Are you looking for an unforgettable hiking adventure in the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland? Look no further! We have curated three exhilarating hiking itineraries that will take you through some of the most spectacular natural wonders of Iceland and keep you away from the crowds of the Laugavegur trail. From the mesmerizing waterfalls and canyons to the captivating glaciers and volcanic terrains, each itinerary promises an immersive and authentic wilderness experience.
Of course, these four itineraries can be combined or chosen from and provide a truly unique experience for all. Our expert guides will also adapt the itineraries according to group abilities and conditions. We are very proud of these as they truly showcase the very best of Iceland, if not the world!
Discovering the East: Lónsöræfi, wilderness at its best
Embark on a remarkable journey in the East of the Vatnajökull, delving into the diverse and awe-inspiring terrains of Iceland’s East. From the lush riverbanks to the rugged glacier landscapes, this itinerary promises an unforgettable adventure.
Day 1: Reykjavík to Geldingafell
We commence our expedition at the domestic airport in Egilsstaðir, where travellers from Reykjavík and those arriving by air converge. After a warm welcome and introductions, we venture into the Eyjabakkar area, east of Mt. Snæfell, initiating our hike along the impressive riverbanks of the glacier river Jökulsá. The majestic presence of Mt. Snæfell across the river sets a captivating backdrop for our journey. As we head east towards Geldingafell mountain, the transition from lush vegetation to the raw, glaciated terrains unfolds, offering glimpses of roaming reindeer. Our day culminates in accommodation at a fully equipped hut, providing a cozy retreat for the night.
Distance: 15 km /9.5 miles
Walking Time: 6 – 8 hrs
Uphill-downhill: 150 m /490 ft -200 m /600 ft
Day 2: Geldingafell to Egilssel
Today presents an opportunity to traverse the mountain of Geldingafell, unveiling panoramic views of the Vatnajökull glacier and its surrounding glaciers and lagoons. The trail leads us through the valley of Vesturdalur before descending to the picturesque lake Kollumúlavatn, offering serene moments amidst nature’s splendour.
Distance: 15 km /9.5 miles
Walking Time: 6 – 8 hrs
Uphill-downhill: 300 m /980 ft – 500 m /1640 ft
Day 3: Egilssel to Múlaskáli
Our journey continues with a mesmerizing exploration of the Tröllakrókar cliffs, characterized by intriguing columnar basalt formations. The landscape gradually transitions into vibrant rhyolite terrains, adorned with a stunning array of colours, before descending into the valley of the glacial river Jökulsá í Lóni, where our hut is nestled.
Distance: 12 km /7.5 miles
Walking Time: 5 – 7 hrs
Uphill-downhill: 200 m /650 ft – 450 m /1450 ft
Day 4: Múlaskáli to Reykjavík
Our final day takes us on an exhilarating journey across the glacial river, offering captivating views of the surrounding landscapes. As we reach the old farmstead of Eskifell, we prepare to conclude our expedition, marking the end of a truly remarkable adventure.
Distance: 11 km /7 miles
Walking Time: 6 – 8 hrs
Uphill-downhill: 250 m /820 ft – 300 m /980 ft
Highlands exploration- Following the Rift
An enthralling highland adventure, venturing into the raw and otherworldly beauty of Iceland’s highlands. Volcanic cones, black sand desert, vibrant geothermal power and eerie lava fields. Camp in fantastic natural beauty away from everything and everyone.
Day 1: Reykjavík (or south coast) to Sveinstindur
Our journey unfolds with a scenic drive through highland tracks, passing the awe-inspiring Hekla volcano and Fjallabak Nature Reserve. As we approach Mt. Sveinstindur, the majestic Vatnajökull glacier comes into view, setting the stage for an exhilarating ascent offering sweeping views of the mountainous terrains and Langisjór lake,
Distance: 6 km /4miles
Uphill-downhill 600 m /2000 feet – 500 m/ 1700 feet
Day 2: Sveinstindur to Skælingar
We follow the captivating course of the Skaftá River, unveiling mesmerizing rapids and waterfalls, before reaching the enchanting Skælingar area nestled in an age-old lava forest. Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of the volcanic terrains, culminating in a serene evening at the rustic hut amidst nature’s embrace.
Distance: 18 km / 11 miles
Walking Time: 6 – 8 hrs
Uphill/downhill: 350 m /1200 feet -550 m/1800 feet
Day 3: Skælingar to Álftavötn
The extraordinary Eldgjá Canyon is our hand line today , we shall revel in its mesmerizing beauty of the biggest eruption to ever take place in Iceland. It inspired the Ragnarök some say, the downfall of the world in Nordic Mythology.
We carry on venturing towards the picturesque lakes of Álftavötn. As we traverse the lush hills and meandering river, a tranquil haven awaits at the traditional hut—a perfect sanctuary amidst the natural splendor.
Distance: 21 km /13 miles
Walking Time: 7 – 9 hrs
Downhill: 350 m/1200 feet
Day 4: Álftavötn to Strútur
The Syðri Ófæra river is our companion today. We relish the enchanting Eldgjá Canyon once more before we take a dip the alluring Strútslaug natural pool. We conclude the day with a leisurely walk to the inviting Strútur hut, offering modern amenities amidst the captivating wilderness.
Distance: 24 km /15 miles
Walking Time: 8 hrs
Uphill/downhill: 300 m /1000 feet – 300 m /1000 feet
Day 5: Strútur to Reykjavík
As our expedition draws to a close, immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings before boardibng our vehicle for a captivating journey across the striking Mælifellssandur, culminating in our return to Reykjavík, marking the end of a truly remarkable highland adventure.
