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Iceland Trekking Tours from UK

Iceland

Difficulty 4/5

9 Days

May - July

4 - 14 People

ICELAND

The Hidden Trails of Fjallabak and Vatnajökull

Experience Iceland like never before, on a path unexplored.

Iceland is a land of fire and ice, where vast glaciers meet smoldering volcanoes and ancient lava fields stretch as far as the eye can see. On this 9-day adventure, you'll leave the well-trodden paths behind and journey deep into Iceland's highlands, exploring some of the country's most remote and awe-inspiring landscapes. From the vibrant, geothermal valleys of Landmannalaugar to the serene glacial waters of Lake Álftavatn, this trek takes you through the heart of Iceland's untamed wilderness.

 

Our carefully crafted itinerary combines challenging treks through volcanic deserts, secluded valleys, otherworldly canyons and hidden hot springs. You'll traverse the black sands of Mælifellssandur, explore the majestic Eldgjá Canyon, and climb to panoramic viewpoints like Peak Sveinstindur, where sweeping vistas of glaciers and lakes unfold before you.

 

You'll also experience authentic Icelandic culture, led by local guides who share their deep knowledge of the country's history, folklore, and natural wonders. With nights spent in remote mountain huts and campsites, far from the tourist crowds, you'll have the chance to connect with nature in its purest form.

 

Designed for those seeking a true off-the-beaten-path adventure, this journey perfectly balances physical challenge, exploration, and reflection. Each day is an opportunity to push your limits, discover hidden gems, and immerse yourself in one of the world's most striking environments. Whether trekking through geothermal valleys or standing at the foot of towering glaciers, this is Iceland, as few travelers ever see it.

GBP £3500

GBP £3150

Trip Highlights

Trip Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavík

    Accommodation

    Hotel

    Meals Included

    Dinner

    Walking Duration

    2 Hours

    ​​Welcome to Iceland! Upon arrival in Reykjavík, the world's northernmost capital, you'll be transferred to your hotel and meet your guide and fellow adventurers. After a detailed briefing, we'll head out for a walking tour of Reykjavík. Explore the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, and the vibrant streets filled with modern Scandinavian art. This bustling city is rich in Viking history yet rooted in the modern world. In the evening, join the group for a welcome dinner at Höfnin, where you can enjoy Icelandic delicacies and toast to the exciting journey ahead.​​

    Hallgrímskirkja Cathedral Iceland

    Hallgrímskirkja Church

    National Theatre Iceland

    National Theatre

    City Centre Iceland

    City Centre

    Hofnin Restaurant Iceland

    Höfnin Restaurant

  • Day 2: Reykjavík – Golden Circle – Landmannalaugar

    Accommodation

    Campsite

    Meals Included

    Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

    Driving Duration

    4-5 Hours

    Today, we set off on the iconic Golden Circle route, visiting some of Iceland's most famous natural wonders. Our first stop is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Iceland's parliament, the Althing, established in 930 AD. Thingvellir is also where you can witness the dramatic tectonic rift between the Eurasian and North American plates. Afterward, marvel at the powerful Geysir hot springs and Gullfoss, a thundering waterfall. Following lunch at Friðheimar greenhouse, we journey into the Highlands to reach the vibrant Landmannalaugar, renowned for its geothermal activity and multi-colored rhyolite mountains. As you prepare for the adventure ahead, dip in the natural hot springs.

    Gulfoss Waterfall Iceland

    Gulfoss

    Thingvellir national park

    Thingvellir National Park

    Friðheimar greenhouse Iceland

    Friðheimar Greenhouse

    Landmannalaugar Campsite Iceland.jpg

    Landmannalaugar Campsite

  • Day 3: Landmannalaugar – Lake Álftavatn

    Accommodation

    Campsite

    Meals Included

    Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

    Hiking Distance

    24 Km

    Ascent / Descent

    +900m / -600m

    Our trek begins today as we journey through the surreal Laugahraun lava fields created by volcanic activity centuries ago. The terrain is otherworldly—black obsidian rocks, vibrant green moss, and multi-colored hills surround us. The views expand as we ascend to Hrafntinnusker, revealing Iceland's rugged beauty. After a challenging hike, we descend toward the tranquil Lake Álftavatn, a serene oasis amid the highlands. The landscape changes drastically here, with the calming waters reflecting the distant mountains, offering peace after a long day of trekking.

