The Highlands - Iceland - page 694

Icelandic Mountain Guides HIKING
(IMG; 587 9999; www.mountainguides.is )
IMG runs guided multiday backpacking hikes in the area, including a five-day, 95km tra-
verse from Mývatn to Askja (from Ikr115,900), or a six-day, 95km trek from Askja to
Nýidalur (from Ikr134,000).
Super-Jeep Tours
A number of operators run super-Jeep tours to Askja, from mid-June (when the route
opens) until as late into September as weather permits.
From Akureyri it makes for a long day (up to 15 hours); a better base is Reykjahlíð at
Mývatn (even then, tour time is around 11 to 12 hours). If you want a more relaxed pace
(and a chance to experience highland evening stillness), consider a two-day tour.
For all tours, you are expected to bring/order a packed lunch; some operators (Geo,
Saga) stop for a late-afternoon coffee at Möðrudalur en route home. Bring your swimsuit
and towel, too, should you fancy a dip in Víti crater at Askja.
If you're short on time, scenic flights from Mývatn over Askja are possible via Mývatn
Tours .
It's worth noting that with the growth of tourism in recent years, many of these compan-
ies are offering more highland exploration, including multiday tours, guided hikes, and
4WD treks to lesser-known natural features. There is also a notable growth in winter tours
(in huge, weather-defying super-Jeep vehicles). These guys will all be at the ready when
tourism opens up to the Bárðarbunga volcanic area after the 2014 eruptions. See websites
for latest prices and offerings.
Fjalladýrð JEEP TOUR
( 471 1858; www.fjalladyrd.is )
Based at Möðrudalur farm on Rte 901 - perfectly placed for Askja access via F905 and
F910. Has excellent accommodation and eating options right at its departure point. Tours
to Askja cost Ikr29,800. Also offers day trips climbing Herðubreið (Ikr31,000) or visiting
Kverkfjöll ice caves (Ikr31,000), and two-day trips taking in Askja, Kverkfjöll and Vatna-
jökull (Ikr65,800).