Traversing the South: Panoramas and glaciers
Our adventure commences at the BSI central bus station, setting the stage for an exploration of the Núpstaðaskógar Valley. Admire the dramatic Tvílitihylur waterfalls and traverse the enchanting canyons of the Núpsá river, culminating in a night of camping amidst the captivating natural surroundings.
Day 1: Reykjavík to Núpstaðaskógar Valley
Our adventure commences at the BSI central bus station, setting the stage for an exploration of the Núpstaðaskógar Valley. Admire the dramatic Tvílitihylur waterfalls and traverse the enchanting canyons of the Núpsá river, culminating in a night of camping amidst the captivating natural surroundings.
Distance: 8 – 12 km /5 – 8 miles
Uphill 150 m/500 feet
Walking Time: 6 – 7 hrs
Day 2: Sléttur Plains to Eggjar Hills
As we ascend the Eggjar hills, a breathtaking panorama unfolds, offering sweeping views of the Vatnajökull ice cap and the magnificent Skeiðarárjökull glacier. We set up camp in close proximity to the glacier, immersing yourself in the raw beauty of the Icelandic wilderness.
Distance: 8 – 12 km /5 – 8 miles
Uphill 350 m/1200 feet
Walking Time: 6 – 7 hrs
Day 3: Skeiðarárjökull Glacier
Today we cross the expansive Skeiðarárjökull, surrounded by ice and towering mountain ridges. Revel in the mesmerizing glacial landscape, culminating in an overnight stay at a camping area that offers breathtaking views of glacial lakes and rhyolite mountains. The best camp in the world!
Distance: 12 – 15 km /8 – 10 miles
Uphill 200m/600 feet
Walking Time: 7 – 8 hrs
Day 4: Blátindur to Bæjarstaðarskógur
Traverse the picturesque Norðurdalur valley, where the remarkable vistas of the rhyolite valley of Kjós and Iceland’s highest mountain, Hvannadalshnúkur, await. We summit Blátindur, probably the most mind-blowing view of the country. We then descend into the lush Arctic birch forest of Bæjarstaðarskógur, a serene conclusion to our remarkable expedition.
Distance: 12 – 18 km /12 – 16 miles
Uphill/downhill : 450 m / 1.500 feet
Walking Time: 7 – 8 hrs
Day 5: Morsárdalur to Reykjavík
Our final day takes us through the verdant Morsárdalur valley before concluding our expedition at the Skaftafell National Park, where a bus awaits to transport us back to Reykjavík.
Distance: 12 – 15 km / 8 – 10 miles
Walking Time: 4 – 6 hrs
Hornstrandir- The Wild Wild West
The West Fjords of Iceland are pristine.
The Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is a hidden gem of untamed beauty. Steep cliffs, towering mountainsides, deep fjords, and vast, untouched bays. to Europe’s largest bird cliffs and one of the largest seabird colonies in the world, with 50 species of birds, as well as seals, whales, and the Arctic Fox, Iceland’s only wild mammal. The sounds of nature—waves, birds, and the ocean—dominate the area, far from the buzz of modern life.
Day 1: Ísafjörður – Hesteyri- Aðalvík
In the town of Ísafjörður pier and board a passenger ferry a heading to Hesteyri. The two-hour ride brings us to a tranquil paradise, where the only sounds are the flow of mountain streams and the calls of birds
Distance: 11 km /7 miles
Hesteyri marks the start of our trek as we ascend towards the West. On a clear day, the panoramic views are breathtaking. We’ll descend to sea level and camp on the beach near an abandoned farm at Aðalvík.
After setting camp, we can take a detour to explore the remains of a 1953 American radar station atop Straumnesfjall mountain, abandoned in 1960. Eerie…but beautiful
Distance: 18 km/11 miles
Day 3: Aðalvík – Fljótsavík – Hlöðuvík
Our hike toward Fljótsavík, a stunning bay further north, requires careful timing to cross a tidal river.
We then cross several mountain passes, rewarding us with incredible views. We will walk along the shores of Fljótsvatn Lake, surrounded by imposing mountains. After crossing the mountain range, we shall reach Hlöðuvík. Those interested can join an evening walk to a bay rich in folklore and tales of elves and ghosts.
Distance: 18 km (11 miles)
Day 4: Hlöðuvík – Hornvík
Today’s trek takes us up the Atlasskarð mountain pass, offering some of the most stunning scenery of the entire trip. We will continue towards Hornvík, a beautiful bay at the heart of Hornstrandir Nature Reserve. The stunning natural beauty of the area is unmatched, and we shall camp here and fully experience its magic.
Distance: 14 km/8 miles
Day 5: Hornvík – Hornbjarg – Hornvík
Hornvík is surrounded by two towering bird cliffs, Hælavíkurbjarg and Hornbjarg, home to thousands of seabirds. We will hike to the Hornbjarg cliff, where the sight of the sheer cliff faces, and vast flocks of birds is awe-inspiring. The experience is often considered the highlight of the tour. Afterward, we’ll return to camp at Hornvík for a final night in this spectacular natural paradise. All that without heavy rucksacks as we will be coming back to the same camp!
Distance: 16 km /10 miles
Day 6: Hornvík – Veiðileysufjörður – Ísafjörður
On our final day, we’ll cross another mountain pass to reach the Veiðileysufjörður fjord. After descending to the coast, we’ll follow the beach where a boat will pick us up and take us back to Ísafjörður. Once back in civilization, we can enjoy a well-deserved shower and a chance to relax before reflecting on the unforgettable memories of the trek.
Distance: 11 km /7 miles