Mývatn Nature Baths / Earth Lagoon Mývatn: Tickets, Prices & Visitor Guide

Is Mývatn Nature Baths now called Earth Lagoon?

Yes.

Mývatn Nature Baths has been renamed Earth Lagoon Mývatn.

The old facility closed at the beginning of 2026 while major redevelopment work was completed.

Earth Lagoon now advertises its new facilities and admission packages. Its redevelopment page still uses summer-2026 opening language; check the booking page for any facilities still being finished. The redevelopment includes:

• a new building of almost 4,000 square metres
• a substantially expanded lagoon
• three lagoon sections
• new changing facilities
• a new bistro
• upgraded spa facilities
• a premium private area
• increased visitor capacity

The official site still uses the phrase “Formerly Mývatn Nature Baths”, which is useful because many travellers — and most older guidebooks — continue to use the old name.

So if Google Maps, an old blog post or your itinerary says “Mývatn Nature Baths,” it is referring to what is now Earth Lagoon Mývatn.

Earth Lagoon Mývatn at a glance

Earth Lagoon Mývatn ticket prices in 2026

Earth Lagoon uses variable pricing.

The exact amount can depend on the time of day and demand, so the lowest advertised price is not necessarily available for every slot.

Earth Essential

Compare Mývatn lagoon admission and confirm the option’s current inclusions.

ISK 7,900–11,900

Includes:

• access to the lagoon
• hot tub
• steam bath
• standard changing rooms
• locker
• private shower

This is the best-value package for most people.

It includes everything required for the geothermal bathing experience, and unlike Signature, it specifically includes access to a private shower.

Earth Signature

For this named package, check Earth Lagoon’s official booking options.

ISK 9,900–15,900

Includes:

• lagoon
• hot tub
• steam bath
• Lava changing rooms
• locker
• towel
• complimentary drink
• discount at Earth Bistro

One slightly surprising detail is that Earth Signature does not include private showers.

That means the more expensive package is not automatically better for everyone.

If privacy in the shower is more important than a towel and drink, Essential may actually suit you better.

Earth Exclusive

Check Exclusive on the official booking site; the quoted starting rate is per adult, even though the changing room holds up to two people.

From ISK 52,000 per adult

Includes:

• access to the public lagoon
• hot tub
• steam bath
• access to an exclusive lagoon
• private relaxation area
• fireplace
• exclusive menu
• private changing room for up to two people
• towels
• bathrobes
• a welcome glass of Prosecco and one additional drink per person; confirm the selected package’s drink terms
• Earth Lagoon shower gift set
• bistro discount

Earth Exclusive has a minimum age of 20.

This is not really a normal ticket upgrade. It is closer to a private luxury spa experience.

Essential vs Signature vs Exclusive

Which ticket should you choose?

Choose Earth Essential if…

You want the geothermal lagoon experience without unnecessary extras.

It is the best option if:

• you are carrying your own towel
• you do not care about an included drink
• you prefer a private shower
• you are travelling the Ring Road on a budget
• the lagoon itself is the reason you are visiting

Choose Earth Signature if…

You want a slightly more polished spa visit.

Signature makes sense if:

• you do not want to bring a towel
• you will use the included drink
• you plan to eat at the bistro
• you prefer the upgraded Lava changing facilities

Just remember that Signature does not currently offer private showers.

Choose Earth Exclusive if…

You are deliberately looking for a high-end spa experience.

It suits:

• couples celebrating a special occasion
• luxury travellers
• guests wanting more privacy
• people who want a separate lagoon and relaxation space

For the average Ring Road traveller, it is not necessary.

How much does towel rental cost?

If you buy Essential and do not have a towel, current rental is:

ISK 1,200

Swimsuit rental is:

ISK 1,100

That is useful when comparing Essential and Signature.

If you need both a towel and want a drink, the price difference to Signature may look more reasonable than it first appears.

If you already have a towel in your campervan or hotel, Essential remains attractive.