    Laugahraun lava field Iceland

    Laugahraun lava fields

    Trekking Landmanalaugar Trail Iceland

    Landmannalaugar Trail

    Geothermal Activity Landmannalaugar Iceland

    Geothermal Activity

    Hrafntinnusker mountain hut Iceland

    Hrafntinnusker

    Alftavatn campsite

    Álftavatn Campsite

    Alftavatn viewpoint during trek Iceland

    Viewpoint

  • Day 4: Lake Álftavatn – Álftavatnskrókur Hut

    Accommodation

    Hut

    Meals Included

    Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

    Hiking Distance

    15 Km

    Ascent

    +600m

    After breakfast, we pack up camp and set off in our 4x4 expedition truck, embarking on one of Iceland’s most scenic and rugged highland trails. Crossing two glacial rivers, we enter the vast Mælifellssandur black desert, where the contrast of dark volcanic sand against the lush green slopes of Mælifell Mountain creates an unforgettable landscape. A one-hour ascent to the summit offers sweeping views over Mýrdalsjökull Glacier and the surrounding wilderness. Continuing deeper into the highlands, we arrive at Strútur Mountain, where a short hike leads us to Strútslaug, a hidden geothermal hot spring offering a rare opportunity for a remote soak in pristine nature. We then cross the floodplains of Mælifellssandur to reach Rauðubotnar, a striking red crater set against dark lava fields, before following the historic Fjallabaksleið trail, once used by early Icelandic explorers. Arriving at Álftavatnskrókur Hut by evening, we settle into this tranquil valley known as "Swan Lakes", where migratory birds and untouched wilderness provide the perfect setting for a restful night.

    Driving through Mælifellssandur desert Iceland

    Mælifellssandur Desert

    View of Maelifell Volcano Iceland

    Maelifell Volcano

    Geothermal hotpot Strútslaug Iceland

    Strútslaug Geothermal Hot Spring

    Geothermal hotpot viewpoint Strútslaug Iceland

    Strútslaug Geothermal Hot Spring

    Hiking to Álftavatnskrókur hut Iceland

    Hiking to Álftavatnskrókur

    Álftavatnskrókur Hut Iceland

    Vast moss-covered landscapes at Álftavatnskrókur Hut

  • Day 5: Álftavatnskrókur – Skælingar Hut

    Accommodation

    Hut

    Meals Included

    Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

    Hiking Distance

    20 Km

    Ascent

    +500m

    Our trek continues through Eldgjá Canyon, the largest volcanic canyon in the world. Eldgjá, meaning "Fire Canyon," is a geological marvel with sheer cliffs, hidden waterfalls, and vibrant moss covering the rocks. This canyon was formed during a massive volcanic eruption in 939 AD and remains a site of both beauty and power. The sense of isolation here is striking as we wind through this magnificent landscape, eventually arriving at Skælingar Hut for the night.

    Aerial view of Eldgjá Canyon Iceland

    Eldgjá Canyon

    Eldgjá Canyon trekking path Iceland

    Eldgjá Canyon

    Ófærufoss waterfall Eldgja Canyon Iceland

    Ófærufoss waterfall

    Skælingar hut Iceland

    Skælingar hut

    Skælingar hut Iceland

    Skælingar Hut

    Sitting outside Skælingar hut Trekking in Iceland

    Skælingar Hut Outdoors

  • Day 6: Skælingar Hut – Sveinstindur Hut

    Accommodation

    Hut

    Meals Included

    Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

    Hiking Distance

    18 Km

    Ascent

    +300m

    Today, we continue through volcanic landscapes as we trek towards the foot of Lake Langisjór, one of Iceland's largest and most pristine lakes. The lake, fed by glacial waters, contrasts the black sand and lava fields surrounding it. Our destination is Sveinstindur Hut, located near the base of Peak Sveinstindur, a dramatic peak that offers sweeping views over the surrounding landscapes. The tranquility here is palpable, with nothing but the sound of wind and the distant call of birds.

