Plizio Visual Lab

Mælifell

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

peak

Weather…

Mælifell is an iconic, cone-shaped volcano in southern Iceland that rises majestically from the black sand desert of Mælifellssandur. Standing 791 meters above sea level, this former subglacial volcano is almost entirely covered in a lively green carpet of Grimmia moss. This moss thrives on the damp substrate and creates an extreme visual contrast with the surrounding ash-colored plains. Geologically, the mountain was formed by eruptions beneath a massive glacier during the last ice age, which explains its characteristic shape. The area is located north of the Mýrdalsjökull glacier and is accessible only via challenging highland tracks that require numerous river crossings. Mælifell is considered by photographers to be one of Iceland's most aesthetic subjects, as it perfectly embodies the rugged solitude of the highlands. Despite its fame, it remains a place of great silence and untouched natural beauty due to its difficult accessibility.

Location: Iceland
Nearby: Landmannalaugar (22 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-4	-4	-3	-1	2	6	8	7	4	1	-3	-4
Rain mm	236	219	208	170	123	122	147	159	224	220	210	236

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Reaching this iconic cone-shaped mountain requires a grueling drive through the southern highlands on the notoriously rough Fjallabaksleið syðri route. Only deeply capable 4x4 vehicles with high clearance can handle the necessary glacial river crossings.

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Best season

The road to this remote area is typically only open and reasonably safe during the warmest weeks of summer, generally July and August. At all other times of the year, heavy snow and swollen glacial rivers make the track completely impassable.

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Terrain & paths

The mountain itself is a steep, symmetrical volcanic cone covered almost entirely in fragile, spirited green moss. The surrounding plains consist of pitch-black volcanic sands and vast networks of braided, constantly shifting glacial river streams.

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What to bring

Visitors must be fully prepared for severe highland conditions, packing multiple warm layers, highly waterproof shells, and emergency blankets. If attempting to cautiously hike around the area, robust wading shoes are highly recommended for the rivers.

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Parking

There is no formal infrastructure or paved parking lot anywhere near the mountain in this completely untouched wilderness. Drivers simply pull over on the firm black sand at a completely safe, respectful distance from the fragile mossy slopes to view the peak.

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Safety

The glacial rivers in this region are deep, fast-flowing, and can rise dramatically as the sun melts the nearby glaciers throughout the day. Never attempt to drive through a river without prior experience, and always check the current depth before crossing.

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Time needed

The extremely slow driving speeds required to carefully navigate the highland tracks mean the journey alone takes many hours from the nearest highway. Consequently, viewing the mountain is always part of a rigorous, full-day expedition into the southern interior.