What is Earth Lagoon Mývatn like?

Earth Lagoon sits in the volcanic landscape east of Lake Mývatn.

This is not a tropical-looking resort.

The visual appeal comes from the contrast between:

• pale geothermal water
• dark lava
• steam
• open North Iceland skies
• mountains
• Lake Mývatn landscape

The expanded 2026 lagoon has been designed around lava-rock walls, a fissure and a tuff formation, with three different sections connected into the overall bathing area.

The architecture deliberately blends into the surrounding terrain rather than trying to overpower it.

That gives Earth Lagoon a very different atmosphere from a conventional spa.

How big is the new Earth Lagoon?

The 2026 redevelopment was substantial.

The operator’s redevelopment description puts the new building at just under 4,000 square metres.

The same project description gives an increase of roughly 35% in lagoon surface area and around 33% in capacity, to approximately 580 people. These are the operator’s project figures, not a measurement of how crowded your visit will be.

This matters because many older Mývatn Nature Baths reviews describe a considerably smaller facility.

If you visited years ago, the 2026 experience is not simply the old baths with a new sign.

How hot is the water?

The lagoon is generally maintained at approximately 36–40°C.

The geothermal water originates from the Bjarnaflag borehole and reaches the facility at around 130°C before being cooled to a safe bathing temperature.

It is naturally:

• alkaline
• sulfur-rich
• mineral-rich
• free from added chlorine and disinfectants

The sulfur smell can be noticeable.

If this is your first geothermal bath in Iceland, do not be surprised by it. Sulfur is a normal feature of geothermal water around Mývatn.

Will the geothermal water damage your hair?

Mineral-rich geothermal water can make hair feel different after bathing, particularly if your hair is dry, bleached or chemically treated.

A sensible routine is:

1. shower before entering
2. thoroughly wet your hair
3. apply conditioner if available
4. tie long hair up
5. rinse carefully afterward

You do not need to avoid the lagoon.

The main point is simply not to arrive with freshly styled hair and expect it to look exactly the same afterward.

What is the steam bath like?

Earth Lagoon includes a natural-style steam bathing experience.

The new facility features a swim-in steam bath cave, allowing you to move from the lagoon into steam without turning the visit into a formal spa circuit.

This is one of the advantages of the redesigned facility.

You can create your own rhythm:

lagoon → hot tub → steam → lagoon

rather than following a compulsory ritual.

Is there a swim-up bar?

Yes.

Earth Lagoon has a swim-up bar, so you can buy drinks without leaving the water.

Signature includes a complimentary drink.

The main rate page describes Exclusive as a welcome Prosecco plus one complimentary drink per person; the booking page summarizes this as two drinks. Check the selected option before paying.

If alcohol is available, standard Icelandic age restrictions apply.

Is there food at Earth Lagoon?

Yes.

The new Earth Lagoon Bistro overlooks the Mývatn landscape.

It offers a bistro menu as well as a Quick Bites café for a lighter stop between sightseeing and bathing.

Current café and light-bite examples include:

• soup of the day
• soup and salad
• geothermal-baked bread with smoked Arctic char
• sandwiches
• wraps
• salads
• cheese boxes
• pastries
• coffee
• beer
• wine

That makes it practical to use the lagoon as a lunch or early-evening stop during a Ring Road day.

Earth Lagoon opening hours

As of September 2026, the official opening hours are:

Monday–Sunday: 12:00–22:00

Hours may change by season or for special events.

The official FAQ says bathing generally ends shortly before the building closes, so do not interpret a 22:00 closing time as meaning you can enter the water at 21:59.

Always check your date before driving there.

Do you need to book in advance?

Advance booking is recommended.

Walk-ins are accepted when locker capacity allows, but relying on that is unnecessary risk if Earth Lagoon is an important part of your itinerary.

Book ahead if:

• you are travelling in summer
• you want a specific time
• you are visiting in the evening
• you are travelling with a family
• your Ring Road itinerary gives you only one possible day

Your booking is for an arrival time.

