The Call of the Wild Highlands

The allure of Iceland’s highlands is a siren song to those of us who have spent years in the polar regions, where the raw beauty of nature is both a challenge and a reward. The Askja Day Tour promised an experience that would resonate with my past adventures, and it did not disappoint. As we set off from the quaint village of Reykjahlíð, the landscape quickly transformed into a desolate expanse, reminiscent of the Arctic tundra I once called home.

Our journey began with a drive towards the crater Hrossaborg, a stark reminder of the volcanic forces that shaped this land. The road, a rugged path of gravel, led us deeper into the heart of Iceland’s wilderness. Crossing the rivers Grafarlandaá and Lindá, we paused at Herðubreiðarlindir, a small oasis amidst the barren landscape. Here, the majestic silhouette of Mount Herðubreið loomed in the distance, its peculiar shape a testament to the geological wonders of this region.

The air was crisp, and the wind carried whispers of ancient stories, tales of survival and adaptation that resonated with my own experiences in the polar extremes. The landscape, though harsh and unforgiving, held a beauty that was both captivating and humbling.

Into the Lunar Landscape

As we ventured further, the terrain became increasingly alien, a lunar landscape that seemed to defy earthly logic. Our next stop was Dreki, a location steeped in history, where Apollo astronauts once trained for their missions to the Moon. Standing in the shadow of Dyngjufjöll, the circle of mountains that cradles Askja, I felt a profound connection to the explorers of the past.

Drekagil, the “dragon canyon,” was a sight to behold. Its rugged beauty and the stories it held were a reminder of the resilience required to thrive in such environments. The canyon’s jagged edges and the play of light and shadow created an otherworldly atmosphere, one that was both eerie and enchanting.

The journey to Askja was a test of endurance, much like my expeditions in the Arctic. The wind howled, and the cold bit at our skin, but the promise of what lay ahead kept us moving. It was a reminder that the most rewarding experiences often come from the most challenging journeys.

The Heart of Askja

Finally, we arrived at Askja, the caldera that is the crown jewel of this region. The sight of the metallic blue lake Öskjuvatn and the milky blue crater lake, Viti, was a reward beyond measure. The desolation of the landscape was juxtaposed with the vibrant colors of the lakes, creating a scene that was both stark and beautiful.

Standing at the edge of the caldera, I was reminded of the fragility and power of nature. The collapse of a magma chamber had created this magnificent depression, a testament to the ever-changing face of our planet. It was a humbling experience, one that reinforced my respect for the natural world and its ability to both create and destroy.

The journey back to Reykjahlíð was a time for reflection. The Askja Day Tour had been a journey through time and space, a reminder of the interconnectedness of our world and the importance of preserving its beauty. As we drove back through the rugged lava fields and across the mighty spring rivers, I felt a renewed sense of purpose, a desire to continue exploring and sharing the wonders of our planet with those who seek adventure and understanding.