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Hafravatn

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Hafravatn

Hafravatn

Hafravatn is a small lake located on the eastern outskirts of Reykjavík in Kópavogur. Visitors go here for the calm lakeside scenery and walking paths. The area also serves as a launch site for paragliding, providing an option for those seeking outdoor sports.

Getting There

The lake is accessible from Reykjavík city centre via car or local bus. The drive typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Duration of Visit

Depending on whether you are walking the perimeter or observing paragliding activities, allow 1 to 2 hours for a visit.

When to Visit

The lake is accessible year-round. During the summer months, the daylight hours allow for visits at any time of day. In winter, the lake may freeze. It generally does not experience the high crowd levels found at major tourist sites in the city centre.

Nearby Attractions

You can combine a visit to the lake with other nearby natural sites:

  • Úlfarsfell (3.1km): A nearby hill offering views of the region.
  • Tungufoss (5.5km): A local waterfall.
  • Rauðhólar (5.6km): A field of red volcanic craters.
  • Elliðaár (7.4km): A river system with walking trails.

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Hafravatn

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Good to visit alongside

Úlfarsfell

Nature

Úlfarsfell

Úlfarsfell is a 296-meter mountain in the greater Reykjavík area. Its slopes are heavily forested, making it a pleasant spot for a walk through wooded trails.

3.1 km away
Tungufoss

Nature

Tungufoss

Tungufoss is a waterfall in western Iceland, a quiet spot to take in the gentle sound of the water. It's a nice place to pause for a while amid untouched natural scenery.

5.5 km away
Rauðhólar

Nature

Rauðhólar

Rauðhólar is a cluster of craters remaining in a lava field on the outskirts of Reykjavík, where you can get a close look at Iceland's distinctive volcanic terrain. It sits near the Ring Road, making it an easy stop along the way.

5.6 km away
Elliðaár

Nature

Elliðaár

Two small rivers that originate in the Bláfjöll mountains and flow into Lake Elliðavatn. They pass through the Heiðmörk nature reserve, offering walking paths and natural scenery near Reykjavík.

7.4 km away
Árbæjarsafn

Museums & galleries

Árbæjarsafn

An open-air museum depicting life in old Reykjavik. It features reconstructed buildings that show how Icelanders once lived and worked.

7.7 km away
Elliðavatn

Nature

Elliðavatn

Elliðavatn is a lake near Reykjavík, Iceland. It's a peaceful spot to walk or relax in nature away from the city center.

7.7 km away