The current FAQ says a 14:00 booking, for example, allows arrival between approximately 14:00 and 14:30.

If you need to arrive earlier or later, contact Earth Lagoon to adjust the reservation.

Can you stay as long as you want?

There is no short fixed bathing session associated with standard admission.

You can generally remain until the bathing area closes.

The FAQ currently states that guests can stay in the baths until:

• 21:40 in winter
• 22:40 in summer

when corresponding seasonal closing hours apply.

Always follow the closing time shown for your date.

For most travellers, however, two to three hours is plenty.

How long should you spend at Earth Lagoon?

Allow around two hours if you are fitting it into a busy sightseeing day.

Allow three hours if you want to:

• soak slowly
• use the steam bath
• have drinks
• eat at the bistro
• avoid rushing through changing and showering

You can spend longer, but Earth Lagoon works especially well as a late-afternoon or evening finish after exploring the Mývatn area.

Where is Earth Lagoon Mývatn?

Earth Lagoon is at:

Jarðbaðshólar, 660 Mývatn, Iceland

It sits close to Iceland’s Ring Road / Route 1, making it exceptionally convenient for self-drive trips.

Current official distances are approximately:

• 58 km from Húsavík
• 89 km from Akureyri
• 164 km from Egilsstaðir
• 473 km from Reykjavik

That geography tells you how the lagoon should be used.

This is primarily a North Iceland attraction, not a Reykjavik day trip.

How far is Earth Lagoon from Akureyri?

Earth Lagoon is around 89 km from Akureyri, roughly an hour by car in good conditions.

That makes it an easy day trip from Akureyri.

A good itinerary is:

Akureyri → Goðafoss → Lake Mývatn sights → Earth Lagoon → Akureyri

It is a long sightseeing day, but geographically logical. The Akureyri day trip to Goðafoss and Lake Mývatn includes sightseeing transport; the lagoon stop is optional and admission costs extra. Cruise passengers can compare the Akureyri-port tour with bath admission and check the return time against their ship’s schedule.

If you are staying around Mývatn itself, the lagoon is much easier to visit in the evening.

How far is Earth Lagoon from Húsavík?

About 58 km.

This creates one of North Iceland’s best combination days:

whale watching in Húsavík → Mývatn sightseeing → Earth Lagoon

The exact order depends on your whale-watching departure time. The Húsavík whale-watching tour departs from Húsavík and does not include transport to Mývatn or lagoon entry.

A warm geothermal soak can be particularly welcome after several hours on a cold boat.

Can you visit Earth Lagoon from Reykjavik?

Technically yes.

Practically, it makes little sense as a day trip.

The official road distance is around 473 km.

Earth Lagoon should be visited as part of:

• a Ring Road itinerary
• a North Iceland stay
• an Akureyri trip
• a Lake Mývatn trip

If you are based only in Reykjavik, choose one of the geothermal spas in southwest Iceland instead.

Best things to combine with Earth Lagoon

The Lake Mývatn region is packed with geothermal and volcanic attractions.

Hverir

One of Iceland’s most visually dramatic geothermal fields, with steaming vents and bubbling mud. It is on the guided Mývatn itinerary from Akureyri.

It is an obvious pairing with Earth Lagoon.

Just remember: Hverir is for looking, not bathing.

Dimmuborgir

A maze of unusual lava formations that makes an easy walking stop, also included on the Akureyri sightseeing itinerary.

Grjótagjá

A small lava cave containing geothermal water, visited on the guided Lake Mývatn route.

Treat this as a sightseeing stop, not a swimming stop; follow posted access restrictions and stay out of the geothermal water.

Skútustaðagígar

Pseudocraters on the southern edge of Lake Mývatn, included on the guided Mývatn day trip.

Goðafoss

One of North Iceland’s best-known waterfalls and an easy stop when driving between Akureyri and Mývatn. Compare Goðafoss and bath admission from Akureyri port.

