Dimmuborgir Lava Formations

You will find these dramatic structures never fail to impress.

Named Dark castles, dark forts, dark citadels… however, you translate the word Dimmuborgir, it should give you some idea of the mangled forms that lie within. 

About 2000 years ago, these twisted towers of coagulated rock breach the earth’s surface to form a lava field full of giant pillars, chimneys and tubes to scramble across. Lava formations like Dimmuborgir have been found off the coast of Mexico, but are not known to exist on dry land anywhere but here.

In Icelandic folklore, the Dimmuborgir is said to connect earth with the infernal regions and is the purported dwelling-place of elves, trolls, and Santa Clause/Father Christmas.

A few hiking routes in this area have been marked with different colours, and a leaflet describing them is available from the wardens in the information centre or a box at the main entrance of the area. The “Little Circle” is the route closest to the parking area and takes some 10-15 minutes to walk. The “Big Circle” extends further into the area and takes about half an hour to complete. The “Church Circle” takes about one hour. 

Dimmuborgir is ranking as on of the popular attractions in Iceland. 



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Coordinates
  • Lattitude: 65.586039
  • Longitude: -16.914311