visitors opt for guided tours that include transportation.
Absolutely! The entire crater rim offers exceptional photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset when the colors of the crater walls and water are most vivid. From the rim, you can capture the striking contrast of the red lava rocks, green vegetation, and brilliant blue water. Views often extend to nearby Lake Frostastaðavatn, the Tungnaá river, and distant glaciers like Vatnajökull and Langjökull on clear days.
Due to the exposed terrain and changeable Icelandic weather, layering is crucial. Hikers should wear waterproof and windproof outer layers, warm mid-layers, and moisture-wicking base layers. Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are essential, along with a hat, gloves, and sunglasses.
There are no direct accommodation or food services at Ljótipollur itself. The closest amenities are found in Landmannalaugar, approximately 7 to 10 kilometers away, which offers a campsite, mountain hut accommodation, and basic food provisions during the summer season. It's advisable to bring your own food and water for your visit to Ljótipollur.
While the scenery is stunning, the challenging F-road access and the moderate difficulty of the hike from Landmannalaugar mean it might not be suitable for very young children or those unaccustomed to hiking. Families with older, experienced hiking children may enjoy the adventure, but should be prepared for the conditions and ensure everyone has appropriate gear.
Regulations regarding dogs in Iceland's nature reserves, especially in the Highlands, can be strict to protect wildlife and fragile ecosystems. It is generally recommended to check with the local authorities or the Fjallabak Nature Reserve administration regarding specific rules for bringing dogs into the area, as restrictions often apply.
The area around Ljótipollur, like much of the Icelandic Highlands, is characterized by hardy, low-growing vegetation such as mosses, lichens, and various grasses that thrive in volcanic soil. While large mammals are rare, you might spot Arctic foxes, and various bird species, including plovers and snipes, are common. The lake itself is known to contain trout, making it a popular spot for fishing.
Ljótipollur stands out for its exceptionally vibrant colors—the deep blue water against the striking red and green volcanic walls—which are often more pronounced than in many other Icelandic crater lakes. Its formation history as a maar-type explosion crater also gives it a distinct geological character. While other craters like Kerið are more easily accessible, Ljótipollur offers a more remote and raw Highland experience.