Húsavík

A major base for whale-watching tours on Skjálfandi Bay.

A good Mývatn day itinerary

One realistic self-drive plan is:

Morning – Goðafoss

Stop on your way from Akureyri.

Late morning – Lake Mývatn

Explore viewpoints and pseudocraters.

Early afternoon – Dimmuborgir

Walk one of the lava routes.

Mid-afternoon – Hverir

See the geothermal field.

Late afternoon / evening – Earth Lagoon

Finish with two or three hours in the lagoon.

This is exactly the kind of itinerary where Earth Lagoon works best: spa last.

Once you have changed into dry clothes after the lagoon, you can drive to your accommodation and finish the day.

What should you bring?

Bring:

• swimsuit
• towel if your package does not include one
• dry clothes
• hairbrush
• reusable water bottle
• waterproof phone pouch if you want your phone near the water

You can rent a swimsuit or towel if needed.

If visiting in winter, also bring:

• warm hat
• good footwear for the car park
• warm layers for before and after bathing

Are private showers available?

Yes — with Earth Essential.

This is worth stressing because it is counterintuitive.

Earth Essential includes private showers.

Earth Signature currently does not.

If shower privacy matters to you, check the exact changing-room arrangement before assuming the more expensive ticket is better.

Are children allowed?

Yes.

Unlike some Icelandic spas that impose relatively high minimum ages, Earth Lagoon welcomes children.

Children aged 5 and under enter free when accompanied by an adult.

That makes it a much easier option for families travelling through North Iceland.

Earth Exclusive is different: guests must be 20 or older.

Is Earth Lagoon good for families?

Yes, especially compared with adult-focused Icelandic spa products.

It is particularly useful for Ring Road families because:

• children are allowed
• children aged 5 and under enter free
• the location is close to Route 1
• the lagoon can break up long driving days
• you do not need to commit to a formal spa ritual

Parents should still supervise children carefully.

This is a geothermal bathing facility, not a water park.

Is Earth Lagoon wheelchair accessible?

Yes.

The official FAQ states that the lagoon is wheelchair accessible.

A wheelchair can also be provided for the route from the shower to the lagoon if guests prefer not to use their own.

If accessibility is important, contact the lagoon before arrival so staff can prepare the appropriate assistance.

Is Earth Lagoon worth it?

For a North Iceland itinerary, yes.

The main question is not really whether it compares favourably with the Blue Lagoon.

The real question is whether you want a geothermal bathing experience while you are already around Lake Mývatn.

If the answer is yes, Earth Lagoon fits extremely well.

Its advantages include:

• location directly on a major North Iceland route
• volcanic scenery
• warm mineral-rich water
• steam bath
• family access
• modern 2026 facilities
• easier integration into a Ring Road day

The disadvantage is obvious:

If your Iceland trip never reaches North Iceland, you should not travel hundreds of kilometres solely for this spa.

Earth Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is the more famous attraction. Compare Blue Lagoon Comfort admission and our ticket guide. If you stay in Reykjavík, our transport guide explains the journey.

Earth Lagoon is the easier choice for a North Iceland road trip.

Choose Earth Lagoon if…

• you are staying near Mývatn or Akureyri
• you are driving the Ring Road
• you want fewer Reykjavik-area tourists
• North Iceland scenery matters more than iconic name recognition
• you are travelling with children
• you want to finish a Mývatn sightseeing day with a soak

Choose Blue Lagoon if…

• you are staying only in southwest Iceland
• this is your first Iceland trip and it is on your bucket list
• you want a large destination spa
• you are travelling via Keflavik Airport
• you specifically want the famous silica-rich blue water experience

There is no need to drive across Iceland to choose between them.

Their geography will usually make the decision for you.

Earth Lagoon vs Sky Lagoon

Sky Lagoon is a polished oceanfront spa close to Reykjavik; compare Sky Lagoon admission with the seven-step ritual.

