The soil is primarily volcanic ash, and the terrain consists of basalt mountains and lava fields.
The Highland encompasses various geological features, including Landmannalaugar, Torfajökull, Eldgjá, Þórsmörk, Herðubreið, Askja, Hveradalir, Lakagígar, and the Fagrifoss waterfall.
Most sites require all-wheel drive or all-terrain vehicles for access due to the unpaved dirt roads.
There is a pervasive danger of glacial outburst floods, or "glacier runs," at times of eruptions and volcanic activity.
The radiating heat causes the underside of glaciers to melt, creating large pockets of water that accumulate until they burst.