About hiking in Iceland
Nature is what keeps Iceland on the top of endless travel lists, while its secluded geographical location helps preserve the unspoiled vistas. Iceland offers a plethora of unique landscapes like no other place in the world, providing fantastic opportunities for memorable trekking trips. From moss-covered lava fields to jagged glaciers and majestic volcanoes – the list of one-of-a-kind locations goes on. A hiking trip is an ideal chance to venture deep into the pristine panoramas of nature reserves and national parks to witness unfettered geothermal powers and ancient ice masses. There are various trekking and hiking tours in Iceland available all year round, which is a perfect opportunity to see the dramatic change of landscapes. These tours take hiking experiences to a whole different level as you ascend Iceland's most iconic glaciers, marvel over rhyolite hills and steaming hot springs, or soak in natural hot pools. Our Iceland hiking and trekking tours are extraordinary experiences in remote locations and breathtaking landscapes. Our day hiking tours and multi-day trekking adventures will take you into the heart of the northern wilderness, carving trails among iconic glaciers, waterfalls, hot springs and volcanoes. Discover the most scenic hikes in off-radar locations in the Land of Ice and Fire!
One of the best places for hiking in Iceland is Thorsmork Valley. The Thorsmork hiking trail offers the optimal experience to see the distinct seasonal scenery in Iceland. From the budding spring and leafy summer to colorful autumn and snowy winter, the mountain top will give you a panoramic view of the glaciers, rivers, and streams glistering against the black sand in the sun, and the Icelandic plants. The acclaimed “Valley of Thor” is nothing but splendid. Located in the Southern Highlands, Thorsmork is about 150 km from Reykjavik and 100 km from Selfoss. When driving over gravelly terrain as you do in the Highlands, it is vital to have a capable automobile and an experienced driver. Self-driving requires a 4X4 vehicle with river crossing insurance coverage. Booked tours usually take on the adventure with a super jeep. Anyone visiting the valley will need a similar vehicle to cross the powerful Krossá River.
Hiking in Thorsmork can be challenging but exciting at the same time. Available from April to October, the Fimmvorduhals trail is popular for running events and hiking tours. It's best to dress in layers with a wool base and pack some energy bars when you hike in Iceland. The weather can be unpredictable with the elevation gain, so it's best to make sure you pack accordingly.
On your way to Thorsmork, you will also be able to take a glance at the famous volcano Eyjafjallajökull, which interrupted European and international air travel in 2010. Two new craters, Magni and Móði, were created that year near this area. They were named after the sons of Thor. The Seljalandsfoss waterfall, one of the most photogenic streams in Iceland, will also be on your route. These are all part of what you will see when you are hiking or trekking in Thorsmork Valley – the Icelandic geographic miracle.
Landmannalaugar Highland is a nature reserve that constantly reminds you of the beauty of our planet Earth. The best way to see this vast wilderness is on foot. Located in Southern Iceland, the 190 km drive from Reykjavik requires a 4WD vehicle that will eventually be necessary to power through this mountainous area. Laugavegur hiking trail is most popular among both local and international hikers. Every summer, you will see backpackers trekking on this route with the incomparable landscape passing on both sides. One of the wonderful things about this area is that you can choose from short, beginner-level hikes, or opt for an all-out rugged Icelandic trekking tour.
The Brennisteinsalda Mountain “Sulphur Wave” trail is another iconic route. The two-hour hike is never monotonous marching on a tundra. The juxtaposition of greenish moss and maroon hills with the backdrop of dark lava and ash fields transforms this hike into an intense visual treat. The well-known Laugahraun lava field with its lustrous colors and rough texture is a must-visit. This path is on top of the hiking trail recommendation in Iceland. Next to Mt.Brennisteinsalda is Mt. Blahnjukur, known for the Blue Peak trail, it leads the hikers all the way up to the 940m top where five glaciers are visible on a good, clear day.
In addition to several other trails in this area, the Landmannalaugar Highland region provides a paradise where you will witness nature's miraculous design. The tours can be either a one-day hike or a multi-day trek. Also, always remember to bring your bathing suit. The abundant natural hot springs in this area will welcome you with a therapeutic treatment after a long day of hiking. There are many possible and wonderful routes when you hike in Iceland, and the Landmannalaugar hiking trails are without a doubt amongst the most precious ones. If you are a hiking fiend who has come this far from another time zone to visit Iceland, then it is inexcusable that you miss this land of untouched nature.
Kerlingarfjöll Mountain Range is located within the remote Icelandic wilderness, deep within the Highlands. This location offers incomparable hiking and trekking experiences, taking visitors through geothermal valleys, snow fields, and glacial rivers.
The name “Kerlingarfjöll” is a combination of two Icelandic words: “Kerling,” which means “an old lady,” and “fjöll,” meaning “the mountain.” It is no surprise that this name comes from a legend (like many other famous names in Iceland). The legend says that there was once a woman troll passing through the area who was turned into stone by the morning sun. You can still see her column while hiking through the area.
The Icelandic highlands, where this mountain range is located, is an uninhabited region in central Iceland. Kerlingarfjöll is approximately 10,000 years old and was formed as a result of volcanic activity in the region. This area offers a beautiful mixture of geothermal hot springs and colorful rhyolite mountains. Kerlingarfjöll is often compared to the famous Landmannalaugar, a hiking area with rhyolite mountains. If you're looking for a less popular (but still beautiful) option, the Kerlingarfjöll hiking tour might be the perfect choice!