Earth Lagoon is surrounded by North Iceland’s volcanic landscape.

Sky Lagoon suits…

• Reykjavik city breaks
• couples
• short trips
• travellers wanting a structured spa ritual

Earth Lagoon suits…

• Ring Road trips
• North Iceland itineraries
• families
• Lake Mývatn sightseeing days
• travellers wanting a geothermal landscape setting

Again, location is the biggest difference.

Earth Lagoon vs Forest Lagoon

This is a more realistic choice because both are in North Iceland.

Forest Lagoon is immediately outside Akureyri and is convenient if you are staying in the city. Compare Forest Lagoon admission with towel and drink.

Earth Lagoon makes more sense if your route already includes Lake Mývatn.

If you have only one North Iceland spa slot:

• choose Forest Lagoon for convenience from Akureyri
• choose Earth Lagoon for the Mývatn volcanic setting

If you have enough time, the environments are different enough that doing both is not completely repetitive.

Is Earth Lagoon good in winter?

Yes — arguably especially so.

North Iceland in winter can deliver:

• snow
• frozen landscapes
• steam
• long darkness
• dramatic skies
• occasional Northern Lights

The contrast with warm geothermal water is one of the reasons winter bathing in Iceland is so appealing.

The challenge is transport.

Road conditions around Mývatn can change quickly, and heavy snow or wind can affect driving.

Check conditions before setting out.

Can you see the Northern Lights from Earth Lagoon?

Potentially.

The Mývatn area is far from Reykjavik’s urban light pollution, and winter nights are long.

If:

• the sky is dark
• cloud cover is limited
• auroral activity is sufficient

you may see the Northern Lights while visiting the area.

But never book a geothermal lagoon solely as an aurora viewing experience.

The Northern Lights are unpredictable.

Treat them as a bonus.

Is Earth Lagoon good in summer?

Yes.

Summer gives you almost endless daylight and makes the surrounding Mývatn attractions easier to combine in one day.

The lagoon is still enjoyable in relatively mild weather because North Iceland rarely becomes truly hot.

A late-evening soak under the bright summer sky can be one of the most memorable ways to finish a Ring Road day.

Best time of day to visit

Afternoon

Good if you want to split a sightseeing day into two sections.

Evening

My preferred choice for many itineraries.

Do the hiking, waterfalls and geothermal fields first, then change into your swimsuit and stop sightseeing for the day.

Late evening in summer

The long daylight makes this particularly attractive.

Winter afternoon

Useful if you want to avoid unnecessary night driving after leaving the lagoon.

The “best” time ultimately depends on where you sleep that night.

Common booking mistakes

Searching only for “Mývatn Nature Baths”

The current name is Earth Lagoon Mývatn.

Using an old review to judge the new facility

The lagoon and building were substantially redeveloped in 2026.

Assuming Signature has more private changing facilities

Essential includes private showers; Signature currently does not.

Forgetting a towel with Essential

Bring one or rent one.

Treating it as a Reykjavik attraction

It is 473 km from Reykjavik.

Rushing the visit

Allow at least two hours.

Scheduling it before messy outdoor sightseeing

Do the muddy hikes first and the spa afterward.

Ignoring winter driving conditions

A pre-booked entry time does not make Icelandic roads predictable.

Should you book Earth Lagoon on a Ring Road trip?

Yes, if geothermal bathing appeals to you.

It fits especially well on these routes:

Akureyri → Mývatn

Mývatn → Egilsstaðir

Húsavík → Mývatn

It is less useful to think of Earth Lagoon as a standalone attraction worth detouring across Iceland for.

Its strength is that it pairs naturally with one of Iceland’s best sightseeing regions.

Final verdict

The former Mývatn Nature Baths has changed significantly.

Now operating as Earth Lagoon Mývatn, the 2026 facility is larger, more polished and more varied, but it still retains the main reason travellers came here in the first place: soaking in warm geothermal water surrounded by the volcanic landscape of North Iceland.

