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Remote active volcano in Iceland
Category

Sightseeing

Age requirement

All ages

Message from Aron Tómas Guðmannsson

Askja is an active volcano located in a remote part of the central highlands of Iceland. It's known for its nested calderas and towering Dyngjufjöll mountains. The name Askja means "box" or "caldera" in Icelandic, which perfectly describes its unique geological features. The area is only accessible for a few months each year due to its location in the rain shadow of the Vatnajökull glacier. Askja gained some fame when NASA used it as a training ground for astronauts during the Apollo program. They were there to study geology and prepare for lunar missions. The volcano has had several eruptions throughout history, with the most recent one occurring in 1961. One of the highlights of Askja is Öskjuvatn, a large lake that formed after a devastating eruption in 1875. It's frozen for most of the year and offers a stunning sight within the caldera. Despite its remote location, Askja is a popular tourist destination, attracting adventurers who are willing to make the journey to witness its natural beauty.

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