A winter crossing of the Icelandic highlands in the winter on cross country skis or snow shoes. A real challenge which participants will be sure to remember!
This expedition is a true adventure in the remote wilderness of Iceland. The goal is to live self-sufficiently while traversing the isolated Icelandic Highlands. Expect challenges, but these are part of the thrill and excitement. Overcoming obstacles, learning new skills, and finding extra endurance are all part of this demanding journey. The rewards are unforgettable, and the stories you create will be shared for years to come.
Day 1 – Welcome to Iceland and gear check
Day 2 – the adventure begins!
We load the modified 4WD vehicles which will lead us to the remote snowy highlands. After crossing the ðicturesque lowlands, we arrive in the surrondings of tthe mighty Hekla volcano and the hydropower plants of Sigalda. As the driving gets tougher, we truly have the impressions of leaving civilisation behing.
Our drivers will leave us to reach our accomodation on foot. A warm up stroll in the lonely snowy landscapes. We trail blaze, dragging our sleighs filled with supplies, necessities and … swimming suits! We will have to enjoy a hot spring soak in the hot river by our hut.
Day 3 and 4- alone at the end of the world!
Theses days are dictated by the weather, the conditions and the snow coverage. Life becomes simple in the mountains. No clock, just the sheer pleasure of stepping outside and soaking in the anticipation of the day´s adventure.
So weighing the conditions our guides will choose the best itineraries for these days. Light is right, so no pulkas , just day packs. We might go towards the hroaoring hot springs of Stori hver, seeing the heat of the earth carving the snow and ice in intricate forms. Or maybe we will climb the Hrafnitinnusker obsidian volcano, explore the gorges of Jökulgil and Vondugil. The options are as numerous as they are beautiful.
Every evening, in the warmth of the hot river or by the welcoming hut we can wait for a hearthy dinner and hopefully the celestial show of the dancing aurora. We then realise how priviliged we are to be here.
Day 5 – One last round
It is sadly time to load the sleighs again and make our way back towards reality. But the transition will be smooth as we will experience many more wonders. We start by heading across the frozen lake of Frostastaðavatn and reach gigantic historic craters filled with frozen lakes. Hnausapollur from the 9th century and Ljotipollur from the 15th century are witnesses of the extensive eruptions which shaped the landscapes.
Close to Sigalda, we will meet our vehicle, which once loaded will take us to Reykjavik. In the capital, we will enjoy a good bye dinner with our new companions.
Day 6 – Reykjavík and flight home
After this life affirming journey, coming home will feel different. But after a short transfer, you will seat in the plane, heart and memories filled.