For most people:

• Earth Essential offers the best value
• Earth Signature is worth considering for the towel, drink and upgraded changing area
• Earth Exclusive is a luxury splurge rather than a necessary upgrade

If you are already travelling through Mývatn, Earth Lagoon is one of the easiest spa experiences to recommend.

Do your sightseeing first, book a late-afternoon or evening slot, and let the lagoon be the point where the driving and hiking stop for the day.

Earth Lagoon Mývatn FAQ

Is Mývatn Nature Baths still open?

The attraction formerly known as Mývatn Nature Baths is now called Earth Lagoon Mývatn and reopened with major new facilities in 2026.

What happened to Mývatn Nature Baths?

The old facility closed temporarily in early 2026 during a large redevelopment and reopened as Earth Lagoon Mývatn.

How much is Earth Lagoon Mývatn?

As of September 2026, Earth Essential costs ISK 7,900–11,900, Signature ISK 9,900–15,900, and Exclusive starts from ISK 52,000 per adult.

Why is there a price range?

Prices vary according to time of day and demand.

What does Essential include?

Lagoon, hot tub, steam bath, standard changing rooms, locker and private shower.

What does Signature include?

Lagoon, hot tub, steam bath, Lava changing rooms, locker, towel, complimentary drink and bistro discount.

Does Signature include a private shower?

No. The official site currently states that Signature does not have private showers.

What does Exclusive include?

It adds an exclusive lagoon, relaxation area, fireplace, private changing facilities, towels, robes, drinks and other premium benefits.

Can children visit?

Yes.

Do children pay?

Children aged 5 and under currently enter free when accompanied by an adult.

What is the minimum age for Earth Exclusive?

How hot is the water?

Approximately 36–40°C.

Is the water chlorinated?

The official lagoon information says the geothermal water contains no added chlorine or disinfectants.

Is there a steam bath?

Yes.

Is there a swim-up bar?

Yes.

Is there food?

Yes. Earth Lagoon Bistro serves light meals, snacks and drinks.

Do I need to bring a towel?

Essential does not include one. Signature and Exclusive do.

Can I rent a towel?

Yes. Current towel rental is ISK 1,200.

Can I rent a swimsuit?

Yes. Current swimsuit rental is ISK 1,100.

What are the opening hours?

As of September 2026, Earth Lagoon lists daily opening hours of 12:00–22:00, subject to seasonal changes.

Do I need to book in advance?

Advance booking is recommended. Walk-ins may be accepted if lockers are available.

How long should I stay?

Around two to three hours works well for most visitors.

How far is it from Akureyri?

About 89 km, roughly an hour by car in normal conditions.

How far is it from Húsavík?

About 58 km.

How far is it from Reykjavik?

About 473 km, so it is not a sensible Reykjavik day trip.

Is Earth Lagoon on the Ring Road?

It is very close to Route 1 and fits easily into a North Iceland Ring Road itinerary.

Is it wheelchair accessible?

Yes. The official site says the lagoon is wheelchair accessible and additional equipment can be arranged.

Can you see the Northern Lights?

Potentially during dark, clear nights with sufficient auroral activity, but sightings are never guaranteed.

Is Earth Lagoon worth visiting?

Yes if your itinerary already includes Lake Mývatn or North Iceland. Its combination of geothermal water, modern facilities and volcanic surroundings makes it an excellent finish to a Mývatn sightseeing day.

Prices, facilities, opening hours and package inclusions checked against official Earth Lagoon Mývatn information on September 23, 2026. Prices, hours and conditions can change, so confirm the live booking details before your visit.

Sources: Earth Lagoon rates and hours, official packages, visitor FAQ, redevelopment description and geothermal water information. The main site lists 12:00–22:00 from September 1; the FAQ’s 22:40 summer bathing cutoff applies only when later seasonal opening is in force. Follow your booking date’s closing time.