    View of River Skaftá from trek Iceland

    River Skaftá

    River crossing trekking in Iceland

    River Crossing

    Aerial View of River Skaftá Iceland

    River Skaftá Trail

    View of Sveinstindur hut_trekking in Iceland

    Sveinstindur Hut

  • Day 7: Sveinstindur – Peak Sveinstindur – Hólaskjól

    Accommodation

    Highland Centre

    Meals Included

    Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

    Hiking Distance

    8 Km

    Ascent / Descent

    +600m / -500m

    Driving

    Minimal

    The day starts with an early morning ascent of Peak Sveinstindur. At the top, we are rewarded with panoramic views of Lake Langisjór and the surrounding glaciers, making this one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in Iceland. After descending, we go to Hólaskjól Highland Centre, where we can relax and reflect on the week's journey in this comfortable, remote lodge.

    View from Peak Sveinstindur Trekking in Iceland

    Sveinstindur

    Aerial view of Mountain range Fögurfjöll and Peak Sveinstindur Trekking in Iceland

    Stunning views of Fögurfjöll Mountain Range and Peak Sveinstindur

    Peak Sveinstindur viewpoint Iceland treks

    Sveinstindur Peak

    Hólaskjól Highland Center Iceland

    Hólaskjól Highland Centre

    Hólaskjól Highland Center huts Iceland

    Hólaskjól Highland Centre

    Hólaskjól Highland Centre Sleeping Area Iceland

    Hólaskjól Highland Centre Room

    Peak Uxatindar and the Uxatinda canyon treks Iceland

    Peak Uxatindar and the Uxatinda canyon

  • Day 8: Hólaskjól – South Coast – Reykjavík

    Accommodation

    Hotel

    Meals Included

    Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

    Walking

    Short walks

    Driving

    4-5 hours

    After an early breakfast, we journey along the stunning South Coast. We'll visit Skógarfoss, a 60-meter waterfall that's one of the most iconic in Iceland, and Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the waterfall's curtain. The day concludes with a visit to Dyrhólaey Black beach, famous for its dramatic basalt columns and roaring Atlantic waves. Afterward, we return to Reykjavík for a farewell dinner, reflecting on our incredible adventure through Iceland's hidden highlands.

    Aerial view of waterfall behind Hólaskjól Highland Centre Iceland

    Waterfall at Hólaskjól

    Skógafoss Waterfall visit Iceland

    Skógarfoss

    Black sand beach view from Dyrhólaey Iceland

    View from Dyrhólaey

    Puffins at Dyrhólaey Iceland

    Puffins at Dyrhólaey

  • Day 9: Reykjavík

    Accommodation

    Hotel

    Meals Included

    Breakfast

    Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before self-checking out from your hotel on your final day. You can store your luggage with the reception if you wish to explore Reykjavík before departure. Spend the day discovering more of the city's cultural gems—perhaps visit the National Museum of Iceland for a deeper dive into Icelandic history or stroll around the charming Old Harbour area. This is your day to reflect on the incredible journey through Iceland's hidden highlands before heading back home, carrying memories of breathtaking landscapes, unforgettable treks, and the warmth of the Icelandic people.

Activities & Expert Guides

Enjoy a range of carefully curated activities led by certified guides who are experts in local culture and terrain.

Accommodation

Rest each night in comfortable, well-appointed accommodations and full service camping.

Meals

Savor local cuisine with all meals provided, from hearty breakfasts to energizing lunches and delightful and nourishing dinners for optimal recovery

Transfers

Relax with seamless transfers included, ensuring smooth travel between tour locations and activities.

Equipment

We provide high-quality equipment, suitable for each activity, ensuring safety and enhancing your adventure experience.

 

Training & Conditioning Plan

We provide you with pre-trip training and conditioning plans to enhance your physical and mental endurance. designed to equip you for the demands of rigorous outdoor activities.


Journey Map

Iceland Map of Highland Trek
Iceland Trekking Map Detailed Highland Trek

Departures

What's Included

Got Questions?

Our knowledgeable team is here to help. Contact us anytime to learn more and get all your questions answered.

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Trek through the stunning landscapes of Fjallabak Nature Reserve and Vatnajökull National Park. Experience untouched, off-the-beaten-path trails in Iceland's remote highlands.

Explore geothermal hot springs, volcanic lava fields, canyons, and glacier-fed lakes.

Climb to panoramic viewpoints like Peak Sveinstindur and Gjátindur

Immerse in Icelandic culture with local guides and authentic highland experiences.

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